SHIPPING.

PORT OP LYTTELTON,

Arrived. Tester® at. Mahinapua, a.?,, from Dunedin. Tarawera, s.s., from Sydney, Tia Auck land and way porta. Hawea, a.a.,'from Port Ohalmers. Sailed. Yesterday. Zior, schooner, for Timaru. wswrMabinapua, a.a., for Wellington and West Coast ports. Awaroa, a.a, for Oamaru. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. . Auckland, Yesterday. ; Arrived Bannockburn, from Pine Islands; Ryoo, from Swain Island; Southorn Cross, from the South. • f , - Wbliinotoh, Yesterday. Arrived—Kennedy, from the West Coast and Nelson ; Manawatu, from Grey mouth ; Wakatipu, from the South, y, for Sydney.

COMMERCIAL.

Ashburton Guardian Office, Wednesday afternoon.

The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company,Limited (per Mr E. G. Stave ley, auctioneer), report on Tinwald sale under date 14th August;—The market throughout was the dullest that we have yet experienced at these yards. There was hut a moderate attendance, and even those who were present could be scarcely tempted to operate. Sheep; The entry consisted principally of merino stores, which found little favor amongst buyers. Very few fat sheep were yarded. Fat merino wethers made 10s 3d; ewes in lamb, 3s 3d to 6s 3d; crossbred hoggetts, 8s lod and 9s 3d. One or two pens of pigs were disposed of at current values. In the cattle yards scarcely any business Was done. Prime beef in short supply, and an absence of good lines of sale able fresh conditional cattle. Dairy cows brought L 4, L 4 .12S 6d, L 5, and L$ 7s 6d; fcit cows; Ls; store steers, L 3 12s 6d. The Sydney Markets. The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, limited, 1 report of the Sydney markets, under date Aug 3, as fol lows :—Wool: Already a few bales of the new clip are to hand, and brokers are busily en gaged in . making arrangements for the ap proaching season; meantime, the few parcels of oddments submitted have had but little at tention,—Sheepskins: Some large catalogues have been offered, and cleared at rates equal to dvtr last quotations.—Tallow continues in good though prices have eased a little.— Batter: We can only reiterate the advice given in our last circular. Immense stocks are held here, and the prospect of a satisfactory clear ance is as distant as ever.—Potatoes: The continued.heavy arrivals by steamer, supple mented ' by cargoes per sailing vessels, have already had their effect on this market, and at our last sale we were only able to realise L 3 8s 6d per ton. Two ar three large importers are holding;:but with the information we pos sessed regarding further intended shipments by sailing vessels, we did not hesitate to clear, though the' figure is scarcely satisfactory.— Oats: /We have again had several inquiries, and -have no doubt we .could place a few lines at satisfactory rates.—Bran : At our sales this weeKwe placed about 4,000 bushels at The dembad, however, is fair, and we antici pate a firmer market shortly.—Hops : Under instructions from owners we offered 25 bales ofCalifbmias at auction this week, and were only able to secure is s}£d and is 6j£d per lb. in' bond; at the same sale we sold 10 bales of New Zcalands, which made is qd in bond. Stocks are held heavily here, and the prospect of a rise in value is doubtful.—New Zealand Flax: Market steady at our last quotation.

MAIL NOTICES.

11l IJ dose at the Ashburton Post Office as follows: For Ghristchurch and North at 6 a. m. 10.30 a.m., and 5 p.m., daily. For Chertaeyßakaia, &c., at. 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Bangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Gerßldme,at 10 a.m. daily. For Temuka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., daily. For Timajii and South, at 6 a.m., 10 «.m., and 430 p.m., daily. For Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, OH Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 3.30 p.m. For Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 6 a.m. and 430 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 6a; m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, at 430 p.m. daily. For Flemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 430 p. in. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seaview, Seafield, and Ky}e, on. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a. m. Fet Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri dayaatlo,3o a,m.

’MVriln Arrive at the Ashburton Post .Office—

From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 *.m., 435 p.m.,«and 7.20 p.m. From Ohertsey, &c. at 10.15 a.m. and 436 p.m.- d^ily. From’ Dunedin and intermediate places at 6.30 p.m. daily. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.40 a. m. 6.Bo‘p;m-, akd 8 p.m. daily. From Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 *.m. '

From Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 10.5 a.m. and 8.15 p.m. From Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 10.5 a.m. From Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a. in. daily. From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, and Kyle,, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sat urday^,’at 4 p.‘m. FromNewlanda, on Tuesdays and Fri days, at 9.30 a. m. From Flemington on Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 10 a.m.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES Saturday, August 18. Hr Thoi. Bullock, at the Arcade, at 1 o’clock —Borough Reserves. ' /; Tuesday, August 21. liaison, Cox and Co., at the Tinwald Yards—Stock. Friday, August 24. Robert 'Wilkin and Co., at the Dundas Homestead Stock, Implements, &c. MEETINGS; AMUSEMENTS, &c To-morrow, Thursday; August 16. Town Hall—Gospel Temperance Mission. ' Friday, August 17. Oddfellows’ Hall—“ Pirates of Penzance;” at 7.30. Monday, August 20. Borough Council, at Borough Council at 7 o’clock.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

■fptrwa Leave Ashburton fob Chbist ohurohand intermediate stationaat7.lo •.im T r a.m., and (Express) 5.37 |>.m. bains Leave Ashburton for Timaru and South, at 6.60 a.m., 10.26 a.m. (Express),and4<4s p.m.—thelatterpro oeeoung no ( faitoetthanTimaru. Trains Arrive at ' Ashburton from OhmdTOKctrch at 10 16a.m. (Express), 435p.m., and 7.16 p.m. VbaZNE Arrive at ASHBURTON FROM Timaru and South at 10.40 a.m., 5.27 ja. (Express), and 8 p.m. ... . ~

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15, 1883.

At the Police Court this morning be fore R. Alcorn, Esq., J. P., a first offender was charged with being drunk and was fined 6s with the usual alternative. We are pleased to learn that Mr Alfred Harrison has already been promised various amounts, in all a little over fire pounds, towards the Hospital harmonium fund. As the instrument is intended to assist the singing in the services held at the Hospital, and which the patients appear to most thoroughly enjoy, it is to be hoped that sufficient money will soon be received to enable Mr Harrison to suply the patients with the longed-for harmonium.

The usual fortnightly meeting of th® Mount Somers Mutual Improvemen Glass was held in the uibrary last Satur day evening, when a debate on Sir F. D. Bell’s paper on “ The Colonies ” took place, Mr W. Easton made a vigorous attack on the paper, and did not forget to censure the recklessness of the Govern ment in borrowing so much money and taxing the people so heavily to pay the interest on the debt, Mr Williams had a great deal to say in defending the paper on the colonies, but at length admitted that he thought the population of New Zealand would not increase according to Sir F. D. Bell’s estimate. The meeting was unanimous in the opinion that the paper showed an exaggerated state of things.

At the Timaru Magistrate’s Court yes terday, Captain Reuben Smith, of the Salvation Army, was fined LI and costs for obstructing the street with his army on Sunday last, and refusing to move on when requested by the police.

The tea meeting in connection with the Ashburton Presbyterian Church, which was to have been held on Monday next, 20th inst, has been unavoidably post poned; the anniversary services, however, will be conducted on Sunday next by the Rev W. W. at, as advertised. The Dunedin City Council last night considered the question of obtaining powers from the Assembly to sell or lease the gas works to private parties, offers having been received to that end. It was decided, after a lengthy discussion, on the casting vote of the Mayor, to take no such action at present.

At the inquest on the body of Andrew M. Allan at Auckland the jury found an open verdict of “ Found drowned without marks of violence, but there was no evi dence to show how the body came to be in the water.” The evidence left little doubt but that deceased committed sui cide. His watch was stopped at 11.30 p m., which would just give him timq,to walk from the Queen’s Head Hotel, — where he left a girl named Zillah G adding a domestic there, —to the Reclamation ground, where his hat was found.. He

told the girl she would nor see him again and gave her a ring in remembrance o him.

Thanks to an energetic lady the enter tainment at the Old Men’s Home last night was a decided success, both in the manner the programme was carried out and the attendance of visitors. Mr .Law rence piesided, and the various pieces sung, interspersed with readings and reci tations and instrumental music, were heartily appreciated and applauded to the echo. The duet and solo performances on the piano by a diminutive lady and gentleman were exceedingly well executed. The contributions to the piano fund amounted to LI Os. Mrs Manhire, who was instrumental in organising the affair, is to be congratulated on the manner in which it was carried out.

The deputation which waited jon the County Council in connection with the Rangitata traffic bridge was, as might have been safely predicted, not successful in its mission. Mr Walker plainly told the Geraldine representatives the that idea of appointing two referees to decide as to whether the bridge had been properly constructed, as the question to be settled was not in any sense an engineering one. He also mentioned the motion that had been previously carried by the Geraldine Council to the effect that the bridge should be tested by a flood, and he pointed out that Mr Baxter reported that the Rangitata had been in full flood yes terday, and that the bridge was perfectly safe. What was considered the most necessary test has therefore been tried, and it remains to be seen what will be the next action of the Geraldine Council. Ah Quee, a cousin of Ah Chin, who was murdered at Shingle Creek ( Itago) four er five months ago, and who had been in a desponding state of mind ever since the death of his relative committed suicide at Roxburg yesterday morning by drowning himself. He was to have been taken to Dunedin yesterday on account of his unusual and peculiar actions of late, but while his mate was preparing break fast for him he went outside, sallied down to the river (a distance of twenty yards or so), took off his hat, boots, and coat, and jumped off a projecting ledge of rock into the river. The current at this point is very strong, and he must have immediately been carried out into mid stream and down the river, as the spot has been dragged without discovering any signs of the body. He Beamed never to have recovered from the shock occasioned by the death of his relative. Mr Williamson, the Manager of the Golden Crown Mining Company, writing to the local paper on the result of the Terawhiti crushing, says : —“ It settles once and for all the question ef a payable goldfield in the vicinity of Wellington. There is reason to believe that inevitable loss arising from the curing of plates and in connection with new machinery, as well as an admittedly insufficient supply

of water to keep the tables clear during the greater portion of the crushing, may be moderately estimated at not less than half an ounce per ton. It may, there fore, safely be asserted that the first trial crushing of stone at Terawhiti has pro duced at least 2oz of retorted gold from each ton of quartz stuff passed through the battery. The unanimous verdict of experienced miners goes to show that the supply of golden stone is practically un limited in the Golden Crown claim, and as no one can suppose that this quartz is confined to this particular claim for a fact' —we have daily reports of the reef out cropping all along a vast length of line— we may with every assurance predict a speedy developement of a new goldfield to a degree difficult to realise at the pre sent moment.”

A procession of about a score of per" sons, consisting principally of women and children, paraded several of the main thoroughfares last evening, singing what we should presume would • be termed Sal vation Army hymns. The party was headed by an enthusiastic youth, whose vocal powers were exerted to the utmost in his capacity of precentor, and who seemed to be the moving spirit through out the proceedings. As a natural sequence the procession was followed up by a considerable number of people who were attracted by the singing, and who were, doubtless, curious to ascertain whether a detachment of the renowned

“Army” had invaded the township. The terminus of the procession, however, appeared to be the Primitive Methodist Church, which, during the evening, was filled to its utmost capacity, the gathering taking the form of a -t testimony ” meet ing, inimitation, it may be imagined, of the Salvation Army doings. If the result aimed at by the march about town were to secure a large congregation, the effort met with signal success. Serenading the streets by moonlight is a feature some what new to Ashburton, and if harmony and good music characterised such at tempts, it would be an inovation deserv ing perhaps of much appreciation, but the initiatory efforts cannot certainly be classed with good taste.

The Chairman of the Mount Hutt Road Board has an announcement in this issue with reference to gorse on roads in the Board’s dis trict.

Members of the Ashburton Quadrille As sembly are reminded that the final meeting takes place this evening at the Oddfellows’ Hall.

Mr S. E. Poyntz intimates having removed into new offices —No. 3, Friedlander’s Build ings, Burnett street—at which place business with the Woollen and Cheese and Butter Fac tories is also conducted.

“ Rough on Rats.” —Clears out rats, mice, roaches, flies, ants, bed-bugs, beetles, insects, skunks, jack-rabbits, gophers. Drug gists. Moses, Moss and Co., Sydney, General Agents. 2 Wanted parties about to furnish to know that J. Meech is selling all his goods at a sacrifice, being over-stocked and wanting the money. Drawing-room Suites from £lO 10s, warranted ; Good Bed-room Suites, remark ably low; Drawing-room: Fancy Walnut Tables, Japanese Tables, a splendid Inlaid Walnut Sideboard, Marble Slab, with Plate Glass back, to be sold cheap. Iron Bed steads, Crockery-ware, and every requisite for house furnishing etc. Funerals conducted on the cheapest scale. Practical workmen kept in all its branches. Agent for the cele brated Venetian Blind Makers, Dunedin. Carvings and Turnery of every kind. All kinds of furniture exchanged and highest price given for furniture. Note the address—Next BulUsk’s Arcade, Ashburton.

PARLIAMENTARY.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. Tuesday, August 14. BILLS. The Corrupt Practices Prevention Act, 1881, Amendment t ill (Mr Robinson), the Licensing Act, 1881, Amendment Bill (Mr Wilson), and the Coroners Act, 1867, Amendment Bill (Mr P. A. Buckley) were introduced and read a first time. The Chattels Securities Bill and the Wellington Harbor Board Land and Re clamation Bills were received from the House and read a first time. BARMAIDS. The Hon Mr Chamberlain moved for a return of the number of barmaids in the colony with a view to future action in the interest of temperance. The Hon Mr Whitaker opposed the motion, as the information could not be got through the Government offices. The motion was then negatived. THE CONFEDERATION AND ANNEXATION BILL. This Bill was read a third time and passed. THE TAUMUXU NATIVE COMMONAGE BILL. This Bill was read a third time and passed. BANKRUPTCY BILL. The Hon Mr Oliver moved the second reading of the Bankruptcy Bill. The Hon Mr Wilson opposed the power given to the Judges of delegating their powers to the Registrars, the present Registrars being hardly fit for such large jurisdiction. The Hon Mr Holmes would not allow anyone to be bankrupt were there was less than LSO worth of assets. The Bill was then read a second time. The Council adjourned from 5 to 7.30. EVENING SIFTING. The Council resumed at 7.30. bills. The Christchurch Cathedral Square Bill was read a third t ne. The Council rose at 8 p.m. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Tuesday, August 14. The House met at 2.30. ATKIN SON-DARGAVILLE INQUIRY.

On the application of Mr Mason, an extension of ten days was granted to the Atkinson-Dargaville Inquiry Committee, to enable them to take evidence. QUESTIONS. Replying to questions, Ministers said : —That the Government had no informa tion as to the costs of survey under the Land Transfer Act, as the owners had made their own arrangements with the surveyors.—That as far as possible the management of Hospitals, Orphanages and Charitable Aid was placed under local control.—That the sum of L3lO had been allocated to the widow and children of the gaol warder who was recently mur dered at Nelsen. This was the maximum allowed, and the Government could not say yet whether they would increase it. —That the Government had under con sideration the tariff duty on boiled fruit imported into the colony. He did not think any alteration would be required in the law, but thought the case could be met under the law as it stood. —That the Government knew of no deduction having been made from the wages of the railway workshop employees for the time spent in recording their votes for members of the House of Representatives.—That a Counties Act Amendment Bill would be introduced, and, if possible, jasaed this session.—That without further enquiry he was not prepared to say the Government would now give a bonus of LI,OOO for the manufacture of the first 50 tons of print ing paper in the colony. The question would be considered. BILLS.

The following Bills were introduced and read the first time .—Otago Dock (Major Atkinson), Electric Telegraph Act 1875 Amendment, Auckland Reserves (Mr Dick), Harbors Act Amendment (Major Atkinson), Native Reserves, West Coast Settlement Reserves Act Amend ment, West Coast Peace Preservation Act Continuance, The Middle Island Half-Caste Grants (Mr Bryce), Restric tion Extinguishment Invalidation (Sir G. Grey). ELECTION PETITIONS. On the motion for going into Com mittee of Supply, Mr Ive-is moved —“ That in the opinion of the House it is desirable the Govern ment should cause provision to be made for the payment of all costs which candi dates might be mulcted in through no fault of their own in prosecuting election petitions, subject to the Court being satis fied that the election \yas voided through the lashes or errors of the Returning Officer or deputies, and not a by the candi dates who may have contested the voided election.”

The Hon Mr Dick opposed the amend ment, contending that it would be a means for encouraging election petitions. Mr Shephard suggested that the Cor rupt Practices Act should be repealed. Mr Macandrew supported a similar view.

Mr Ddncan supported the amendment. Mr Wynn-Williams thought that the Act should be amended so that all elec tions should not take place onthesameday, thus allowing the G -vernment to employ experienced and reliable officers to con duct them.

Mr Montgomery, Mr Feldwick and Mr Smith supported the amendment. The Hon Major Atkinson said that a Bill to amend the existing Acts could not possibly be passed through Parliament at this-late period of the session. The Go vernment, however, would give an assur ance that the whole question would be dealt with next session, but he could not pledge the Government to the form of the Bill at present, but there would have to be legislation on the subject. The House divided on the question of going into Committee of Supply. Ayes, 41; noes, 34. SUPPLY.

In Committee of Supply— Land purchase, North Island, L 72,000, Explanation being given as to this amount,

Mr Macandrew said that the liabilities of Government for native land purchase had now dwindled down to L 309.000, which the Government might or might not be called upon to pay. He protested against the vote asked for as a southern man.

The Hon Mr Bryce said that the agreements existed for more than a mil lion of money made by the Grey Govern ment, and it was to the credit of this Government that it had got out of these agreements so easily. He did not think that more than the half of the sum asked for would bo required. Mr Macandrew denied that any such agreement had been made by the Grey Government.

Mr A. McDonald accused the present Government of having enabled the Pate tere land to get into the hands of private speculators, to the prejudice of the whole colony. In reply to a question put by Mr Bar ron,

The Hon Mr Bryce said that the Go vernment took land out of the Patotere block in payment of its advances. Mr Sheehan defended the policy of the Grey Government. He charged the pre sent Government with having no Native land policy at all. Neither the Goyerp.- ment purchase nor yet private purchase. The result was that all settlement in the North Island was at a standstill, and per sons of means desirous of purchasing lauds were shut out. Certain people could get what they wanted quietly and

without trouble; while othern could get nothing. Interrupted by the 5.30 Adjournment. The House resumed at 7.30,' EVENING SITTING. IN SUPPLY.

Mr Sheehan resumed the debate on the Land Purchase Vote. They were en titled to get an answer from Mrfßryco as to whether he was not for free trade in native lands or not. The Bill he had brought on was neither one thing nor an other. Mr Macandrew took exception to the statement by the previous speaker tint they in the South had acquired land from the natives at a rate far below what was paid for similar lands in the What he suggested was that the question of these lands should be left to the North Is land members themselves.

The Hon Mr Bryce said that what his Native Lands Amendment Bill aimed at was simply to stop negotiations until the title was ascertained. Sir George Grey detailed the circum stances under which the native reserves were made, and also the method by which these reserves were disposed of. What he complained of was that the sale of reserves proclaimed by Government was not thrown open to public competition. The Government ought to have said we will not consent to remove the restriction un less the land is open to public competition. During last year 20,000 acres of these lands were so disposed of, and the public knew nothing about it. For the Native Minister to bring forward a Native Land Bill without making provision against an abuse of this kind was wrong. :ie asked them to assist him in getting a clause of that kind inserted in the Bill. The Hon Mr Bryce said ho sympathised with these remarks, and would nut object to the clause proposed. The vote of L 72,000 was then put and passed. The following votes were then passed:—

Minister of Mines, L 39,00 Lyell to Mokihinui, L 5.000; item Brighton to Seventeen Mile Beach, L 4,000 ; Ahaura to Amori, L 3,000 ; Item Arthur’s Point to Skippers, L 4.500. The vote L 39.000, was then put and p&sssd Class 7 Goldfield roads, L 3 >,OOO. Passed.

Class 8 Waterworks on goldfields, L2l 000.

Replying to question of Mr Seddon’s Mr Rolleston said the Government was not prepared to hand over the water race sludge channels, etc., to the local bodies. Yote passed. Class I—Telegraph extension, L 27,190. Class 10—Public buildings, L 215,000. Mr Allwright protested against such a large expenditure on public buildings out of the loan. Mr Fish moved—“ That the item new gaol, Wanganui, L 4,000, be reduced by L 2,000.” Lost by 20 to 19. Mr White then moved to reduce the item by LI,OOO. Carried by 20 to 17. Mr George moved to strike out the item towards the gaol, Dunedin, L 2,000. Mr Connolly explained that this was to enable the Government to purchase a new site if one could be found. The motion for the reduction was lost by 24 to 16. Mr Fish and Mr Steward regretted

there was no vote on the Estimates for new printing offices in Wellington, as the present were absolutely dangerous. The remaining items of the class were agreed to. Class 11 Lighthouses and harbor works, £.04,866.

Mr Duncan objected to the item for Westport, Greymouth, and Hokitika har bors, saying those places should be made to rate themselves, as he complained Oamaru had had to do for its harbor.

Mr Fish also objected to some ot these items, and urged to report progress. The vote lighthouse, L 21,900, was passed, and progress reported on the har bor works vote. The House rose at 3.30 a.m, until 7.30 p. m.

IN THE LOBBY.

[from our fahuamenta ry correspon dent.] Wellington, To-day. The House sat till half-past three this morning, and adjourned till half-past seven to-night, having got through the whole i f the Pub'ic Works Estimates with the exception of the vote for harbor works, L 42.966. Real progress in the Estimates was not made till late last night, the sitting up to till three having been frittered away in a discussion which ought properly to have been Jaised on the second reading of the Native Land Laws Amendment Bill. Only one vote was re duced, viz, the item of L 4,000 for Wan ganui) gaol, which was passed at L 3,000. Mr Dargaville has addressed the following appeal to his constituents of Auckland City West :—“ Gentlemen, I am now en gaged in a struggle for the freedom of speech in Parliament and purity of Go vernmental administration. \ttempts are being made by interested parties to in duce you to prejudice my action. Trust me to uphold your rights, and my own self respec . You and 1 shall soon meet, meanwhile reserve your judgment.” The Bankruptcy Bill is to be committed in the Legislative Council this afternoon. The Hon Mr Wilson has given notice of the following new clauses :—“lf any per son with intent to defraud the creditors of any bankrupt has accepted any gift, delivery, or transfer, of, or any charge on the property of the bankrupt, it shall be lawful for the Conrt, by order under its seal, to adjudge such person to be impri soned for any term not exceeding twelve months, with or witnout hard labor. Sir G. Grey will move for a return of all cases in which restrictions on aliena tion contained in or endorsed upon grants of lan i to Maoris, have been removed by the Governor since the end of March, 1883, or have been promised to be so re moved together with copies of all corres pondence relating to such transactions, or to any applications for the removal of any restrictions or alienation since the above date.

ASHBURTON COUNTY COUNCIL.

The usual monthly meeting of the above Council was held to-day, there being pre sent —Messrs W, C. Walker (Chairman), H. T. Winter, T. Taylor, J. Jackson, J. Lambie, A. Macfarlane and T. Bullock. The minutes of the previous meeting were road and confirmed. chairman’s statement. The Chairman gave his usual statement of the details of the business to be trans acted at the meeting. THE RAHOITATA BRIDGE. The Chairman said in regard to the de putation from the Geraldine County Council, on the subject of the Rangitata bridge, that it was his opinion that this Council should not allow any discussion to take place on the question. From what he had read consernmg the matter in the papers, it seemed that there was still an idea prevalent that the bridge should be tested either by a flood or otherwise. One of the members of the Geraldine Council had given notice of a motion that a rate should be levied to meet the liability, and unless a district guarantee was given that tflis intention would be carried out, a writ should be issued by this Council. Mr Bullock concurred with the remarks of the Chairman. The Geraldine Count il had treated the Ashburton Council very badly in this matter, but he thought they

should receive the deputation and hear what they had to say. Later on Messrs Tripp, Talbot and McKerrow waited on the Council, as » deputation from the Geraldine County Council.

Mr Tripp said that he, together with Messrs Talbot and McKerrow, had been

appointed as a deputation from the Geraldine County Council. The people on the other side of the river wished the

Eangitata bridge should be tested in some way. The Geraldine Council thought that the Ashburton Council should shaife the expense, of an expert examination

being made by engineers chosen by each

body. There was a report that certain piles used in the bridge had been broken,

and he would ask the Chairman to say what truth there was in that. He also said that the Council he represented

thought that the accounts should be care fully examined. The Chairman said that he was sorry to have to take up a strong position in this matter. Would the Geraldine Council agree to work being carried out by them being tested by another body? That was exactly the position of affairs. There might have been some jealousy about the carrying out of the bridge, bat if the Geraldine Council objected to _ the au thority being given to this Council by the Governor, the objection should have been taken before. Now the work had been successfully carried out, although they had laboured under great difficulties, and there could be ’no doubt that justice had been done to rate payers on both sides of the river. As to the adjustment of accounts, that was Ml entirely different matter, and he had no doubt that if the Geraldine Council thought this necessary, there would pi?b» bably be no objection. The Ashburton Council would certainly not agree to..thß suggestion that the bridge should' he examined by engineers, as was suggested by Mr Tripp, as that was a question, there was no necessity to open ; up. 'He v.ould add that this Council represented a county that had been plundered for the benefit of other parts of Canterbury, while Geraldine had been pampered and protected, and had been able tq get as many bridges built as they wished, with** out regard to expense. Ashburton had not possessed any power to protect itself until the passing of the Counties Act,, and he thought that the objection to pay came with a bad grace from a county, which had always been especially pro tected.

Mr McKerrow said that the deputation had come in a friendly spirit, but after the Chairman had stated that the Ash* barton Council would not entertain the matter, there was no need to prolong ihfe discussion. He had anticipated different treatment. ! ;

Mr Talbot was sorry that the matter had been so peremptorily dismissed. The deputation had come in a most, friendly spirit, wishing to settle the dispute amicably. Mr Walker bad said there were two sets of ratepayers; he bot) recognised this, and he was present on the ground that the ratepayers of Ger aldine should be satisfied the work had,- been properly carried out. The Chairman said that he had np:nish that his remarks should be considered un friendly in any way, but it was simply im possible to view the question from an engineering point. Mr McKerrow deprecated the intro duction of debateable matter., , Mr Tripp said that the wish of the Ger aldine Council was that the affair should be amicably settled. He called attention to the fact that the Chairman had said nothing about the piles he (Mr Tripp) had referred to. Mr Bullock could not understand what had been said about an unfriendly spirit being manifested by the Ashburton Council. As to the pile driving that was a question for the Engineer to decide. Be had no hesitation in saying that the

thanks of the Geraldine ratepayers were due to this county for the bridge which had been built for L 7.000, whereas it would have cost L 12,000 had Geraldine had had their way. He wished the de putation to understand that this Council had no desire to go to law over the matter, but he would point out that great inconvenience was felt by the county on account of the Geraldine Council not pay ing the money. Mr Talbot said that the position of the Geraldine Council was that though the bridge had been erected, it had been car ried out in opposition to their wishes, and the ratepayers wanted some guaran tee that the work they were called on to pay for had been done properly. He could see no objection to the proposal.

The Chairma could not see what was wanted. Th .-) bridge was there, and.there could bo no doubt of its stability. He could nut understand rensible men asking f.,r a further examination being made. The governing body was the managing body for the ratepayers, and he did not ‘; see why they should go beyond their own ; ; engineer’s certificate. Concerning Mr Tripp’s question as to the piles,, he wan ashamed to answer it. The Council was j - quite satisfied with the ability of their ; engineer, and he had certified that the bridge was properly built. Mr Jackson said that on the occasion ■ ;

of the bridge being opened Mr Tripp had stated he was perfectly satisfied with the bridge, which he considered was a credit to the Ashburton Council. ,

Mr Tripp said that his individual. opinion was that the bridge was a success in every way, but he was only one of a ’ body, and other members of the Council might not agree with him.

Mr McFarlane wanted to know what would be the pesition of the Ashburton Council supposing the referees were ap pointed and reported adversely.

Mr Talbot said that under these cir cumstances he thought the Council which had made the mistake should bear the brunt and pay for the bridge. . The deputation then withdrew while the Council considered their request, and on returning they were informed that the fol lowing resolution had been agreed to That the deputation be informed that, this Council cannot entertain the proposal fo submit the construction of the Raugitata bridge extension to any further engineer-, ing authority. The deputation thanked the Council and withdrew.

engineer’s report. The following report was then read:—

I have the honor to report as follews

Wheatstone District Water Supply : I have prepared plans and specifications for this work in two contracts, and tenders for it will be placed before you to-day. Some of the owners have not yet contributed their half share as re. quired by the Council, but I expect the balance will be paid within a week, and then opera. • tions will be commenced. —Re race for Messrs ' Rountree, Rundle, and others in Waterloo district: I met the several settlers interested 11 on the ground, and levelled and staked oft a, line to suit them all. The necessary ditches , and culverts are already formed part of the way, and the settlers themselves are prepared to execute the remainder of the work, and j would recommend the Council to agree to this, course. I beg also to state that the settlers along the line of proposed new race are prer pared to share the liability of keeping clear the creek from which their supply will be de- • j■ • rived, At present this creek is in a yery_ in efficient state, the owners having delayed doing . anything to it in expectation of the Council doing the work, but now Mr Houston and others, along the course are about to have it cleaned opt The Willowby extension race is np>v in opera tion us far down as the Waterloo road, but Several points require improvement before the race is in an efficient state, The formation of !: E 6 race near Hatfield, Rakaia, is still impeifr : feet, the contractor having failed to return to ..,, take out some small cuttings as arranged,' and 1 * I will now have this done at his expense. As soon as Ea race is supplied from E 6, I shall ai range for the authorised extension of the former for the settlers in lower end of Acton

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15, 1883.



Wanted WANTED— A Smart BOY as Appren tice to the Printing. Apply Office of this Paper. . 8 286 WANTED —A clean, respectable GIRL, as General Servant. — Apply, Office of this Paper. 8 826 WANTED KNOWN —Two Ladies would find a comfortab’e resi dence, with use of piano,—Mrs G. H. Thompson. Tancred street, near Arcade. 1443 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 the Town Hall will receive prompt attention. Terms cash. 760 c 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 lesions in Boxing, lessons £1 per month, or according to arrangement. 1344



WANTED Known—That in conse quence of the rapid increase of business, John Moi-on, Impermeable Bootmaker, has been compelled to get a large stock of Boots of a superior quality in the town in order to meets the demands of his customers, and those who may pur chase from him will find no deception as to price or quality. As J. M. has gained the public trust in the past by doing best work and fit, combined with neatness and style, he intends even to make greater exertions in the future. Fowler's Build ings, Tancred street (opposite Arcade), Ashburton. 7 207



WANTED Known —“ My house is my castle.” Then see that you have it comfortably furnished by Meech, the local manufacturer and importer of every kind of household furniture, etc. After visiting the Diamond fields at this season of the year, it is comforting to find that the surest way to become rich is to save in your household expenses and make your heme comfortable. Families can see for themselves the benefit of having a good local furniture-house at which to do their business, and should patronise the estab lishment that can supply every household requisite at prices to meet the times. Note the address— J. Meech, Burnett and East streets, Ashburton. 8 287



Special Advertisements. mHE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN X AGENCY AND MERCANTILE COMPANY, LIMITED, i HAVE FOR SALE, ON EAST TERMS OF PAYMENT a Complete Threshing Plant, By Ransome, including 8 h p ENGINE COMBINE ELEVATOR. The above has only threshed about 70,000 bushels, and is almost EQUAL TO NEW.. Wir. HORNE, Agent, WEST STREET, ASHBURTON. 12 an



CONOMY, COMFORT, SAFETY. X'he Shag Point Coal Company, Limited, beg to inform the Public of Ash burton and neighboring district that their FAVORITE HOUSEHOLD COAL la supplied 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 Shag Point Coal, The most economical and efficient Fuel in the market, being free from soot and live ashes and emitting a strong, steady and lasting heat. For terms apply to your Dealer or at P. 0., Box 213, Dunedin. N.B.—The price ot 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



THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory HAVE 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 AT WHOLESALE PRICE. SHIRTS, HATS, HOSIERY, and every requisite at Wholesale Prices. Nineteen Branches now open in New Zealand. Agents for the Unrivalled WERT HEIM SEWING MACHINES . Ashburton Branch : BAST ST RE ET.



Special Advertisements. INTRODUCTION OF THE PARCEL SYSTEM. Fashion House, Cashel street, Christchurch, Great success has been achieved in the Old Country by the introduction of the “ Numbered Parcel System,” for the supply ard puachase 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- I chaser, the money in all cases to be re turned. This system is now being intro- 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 cost price leave a good margin of profit for the vendor, while giving unsurpassed value to the purchaser. In all parcels we stake our reputation on the values, and, as suggested above, re turn the money in all cases where the article is not satisfactory. Our No. 1,20 s Dress Parcel, duced by B. C. Brown & contains— Worth £ s. d.



1 dress piece (12 yds) any shade, French costume cloth ... 0 18 6 1£ good velveteen to match dress 0 5 6 3 yds silesia, for linings ... 0 1 10 2 doz new oxydiaed buttons, to match ... ••• 0 16 1 pair warm lined fur-top spring cuff gloves 0 2 6 £1 9 10 OurjjNo. 2,30 s household parcel, contains — Worth 1 pair good 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. 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 8 doz new style oxydised buttons 0 1 6 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 ... ... ... ... 014 6 1 pair good heavy while 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 ... 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 ... ... ...' ... 0 9 6 1 good black alpaca or sateen skirt ... ... ... ... 0 14 6 2 pairs Ladies’ black hose ... 0 3 0 1 pair Ladies’ two-button choice black kid gloves ... ... 0 4 6 £ doz Ladies’ cambric handker chiefs, in fancy box 0 5 6 £2 19 6 Our No. 8, furnishing parcel for £lO, contains — Worth 20 yds nice pattern good tapestry carpet ... 3 5 0 1 nice pattern hearthrug, to match ... ... ... ... 0 16 6 1 pair handsome lace curtains ... 0 I'4 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 «r 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 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 1 1 0 2 yds rich colored velveteen, to match ... ... ... ... 0 7 0 6 yds good silesia ... ... 0 6 0 3 doz buttons, to match dresses 0 2 0 8 yds braid, to match dresses ... 0 0 8 1 pair two-button first choice tinted or white kid gloves ... 0 5 0



6 Ladies’ linen collars ... ... 0 3 0 6 Ladies’ linen handkerchiefs ... 0 5 6 3 pairs Ladies’ nice hose 0 4 6 £5 5 8 Our No. 2, wedding parcel for £lO, contains— A very complete trousseau. Our No. 9, Ladies’ (half-price) parcel for L 5, contains — Dsual price 1 Ladies’ handsome mantle ... 217 6 1 Ladies’ beautiful real sable muff and collarette 4 10 0 1 Ladies’ quilted satin skirt ... 1 0 0 1 fashionable tweed ulster, in leading shades ... 1 10 0 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. Hemember—Cash returned at once for any article returned in good condition. Samples post free on application to any part of New Zealand. In ordering any of these parcels, it is sufficient to quote number and name of parcel only. -P.C.O. made ”»to £9 17 6 Hi U. DfiUUil Oi/ Fashion House, Christchurch, Hit E 0. BROWN &



Special Advertisements. T YOU WANT GOOD AND STRONG FURNITURE, GO TO DAVIS’S JHEAP FURNITURE AND BED DING MANUFACTORY, EAST STREET SOUTH, ASHBURTON. article Sold at Christchurch -J Prices and guaranteed bes. of •uarerial and workmanship, FUNERALS CHEAPLY & COMPLETELY FURNISHED SEED WHEAT—Httdter’s White. KAIAPOI ISLAND POTATOES. CRUSHED OATS, First-class, la. lOd. per bushel. O R SALE. Seed. Seed Prime Tuscan. SEED OATS —Canadian. Tartarian, first-class. Danish. JOSEPH CLARK, 265 Ashburton and Tinwald.



Fine Gold. v/v AAA SHEEPtobe Slaughtered to Me(a)t theTimes. —Wanted the public to know you can save 100 per :ent. by dealing at the Ready-Money Meat Makt, Bullock’s Arcade. Meat delivered to any part of the town when purchased. 8 211



STATIONERY OF EVERY DE SCRIPTION. Account Books Ink—fiotn small to largest jars School Books—School Committees sup plied at lowest rates Latest Novelties in all kinds of Fancy Goods, Toys, &c. All the Home Journals, Magazines, and Papers by every mail. Subscribers wanted for any Magazine or Paper published. Andrewes Bros., BOOKSELLERS, STATIONERY, &c., East street South Ashburton. n!5 H. M. Jones Has now on view a fuse STOCK OF PIANOS, FROM £2O AND UPWARDS. ORGANS. ORGANS. A good selection of these Instruments on hand from £l2 12s upwards. HARMONIUMS HARMONIUMS. PH 0 oe°tho 0 One of the Lmost won- ‘VT derful instru- JLi Ements of the day. Music by the yard. A child E Mean play it. Very cheap. Just the Q thing for those who cannot have a O piano. Pianos on hire and for sale at the lowest cash prices, and on TERMS to SUIT PURCHASERS. A Large Assortment of STATIONERY, BOOKS, TOYS, & FANCY GOODS. Agent for MILNER & THOMPSON. H. M. JONES, BURNETT ST. & BARING SQUARE. Ashburton. 13d INWALD STORE. NOTICE.



The TINWALD STORE has been RE-OPENED under the management of Mr W. BIGGS, and Customers will be attended to as formerly. 23d PAPER FOR SALE In Large or Small Quantities. ANDREWES BROS., Booksellers and Stationers, East street South, Ashburton. 77