SHIPPING.

PORT OP LYTTELTON. Arrived. To-dat. Ringarooma, a.a., from the North. Wanaka, s. a., from Dunedin. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. Auckland, Yesterday. Arrived—Deronport, from Lyttelton; Freetrader, from Hobart. Wellington, Yesterday. Rotorua, from Lyttelton; Wakatigu, from Sydney. • , Timaru, Yesterday. Arrived—A> rdra, from Wellington. Dunedin, Yesterday. “Arrived.—Gleaner, from Greymouth ; Cotnercant, from Mauritius. Bluff, Yesterday. Arrived —Manspouri, from Port Chal mers; keno, from Stewart’s Island.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains' Leave Ashburton fob Ohbist- OHUHOH and intermediate atationaat7.lo a.m., 10.55 a.m., and (Express) 5.37 p.m- * Traiks Leave Ashburton fob Timabo and South, at 6.60 .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 16a.m. (Express), 4.35 p.m., and 7.15 p.m. Trains Arrive at Ashburton prom Timaru and South at 10.40 a.m., 5.27 p.m. (Express), and B p.m.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES *' ’ Tuesday, November 6. Mitaon, Cox and Co., at the Tinwald S'atds—Stock. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &c Tras Evening. Church of England Temperance Society- Meeting in the Arcade Chambers, at 7.30 p.m. Wjsdnkday, October 24. Athletic Sports Ground—Fancy Costume Cricket Match, at 2.30 p.m. Wesleyan Christian Temperance Society— Entertainment in the Wesleyan Church, Cameron street, at 7-30 p.m. f ' !1 ‘ M6hDay, October 29. Borough Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7 o’clock. Wednesday, November 7. Arfhburton County Council —at Council Chambers; 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 14 Ashburton Agricultural and Pastoral Association—Annual Show.

MAIL NOTICES

Mails close st the Ashburton Post Office folhms i FprCfaristchurch and North at 6 am, 10.30a.m., ands p.m.,daily. For Cbertoey Bakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m. md ; daily. FotDunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rtogitata, Orari, Winchester, and Getaldine, at 10 a.in. daily. at 6 s.m. and 10 n.m., For Tittutru and South, at 6 a.m., 10 а. and 430 p.in., daily. For Qrebnstreet and Ashburton Forks, on. Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 3.30 Fsr~4T6unt Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 6 a.m. and 430 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 6 a.m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, at 4.30 p.m.-daily. For Jle.uxington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 430 p. m. FOT.Wakahni, Elgin, Seaviow, Seafield, andfKyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Satttfdays, At 6.30 a. m. For Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days at 10.30 a. m. Ma.il ■ arrive at the Ashburton Post From Christchurch and Bakaia at 10.15 inu, 435 p.m.,. and 7.20 p.m. From Cherteey, &c. at 10.15 a. m. and 4.36 s.m. daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places at 6.30 p.m. daily.. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.40 a. m. б. p.m., ahd 8 p.m. daily. From . Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, ‘Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 Am. From Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Bauird&yS, atTO.S a.m. and 8.15 p.m. From Mayfield, oh Tuesdays and Satur days, at 10.5 A.m. From Ashtcm, Waterton, and Long- at IQ a. m.. daily. From Elgin, Wakanni, Seafield, and Kyi®. bn Tuesdays,. Thursdays, and Sat urdays, at 4 p.m. From Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days, 9i 9,30 a.m. From Flemington on Tuesdays, Thurs days,-.apdSatmrdays, at 10 a. m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas e Prevalebit. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1883. Acclimatisation and its Results.

Who is there that has come from the Old Country to the colony that does not cherish a pleasant memory of the notes of the feathered songsters to be heard in every rural lane in England ? The musical trill of the nightingale, the blithe carolling of the lark, and even the homely chirp of the sparrow, are reminiscences that only a poet can give proper expression to, but which every one can feel. No doubt the pleasure of living in New Zealand would be greatly enhanced if we could have these things here, and we question not that the Acclimatisation Societies were go verned by the best intentions in the world when they determined to try and plant them in our midst. But unfor tunately this matter has its prosaic as well as its poetical side, and in this utilitarian age the former is certain in the long run to carry the day. When we look back at the history of our at tempts to acclimatise foreign animals and birds, it must be admitted that they have not been very successful; and probably no institutions have been more heartily, and it may be added more deservedly, cursed by colonial farmers than the Societies referred to. It is now a little over twenty years ago that a worthy settler in Southland and a still more worthy runholder in Kaikoura were interesting themselves in their respective districts in the pro pagation and preservation of rabbits. Every effort was made to destroy the natural enemies of these animals, and the terrors of the law were threatened and enforced against all and sundry who ventured to bring a gun within the sacred precincts of the warrens of these rodents. Now, alas, we have only too well realised the result of this fostering care. Not only have the two gentlemen mentioned been irretrievably ruined, but thousands of their neighbors have to thank them for the losses they have sustained owing to the multiplication of the rabbits. At the present time the fee simple of all New Zealand is worth less by some millions than it was twenty years ago, and how to get rid of these animals is one of the most difficult problems the colony has to face, and it is extremely doubtful whether it will ever be solved. Revenons a nos oiseaux. At the very time when the rabbit pest was being so assiduously cultivated, a well-known solicitor of Nelson, Mr Henry Adams, was watching with enthusiastic interest some linnets’ nests, which had been built in his garden, and the readers of the Nelson Examiner were delighted with some excellent articles dealing with the habits of the birds in question. Tnat they were able to rear their young so successfully was held to be proof of the excellence of the climate in that district, but the effect of Mr Adams’s experiment is that the descendants of his feathered pets are now consuming something near a tithe of the cereal produce of the colony. Christchurch residents of fifteen years’ standing will remember that at about that period the merry chirp of the sparrow first began to make itself heard among the pines in and about the city. Practical farmers uttered a note of warning as to what would be the consequence of in troducing these birds here, but they were laughed’to scorn by acclimatisers, who argued that sparrows did far more good than they did harm. Now we are reaping the fruit of this victory of sentiment over practicality, and settlers have long since realised that the tax then laid upon agriculture can never be repealed. But neither warning nor protestation had any effect upon the Acclimatisation Societies, as was shown by the fact that ten years ago the Christchurch Association sent to Nel son for a supply of larks, notwith standing that these musical little pests were on their way to this province in search of pastures new on their own behalf. The song of the lark may be a delightful sound to the ear of the poet, but the farmer not unaturally views it in a different light, as he is only too well aware that he has to sow as much seed for the songster as he has for himself. The small birds nuisance has not as yet reached such gigantic pro portions as the rabbit pest, but when we know that the rate of increase of the former is from 700 to 1,000 per cent., it is easy to see that the colony will have to pay dearly for the folly of Acclimatisation Societies.

But if, as is to be feared, it is too late for us to provide a cure for the evils that have been caused, we can still do something to prevent kindred disasters occurring. The colony is threatened with that arch-foe of the fruit garden, the blackbird, which has already established itself around Christ church and Dunedin, and unless its progress is vigorously opposed, it will undoubtedly obtain a footing in other parts of New Zealand. Wherever the blackbird goes the beautiful mountain ash berries disappear, even the holly trees are stripped of their chief adorn ment, while gooseberries and currants are scarcely allowed to show themselves, and cherries have only a historic fame. Luckily, however, these birds are not difficult to repulse. They build their nests in low bushes, and if the young ones are destroyed before they fly the whole season’s broods would most likely be reared in the same nest and might all be disposed of. If our boys and gardeners will only act on the sug gestions we have thrown out, much will be done to prevent the spread of a pest that deprives us of our most wholesome and delicious fruits, while it throws a complete damper upon an oc cupation that poets, physicians, philo sophers and politicians all agree to be conducive to peace and health, as well as to individual happiness and national prosperity. Utter extermination pay be despaired of, but much can be done to keep such scourges in check, and this is the season of the year during which effective measures should be taken to interrupt their progress.

The ordinary meeting of the Church of England Temperance Society takes place this evening, at the Arcade Chambers.

The Pass examinations cf Canterbury College students began yesterday and con tinues till next Tuesday. 46 have en tered, of whom 19 try for honors or ex hibitions. Honors examinations begin on November Ist, and continue probably eight days. An entertainment was given by the Baptist choir last night at the Old Men’s Home, the service of song, entitled “ Pilgrim’s Progress,’’ being rendered very successfully. Mr Sawle gave the con nective readings, and Mrs Kingston ac companied on the harmonium, while Mrs Nixon contributed the solos, her singing being heartily appreciated. There was_ a good' attendance of the general public, and the proceeds of the entertainment went to the piano fund.

At the inquest on Edward Drinkwell, at Christchurch yesterday, the jury found a verd’ot of accidental death, but the evi dence was contradictory as to the pre sence of one guard. The train consisted of sixty trucks, and had two engines, each with a driver and fireman. One witness said the jerk which threw the deceaied off the tru k was caused by the inexperi ence of the fireman driving instead of the driver. Other evidence was to the effect that the jerk was no greater than is in evitable with so large a ballast train.

The Governor’s landing at Nelson proved a great success, the weather being glorious, and the whole population appeared to have turned out to welcome his Excellency. A proression of great length marched from town to the foot of Church Hill. Ad dresses from the Corporation, Oddfellows and Foresters were presented and acknow ledged, the terms of which elicited cheer after cheer. His Excellency expressed himself delighted with his reception. The Governor, with Miss Jervoia and suite, will remain a week the guests of the citi zens at Sunnyside House. Yesterday a squad of the Ashburton Rifles went through the second stage of the annual class-firing, Bugler Savage being first at 500 and 600 yards with 37 points, Private Groves coming second with 36. This morning another squad fired at the same ranges, Captain Douglas making top score with 47 points, Private Ashton being next with 37 points. We understand the match with the Kaiapoi Rifle Club is to take place on the after noon of Saturday, 3rd November, and that the team will bo selected from those who prove themselves most efficient as marksmen in the interim. At a meeting of the Auckland Volun-

teer officers last night, re the meeting o:

the New Zealand Rifle association at Auckland, the following resolution was carried:—“As it appears to this meeting that no means have yet been taken by the local Secretary to ensure the success of the meeting of the New Zealand Rifle Association about to be held at Auckland, it is resolved that Captains Dignan, Mahon and Payne wait on the local Secretary, Mr E. Cooper, and ask him if a meeting is to be called, and point out what ar rangements are necessary ani what he re quires to be done on the part of the officers appointed as a Committee or by the As sociation. ” A peculiar case came before Mr Ward, R.M., at Wanganui yesterday. W. F. Crosse, now of Auckland, was charged on the information of the polios with un lawfully removing from its burial place the body of a child, without thelOolonial Secretary’s license. The facts were that the defendant’s brother, Samuel Crosse, unlawfully buried the child in October, 1882, in his back garden avenue, Wanga nui, and then removed it to Auckland. Whilst there he sent down to Wanganui for the body, and W. F. Crosse disinterred it accordingly last June. The police were unable to lay information against Samuel Crosse, because the unlawful burial was not discovered till more than six months after the offence was committed, but laid an information against W. F. Crosse for disinterring it. The R. M. dismissed the charge on the grounds that the informa tion was bad, because the Act does not apply to a disinterment of a body not buried in a lawful burial place, and also because in any case the information can only be laid by persons having the control of the burial place. The R.M.’s decision elicited much comment, especially as W. F. Crosse’s counsel pleaded guilty in Court to-day and asked for a small penalty to be inflicted before his Worship raised the objection to the information.

A meeting of the Library Building Committee was held yesterday af ernoon at Mr Ward’s office, Arcade Chambers. Present —Messrs Ward (president), St. Hill, Bullock, Lechner and W. H. Zouch (hon. secretary). The minutes of the last meeting having been read and confirmed, the Secretary reported that an application to the County Council for the remaining balance of the grant, viz , LIOO, had bean made, but payment had been deferred. The President reported that the whole of the funds for building purposes had been absorbed, and that about L6O was still required, in addition to the temporary overdraft at the Bank, which now stood at about LIOO. This, however, would be met directly the balance of grant was ob tained from the County Council. Mr Bullock moved, Mr St. Hill seconded, and it was carried, that a public meeting be called for Monday, Nov, 6, at the Library Hall, for the purpose of electing a Committee for the coming year and other business. It was decided that all moneys or subscriptions still due on account of the building fund be paid into the trustees account in the Union Bank, in order to enable them to pay off all existing liabili ties. It was resolved that a balance-sheet and report bo drawn up and submitted to the general meeting of subscribers, and that the terms for subscribers to the new library be as follows :—One year, 15s; six months, 8s ; three months, ss. It was decided to procure one dozen chairs and a large table for the reading-room, and after other routine business had been transacted the meeting adjourned. Two small boys named Edward and James Dunn, were brought before Mr Baddeley this morning, under rather peculiar circumstances. It appears that the children in question were some time ago sent to the Burnham school, and yesterday their mother paid a visit to the institution see to her offspring, and coolly brought them to the station, and on to Ashburton. Intelligence was trans mitted of the occurrence, and on the arrival of the train here Constable Neill met the fugutives, but had considerable trouble in obtaining possession of them, as Mrs Dunn forcibly objected to being deprived of their society. Mr Baddeley ordered the youngsters to be taken back to Burn ham, and dismissed the charge against the mother with a caution. The con duct of Mrs Dunn in Court this morning was certainly very strange, as she continually interrupted his Wor ship in a loud voice, questioning the justice of a decision which, as she put it, “ robbed her of what was her own ” In response to the warning of the Bench, the accused woman said that she thanked the Magistrate for his leniency, but at the same time wished it to be understood that she intended to reg'in possession of the boys as soon as she could manage it. She was proceeding to deliver what would evidently hav« been • long speech, but the constable cut short her volubility by hurrying her out of the Court, which sh" left closely attended by two small female children, one of whom was weeping loudly and copiously. The authorities at Burn ham should benefit from this case, and in future keep a closer watch over those in their charge, as it seems to be very easy lor them to leave the institution if they desire to do so.

COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTION.

Mr Hugo Friedlander addressed the electors of the Upper Ashburton riding at ; the Town Hall last evening. His Wor ship the Mayor occupied the chair, and | said that the meeting had been called for the purpose of giving Mr Friedlander an opportunity of addressing the electors previous to the election. Ha thought that both candidates were good men, and very little so far to choose between them- Mr Piiedlander said he thought that if the ratepayers intended to choose the best man they would have himself. (Applause and laughter). He had to assure them that he intended to try hard and get elected. He had bean an old resident and had soon the district from its infancy grow to a place of importance. He thought that it was unnecessary for him to relate the works and doings ,of - the County Council, as that body had done its duty in such a way that his criticism was out iof place. He could not help mentioning the loss the County Council had incurred in losing Mr Wright’s services. Mr Wright was the star of that Council, and the two candidates who were contesting the vacancy caused by his retirement were inferior in every way. (Hear, hear). He hoped that the ratepayers would some day jeeogniao the services of the Council in a substantial manner. At present the County Council wis not in a flourishing condition as regards its finance as their overdraft was L 2,800, which, of course, would be covered by the amount due by the Oeraldine County Council on the Rangitata bridge. This would leave a balance of L6OO or L7OO only to their credit. It was imperative that rates should be levied for the purpose of carrying out the works in future, and he thought they were already rated too high. Now, he was of ooinion that the work of all the Road Boards could be carried out by the County Coun cil, and a great saving of expenditure would bo effected in the way of clerks, advertising, etc. The work could be car ried out by the Boards in the same way as at present, but the working expenses could be lessened considerably. The Roads and Bridges 0 instruction Act would enable the Council to undertake works of any magnitude, such as making new roads and bridges. The next great question was ths irrigating of the plains, and any promise made by any candidate to have this carried into effect was a very serious one It wou'd take years and years to accomplish. Would it be feasible to take

sufficient water for irrigation purposes from the rivers! He thought not. In his opinion he considered that a very large quantity of water would be required, and a very great deal of money also. He was in favor of the water supply being carried out in the future the same as it had been done in the past, slowly and surely. (Hear, hear). If it can be proved that he Council would receive in return more than it had to pay (but the ratepayers would not agree to any scheme if heavy taxation was the result), he would sup port a scheme of irrigation. (Hear, hear). He thought tree planting quite as important as irrigating, and he would support a judicious system of planting re serves every year if elected. He differed from his opponent in reference to the Mount Somers railway route. If, as had been said by Mr Harper, that LIO,OOO had been voted by the Provincial Council for the railway to go up the Ashburton Forks, surely it was illegal to have it made in a different direction altogether. What ever was to be done now, he would give his earnest attention to, and he would favor the line being made in the direction in which it will do the greatest benefit to the greatest number, and give the best re turn on its outlay. The people of Mount Somers had certainly a right to the rail way if it was originally intended to take it up the Forks, but he was not prepared to say which route was the best, or whether the Hinds and Rangitata districts were not as equally interested in the matter as Mount Somers was. He re ferred to the Road through Private Lands Bill, as introduced by Mr Ivess last session. It returned to the County Council he would do his utmost to get support for that Bill, as he considered it a very important one and should become law as soon as possible. (Applause.) With regard to the Ashburton traffic bridge, he was glad to state that the L 5,000 voted by the Government had not lapsed, but was still available. He would gladly favor any scheme for building this bridge if the ratepayers so desired. (Hear, hear.) Although not a resident in the riding of Upper Ashburton he had a large stake in it, and if elected he would assure them that he would give every question affecting their district, as well as other parts of the county, his utmost considera tion. Ho was not at all frightened as to the result of the poll, although his strong hold had been attacked first by his oppo nent. Ho thanked them for the patient hearing. After one or two questions had been put to Mr Friedlander, the folio wing re solution was proposed by Mr R. Bird, se conded by Mr Poyntz, and carried unani mously—" That the meeting tender its best thanks to Mr Friedlander for his address.

Mr Harper came forward and said that he had hardly expected again to address them before the election, but he could not let this opportunity pass without remind ing the electors that ha was doing his best to get returned at the head of the poll; but if it should charce that he was de feated he would take the beating cheer fully. ( \pplause.) As regards his oppo. nent, he was surprised that he had thought fit to address the electors from the re marks that fell from him a few nights ago. Evidently he had become frightened and changed his mind. (Laughter.) At all events to-morrow was the day, and he hoped that they would place him (Mr Harper) at the head of the poll. After a vote of thanks to th j chairman the meeting terminated.

EUROPEAN ITEMS.

London, Oct. 10. Mr Dicey publishes another letter in The Times in reply to that of Mr Murray Smith, in relation to the refusal of the Victorian Government to allow the dia embarkation of the Irish informers. Mr Dicey replies at length to the arguments brought forward by Mr Smith in support of the Government, and asserts that l)e retains the views previously expressed by him on the subject. He repeats that the Victorian Government have placed them selves in a serious position by their action, and adds that to protect them from the consequences it will be necessary for the Imperial Government to pass an Act of indemnity. The Times discussed the subject in a leading article, and joins with Mr Dicey in condemning the Victorian Government for their rejection of the in formers. It asserts that the high-handed action of Mr Service will seriously affect the Imperial Government in carrying out their Irish policy, as it will increase the difficulty of punishing crime in Ireland. The Times this morning discusses the policy of the Victorian Coalition Ministry, and expresses its warmest approbation of their determination as to the abolition of political patronage in the Government service.

A rumor is current that the German Government have formally demanded an official apology from France to Spain for insults offered to King Alfonso while in Paris. The Chinese Government refuse Jir recognise any treaties or conventions which may be entered into between France and the Blackflags in Tonquin. Usibepu, the Zulu chief, who recently defeated Cetewayo, insists that England should remove the latter chief a consider

able distance from the scene of the late conflict. The latest advices from Madagascar show that the British residents at Tama tave are complaining bitterly of the severity practised by the French autho rities of that place. A sale of Gippsland hops from the Tombo Estate has been effected at L 4 per cwt. London, Oct. 11. Lord Derby has officially directed the attention of the authoritifs of Queensland and Fiji to the statements supplied to the Age by Mr Morrison on the subject of the native labor traffic. An increase is about to bo made in the number of ships on the Australian naval station, and Commodore Erskine, who is now in command of the station, will be superseded by an admiral. A body of Austrian regular troops have had a severe engagement with some Rou manian forces. Ultimately sixty Rou manians, who were defending the disputed territory, were captured. The Temps, a Parisian journal, referring to the alleged insulting conduct of Com modore Erskine, Commander of the fleet on the Australian Naval Station, towards Captain MacLeod, at the New Hebrides, characterises his behavior as more arro gant than that of Admiral Pierre towards Captain Johnstone of the Dryad, at Tama tave.

The Imperial “ Blue Book,” issued yes terday, confirms the statement made by Lord Granville in the House of Lords some time ago to the effect that both Eng land and France would uphold the neu trality of the New Hebrides, and that neither Power would seek to annex the territory. The revolution which originated re cently among the black population at Port au Prince, the capital of Hayti, one of the largest islands in the West Indies, has assumed alarming proportions. The revolutionaries having destroyed the Go vernment works seized on the forts. They then proceeded to fire on a British steamer which was conveying the British Consul and a number of European refugees from the island. Paris, Oot. 11. The French Government has formally intimated that they decline to make any further reparation for the insult offered to King Alfonso when recently in Paris.

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Melbourne, Oct. 17. In the Assembly, Mr Shield has given notice that on Tuesday next ho will move a resolution in favor of opening the Pub lic Library and Picture Gallery on Sunday afternoons. The Sandridge Municipal Council is considering the advisableness of altering the name of the municipality. One party suggests Port Melbourne, while others are in favor of the name of Southport. The question remains in abeyance for a month.

A difficulty has arisen with regard to the conveyance of Victorian firemen to the Fire Brigades’ demonstration in Sydney on November 9. The Railway Department is unable to spare the neces sary rolling stock, owing to exceptional requirements for the traffic on that day. The case of Charles Strong was further discussed in the Presbytery, and referred to the General Assembly. It is intended, in connection with the present Congregational public to raise between L 40.000 and L 50.000, to liqui date the debt on the Congregational Churches.

The trial trip of the turret ship Cer berus, which has lately had new boilers, was unsatisfactory. Only nine knots were obtained, and the steering apparatus worked badly. Some of the masters have refused to adopt the price list adopted by the Opera tive Union and the Masters’ Assooia ion. A. strike has taken place at the dissentient shops, and upwards of 200 men are oat already. Justice Moles worth has granted probate in the estate of J. W. Stock, who was missed from the Manapouri on a voyage from Melbourne to New Zealand in Feb ruary last. The proceedings against Dr Marr, of Eaglehawk, for firing at his housekeeper in September, have become complicated. When released on bail the prisoner mar ried the prosecutrix, so that she is unable to give evidence. It is probable the smaller charge of assault will be brought.

A disgraceful scene occurred in a ceme tery on Sunday. Two or three hundred larrikins obstructed the burial rites of some Chinaman, tramping over the graves and behaving in a disgusting manner.

The Rev. D. Jones Burner has pub lished a statement alleging a widespread immorality as the result of mixing the sexes in the State'schools. The Minister of Education has resolved to institute an inquiry.

Sydney, Oct. 17.

A good rain haa fallen throughout the colony; and the prospects of the crops are much improved. Mr Shearstone, the seaman’s mission ary, was brutally assaulted and robbed on Circular Quay, while returning from a visit to some vessels, and his assailants are undiscovered.

Thelegranjs have been received by Go vernment from all parts of the cobny, approving of the provisions of the new Land Act.

In the Assembly yesterday Mr McTl hone, in moving for copies of papers re lating to the desirable route of the Illa wana Railway, which had been suggested by the Colonial Secretary, charged the hon gentleman with attempting to bring about the change in the line with the cor rupt intention of benefiting himself at the expense of the colony, inasmuch as the proposed new route would have passed through his mineral lands. Mr Stuart rejected the charge, and said that it so happened that either route would pass through lands which were his property. The Bill to Amend the Law of Libel and Contempt of Court is to be submitted without delay. The opinions received from the country are so far favorable to the new Land Bill that the security that will be given to pastoral enterprise is not the least valu able provision of the measure. The Government offer a reward of LSOO with a view of securing the apprehension and conviction of persons implicated in the Woolloomeoloo outrage.

The bazaar held at the Government House in aid of the Melanesian Mission proved highly successful in a pecuniary sense, as the mission funds will be largely augmented. The Rev. A. G. Fry has been elected Chairman ef the Congregational Union of New South Wales.

The Rev. Jeffries has given notice of motion that the sovereignty of the .British Empire should be paramount in the Southern Seas, as the occupation of New Guinea and the New Hebrides by any other Power would bo inimicable to the future of the colonies and the Australian and native races of the South seas. The steamer Elamang struck on Sala mander reef, Northern Queensland. The shock, was tremendous, and it was thought the vessel was going to sink, but she was brought safely to Townsvilie, making no water. Warm and welcome rain has fallen all over the colony, Adelaide, Oct. 17. The Treasurer has stated that a new war vessel for the defence of the colony, now in course of construction, would leave England in January or February. The system of direct communication between engine drivers, passengers, and guards, has been tried successfully. The system is known as Spagnolemis.

■■■- —U The South Australian Register estimates that with favorable conditions there will be an average yield of wheat of ten bushels to the acre this year. Brisbane, Cct. 17. The Vice-Admiralty Court has awarded L 3,500 to the owners and crew of the Waroonga for salvage of .the Teviotdale. The Colonial Secretary has received a telegram stating that fifteen thousand acres of sugar land have been bought in Dew Guinea for a pennj per ace, the owner being unaware of the transaction. This early introduction of the land shw&p,' ing element is generally condemned. A disturbance occurred at Thursday Is* land between the crews of the Gangs jUjd, Balimba, in which some of the immigrants aboard the latter took part. The captain of the Balimba received some nasty blows from belaying pins. Order was at length restored.

Captain Armit and party have left Cooktown for Brisbane. -

CooKTOWN, Ocfc 17. The schooner Ellagowar has arrived from Port Moresby, bringing Captain Armit, the Argus correspondent in Kew Guinea, and Loftus Irving. Both are ill of the fever. Professor Denton died at Berigabadi on the 26th of August, w fever. Captain Armit telegrpphed to the Argus on the 18th of August that Profes sor Denton complained of indisposition, and refused food and medicine He far*, ried Denton into Locbivago. On the 26tb he started for Mcroka, with Pro fessor Denton on a stretcher. The fever then attacked Captain Armit. At half-' past eight on the night of the 26th of August Professor Denton died, and was buried the next morning. Captain Armit speaks enthusiastically of the country and the natives.

CORRESPONDENCE.

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

THE ELECTORAL ROLLS.

To the Editor.

Sir, —Every now and then I notice that the Registration Officers for other electoral districts than our own appear in Court in support of objections ledged, : by them against persona who have lost the qualifications which originally entitled them to a place on the roll of electors. The Act, if 1 mistake not, makes ifc i lhn» express duty of the Registntion Officers to keep the rolls constantly purged. The Registration Officer for -Ashburton and Wakanui, however, seQm to have over looked this fact, for although it is nearly two years since the election-for Ashburton and about eighteen months since the last election for Wakanui took place, he not, to all outward seeming, taken shy steps to remove from the rolls the names of those persons who have ceased to ppa* seas the requisite qualification. all have a vivid recollection of how, just before the Wakanui election came, a huge pile of claims from Pat O’Connors, ; Timothy Doolens, Michael Houlahans, . and similar distinguished individuals," who had suddenly sprung from nobody knows where, was lodged at the Regis tration Office, the roll being 'thus stuffed with the names of swag gers, to the manifest wrong of the permanent residents ot the district. Many;' of these gentry have since found their wmw to the North Island, to Southl|tadi :i iifd t the West Coast. Victoria, and goodness ‘ knows where else. A few, alasj judging from the police reports, have been lodjpd in gaol, notwithstanding which they are. •, still capable of exercising the franchise should they emerge from their retiremaQt before the next election. Now, it is very undesirable that the purification of the electoral rolls should be left to political partisans in the heat of an election con test ; especially when the Act ffiakee it... the duty of the Registration Officer, who has nothing to do with any political party, to do the work himself; and I trust our Registration Officer in these politically. quiet times will bestir himself about thii| | matter, and get the rolls under his care made as pure and perfect as possible.—l am, etc., A Residbm rLECTOR.

SPORTING.

VIOTOKI4.N KA.OISQ.

[rkuter’s TELEGRAMS. —OOP?EIGHT.] Melbourne, Yesterday. Nepean is scratched for the Melbourne Oup. The promoters of racing sweeps under • the pseudonym of “ Loco Sparo," 'wows" ’ characters were recently exposed by the Herald, levanted with the money which had been subscribed by the public to rati oua sweeps. The amount collected by the ; absconders prior to their defalcation til I estimated at LII,OOO. The following are the latest quotations this evening : Derby. 5 9 —2 • Martini Henry. 8 1 Safldius. 10 1 ——. Yernot. Melbourne Oup. 10 1 Oalma. [Received Oct 23, 12.60 p.m.| Melbourne, To-day. The following is the latest betting on the Oup ; 11 to 1 agst Oalma. 12 —1 - Aide-da-Camp, and First Demon. 14 1 Le Grand. 17 1 Despot and Nicholas. 20 1 Sardius.

WELLINGTON RACES. Ihe following nominations have been received for the Spring meeting : Railway Stakes. Danebury, Dan, The Poet, Administra tor, Sir George, Romp, Buzzard, Hippona. Hurdle Handicap. —Bob (late Flying Dutchman), Orient, Mountain Deer, Lia bility, Adventurer. Flying Stakes.— Fairy Queen, Mia chief, Camelia, Dan, The Poet, Adminis trator, Consul, Treasurer, Buzzard, Hip pona. . Handicap Tbottino. —Deception, Dar kle, Kate Kelly, Councillor, Maid, Caat away. Hutx Pabk Spring Handicap.—-Mis chief, Miss yjTuan, Mountain Depr, Min Danebury, Satellite, Camelia, Dan, Thp Poet, Adipiniatrat r, Consul, 04d Tpck. Sir George, Hippona, Bujuaid.

TARANAKI RAOBB. [by telegraph. New Plymouth, To-day. , ; The following weights have been de clared by the Committee for the Taranaki Jockey Club Spring meeting ; Spring Handicap. Normanby, Sat 101 b; Hinemoa, 8?t 81b; Dan, Sat 51b; Buzzard, Bst 21b; Lord of the Hills, 7*t 12Ibs ; Hippona, 7st 101 b; Landseer, 7st > 71b; Raphael, 7»t 31b; Bon Jour, 7at; Patience, 6st 12lb. : “.li Flying Handicap. —Hinemoa, B#t 121b J Normanby, Bst 101 b; Dan, Bst 81b ; Boa*- ~: zard, Bst 51b; Hippona, Sat; Landseer, l' 7at 71b ; Raphael, 7st 71b ; Bon Jour, 7«ti ; Bib ; Patience, 7at; The Pearl, SstlSlb; . ' Ino, 6st 121 b; Gladioala, 6st 101 b. -n Handicap Sxeeplkoh se—Billy-go-By -i Era, lOst 71b, Dianthus, lOst Bibs;. Bungler, lOst Bibs; Himalaya, lOst Slbs; General, lOst 31b; Flying Scud, lOst;, Reliance, 9st42lbs; Kikorangi, 9st lOlba; a Sir William, 9st lOlbs; Caoutchouc, 1 9«t * w*-' ■ '

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 1883.



Special Bargains. gEmNG OFF, MUST BE SOLD. Drawing-room Suites in splendid Vel r Vet/walnut side-board with marble top Small Tablea in all patterns of walnut, etc’' Beal. Leather Dining-room Suites, in ;■ thahogany, and side-boards to match Every class of Furniture. Utensils of every ’ Mod for House Furnishing. Musfbe sold/as I want to CLEAR OFF all my large and varied Stock. Joim Meech, FURNITURE WAREHOUSE, i Burnett street. 0 484 rF YOU WANT GOOD AND L h: ' ,: civ STRONG FURNITURE. GO TO



DAVIS’S CHEAP, FURNITURE AND BED DING . MANUFACTORY, VAST STREET SOUTH, ASHBURTON. iVfiRY article Sold at Christchurch and gUMrautatvi bea* |f t and workmanshiiw ■ ALS ■ CngßifeKrA OOMTOTOBLT rUKNISHSD



Wanted WANTED —A thorough gsod General Servant. Apply Office of this Paper. 10 766 TTT'ANTED A good Shoeing and VV General Smith. Apply, John Revbil, Blacksmith, Winslow. 10 745 KNOWN—That Robekt VV 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 WANTED Known—That .in conse quence of the rapid increase of business, John Moison, Impermeable j 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. 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 2a 6d, for use of Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, Single-sticks, Dumb-bells, Indian Clubs, etc. Dan Lea is always at his post to give lessons in Boxing, lesson £1 per month, or according co arrangement. 1344



Special Advertisements. JIOR SALE AT THIS OFFICE. The New Bankruptcy Bill, 1883. The Chattel Securities Act Amendment STOP THAT COUGH I PONT DELAY. —How can you stop it 1 ? Where is the Remedy. Bennington’s PECTORAL OXYMEL OF CaRRA GRfIJN or IRISH MOSS (registered), can produce more evidence of real merit than any other article for the purpose. Sold everywhere. —Q, Bonnington, Christchurch. QRICKETING MATERIAL, Of every description, at CHRISTCHURCH PRICES, Andrewes Bros., EAST STREET SOUTH. 77 SURPLUS STOCK FANCY GOODS, TOYS, STA TIONER! , Etc. Must be sold to make room for NEW GOODS shortly to arrive. Our Prices Defy Competition. Andrewes Bros., BOOKSELLERS, STATIONERS, &0., East street South Ashburton. nls Etc Etc. Etc. AT



THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCAN TILE COMPANY, LIMITED, JJ AYE FOR SALE A VERY COMPLETE Threshing Plant, By Bansome—almost equal to new, and for which terms are specially easy. Also, SEED OATS AND BARLEY RYE GRASS NEW CLOVER SEEDS WOOLPACKS, Etc., Exo. All at lowest current rates. Wm. HORNE, 12 au Agent. THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory HAVE spared no effort to place before the public a MOST COMPLETE ASSORTMENT OP 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 GAEitKNT AT WHOLESALE PRICE. SHIRTS, HATS, HOSIERY, and every requisite at Wholesale Prices. Nineteen Branches now open in New Zealand. Agents for the Unrivalled WERTHBIM SEWING MACHINES. Ashburton Branch : EAST STREET.



Special Advertisements. INTRODUCTION OF THE PARCEL SYSTEM. Fashion Fovbe, Cashel street, ChuStchurch. 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. C. Brown & Co., FASHION HOUSE, Christchurch. The splendid stock of General Drapery in all departments has been purchased by E. C. Brown and Co., from the Trustees in the Estate of the late firm of Craig and Smyth, at a very large discount off cost for cash. Thus articles sold under price leave a geod margin of profit for the vendor, while giving unsurpassed value to the purchaser. In all parcels we stake our reputation on the values, and, as suggested above, re turn the money in all cases where the article is not satisfactory. Our No. 1,20 s Dress Parcel, contains— Worth £ s. d. 1 dress piece (12 yds) any shade, French costume cloth ... 0 18 6 li g°°d velveteen to match dress 0 5 6 3 yds silesia, for linings ... 0 1 10 2 doz new oxydised buttons, to match ... ... ... ... 0 1 6 1 pair warm lined fur-top spring cuff gloves ... ... ... 0 2 6 £1 9 10 Our. No. 2,30 s household parcel, contains— Worth 1 pair good medium size blan kets 1 0 0 1 good honeycomb quilt... ... 012 6 8 yds good wincey 0 6 0 1 pair good strong corsets, any size ... ... ... ... 0 5 0 £2 2 6 Our No. 3, dress parcel for £2, contains — Worth 1 dress piece (10 yds) celebrated Empress black velveteen ... 1 7 6 3 yds good silesia for lining ... 0 2 0 2 doz new style oxydised buttons 0 16 1 handsome striped winter skirt 0 9 6 1 durable silk umbrella, paragon frame ... 0 8 0 1 choice silk chenille scarf ... 0 3 11



£2 12 5 Our No. 4, Ladies’ parcel for £2, contains— Worth 1 dress piece (12 yds) French check costume cloth 1 1 0 3 ydssilesia lining for same ...0 2 0 2 doz choice buttons, to match dress ... ... ••• ... 0 1 6 1 good warm Ladies’ tweed nlster 0 17 6 1 black quilted alpaca skirt ... 010 0 1 white or colored wool wrap ... 0 6 6 1 pair lisle lined fur-top spring cuff gloves 0 2 0 £2 19 6 Our No. 5, household parcel for £2 10s, contains — Worth 1 pair large size good witney blankets 1 10 6 1 nice large size good honeycomb quilt 0 14 6 1 pair good heavy white sheets 0 9 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) ... ••• 0 18 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 towels ... 0 4 9 £3 15 3 Our No. [7, mourning parcel for £2 10s, contains— Worth 10 yds good black French cash mere 1 6 2 yds 4x4 celebrated rainproof crape ... ... ... ... 09 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 .04 6 J doz Ladies’ cambric handker chiefs, in fancy box 0 6 6



£2 19 6 Our No. 8, furnishing parcel for £lO, contains— Worth 20 yds nice pattern good tapestry carpet 3 5 0 1 nice pattern hearthrug, to match 0 16 6 1 pair handsome lace curtains ... 0 14 6 1 pair medium lace curtains ... 010 0 2 pair full size good white sheets 0 18 6 1 pair full size good witney blan , kets 110 0 1 pair medium good wiiney blan kets 1 0 0 1 full size white honeycomb or toilet quilt 014 0 1 choice pattern wool tabiecover 0 16 6 2 white Turkish bath towels ... 0 3 0 6 white or unbleached honey comb towels 0 4 6 2 white antimacassars 0 2 0 2 white toilet covers 0 4 0 6 yds linen check glass cloth ... 0 6 0 1 superior white linen tablecloth 0 11 6 £ll 15 0 Our No. 1, wedding parcel for £4, contains— Worth 1 dress (12 yds) pretty shade in cashmere 1 17 6 2 yds pretty shade in satin, to match ... ... ... ... 0 13 6 1 dress (12 yds) good costume cloth 110 2 yds rich colored velveteen, to match 0 7 0 6 yds good silesia ... ... 0 6 0 3 doz buttons, to match dresses 0 2 0 8 yds braid, to match dresses ... 0 0 8 1 pair two-button first choice tinted or white kid gloves ... 0 5 0 6 Ladies’ linen collars 0 3 0 6 Ladies’ linen handkerchiefs ... 0 5 6 3 pairs Ladies’ nice hose 0 4 6



£5 5 8 Our No. 2, wedding parcel for £lO, contains— A very complete trousseau. Our No, 9, Ladies’ (half-price) parcel for L 5, contains — 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... ... ... 110 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. R.C.O. made payable to E 0. BROWN & 00., Fashion House, Christchurch, 1362



The last of the Oxford’s immigrants have been released from quarantine. Herculaneum and Trickster have been scratched for all their engagements at the O.J. 0. Spring Meeting. Holiday.—Wanted known—The conditions that I agreed to close on not having been com plied with, and finding it a great inconvenience te customers, my shops will be open to-morrow as usual. Robert Alcorn.—[Advt,]



Lazy and dull feelings always preceed sick* ness, which nothing but Hop Bitters will banish. Read.—[Advt.]