SHIPPING.

.PORT OF LYTTELTON,

Sailed. Yesterday. Louie, schooner, for Auckland. Marmion, brigantine, for Auckland. Ringarooma, s.s., for Northern porta.

SHIPPING TELEGRAMS

Auckland, Yesterday. Arrived I—Mary 1 —Mary King, from Timaru. Yesterday. Arrived —Hawea, from Nelson and Picton; Taiaroa, from Auckland, via the Etat.CqaaL,, ,■ . ' , _ . Sailed— HaWea, for Lyttelton; Taiaroa, lor Oamaru.

COMMERCIAL.

. Ashburton Guardian 'Office, 'O'- Saturday afternoon.

■Messrs 'Friedlander Bros, (in conjunction With Messrs R. Wilkin and Co.) report on the live stock market for the week ending 21st August, as follows At the Ashburton Yards onTuesday, there were but few sheej»,entered either in fat or store lines, but the fat sheep sold were of extra good quality and| realised good prices. Special menUon made of the pens entered by Mr R. Millar of Winch more. both fat wethers and ewes, lor which we topped the market at from 15s rod to 10s 8d for crossbred wethers and 9 s for merinos. We also sold a good line of hoggets at ns lod. Cattle were not yarded in any Suantity, and no good beef found its way to ie yards, in fact we may say no fat cattle were in at all. Dairy Cows—Springing went to L» each, and are in good demand at the present time, if young and of fair quality. Our clear ing sale of live aqd dead stock to-day at Dun das had to be postponed for one week, to day, 31st August next, in consequence ot tne inclement weather, rendering it impossible to get the stock in from the paddocks in time.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

■; 1 /AUCTION SALES Tuesday, August 28. Matson, Cox and Co., at the Tinwald Yaxda—Stock. ,

MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &o Wednesday, August 29. Town Hall—Rihk Tournament. Thursday, August 30. Oddfellows’ Hall—Grand Ball; at 8 p.m TPmday, August 31. Methveri Schoolroom Amateur Dra mAtio Performance, &c. Monday, September 3. Borough Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7 o’clock. , Wednesday,, September 12. Ashburton County Council —at Council ■Chambers; 11 a. m.

MAIL NOTICES.

lyfftil" close at the Ashburton Post Office as follows: —

For Christchurch and North at 6 a.in. 1030A.ni., and 6 P-.m., daily.. For; Chettsey Rakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m. and s y .p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10; a.m. daily. For Temuka, at 6, a.m. and 10 a.m., daily; u : " For Timam and South, at 6 a.m., 10 a.m:V and 4.30 p.m., daily. For Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, OH Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 3.30 p,m, Fiji- 'Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 6 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 6 a.m. For Ashtca, Waterton and Longbeach, at 4;30 p.m. daily. For Flemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4.30 p.m. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seaview, Seafield, and Kyle, on Tuesdays,’ Thursdays, and Saturdays,,at 6.30 a.m. For Newlanda, on Tuesdays and Fri days at 10.30 a.m.

Waila arrive at the Ashburton Post Office— .

From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 *.m., 4.35 p.m., and 7.20 p.m. FromChertsey, &c. at 10.15 a. m. and 4.36 p-w daily. From, Dunedin and intermediate places at 6.30 p.m. daily. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.40 a. m. 5.30 p.m., and 8 p.m. daily. From Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, and Saturdays, at 10 a.nu K From Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 10.5 a.m. and 8.16 p.m. From Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 10.5 a.m. From ‘Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a.m. daily. From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sat urdays, at 4 p.m. From Newlandsj on Tuesdays and Fri days, at 9.30 km. Front Flemington on Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 10 a.m.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains Leave Ashburton for Christ church and intermediate stations at 7-10 a.m,, 10.55 a.m., and (Express) 6.37 F»in, ' ■' . , "

Trains Leave Ashburton for Timaru and South, at 6.50 a.m., 10.25 a.m. (Express), and 4.45 p. m. —the latter pro ceeding no farther than Timaru. Trains Arrive at , Ashburton from Christchurch at 10 15a.m. (Express), 4.36 p.m., and 7.15 p.m. Trains Arrive at Ashburton from Timaru and South at 10.40 a.m., 5.27 p. 30. (Express), and 8 u.m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalent. SATURDAY, AUGUST 25, 1883.

The convent has been closed at Sumner in consequence of diptheria. The Standard Insurance Company paid yesterday the amount of the verdict gained by Strangahan. At a meeting of the unemployed held at Christchurch yesterday, nearly one hun dred carpenters are said to have been pre sent.

The master of the Ashburton Home desires to acknowledge, with thanks, the receipt of £l, through Mr Croker, being witness expenses to Mr W. H. Rule, Pendarves, in the late case, Croker v. fiden.

At the Timaru District Court yesterday judgment was given in the case of Duval v the South Canterbury Board of Educa tion. The plaintiff, who was lately archi tect to the Board, claimed Ll2O and board ;L 26 was paid into Court. Judg ment was given for L 72, including the amount paid into Court. A deputation of parents of children at the Boys’ High School waited on the Canterbury College Board of Governors for the purpose of endeavoring to arrange for Mr Miller, the head master, remain ing. The proceedings were not open to the Press, but it is understood that the matter will be brought before the Board at their next meeting. On Tuesday next Ashburton will be visited by the Marionettes, of whom re port speaks in favorable terms. They have been appearing in different towns in the South lately, and hare drawn excellent houses in every instance. As this kind of entertainment is popular here, we have no doubt that the short stay of the Marionettes, which is limited to two performances, will be successful.

At the Police Court this morning a man named John Williams, alias Dirty Jack, a nickname which his appearance deci dedly justified, was brought up charged with the larceny of a dog, the property of Mr Max Friedlander. He was also ac cused of having no lawful visible means of support, and the evidence clearly con victed him on both charges. It appeared that he was one of those blots on society who prefer loafiing round bars to doing work, and Mr Baddeley sent him to Addington for six months, three on the first charge and three on the second. —Frank Gribben, a well-known character in Ashburton, was charged with being drunk and also with being a vagrant. For the former offence he was fined 10s with the alternative of 48 hours’ imprisonment, and for the latter to throe months’ hard labor.—Julia Burke and Lewis Coleman were each fined 5s for drunkenness.

The Auckland R.M. Court was yester day occupied with rather a painful case, the position and former high reputation if oie of the parties being considered. The case was that of Taylor v McCor mick, a claim of Ll 5 15s to Mr McCormick, solicitor, in connection with a previous case, in which Taylor was defendant. The conduct of McCormick was described by Mr Tyler, who appeared for the plaintiff, as “ mean, despicable, disgraceful, an attempt to swindle, and a gross fraud,” The allegation was that McCormick had applied to his own use this money, and that instead of having the ca e heard he kept filing up affidavits to have it adjourned, it was alleged, in order to enable him to keep the man’s money in his pocket. Mr Tyler said it was such conduct as defendant had been guilty of that brought the profession into public odium, that when such con duct was brought before the proper tri bunal (Law Society) the result would be that the person guilty of it would be struck off the rolls, as he deserved to be. Whatever his misfortune might have been to reduce him to this present position, he might, at least, be honest. It was a dis grace such a thing could have taken place. The plaintiff was examined, and deposed to the facts stated by counsel. He said he paid an additional LI to Mr McCormick after giving him the Ll 5 l&s. Judgment for plaintiff.

Last evening the benedicts of Rakaia gave a ball in the Town Hall. The rough weather kept a number away, nevertheless there was a good muster. The hall was decorated with great taste, and a most enjoyable evening spent. Dancing was kept up till about 5 a. m. A meeting of the Wakanni School Committee was held in the main school on Thursday last, the members present being Messrs J. Kilgour (Chairman), P. Stewart, T. Walsh, W. J. Wilson, T. Dalton and J. Brown. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and con firmed. A letter was read from the Secretary of the Board of Education (cir cular No. 7), stating that by direction of the Board lie had forwarded regulations for school drill and class movements, which the Board wished brought into use If there was not already a regular system of school drill approved by the Inspector. The communication asked the Committee to hand the regulations to the principal teachers ot the schools.—Another com munication was received from the Board, acknowledging the receipt of memorial on behalf of Mr Angus, and requesting the Committee to ask Mr Angus to explain his reasons for not presenting himself at the last certificate examination. —From Mr Angus, explaining ,his reason for not presenting himself for examina tion.—lt was decided that Mr Angus’ ex planation be forwarded to the Board. — The requests of Mr Davis and Mr Load ley for the use of the school were granted on the usual terms. —Mr Brown said he had a resolution to propose, and stated that he understood that Mr Foster and his family wore stopping in the mas ters’ house, against the present master’s (Mr Williamson’s) wishes, and he would move to the effect “ That the Committee ask them to leave.” After a desultory conversation on the matter, and no one seconding Mr Brown’s proposal, the Chair man proposed, and Mr Walsh seconded — “ That in the absence of any formal com plaint from Mr A. Cookson, the Com mittee decline to interfere with Mr Foster and his family.” Carried. The Chair man drew the attention of the meeting to the fact that the present oaietaker’s time had expired on the 19th of the month, and wished the Committee to say what should bo done in the matter. They could either reinstate Mrs Hill or they could call for tenders. The matter rested entirely in their own bands. He might say that in talking on the subject to Mr Brown previously he remarked that if Mrs Williamson would take in hand the cleaning he would raise no objection. The Chairman said he had seen Mrs Wil liamson, who stated that she would be quite willing to do the work. Mr Brown proposed that the cleaning be let by ten- Mur. The proposition failed to find a seconder. Mr Dalton proposed, and Mr W. J. Wilson seconded, and it was car ried—“ That Mrs Williamson be appointed caretaker of the Wakanni Main School, at the rate of L 5 for six months.” After some other business of a routine nature had been considered, the meeting ad journed.

An exhibition of photographic transparen cies from Nature—extremely well executed— is to be on view at the Town Hall and al Chertsey next week. Particulars in advertise ment.

That ever successful auxiliary for securing legions of customers, namely,, a present to every purchaser, is announced by Messrs An drewes Bros.

A public meeting, at which matters con nected with the projected local Cheese and Butter Factory will be discussed, is advertised to take place in the Willowby Schoolroom on Tuesday evening next. “My wife and daughter were made healthy by the use of Hop Bitters, and I recommend it to my people.” Methodist Clergyman, read.—[Advt.J 9 Mother Swan’sworm Syrup.—lnfallible, tasteless, harmless, cathartic ; for feverishness, restlessness, worms, constipation, is. Moses, Moss and Co., Sydney, General Agents. 3

PARLIAMENTARY.

LEGISLATIVE COOROIL,

Feioat, August 24. MISCELLANEOUS.

The Hon P. A. Buckley brought in a Bill to amend the Land Transfer Act, 1870, which was read a first time. In reply to Sir G. S. Whitmore, The Hon Mr Whitaker said the Go vernment know nothing of the case of Angelique Therbe who had been sentenced to a month’s hard labor in Wellington, and if any representations were made in the matter to the Government they would be duly considered. The Guardian Trust and Executors Company Bill was parsed through Com mittee, and the Law Practitioners Act Amendment Bill, which was read a third timo.

The afternoon was spent in discussing the Taiaroa Land Bill in Committee, and ultimately it was referred to a Select Com mittee.

On the motion of the Hon Mr Whita ker, the Council decided to meet next day at 2.30. The Council adjourned at 5 p.m. till 7.30.

EVENING SITTING.

The Council resumed at 7.30.

The Otago Harbor Board Reconstitu tion Bill was again discussed in Com mittee, and finally reported with amend ments, notice being given to re-commit it. The Maaterton and Qreytown Lands Management Act Amendment Bill was passed thiough Committee and read a third time. The Waitara Harbor Board Loan Bill was passed through Committee, the amount being reduced from LIO.OOO to L 6,000. The Licensing Act Amend ment Bill and the Waimate High School Bill were read a second time. The Council rose at 10 p. m.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Friday, August 24. The House met at 2.30. LOCAL.

The Local Bills Committee reported that the Standing Orders were not complied with in regard to the Christchurch Cathe dral Square Bill, and that the Wanganui Bridge Bill was not a local Bill. On Mr H. Thomson’s motion, the Standing Orders were suspended 1 1 allow the former Bill to be proceeded with.

QUESTIONS. Replying to questions* Ministers stated —That as there were conflicting opinions re the extension of the Mount Somers railway, in determining the one to be adopted the Government would be glad to avail itself of the opinion of some in dependent Commission. —That before long nearly the whole of the provincial Acts would be consolidated, and the Govern ment did not see the necessity for reprint ing them.—That, unless when the public service demanded it, railway guards and engine drivers would not be shifted from place to place, so as to prevent their settling in one place for any great length of time.—That Government would con sider the following proposal before submitting any resolutions for the reform of the Civil Service :—That all officers employed by the Government in the service of the colony shall be mem bers of one Civil Service, and not mem bers of distinct departments of the ser vice as at present; that in order to secure first-class men, and relieve Ministers, members of the House, and heads of de partments of the imputation of favoritism in making appointments, and to make the Civil Service a popular one, all ap pointments or promotions in the service shall be made only from candidates who have passed an examination of a practical character with respect to the special duties the officer will be called on to perform,

similar to the examination now made in the Customs and Postal Depart ments of New York. Indeed, his own proposes would in some re spects go further than the question.— That the Government would consider the question of the introduction of a Bill next session to place Fire Brigades on a more satisfactory footing, but they did not think the members of such brigades were entitled to capitation grants.— ‘hat Go vernment saw no hope for passing the Municipal Consolidation Bill this session, but if pressing amendm-nts of the law were demanded he might endeavor to get a short measure passed this session.— That the defects in the provincial surveys arose from defects in the system, and not want of professional know ledge. In that case the propriety of the surveyors being again employed by the Government did not arise.— That Government was considering what could be done to remedy the difficulty of farmers protecting themselves from storm water without being liable for damages.— That Mr W. A. Murray had made repre sentations to the Government about an invention of his to prevent the collision on railways, and had been requested to give more detailed particulars, wh ch had not yet been forthcoming.—That the Go vernment were taking steps for making improved arrangements for the despatch and conveyance of immigrants to this colony. —That for convenience sake post charges for railway carriage on the Dune din and Port Chalmers and Lyttelton and Christchurch lines were made upon a dif ferent scale from the charges on ordinary lines. That accounted for any disparity that might appear in the charges made, and to which special reference was made in the question. As regarded the charge made on the Wellington line, they are higher than ordinary rates, as extra miles are put on the freights for the extra haul age required for the hill traffic. On the Port line coods were charged by measure ment, and on other lines by weight.— That the Shag Point coal lease had been surrendered to the Crown, but it was questionable if it was worth while taking up.—That there was a recommendation before the Library Committee to make the library available to the public dur ing the recess, and that report yould be considered shortly.—That the Go vernment was not aware distilleries had been established in Victoria.— That for railway curves jarrah timber sleepers were considered moat advanta geous. That was the reason 60,000 were got from Australia. They cost between 4s and ss, and experience in Canterbury proved them almost indestructible. Their general use would render our railways much more profitable. The Government found great difficulty in getting any tenders for puriri oleepers, which were also and durable.—That the Government did not think -it possible to pass a Consolidated Native Lands Bill - that wonld be readily comprehended by , all. The only chance for simplificating the law was to modify it bit by bit.

BILLS. ...; . , The following Bills were introduced and read the drat time The Civil Lists Acts Amendment (Mr Conolly), the Special Powers and Contracts (Mr Relies ton), to Amend the Road Boards Act, 1882, to Amend the Roads and Bridges Construction Act, 1882, to Amend the Rating Act, 1882, to Amend the Town Districts Act, 1881 (Major Atkinson). PRIVILEGE. The adjourned debate upon the ques tion that the printers and publishers of the Wellington Evening Post newspaper be summoned to appear at the bar of the House to answer to a question of a breach of the privileges of the House was re sumed.

The Hon Major Atkinson said the Go vernment had considered the matter and consulted with the Speaker. He would, under ordinary circumstances, recommend that no further steps be taken. If Mr Dargaville thought he would be prejudiced he would, however, be prepared to carry the matter on. Mr Dargaville said that he had no desire to follow up the matter. He was satisfied with what had been done al ready. The Hon. Major Atkinson then moved, ,e That the order be discharged." Mr Swanson said the only effect of their motion about privileges was to pre vent information of this kind from being made public Mr Dargaville thought it would be better to , admit reporters to Committee sittings. In that case they would be sure to get correct reports, and not the garbled reports they now g >t. Mr Turnbull concurred in ithis opin ion.

Sir George Grey moved, as an amend ment —“ That the press be admitted to Committee sittings, except when deliber ating or when specially ordered to with draw. ”

Interrupted by the 5.30 adjournment,

EVENING SITTING. The House resumed at 7 30. Sir G, Grey resumed the debate on jthe breach of privilege motion. He spoke at some length on the importance of conserv ing the interests of a free and indepen dent press. He would even go the length of saying, although the proposal was not embodied in the amendment, that under certain reservations the meetings of the Executive Council should be opened to the press. The holding of inquiries in secret was one of the last vestiges of a barbarous age, and it was the duty of the Government to have snatched this oppor tunity for getting this remnant of bar barism swept away, He concluded by moving as an amendment that the Speaker and Chairman of Committees be asked to devise the best means for admitting the press reporters to all committees not being secret ones when taking evidence. The Hon Major Atkinson hoped the amendment would not be consented to. It would be refreshing for the press to hear of Sir G. Grey’s sudden conversion to a belief in the press. They had been told by Sir G. Grey day after day that the oress was bur, the tool of the Government. The course he had taken yra.a the right one. Having brought the matter forward, he left it with the gentleman aggrieved to say what more should be done, and he ex pressed himself satisfied, With .what had been done. Any Committee could now admit strangers to its sittings if it pleased. The present system worked very well, and it was absurd to say that it was to foe interfered with on the whim of Sir G. Grey. Mr Joyce said that, seeing that the Press was liable to pick up wrong infor mation, it might be more judicious to allow the Press representatives to be pre sent.

Mr Babron thought the presence of reporters would delay the business of Committees, and lead to members making long speeches. Mr De Lautour thought that the evi dence correctly reported in Committees would tend to improve the method of carrying on the business. The Treasurer had spoken in favor of the press. 'He was not at all surprised at it. The press had lauded him high enough, and he was afraid that these laudations had had a hand in producing in him that tyrannical, over-bearing conduct which had done so much to retard the business of the country. Mr Whitaker said that if reporters were to be allowed to be present at these Committee, and all proceedings pub lished, the evil would be greatly aggra vated of which Mr i)e Lautour had then to complain of. Asa matter of fact Com mittees decided nothing. They simply took evidence, and the House reserved the right of decision.

Mr Swanson objeoted to ment as impracticable; He moved the adjournment of the debate. , Mr Turnbull and Mr Bracken sup ported the amendment. Mr Petrie also contended for the press reporters being allowed to be present at the Committee.

The motion for adjournment of the de bate to that day six weeks was then put and carried. NATIVE LANDS AMENDMENT BILL.

This Bill was further considered in Committee.

The Hon Mr Bryoe moved the follow ing new clause:—“ Restrictions upon the alienability of land,owned by natives may be removed in the whole or any part by the order in writing of the Chief Judge of the Native Land Court, and not other wise. The Committee divided, and Mr Bryce s clause was lost by 37 to 23. The Hon Mr Bryce withdrew the re maining clauses on the subject. Mr Swanson moved a new clause in lieu, to the effect that it should not be competent to remove restrictions to the inalienability of such land until the same had been notified in the Gazette nine clear days. C*rned on the voices.

The new clause moved by Mr Stevens to validate the existing bona fide negotia tions was lost on a diviai n, by 24- to 13. The Bill was then reported as amended. miscellaneous The following also pa-sed through Com mittee, were reported wi Jx amendments, read a third time, and passed ISative Committees Bill, West Coast Settlement Reserves act Amendment Bill, "Volunteer Act. 1881, Amendment Bill, Kawhia Township Sale Bill. Auckland Hospital Reserves Bill. 1

The Counties Act, 1876, Amendment Bill was also considered, and after pro gress was made and leave asked to sit again, the House rose at 12.45.

IN THE LOBBY.

[from opr parliamentary correspon dent. ]

Wellington, To-day.

The Premier stated in the Legislative Council yesterday that he expected the session to close on the Ist September. In order to get through the work the Council decided to hold an extra sitting this after noon. Who will say after this that the councillors do not earn their honorarium? The House will sit again at 2.30 on Mon day, and towards the close of theweek it is anticipated that morning sittings will be commenced.

Members are now flooding the order papers with questions of a parish charac ter, for example, as to when a bridge be tween this and that place will bo finished. They want to go back to their constituents with something to show as a result ot the work of the session.

Mr W. 0. Buchanan is to ask the Min ister of Defence whether he will put a sum on the Supplementary 'Estimates to increase the capitation for country volun teer corps'from LI to L2 ! J also, whether he will increase the allowance of amuni tion to volunteer cadet corps.

THE CLINTON TRAGEDY.

The Mys€ery Solved. >

The Daily Times special reporter tele graphs from Clinton concerning the shoot ing of Fireman Henderson :—“ The in habitants of Clinton were thrown into a state of unusual excitement by the shock ing occurrence of Thursday evening, and the matter has naturally been all absorbing topic of conversation ever since. Plenty of rumors have, of couse, been afloat during the day, some of a very ugly nature, pointing in the direction of the deed having been done from motives of revenge, or at all events with a murderous intent. These it is now, however, unneces sary to allude to, seeing the unexpected denouement which has taken place this afternoon. Two youths of ,respectable position, Jas. and Alex. Ray, are at pre sent in custody charged with the commis sion of the outrage, which would now seem to have been the outcome of wanton thoughtlessness and recklessness, rather than of any deliberate intention. Before proceeding further it may be as well to narrate the circumstances of the tragedy, which have so far only been recorded in a very meagre form. The engine which leaves Invercargill for Clinton with the 4 p.m. mixed train, leaves the latter place on its return Journey with the night gcods train at 10 p.m. On Thursday the driver for this train was Peter Dunn ; the fire man, John Henderson ; the guard Wil liam Duncan ; the brakesman, a man named Simtnonds. The goods train left Clinton station at its usual time, the driver, fireman, and brakesman being, of course, upon the engine, and the guard in the van. After proceeding about three miles and a half, and when about half a mile from Wairuna, the train entered a short cutting, and when more than mid way through this a couple of shots were fired in rapid succession from- the bank on the left-hand side of the line, which is at this point about 10ft high. At the moment of the discharge, Henderson, the fireman, was standing to the left of his companions nearest the bank, and he immediately utter a cry and fell back across the engine, exclaiming, “Oh Peter.” The train wai moving at the rate of about twelve miles an hour. The night was dark, but both the engine driver and the guard appear to have seen the flash from the leftrhand bank! The engine was immediately stopped, and with very little delay I it was reversed, and the train steamed back to Clinton. The guard first made a mark to note the precise spot where the occurrence took place, but none of the three unin jured men alighted to make any search after the perpetrator of the deed, as considerable alarm 'was naturally felt, and the engine lights were even extinguished on repassing the spot On the return of the train to Clinton, Dr Low was immediately sent for and examined the body, which hf»d been taken to the Prince of Wales Hotel. Be pronounced, life to be extinct. Both discharges appear to have struck the un fortunate man. A quantity of shot en tered his left breast, lacerating the muscles of his arm near the armpit, and the con tents of the second gun appear to have taken effect lower down, on the left side of the stomach. Mo J or swan shot had been used. 5 ; Constable Wilson, stationed at Clinton, immediately started in the direction of the scene, and was accom panied by four residents in the township. They proceeded up to the neighborhood of the cutting by the rond, taking the engine driver with them, and returned along the line, without, however, discovering any trace, although they made enquiries at several settlers’ houses in the immediate locality. Early this (Friday) morning Constable Wilson again visited the scene, on which occasion ha picked up a portion of a small flute lying upon the grass at the very spot whence the shots proceeded. The morning express brought to Clinton Inspector Weldon, Detectives Henderson and Bain, and Sergeant Uooney, from Balclutha; and Constable King, from Tapanui, also put in an early appearance, and a systematic investigation was com menced. Some time was occupied first in the township pursuing clues, which, as they subsequently proved unimportant, it is not necessary to touch upon. In spector Weldon, the two datectipos, the sergeant, and the two constables arrived at the scene of the tragedy early in the afternoon. What footmarks were then ap parent proved of little guidance, as the ground had been pretty freely trampled over since the preceding night, the grass, however, at one spot near the edge of the :

ii>ank appeared as though some person Hkd been recently lying upon it. Near at hand also was found a small piece of folded pape* bearing a dark circular mark, as though an attempt bad been made to insert it as a wad into the muz* zle of a gun. This (paper was evidently a portion of a child’s story book entitled ‘ Giant’s Land’. It was picked up near the spot where the portion of the flute had been found, and was of course kept in the custody of the police. Nothing further was to be learnt by an inspection of the place, and Mr Weldon divided his men, despatching them in different direc tions. Detective Bain, and Sergeant. Rooney proceeded on to Waipahi .by goods train, whilst Detective Henderson and Constable Wilson started to complete enquiries of the settlers in thevicinity, having orders also to scour any bush near at hand. One or two people also re mained to be specially questioned, amongst them the lads Ray who were reported, to have been out rabbiting late the previous night.” After commenting on the fact that although several people .heard the shots, nobody came out of their house to see what was the matter, the oorrependent ■ goes'on to narrate how Detective Hender son turned Up in Clinton with two kids named James Ray, (19), and Alexander Ray (14). “ The circumstances lead ing to the arrest appeal, to be as fol-i lows :—The detective and Constable Wil son, as arranged, proceeded to interview the lads in question. Their father„Mr; James Kay, is a fanner and a Justice of the Peace, holding a good position in the district and universally respected. His residence is about three-quarters of s mile from the cutting where the tragedy oc curred, and he owns something like; 200 acres of land in the neighbor hood. The boys had ! been working, about the farm the greater part of the day. On being met by the police'they were asked if any of them played the flute, and thby Replied in the affirmative! Detective Henderson then asked where the instru ment was, and the reply was that they had lost part of it the day before. : ‘On the remaining part being produced it waa found to fit the piece which was picked up near the scene of the outrage. The fol lowing facts were then elicited, although I understand no attempt was made to m-’ duce the lads to make damaging State ments. The three of them, James (aged'' 19), John (aged 18), and Alexander-(aged 14), were out rabbiting the evening be* fore, the elder ones carrying the two gnns most of the time. John seemsStsome moments to have handed his gun to the younger brother Alexander, and it was admitted that James and Alexander dis charged the weapons simultaneopily, while the engine was passing. The df tailpd statement made to the police while these inquiries were proceeding; is, ( ,o£ course, not accessible to the press, but it will come out at the inquest, and in. the meantime the following points have tran spired The lads assert .that although they fired at the moment the train was passing they did not mean harm t(J .ai»y ( person. Later oh, whilst being brought into Clinton, they stated f that ;they ’JudP not know their guns were loslded with shot. They saw the train stop after.jma shots, ancf eventually go not know they had done "any 'damage. They heard this morning of the fireman’s death, but did not know, at the tithe that they had done harm to anybody.' The :enquiry haying taken this turn, Detective Henderson' of course arrested the. eldest and youngest lads. Mr Ray, who pre sent, was informed that he could cb'me into Clinton that evening if he pleased arid sea his sons. He said that he had spoken to them often enough, but that it was no good, and now they would have to go,and take the consequences. On the way in both boys treated the matter very' coolly whistling at times and chatting in an un. concerned way. In the police station they were told by Inspector Welden that he was sorry they were in that position, and would do what ho ceuld to' make them comfortable. They replied that they were used to roughing it. The reputation the lads bear in the neighbor hood is by no means a bad one, although looked upon as a a little wild, they were well liked. In appearance they, are respect able and pleasant lookingfboys. , There is a general impression here that. th«j shots were, not fired at the men upon the engine, but most likely at the funnel or some other part of the engine': itself. There certainly seems no possible, motive that could have induced them to make a wilful attempt upon the life either of the deceased or his companions., , The whole affair has the appearance of 'being .a reck less and wanton piece of mischief, which has terminated in an unexpectedly dis astrous manner. The fact of both shots ha ving apparently taken effect apoiithe deceased might upon this, hypothesis be accounted for by both culprits aiming at the same part, of the engine, and both alike failing to make allowance for the speed at which it was travelling.. Never theless the short distance‘from which the' shots were fired .seems to make so widj» a miscalculation unlikely, and it is barely possible that the ..-boys relied upq'nr their guns being loaded with charges of powder too small to take serious effect. ” QttS point that might support .this that one or two loose shots were found inside the shirt of the, dead man. The statement that the lads were rabbittineat that time of night. is, however, inexplic able, as itjjwaa dark at the hour' of the occurrence. They are known to have l4ft home early in the evening, at about six o’clock, and visited the house of a widowed aunt in the neighborhood some time between that and the hsur the deed was committed- They returned home at about eleven o’clock.” o, .

John Henderson, the.victim of this ter rible occurrence, was about thirty-three years of age. He had only been twelve months in the colony, and had come from India, where he had worked as an engine driver. He entered the railway service in October last as fireman,. and was much liked by his comrades. He resided in Invercargill with his young wife, to whom he' had only been married fourteen months. There are no children at pre sent, but she is now stated to be near her confinement.

has just been received from the Coroner that the inquest cannot taka ilace until Monday. -' lo.n

pit. - . Detective Henderson arrested these three lads at the same time. John is charged with being an accessory toths fact. The answers of the latter nave been the most unsatisfactory of any, and he has shown some disposition to fence.with the questions.

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE

[rKDTEe’s TELEGRAMS— COPYRIGHT.] Monetaryjand Commercial. London, August 23. The total reserve of the Bank of England in notes and bullion is L 13 ,400,000, being an increase of L 600,600 since last Thursday. The proportion ot reserve to liabilities has fallen 1 per cent during the week, and is now 46 per cent. The Bank.rate of discount remains at 4 per cent, and the market rate at 3%. Consols are Un changed at 100%. New Zealand’ se* curicies are quoted as follows:—Five per cent 10-40 Loan, io6}£ ; Five per cent 1889 Loan, 105 ; Four and a h alf per cent 1879-1904 Loan, roo>£ j Four per cent inscribed stock, ■looji*. Wheat market continues quiet. Ade laide, ex store, 48s ; New Zealand ditto, 44s to 48s. Adelaide flour, ex warehouse, 345. Australian tallow—*

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, SATURRDAY, AUGUST 25, 1888.



jgjOONOMY, COMFORT,, SAFETY. X'he Shag Point Coal Company, Limited, beg to inform the Public of Ash* burton tod neighboring district that their FAVORITE HOUSEHOLD COAL IsSfopplied by the principal local Dealers at prices to suit the. times.- Special rates for quantities of 4 tons and upwards. Be sure and ask your dealer for Slaag Point Coal, The most economical and efficient Fuel in the market, being free from soot and live asnes and emitting a strong, steady and lasting heat. For terms apply to your Dealer or at P. 0., Box 213, Dunedin. N.B.* i -The price of every ton of Shag Point Coal sold is spent in the colony, and a large portion of it goes direct to the revenue. 7 149



. Fine Gold. AAA SHEEP to be Slaughtered to Du5vUU Me(a)t the Times.—Wanted the public to know you can save 100 per sent, by dealing at the Rbadt-Monby Mbat Mabt, Bullock’s Arcade. Meat delivered to any part of the town when purchased. . 8 211 j r /j ‘ Belief’ from cough in five ',-jMTWnTBS- —t Bohnington’s Peo tOBAZ. OxYMEI 07 CaEEAGBBN OH leISH Moss (Registered). —The most certain and speedy remedy for disorders of the Chest and Lungs. May/be obtained at most of the Storekeepers and Chemists throughout the Proyince. Sold every where.—Geoege



Wanted WANTED— An experienced General SERVANT. Apply at once, Mrs Albert Roberts, Wakanui road. 8 397 WANTED— A good General SER VANT. Apply for particulars Office of this paper. 8 386 WANTED— To BUY 25 Ashburton Saleyards Company SHARES. Apply to Matson, Cox and Co. 8 380 WANTED KNOWN —Two Ladies would find a comfortable resi dence, with use of piano.—Mrs G. B. Thompson. Tancred street, near Arcade. 1443 YT7ANTED Known— H. C, Skoebs is now showing his new Spring goods of every 'description (choice selection— ceme and see them). Everything marked with a small profit, Sealy’s now build ings, East street. 8 387 WANTED KNOWN—That Robert Elston, Burnett street, Ashbur ton, having procured the newest appara tus, is prepared to Sweep Chimneys at very low rales. Any orders left at th« Town Hall will receive prompt attention. Terms cash. 760 c



WANTED Known Startling an nouncement. Great bargains for a short time. The stock belonging to the Little Dust-pan having been purchased at less than half price by me, I invite the public to inspect the goods and secure genuine bargains. No sham; must be sold; and as I am willing to give a chance to participate in the advantage received by me, an early call is invited to John Meech’s Cheap Furniture' Mart, Burnett street. Roll up at once and secure bar gains. rr John Meech. 8 287 WANTED KNOWN—That Mr Dan Lea’s Gymnasium is the only place for real amusement; admittance free. Every kind, of amusement to be ob tained on the premises calculated to please the general public—American Bowls, Skittles, Shooting, Boxing, Fencing, Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, etc. Temper ance Drinks, Cigars, etc. Tickets— monthly 2s 6d, for use of Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, Single-sticks, Dumb-bells, Indian Clubs, etc. Dan Lea is always at his post to give les -ons in Boxing, lessons £1 per month, or according to arrangement. 1344 WANTED Known—That in conse ' quence of the rapid increase of business, John 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



Special Advertisements. QIYEN AWAY A PRESENT Given to every Purchaser at ANDREWBS BROS.’ GREAT SALE of Fancy Goods, Toys, Stationery, etc. 77



QREAT CLEARING SALE. FOR ONE MONTH ONLY, Commencing Saturday, August 18th. STATIONERY, FANCY GOODS, TOYS, Etc. A GREAT REDUCTION IN THE PRICES OF ALL OUR GOODS. An Inspection Solicited. Andrewes Bros., BOOKSELLERS, STATIONERS, &c., East street South Ashburton. nls



Seed. Seed. SEED WHEAT—Hunter’s White. Prime Tuscan. SEED OATS—Canadian. Tartarian, first-class. Danish. KAIAPOI ISLAND POTATOES. CRUSHED OATS, First-class, la. lOd. per bushel. JOSEPH CLARK, 266 Ashburton and Tinwald,



A R M FOB S ALE AT SEAFIELD, ON EASY TERMS OP PAYMENT BEING RURAL SECTION" No. 25334, Containing 300 ACRES 300 Lately in the occupation o£ ?Mr H. Beckett The land is of good quality, and well watered by one of the C< aunty water races. Also, A VERY OOMPLEI 'E Threshing PL nit, By Ransotne—almost equal to new. Apply, THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MEROA. N TILE COMPANY, LIMITED, Wm. HORNE, 12 an Agent,



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 and puachase of useful household drapery, thousands of parcels being for warded to the order of distant customers upon the distinct understanding that any article hot proving satisfactory to the pur chaser, the money in all cases to bo 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. 0. Brown and Go., 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 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 a Dress Parcel, contains — Worth 1 £ s. d.



1 dress piece (12 yds) any shade, French costume cloth ... 0 18 l£ good velveteen to match’dress 0 5 3 yds silesia, for linings ... 0 1 2 doz new oxydised buttons, to match 0 1



1 pair warm lined fur-top spring cuff gloves ... ...



£ 1 9 10 Our No. 2,30 a household parcel, contains— Worth 1 pair sood medium size blan kets ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 1 good honeycomb quilt 0 12 6 8 yds good wincey 0 5 0 1 pair good strong corsets, any size ... ... ••• ... 0 5 0 £2 2 6 Our No. 8, dress parcel for £2, contains— Worth 1 dress piece (10 yds) celebrated (impress 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 yds silesia lining for same ... 0 2 0 2 doz choice buttons, to match dress ... ... ... ... 0 1 6 1 good warm Ladies’ tweed ulster 0 17 6 1 black quilted alpaca skirt ... 010 0 1 white or colored wool wrap ... 0 5 6 1 pair lisle lined fur-top spring cuff gloves 0 2 0 £2 19 6 Our No. 5, household parcel for £2 10s, contains— Worth 1 pair large size good witney blankets ... ... ... 1 10 6 1 nice large size good honeycomb quilt 0 14 6 1 pair good heavy wh’ite sheets 0 9 6 6 good value honeycomb towels 0 4 0 6 yds heavy Welsh flannel ... 0 8 0



£3 6 6 Our No. 6, family parcel for £3, contains— Usual price 12 yds super Roslyn flannel (pure wool) ... . ... 018 0 24 yds splendid white calico, heavy make ... 013 0 24 yds good strong brown or grey wincey 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 ... ... ... 076 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 ... ... ... ...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 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 ... ... ... ... 1 10 0 1 pair medium good witney blan kets ... ... ... ... 1 0 0 1 full size white honeycomb or toilet quilt ... ... ... 014 0 1 choice pattern wool tablecover 0 15 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 011 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 ... ... ... ... 1 1 0 2 yds rich colored velveteen, to match ... ... ... ... 0 7 0 6 yds good sileaia 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 6 Ladies’ linen handkerchiefs ... 0 3 pairs Ladies’ nice hose 0 co io



£5 5 8 C'ur No. 2, wedding parcel for iSIO, contains— Avery complete trousseau. Our .No. 9, Ladies’ (half-price) parct'l 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 once for any article returned in good condition. Samples post free on application to any part of New Zealand. In ordering any of these parcels, it is sufficient to quote number an 4 name of parcel only. P.C.O. made payable to EC. BROWN & CO., Fashion House, Christchurch. 1362



Special Advertisements.



THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory HAY E spared no effort to place before the public a MOST COMPLETE ASSORTMENT OF 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 AX WHOLESALE PRICE. SHIRTS, HATS, HOSIERY, and every requisite at Wholesale Pricos. Nineteen Branches now open in New Zealand. Agents for the Unrivalled WERT HEIM SEWING MACHINES Ashburton Branch : EAST STREET.



t F YOU WANT GOOD AND STRONG FURNITURE, GO TO DAVIS’S OHEAP FURNITURE AND RED DING MANUFACTORY, CAST STREET SOUTH, ASHBURTON. article Sold at Christchurch ■A Prices and boa. of •material and workmanship. F U N E BALB CHEAPLY & COMPLETELY FURNISHED