SHIPPING.

?ORT OP LYTTELTON,

Arrived. Yesterday

Croydon Lass, schooner, from Waitapu. Maud Graham, schooner, from One hunga. Mary Ellen, schooner, from Welling ton. Handa Isle, barquentine, from New rVi» Auckland. , _ . lington.

Sailed. Yesterday.

Magellan Cloud, brigantine, for Auck land. 7 lington. .

, SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. Auckland, Yesterday. Arrived—lndia, from Marshall Island; Defiance, from Oamaru.

1 Auckland, To-day. Arrived—Zealandia, from Sydney. Wellington, Yesterday. Arrived— Ansdell, barque, from New castle. ; Sailed—Te Anaa, for Melbourne, via 'tbie South and Hobart.

Dunedin, Yesterday. Arrived Star of the South, from Greymouth. . _ , _ Sailed —Mahinapna, for the West Coast. Bluff, Yesterday. Arrived—Manapouri, from Melbourne.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains Leave Ashburton for Christ church and intermediate stations at 7-10 a.m., 10.55 sum., and (Express) 5.37 ' p.iia. Trains -Leave Ashburton fob Timaru , JAnd : South, at 6.50 a.m., 10.25 a.m. ' (Express), and 4.45 p. m. —the latter pro cgfeffipgho farther than Timaru. Trains Arrive at Ashburton from —Christchurch at 10 15a.m. (Express),’ .v 4,35 p.m., and 7.15 p.m. Trains Arrive _at , Ashburton from Timaru and South at 10.40 a.m., 5.27 p.m. (Express), and 8 p.m.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

:: AUCTION SALES * il ' ' Tuesday, September 11. Matson, Cox and Co., at the linwald Yards—Stock.

; : MEETINGS, AMU SSMENTS. A* , Tins Evening. Oddfellows’ Hall— Merry Thoughts and : Happy Moments Company, at 7-30 p.m Kt 1' (/. x Tuesday, September 11. Arcade Chambers— Meeting of the Church of Engla; d Temperance Society, at p.m. .. •f- • Wednesday, September 12. 4 ! lHl?arijaii Uounty Counbil —at Council Chambers ; 11 a.m. jis uru; jj 01 ro AYt September 17. Borough, Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7 o’clock. "* , Tuesday, September 18. Ytoftbyterian Church—Annual Tea Meet ' ! the Town Hall, at 5.30 p.m.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office as follows •: —

■ For Christchurch and North at 6 a. m. 10.30 a.m., and 5 p. m., daily. For Ohertsey Rakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m. 'tiadjfi p.m. daily: Fbr Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. For T'uruka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., daily; iFoi Tiina-'U and South, at 6 a.m., 10 and 430 p-m., daily. For Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 3.30 p,m jPof Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and gatqifdaya* at 6 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 6 a.m. r For Ashtcn, Waterton and Longbeach, li 430 p.m. daily. . - For Flemington, on Mondays, Wednes {lays, 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 Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days at 10.30 a.m.

Mail* arrive at the Ashburton Post •)ffiC6— ,'From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 4m., 435 p.m., and 7.20 p.m. From Ohertsey, &o. at 10.15 a.m. and 436 p.m. daily. From (Dunedin and intermediate places at 5.30 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; .Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 a.m.

From Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, lat 10:5 a.m. and 8.15 p.m. From Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days jatlo .6 a. m. - -Ftom Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a.m. daily. From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, and on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sat urdays, at 4 p.m. From Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days; at. 9.30 a. m. : From Flemington on Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 10 a.m.

BIRTH.

Barnard. —On Sept, 11,1883, at Princes street, Ashburton, the wife of 0. T. Barnard, of a daughter. Sydney papers please copy.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 1883.

Pressure on our space compels us to hold over leading and other matter from this issue.

The Penguin, arrived from Fiji, brings intelligence of the wreck of the barque Prince Alfred on North Astrolabe reef. Captain Smith and crew reached Suva safely. The vessel is part owned by the captain, who loses heavily by the wreck. Other news is unimportant. All the candidates for municipal honors addressed the public eeting last even ing excepting Mr Hugo Friedlander, who was unfortunately prevented from attend ing through illness. A letter was read from Mr Friedlander expressing his regret at being unable to attend, but stating his willingness to act on the Council if he ratepayers so desired it. The meeting was a most orderly one, and was largely attended. A full report of the proceed ings appears elsewhere. Among the cases brought before the R.M. to-day was a charge of larceny against three very small boys, whose united heights could not have exceeded more than six feet. The crime that they were accused of was larceny, it being alleged they had annexed three padlocks. No evidence was offered, as the youngsters were too infantile to plead, and they were simply marched into the Court and out again. They seemed not to be affected in the slightest degree by the position they occupied, and evidently had no idea what they were there for. Before commencing the business of the Court this morning, Mr Baddeley said that he wished to make a remark concern ing a very reprehensible communication which he had received. He referred to’ an anonymous letter that had been sent to him about a case which was to come before him that day, and he characterised the action of the writer as unmanly. If people had complaints to make they should communicate with the proper authorities, and it was an insult to a Magistrate to suppose that he would be in any way influenced by such a letter as he had received. Mr Baddeley concluded by expressing a hope that what he had said would prevent a repetition of such a disgraceful proceeding. Another special containing a few mem bers of the General Assembly passed through Ashburton about twelve o’clock to-day. The question naturally arises— Why is the country put to such an un necessary public expense for the con venience of a few well paid individuals? Could not this money be far batter ex pended in carrying out some productive works at a time when scores of people even in Ashburton can scarcely earn enough to keep them in bread ? We be lieve we are stating a fact when we say that 50 or 60 carpenters in this town are at the present moment out of employment. Let MH. R.’s and Honorable M. L. C.’s ponder over this fact. The Nelson Colonist’s correspondent at Motueki has wired the following message: —“T. R. Brownsden,a retired paymaster in the British navy, who had not been seen since 11 o’clock last night, has just been found drowned at the bottom of the river, between the bridge and R. .Staples’- house. A note was found under his pil low this morning, expressing his intention (if destroying himself, the supposed cause being that an information for indecent ex J ‘ posure against him would be heard next Court day. Deceased was much re spected.” It appears that the informa tion laid against that gentleman was so laid upon ridiculously weak grounds, and there can be little doubt he would have been honorably acquitted, but the thing preyed on his mind. The usual fortnightly meeting of the Mount Somers Mutual Improvement Class was held in the Library on Saturday evening, the President in the chair. The minutes of last meeting were read and confirmoi. The deferred debate on the “ Capabilities of the North Island of New Zealand to sustain a larger population than the Middle Island,” was discussed by Mr Williams and Mr Hood, the latter asserting that the Middle Island was cap able of sustaining a larger population than the North. Mr Williams fought well for the North, but he failed to convince the meeting, as after all the members had taken some part in the discussion, the meeting decided in favor of the Middle Island. The subject for next meeting is ‘‘ Fallow v. Green Manure,” by Mr S. MoLymont and Mr A. Harvey. Captain Greig, of the Government schooner, Kekeno, employed in the pre vention of sealing during the close season, reports to the Secretary of the Marine Department, under date 16th August, that he had been detained at Port Pega sus, Stewart Island, from the 3rd August, waiting for the weather to moderate suffi ciently to enable him to start on a cruise to the Auckland Islands. His detention was caused through strong gales of wind blow ing principally from between the south and west. Occasionally the wind would back round to the north-west for an hour or two, with heavy rain and falling baro meter, and then would change again to south-west, and blow with great violence. At 2 a. m. on the' 16th it was from the south, and at midday was blowing a heavy' gale from the north-west, with pouring rain and barometer 29.0. All was well on board the vessel.

PUBLIC MEETING.

A meeting, convened by his Worship the Mayor on the requisition of a large number of burgesses, was held in the Town Hall last evening. There were about 400 persons present, and the utmost good humor prevailed through out.

His Worship occupied the chair, and stated that the object of the meeting was to hear the candidates for the three vacan cies in the Borough Council express their views on matters affecting the Borough. He thought that it was a good sign to see so many candidates coming forwaid, as it showed that an increasing interest was being taken in municipal matters in Ashburton. Elsewhere it had been quite' different. In Timaru there were not enough candidates to fill the vacancies. To have the candidates face to face with the burgesses was a good plan as it opened a way for criticism on the actions of a public body. The choice of candidates was on this occasion a very good one, and he trusted the meeting would give each a fair and impartial hearing. He would call upon the retiring Councillors first, as it had always been the rule to give them the first privilege of addressing the meet ing. Before sitting down the Mayor read a letter from Mr ■ Hugo Friedlander, apologising for his absence through indis position, but expressing the desire to serve the burgesses—the same as he had in the past—if they thought him worthy again of their support. Mr St Hill was the first speaker. He said that he had always found it a diffi cult thing to address a public meeting from the hustings. As a matter of fact the'e was very little to talk about, be cause the ways and means of the Council were not very large. The total expendi ture of the Council for twelve months was, in point of fact, not so much as that expended by one of our merchants in three months, and therefore this question was not of so much import as some had imagined. With reference to the present meeting, he thought that the expense of holding it was a useless and unnecessary one. The cost was L2 10s, and in his opinion this money could be spent much better in making some street channelling or asphalting. The Council must study economy in every respect, and must re member that the municipal chest con tained only 20s to the LI. He had always opposed increased taxation. It was a serious mistake to go to any great expense for any Borough work, because rates would only increase and thus debar pro gress. What would have been the case if the Borough had incurred a debt of something like L 15,000, as was proposed a year or so ago? The Council had en deavored to expend a little as possible, and that only on very important works. The ratepayers were indebted to the Council for a steady im provement of the town in every part, and the Borough Engineer bad carried out his duties in a most satisfactory manner. There were now some 400 chains of concrete channelling, a like quantity of other channelling and 90 chains of footpaths asphalted. [Mr St Hill here read a return showing the different works done with in the Borough.] If the Coun cil in the future took the same care with their funds, in a few years he thought that the rates would be lessened to one-half the present amount. He was opposed to special rating for carrying out schemes for high-pressure water supply,'expensive street improvements, etc, etc. (Hear, hear.) There had been a groat deal said about a mistake that had been made in the re-forming of Cameron street. Now, as a fact, great fuss had been made about nothing. He (Mr St Hill) was a member of the Works Committee, and the only mistake that was in reference to this street was this : the footpath had been lowered by having the shingle re moved therefrom before the road was finished. The labor gang had mistaken the proper levels in consequence, and this particular portion of the street had been lowered in consequence. To repair the error it had cost about 50s, and he would ask was this sum anything to grumble about? (Cheers.) He would re fer to the neglected north end of the town. Now, it was a fact that there had been more money—about one half the rates— .•■■pent on this “ neglected ’’ north than on the west side of the town. Mr St. Hill quoted figures referring to this matter. The re-forming of the Alford >' orest road was another matter which seemed to dis please some people. Now, this road was much higher than others, and the soil taken from it was used in forming other places to a proper level. He did not think there was any cause for complaint as the road required repairing in any case. The Council had endeavored to spend the money equally in improving the streets of the town without regard to particular places. He was in favor of a special rate for lighting the streets of the town as he maintained that if the inhabitants required special lights they should not object to paying a special rate. It hud already cost the Council some LBOO or L9OO up to the present for street lighting, and it was quite certain that if they wanted streets made, lamps erected, footpaths asphalted, the ordinary rates now pafd would not suffice. the question -f dividing the town into wards was one he should certainly oppose. He would advise the ratepayers to pause before allow ing the scheme for wards to be carried into effect. They would find that the wards would include some places where a great deal of the ratepayers money had already been expended. As before stated, he would strongly oppose this scheme. If the ratepayers elected him he would endeavor to serve them faithfully and to the beat of his ability, and he thought it was a good man who can please everybody. ( daughter). He would now answer any question the meet ing would put to him. A ratepayer : "VTho authorised the fenc ing in of the Western Fire Brigade station ?

Mr St Hill said that the matter was re ferred to the Works Committee, and it had been decided to be carried out.

In- reply to Mr Harrison, the Mayor stated that it was usual for the Works Committee to have certain works referred to them, and in some cases with power to act.

Mr Thomas Sealy, who was loudly cheered on coming forward, siil _ he would, before referring to municipal matters, state his reasons for coming for ward as a candidate for municipal honors. He had not sought of himself the position, but having received a very large and influential requisition, he f It bound to accede to this request, as a citizen, and represent them in the Council. If elected, he would do hia best to keep down the expenses, and a careful supervision on the expenditure for works which were only required. The rates were not at present oppressive, but there was no telling when they might be, if the ex penses were not curtailed. Ashbur ton had stood the test of hard times as well as most places, and a great deal better than some other parts in New Zealand. The overdraft at the Bank re quired to be reduced, and it behoved the Council to take means to do so without much delay. (Cheers.) he rates in some towns were as high as 4s fid in the £, and he hoped they would never be higher than they were here at the present time, viz., Is in the £. In his opinion the rates should be expended fairly and equitably in each part of the town that required improvement, and not all in one place. (Hear, hear.) The Fi re Brigade was a most efficient body of men, and required every assistance that it was in the power of the Council to give. He would endeavor to get a better support from the Fire Association than they had yet given to

the Ashburton Brigade, as it was purely to the Association’s benefit that the Bri gades should be kept efficient, and this was only done by subsidising them to a better degree. (Cheers.) Mr Leggett was also cheered on coming forward. He said he felt a little diffi dence in addressing the ratepayers, as he had never before done so. He, like Mr Mr Sealy, had not come forward at his own wish, but by requisition from the burgesses, and a desire to see that justice was done to all parts of the town by the Borough Council. He lived in the part of the town which Mr St Hill called the “neglected North.” (Laughter). Now he would ask anyone of those present to go and see for themselves the part of the town known as such, and they would see for themselves that it was really rightly styled the “neglected North.” One of the streets here had the large sum of Ll 6 expended upon it a short time ago, but it had realised more than the outlay by way of the sale of soil taken from it to make it level. (Cheers). Mr St Hill had given them a lot of figures, but these proved nothing at all. As a matter of fact the labor gang was now doing work that was not required at all. (Cheers). The Council suddenly thought a work was re quired in the direction of the Hospi'al, and they took to making the Alford Forest Road. (Laughter and cheers). As an instance, if a sick man came by train and wanted to be taken to the Hos pital he would be put into a cab and taken riobt down East street up Tancred street, up the Alford Forest road, and then back to the Hospital. (Laughter and cheers) This was simple log-rolling, because no road was required at all. In the past the rates had been expended, not in the north but in the west side of the town, and this was not as it should be. One of the candidates said that fid in the LI was quite enough to pay for rates. He did not agree with him, as no one would grumble at paying a la rate. There were a number of unoccupied sec tions in the t wn, and the owners paid hardly any rates in comparison with those who had improved their sections. He had a section alongside his which had not one penny spent in improvements, yet the ownor only paid something like 8s for rates against his (Mr Leggett’s) 30s or 35s per annum. He would be in favor of making these speculators pay as much as those who had improved their sections, (Hear, hear.) Mr G Cates here ascended the plat form amidst deafening cheers and cries of “Go it, George.” After being given to understand that he could only ask ques tions, Mr Cates replied, “Gentlemen, I am sat upon.” However, he put a poser to Mr Leggett, when he asked “ Whether he would himself, conscientiously, faith fu'ly and willingly serve the ratepayers of the north end of the town.” Mr Leggett having replied to Mr Oates’s rat'.sfaction, the latter retired amid some considerable laughter and cheers. Mr Robert Murray was the next speaker. He said he was before them (to night as a candidate for one of the vacant seat' in the Borough Council. Had he known, however, that he, would have gone through the ordeal _of giving a public address, he might have hesitated in coming forward at all, not withstanding the influe tial requisition which had been given to him. He was, perhaps, unknown to a good many, yet he felt sure that if the ratepayers gave him a trial they would find that his en deavors would be to serve them in the Council without giving favor to one man more than another, or one part of the town to the detriment of the other. He had heard some rumor of the Borough taking over tt.e railway reserves. Now, as the tenanss of these paid no rates, he believed, he thought it would bo to the interest of the Borough if these reserves could be invested in the Council. (Cheers.) He was no financier, yet he considered the revenue derivable from these reserves would form a considerable source of revenue to the Council in a few years. In any case the strictest economy would have to be exercised as they may be sure that some very important work in the near future would be requir- d, and be enjoined a very careful husbanding of the funds in the meantime. Some scheme would Le proposed which would require a lot of money, and they should be prepared to meet any contingency. He would be in favor of having the overdraft reduced as soon as possible, because if the revenue of the Council was only some L 2.000 a year now, and the rates did not cover the overdraft, he did not see how it was possible to raise a larger sum when it was required. He would like to see the Borough a success in every way, both financially and socially. (Cheers.) And ho would, if elected, look to its interests without fear or favor.

In reply to questions Mr Murray sati he was in favor of every owner clearing the tussocks off his own section at his own expense, or else to let the Council do the work and charge them for it. (Cheers.) With regard to what is law in this case and what is not, he must refer them to the retiring Councillors for information. He thought that unoccupied sections should be rated as high as improved ones. In reply to Mr Cates, he said he would most certainly be in favor of having a swimming bath. (Laughter.) Mr David Thomas said he was not going to make a long speech, but merely in tended to answer any questions that might be put to him. He was in favor of the ward system and the rates being placed on the land itself, and not only on the improvements. It was simply foster ing speculators. He would set his face against bickerings and cliques of any kind, and if elected would do his best to serve the burgesses. He had always taken an active part in public matters wherever he had lived, and he trusted that his public actions here would not bo found wanting. (Applause). In reply to Mr Harrison, Mr Thomas said that the Alford Forest road re-form ing was simply a waote of public money. (Applause). In reply to other questions he said—He would not bo in favor of carrying the out fall drain any further into the river bed at present, nor would he be in favor of allowing other drains to bo led into it in its present course. (Hear, hear). He would look after the west side as well as the north side of the town, but was not prepared to say which streets were the best at the present moment, or which had had the most money expended on them. The division of the town into wards would remedy this. In reply to Mr Quill, he thought that a lot of work had been done on the west side of the town, and a lot of money spent there. (Laughter). The gully in Peter street he was in favor of letting, so that the tenant could fill it in at his own ex pense. (Laughter). He was opposed to the Library being handed over to the Borough Council. An Elector : Would you be in favor of having something done to Wills street, as it cannot be found owing to the water and mud 1 (A Voice : I’ll go out and look for it, Mr Thomas.) (Laughter.)— He would be in favor of having the street improved if they could find it. In reply to Mr Bird’s question he th-mght the unoccupied sections were not rated half high enough. Mr Bird : Could you stale Mr Mayor whether the valuator did not put a suffi cient value upon these sections 1 , The Mayor said that the valuator cer tainly did rate them fairly high, but as a consequence there were numerous appeals against the valuation, and the assessor reduced them in nearly every case. . Mr Thomas said such being the case it required agitation on the part of the public in order to get a measure passed

to increase the rates on the unearned increment.

The Mayor said that as all thercahdi dates had stated their views, there were one or two matters which he would take the present opportunity of refuting, which apparently had been spoken of in ignor ance of the facts by the new candidates. First, with regard to the Alford Forest road. Now as a matter of fact, nothing had been done to this road for 10 years. The Council decided to leave it until it required re-forming altogether, and it was decided not to patch it up or repair it, but to bring it to the proper level whilst they were about it, and this was the reason the work was taken in hand at the present time. He would ask them was it right to go and patch up a road if it was out of position 1 Of course it is said that where Councillors lived they had generally good roads —(laughter)-; but was it not a fact that towards the Hospital <he streets were not - even formed at the present time, and yet Councillor Harrison lived there. Ho did not consider that any ex penditure had been made unfairly either on one side of the town or the other. (Hear, hear.) \s to the log-rolling which Mr Leggett had mentioned, he might state that such a thing was not dreamt of in the Council, and he (Mr Leggett) evidently did not know wh .t “ log-rolling” really meant by the defini tion given by him. Un the motion of Mr St Hill, seconded by Mr Thomas, a vote of thanks was passed to the Chairman, and the meeting ended.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT

ASHBURTON—To Day.

(Before H. C. S. Eaddeley Esq, R.M.)

Drunkenness.— Two men namedPullar and Greenless were fined ss, with the alternative of 24 hours’ imprisonment for this offence. Breach of Borough By-Laws. —G. L. Brown was fined 10s for neglecting to keep a lamp ligh'ed, contrary to the Borough by-laws, and 0. 0. Fooks had to pay 5s for allowing a horse to wander at large. • ; Cruelty to a Horse. —H. Dysart was charged with ill-treating a horse, by allow ing it to remain tied up in the open air for a period of six and a half hours. The evidence showed that defendant had been warned, and had simply taken the horse away to some other place where it was afterwards found by the police and put into a stable. The defendant said that he did not know he was doing any harm in •leaving his horse outside an hotel while he was transacting business, as it was a very common practice m country districts. —The Court inflicted a fine of L 3, with the alternative of fourteen days’ imprison ment.

. Keeping a Gambling House.—George Gaukrodger was brought up charged with being the pccupier of a certain room in a house situated in Gray street, and that he unlawfully used the said house for the purpose of carrying on unlawful gaming' therein.—Sergeant Felton conducted the prosecution, and Mr Purnell appeared on behalf of the defendant.—Mr Purnell sub mitted that no offence had been disclosed in the charge, but he did not press the objection.—The following evidence was then called :—Robert Alcorn deposed that defendant was employed by him as sales man up to Saturday week last. He was en gaged at 13 a week. —Cross-examined : Defendant was not married. Witness knew defendant’s uncle who was pretty well off.— Wm. Townshend, a merchant living in Gray street, said that accused occupied the same house with witness up to the 3rd 1 inst. The rgreement was that witness paid the rent and defendant paid an amount for bills equivalent. They were the ouly occupiers of the house, and they had liyecP together about eighteen months. The house contained three rooms, two of which were used as sleeping and sitting rooms and the other as a kitchen. Re membered August 29th when, witness went home at tea o’clock and found ac cused and McGregor sitting in the kitchen gambling. McGregor went away about half-past twelve, witness staying up till then, because he knew there was ill feel ing between the two men, although they appeared friendly. The game they played was “ bluff,” and Gaukrodger lost about L2O, which was paid in gold and silver. Saw McGregor exchange two L 6 notes for accused. This was the only time witness had seen them gambling in the house. Had cau ioned accused several times about gambling.—Cross-examined : The landlord of the house was Coutts, to whom witness paid the rent. When Gauk rodger left, witness did not make other arrang ments about the rent. Was not present when McGregor came nor did he know why he was there.—To the Bench : Knew what accused’s means were, and thought the stakes played for more than ho could afford. When Gaukrodger gambled he lost his head. The landlord knew nothing of the accused in the matter of renting the {house. —James McGregor, grocer’s assistant to Messrs Friedlander Bros, said that ho was in receipt of L 3 a week. Remembered going to accused’s house on the 29th August. Gaukrodger and witness went out to buy a paor of cards for the purpose of playing euchre. On returning played a game of “ bluff,” but could not say what was the amount of the stakes, as it varied considerably. Wit ness then explained the nature of the game, and said it was recognised as being played for money. Played for a period of three hours, and a great many games were got through. Witness won a little over L2O during that time. Left the house at a quarter past twelve.—Cross examined : Had known accused about two or three years, and was on tolerably friendly terms with him. Thought he suggested a game of euchre, which was not a game accused “ did not under stand.” Witness heard from the police that he and Gaukrodger were implicated in a charge of gaming. Did not com municate with the police, who came to the shop for him.—Richard Bevan, book seller, knew accused, who purchased a pack of cards from witness.— Robert Neill, constable, said that from instruc tions received he went on the sth Sept, to serve a summons on accused whom he found at Upper Waiau, on the Hanmer plains. Aft r being served accused asked witness what would be his best course, and he advised him to return to Ashburton to answer the summons. Re turned with accused to Hurunui, and on Saturday found him at Christchurch and followed him to the salqyards, where he arrested him on a warrant. Warned Gaukrodger not to sell his saddle and bridle, as he might lose the run of it. Ar rested accused on a telegram as he sus pected he was about to leave the colony. Gaukrodger admitted that he was guilty of the charge.—Cross-examined : Accuse 1 might hare been on the way to Ashbur ton when he was arrested. This closed the case for the police.—Mr Purnell said that there was nothing to answer, as ao: cused was simply playing for money in his own private house. There was no thing in the law of New Zealaild to vent a man doing this. Counsel quoted from the English Act, which was identical with the colonial one, to show that what was referred to was a common gaming house. The police had not proved that the p'ace where accused and Townshend lived was in any sense a gaming house. On the contrary, the evidence showed that Townshend had never seen gambling in the house previous to the 29th August. There was a legal maxim which' said that a “ man’s house is his castle,” and he con tended tjiat; thivhad.never,been evaded 1 by any Court. Even if the place were a i gaming bouse there was no penahy pro- I

vided in the Act to' meet this.—The Court expressed a wish to hear the defendant, but Mr Purnell said he did not intend to call him, as it wou'd be admitted that on the 29th August a certain game was played in the house.— In reference to the law point submitted by Mr Parnell the Court ruled that con sidering the evidence of Townshend it was plain that the house did not come under the definition of a common gaming house according to the 28th section. It was a very serious case and strong evi dence should be requited to, ensure a-pon viction. Under the circumstances the case would be dismissed.—This decision was greeted with applause. . .

“MERRY MOMENTS.”

Notwithstanding that there was a public meeting held last evening, the Merry Moments Company had no reason to .com plain of the attendance at the Oddfellows' Hail, although had there been no counter attraction probably not a seat in the building would have been vacant. That the quality of the entertainment justified the reports of the ability of the members composing the troupe which have pre ceded them must have been the universal verdict of those present last evdtiing. The first part consists of a comedy entitled “ Quits,” which may not possess any striking literary merit, but serves admir ably to enable the actors and actresses to show what they can do in their especial lines. A honeymoon party are detained on their journey by a railway accident, and in order to escape from 1 the bride’s father, who is in the same train, they adopt a number of disguises. Although the ac ors in this little piece number only four, the characters they undertake,gge no less than sixteen, each of which was clearly individualised and cleverly played. Miss Amy Horton was thoroughly? luc cessful, and it need scarcely be said That her efforts were greeted with loud applause. Her acting as a school girl was- decLAdly the best thing we have seed- this lady attempt, the youthful voice and quaint actions being simulated toper faction, }As the Vivandiere, in which Misa Hoi&on accompanies herself on a drum; sir instru ment she plays excellently well; another success was scored. Mrs D’ArcyStarifield created a good impression by her gtttoe ful acting in the impersonations allotted to her, particularly as the innocent Mite Blusbinglie and as Dolly Prettyfhce. Those who remember Mr Fred; Dark lb the Tambour Major Company need-not be told that everything he did 'tho roughly pleased the audience. In his disguise as' a London tramp he hit off the peculiarities, of that kina of vagabond to the life, the parody ;of a Christy Minstrel.ballad eliciting heuty roars of laughter. Mr D’Arcy Stanfield established hinuetf as afavorite asupon as he stepped upon the stage. As Swill in’ .Timmy, a counterpart. of the-tramp just referred to, he was very comic, but perhaps his best received effort was as a Yankee showman, in Which part he de livered a aide splitting “ patter ” descrip tion of various extraordinary animkn. “ Quite” being concluded* Mr Dark'gUva an amusing sketch of a juvenile which those who have suffered from'the horrors of drawing-room music could folly appreciate. Miss Horton then sang one of her popular ditties with her usual suc cess, and Mr Stanfield followed with some rapid changes d la Maccabe, and ah Imi tation of the great tragedian Mr Henry Irving. This latter was undeniably Clever, but to those who know the original soma of the decided mannerisms would appear to be scarcely caught. The evening : con cluded with the performance of the comedietta “ A Cup of Tea,” a piece that enabled Mrs Stanfield to show what an admirable comedy actress she is. The jealous but loving wife was played with -undoubted skill, and as the part is a de cidedly difficult one, demanding careful handling, it is giving great, though by no means undeserved, praise to say that its performance left nothing to be desired. Mr Stanfield as Scroggins kept the house in a continual roar of laughter, and Mr Dark was also satisfactory as Sir Charles. A more pleasant evening’s entertainment could not be wished for, brimful as it is of humor, while there is an utter absence of vulgarity. We hope to see actowded house to-night, which will be- the laat op portunity Ashburton people will -have of witnessing this really excellent company.

CORRESPONDENCE.

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

THE RACECOURSE.

To THE EdITOE. ■, y Sib, —Being an owner of some horses and seeing the interest the public take in the old English sport of horse racing, I felt inclined to put one of my animals in training for the forthcoming annual. ing, considering every inducement ififS offered by ths present Committee in pro* viding a training ground, , I accordingly paid my guinea for the half-year to the Club, but allow me to express caysurpriße when on going to the racecourse my hotpe got knee deep on a ploughed trade, which evidently must be intended to exercise upon, for the present racecourse is closed with ropes, etc., across to prevent owners running on it. Now, Sir,' I would ask if this is offering inducement to breeders and others in this district trying to compete with outsiders who hare else where provided for them a proper training ground to bring their horses to the p66t in proper condition, and pray what is the charge of one guinea for 1 I am led to believe this matter has been brought under the notice of the Committed more than once, and one of that body re marked he would not train one .of his horses in the district in consequence the danger of breaking him down, and consequently he has sent his horses t* town. Now, as nothing adds to the suc cess of the meeting more than a large number of entries in each race, I hope now that the season is commencing, that the Committee will throw open the present racecourse and give those people a chance to work their horses, and the Committee will have plenty of time to repair any damage done to it before their November meeting. In doing as I suggest, they will be studying the interests of owners and others in the district. —I am, etc.,

Am Owner.

BOROUGH STREETS.

To the Editor.

Sir, —Can the chairman of the-Works Committee explain why the shingling of Cameron street east has not been com pleted 1 I can only say if the raleptydfs , of the north division again decline tin elect a member who will attend to their ih terests, they well deserve to walk in-mud and leave the magnates of the sooth and west ends to enjoy good footpaths of as phalts and shingle to their door.—l am, etc., Saint Nil.

A BOILER EXPLOSION.

[by TELEGRAPH.]

Wellington, To-dsy. A boiler used for the purpose . a wood cutting machine at S. wood and coal yard, Tory street, .. .. ■ at one o’clock this afternoon. cusaion was felt over the greati - of the town. The shed in w; ; boiler waa situated was. c i .- wrecked, and large sheets of c. . . . iron were carried into the <ne . yards some distance away. .-i. ... standing within five yards of t sion escaped uninjured, but a c>-r, n-at twisted about considerably. C

TTTR ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 1883.



D OMESTIO PAT TERN DEPOT. -MRS H O'DOE, liressmakerj TANORBD ST. (opposite the Arcade), to intimate to the Ladies of Ashbur ton and neighbourhood that she has Winter Dress Materials that can be dis posed of exceedingly cheap. Ladies Dresses and Underclothing made V X ■,' a * the *hor test notice. • Registry Office for Domestic Servants. , 8 320 Special Bargains. s BLUNO OFF, MUST BE SOLD. ..Drawing-room Suites in splendid Tel ' , ... vet. walnut side-board with marble ‘"‘top, SmaU Tables in all patterns of walnut, etc Real Leather Dining-room Suites, in mahogany, and side-boards to match Every class of Furniture. Utensils of every . kind for House Furnishing. Moat wXkr a* I *ant to CLEAR OFF all iny large and varied Stock. «aa/.K -• Joim Meech, FURNITURE WAREHOUSE, Burnett street. 9 484



Wanted WANTED— A. General SERVANT; good wages given. Apply, Office of this Paper. WANTED— To BUY 25 Ashburton Saleyards Company SHARES. Apply to Matson, Cox and Co. 8 380 WANTED— TENDERS for 250 Acres of Tussock CLIPPING. Particu lars on application to H. T. Winter. 9 496 \%Y ANTED A thoroughly efficient Vf Milliner and Saleswoman. Apply, with references,|to Friedlandbr Bros., Ashburton. * 9 508 WANTED —A respectable middle aged person as HOUSEKEEPER. Apply at once, Elz Bros’, residence, Peter street. 9 492 WANTED KNOWN Two Ladies would find a comfortable resi dence, with use of piano.—Mrs G. H, Thompson. Manured street, near Arcade. 1443 - WANTED Known—Business styles, office hands, shorthand taught with American quick method—six or seven lessons. Kinsten, Prince Albeit Boarding-house. 9 502 WANTED Known—The Annual Tea Meeting and Entertainment in connection with the Dawn of Peace Lodge will take place on Monday, Sept. 17th inst., at the Templar Hall. 9 469 TT7ANTED KNOWN—That Robert y\ Elston, Burnett street, Ashbur ton, having procured the newest appara tus, is prepared to Sweep Chimneys at very low rates. Any orders left at the Town Hall will receive prompt attention. Terms cash. 760 c WANTED Known —That in conse quence of the rapid increase of business, John Moison, Impermeable Bootmaker, has been compelled to get a I large stock of Boots of a superior quality in the town in order to meets the demands of his customers, and those who may pur chase from him will find no deception as to price or quality. As J. M. has gained the public trust in the past by doing best work and fit, combined with neatness and style, he intends even to make greater exertions in the future. Fowler’s Build ings, Tancred street (opposite Arcade), Ashburton. 7 207 WANTED KNOWN—That Mr Dan • Lea’s Gymnasium is the only place for real amusement; admittance free. Every kind of amusement to be ob tained on the premises calculated to please the general public—American Bowls, skittles, Shooting, Boxing, Fencing, Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, etc. Temper ance DrinKs, Cigars, etc. Tickets— monthly 2s 6d, for use of Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, Single-sticks, Dumb-bells, Indian lubs, etc. Dan Lea is always at his post to give les ons in Boxing, lessons £1 per month, or according co arrangement. 1344



Special Advertisements. NDRBWE S B R O sT Are now selling everything at a GREAT SACRIFICE, For Cash. /"N REAT CLEARING SALE. FOR ONE MONTH ONLY, Commencing Saturday, August 18th. STATIONER 1, 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 ARM FOR S„'A: L E



SEAFIELD, ON EASY TERMS OF PAYMENT BE rural Lectio 25234, Containing 300 ACRES 800 Lately in the occupation of Mr H. Beckett The land is of good quality, and well watered by one of the County water races. Also, A VERY COMPLETE Threshing Plant, By Ransome—almost equal to new. Apply, THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCAN TILE COMPANY, LIMITED. Wm. HORNE, 12 au Agent,



p ° R S A L E Seed. Seed, SEED WHEAT—Hunter’s White. Prime Tuscan, SEED *0 ATS—Canadian, Tartarian, first-class. Danish, KAIAPOI ISLAND POTATOES. CRUSHED OATS, First-class, la. lOd. per bushel. JOSEPH CLARK, 265 Ashburton and Tinwald.



Relief from cough in five MINUTES. Bonnington’s Pbc fOEAli OXYMEL OE CARRAGEEN OH IRISH 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 Province. Sold everywhere.— George Bonnihgton, Christchurch.



Special Advertisements. INTRODUCTION OF THE PARCEL SYSTEM. Fashion House, Cashel street, Christchurch. Great success has been achieved in the Old Country by the introduction of the “ Numbered Parcel System," for the supply ard purchase of useful household drapery, thousands of parcels being for warded to the order of distant customers upon the distinct understanding that any article not proving satisfactory to the pur chaser, the money in all cases to be re turned. This system is now being intro duced by _ E. C. Brown & Co., FASHION HOUSE, Christchurch. The splendid stock of General Drapery in all departments has been purchased by E. C. Brown and Co,, from the Trustees in the Estate of the late firm of Craig and Smyth, at a very large discount off cost for cash. Thus articles sold under c"st 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 ? £ s. d. 1 dress piece (12 yds) any shade, French costume cloth ... 0 18 6 l£ good velveteen to match dress 0 5 6 3 yds silesia, for linings ... 0 1 10 2 doz new oxydised buttons, to match ... ... ... ••• 0 16 1 pair warm lined fur-top spring cuff gloves 0 2 6 £ 1 9 10 OurJNo. 2,30 s household parcel, contains — Worth 1 pair good medium size blan kets 1 0 0 1 good honeycomb quilt... ... 012 6 8 yds good wincey 0 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 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 ... ... ... 02 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 white sheets 0 9 6 6 good value honeycomb towels 0 4 0 6 yds heavy Welsh flannel ... 0 8 0 £3 6 6 Our No. 6, family parcel for £3, contains— Usual price 12 yds super Roslyn flannel (pure wool) . ... 018 0 24 yds splendid white calico, heavy make ... ... ... 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 rowels ... ... ... ... 0 4 9 £3 15 3 Our No. j 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 ... ... ... ... 014 6 2 pairs Ladies’ black hose ... 0 3 0 1 pair Ludies’ two-button choice black kid gloves ... ... 0 4 6 J doz Ladies’ cambric handker chiefs, in fancy, box 0 6 6 £2 19 6 Our No. 8, furnishing parcel for £lO, contains— Worth 20 yds nice pattern good tapestry carpet ... ... ... ... 3 6 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 16 6 2 white Turkish bath towels ... 0 3 0 6 white or unbleached honey comb towels ... ... ... 0 4. 6 2 white antimacassars 0 2 0 2 white toilet covers ... ... 0 4 0 6 yds linen check glass cloth ... 0 6 0 1 superior white linen tablecloth 0 11 6 £ll 15 0 Our No. 1, wedding parcel for £4, contains— Worth 1 dress (12 yds) pretty shade in cashmere ... ... ... 1 17 6 2 yds pretty shade in satin, to match ... ... ... ... 0 13 6 1 dress (12 yds) good costume cloth 110 2 yds rich colored velveteen,.to match ... ... ... ... 0 7 0 6 yds good silesia ... ... 0 6 0 3 doz buttons, to match dresses 0 2 0 8 yds braid, to match dresses ... 0 0 8 1 pair two-button first choice tinted or white kid gloves ... 0 5 0 6 Ladies’ linen collars 0 3 0 6 Ladies’ linen handkerchiefs ... 0 5 6 3 pairs Ladies’nice hose... ... 0 4 6 £5 5 8 Our No. 2, wedding parcel for £lO, contains— A very complete trousseau. Our No. 9, Ladies’ (half-price) parcel for L 5, contains— Usual price 1 Ladies’ handsome mantle ... 2 17 6 1 Ladies’ beautiful real sable muff and collarette ... ... ... 4 10 0 1 Ladies’ quilted satin skirt ... 1 0 0 1 fashionable tweed ulster, in leading shades 1 10 0 £9 17 6 A problem whereby Ladies may stay at home and order their drapery in perfect confidence. Just try one parcel and see what you will save. Remember—Gash 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 payable to E 0. BROWN & CO., Fashion House. Christchurch. 1382



Special Advertisements. Fine Gold. t'A AAA SHliEPtobe Slaughtered to JU>UUU Me(a)t the Times. —Wanted the public to know you can save 100 per cent, by dealing at the Ready-Money Meat Mart, Bullock’s Arcade. Meat delivered to any part of the town when purchased. 8 211 JF YOU WANT GOOD AND STRONG FURNITURE, GO silM DAVIS’S CHEAP FURNITURE AND RED DING MANUFACTORY, EAST STREET SOUTH, ASHBURTON. TO [NYERY article Sold at Christchurch JGI Prices and bes. of material and workmanship. FUNERALS CHEAPLY & COMPLETELY FURNISHED