SHIPPING.

?ORT OF LYTTELTON. Arrived. Yesterday. Go-a-head, from Wanganui. Manawatu, from Wellington. Sailed. Yesterday. • Manawatu, a.s., for Oamaru. Go-Ahead, s.s., for Dunedin. Jane Douglas, s.s., for Wellington. -—GlMlur f brigantine, for Greymouth. ' Alert, schooner, for D’Urville’s Island, .Wild Wave, schooner, for Pelorus Sound. ■ Herald, schooner, for Wellington. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. Auckland, Yesterday. Arrived —Atlantic, from Rarotonga. Wellington, Yesterday. Arrived— Wakatipu, s.s., from Sydney. Sailed Waiararapi, for Melbourne, via the South; Wanaka, for Picton and ■ Nelson; Ansdell, barque, for Kaipara. Timaru, Yesterday. Arrived —Mary Campbell, from Grey month. Dunedin, Yesterday. Sailed—Suva, for the North; Mahina pua, for the West Coast; Hawea, for the North. Dunedin, To-day. Arrived—Ringarooma and Sunbeam, from Geographic Bay, Western Australia, Embloton, from Glasgow. Bluff, Yesterday. Arrived—Seatoller, barque, for Nelson, with original cargo from London ; Ringa rooma, from Melbourne.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

; AUCTION SALES . Tuesday, September 25. Matson, Cox and Co., at the Ashburton Yards —Stock. Saturday, September 29. Mr Thos. Bullock, at the Arcade, Burnett Street —Clydesdale Stallion. . Saturday, October 5. Matson, Cox, and Co., at their rooms — 80 acre Farm. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, Ac Tuesday, September 25. Ashburton Cricket Club—Annual General Meeting, at Messrs. Matson, Cox and Co’s Offices, at 7.30 p.m. Friday, September 28. Somerset Lodge, Monthly Meeting, in the Masonic Hall, Tancred street, 7.30. Saturday, September 29. Timarn Agricultural and Pastoral Asso ciation^ —Annual Horse Parade. Monday, October 1. Borough Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7 o’clock. Wednesday, October 3. Ashburton County Council —at Council Chambers; 11 a.m. Saturday, October 6. Ashburton Agricultural and Pastoral Association—Horse Parade, Wednesday, November 14. Ashburton' Agricultural and Pastoral Association —Annual Show.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas Et Prevalebit. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 1883. Mr Whitaker’s Resignation.

Before last session of Parliament opened rumor was busy concerning a 1 probable change in the personnel of the i present Ministry, and in many quarters the resignation of the Hon Mr Whit- ; aker as Premier was stated to be im- ‘ minent. But as time went on and ; nothing more was heard officially in , the matter, people were justified in be- ( lieving that after all there was no < foundation in the report, and the news ' published yesterday to the effect that ■ the Premier had retired from the Go vernment was in a certain sense a sur- . prise. When Mr Whitaker succeeded Sir John Hall it was well known that the former had no very great wish to occupy the position, but he happened to be the only possible man for the place, Able statesman as Major Atkinson is admitted to be, it is un doubtedly true that he could not have kept his party so well together as the late Premier was able to do during the first session of the present Parliament. The relative strength of the two oppos ing parties was so evenly balanced that it required the nicest tact to keep things straight, and it was this tact that Mr Whitaker displayed. The Colonial Treasurer, on the other hand, has a habit of airing certain political fads, such as the National Insurance scheme and other theories for the abolition of poverty, which are viewed with scant favor by many members of the House who have consistently voted for the Government. Had it not been for the fact that Mr Whitaker was at the head of affairs, it is exceedingly doubt ful if the Ministry would have secured a working majority, and it is more than probable that the Opposition might have scored a victory upon an impor tant issue. For this reason the resigna tion of the Premier has considerably weakened the Government, although the effect of it will not be so disastrous as it would have been had the retire ment happened during last session. This is probably the cause of Mr Whitaker’s delay in carrying out what was well known to have been his intention some time ago until after the House had risen. Whether the accession of Major Atkinson to the position of Premier will alienate any of the present supporters of the Ministry will not be known till another session comes round, but it is unlikely that the change will make much difference, i Even if the Government were less strong than it is, the disorganisation and weakness of the Opposition are sufficient to keep the men in office in their places, at any rate until the next general election. The allocation of the portfolios which has been decided upon will not, we venture to say, give general satisfac -1 tion. Mr Oliver, who has occu pied a somewhat anomalous position ; in the Ministry for a considerable time, has been appointed as a salaried member of the Cabinet, taking control of the Postal and Telegraph 1 Department. The Attorney-General ship, which Mr Whitaker held, falls ' to die lot of Mr Conolly, in addition i to the duties appertaining to his i present office. We certainly fail to i see how the advent of Mr Oliver 1 will serve to strengthen the Ministry, and it would have been wiser on the part of the new Premier had he taken , the present opportunity to re-construct , the Government altogether. Now was : the time to remedy the weak points which even their best friends admit exist, and we are sorry that Major At kinson has not attempted to do this.

A meeting of the Church of England Temperance Sooieiy will be held to-night in the Arcade Chambers at 7.30 p.m. Mr S. E. Poyntz will read a paper, and a few part songs will be given. Edwards, the pedestrian, has written accepting the challenge of Harry Vaughan, of New York, to walk for six days for the world’s championship, for LSOO (2,500d015) a-side. The Hon Matthew Holmes has bought two draught mares from Mr Robert Gawn for L6OO, one is Nelly, described as the beat ever bred in New Zealand; the other is a two-year-old filly named Princess Alice, by the famous Lord Salisbury. The Government have decided to give Mete Kingi a military funeral on Thurs day afternoon with a firing party of one hundred volunteers. Major Stapp, officercommanding thodistrict, will be pre sent. Mete Kingi will be interred in a brick vault at the Mission Cemetery, Putiki,

Some very important business will be brought before the extraordinary general meeting of the shareholders of the Ash burton Cheese and Butter Factory Com pany to be held on October 2nd. Advices have been received from England in re gard to the cheese market there, and it is very probable that operations will be abandoned for a season unless the matter is decided at this meeting.

Few entires in iNew Zealand have a better reputation than Cassivelaunus, which is at present located in Ashburton, under the charge of Mr Allan Hobbs. This is, we believe, the first time the horse has travelled, as his former owner, Mr Dod son, had a {strong objection to allow Caasivelaunus away from his own stable, the solo exception in this matter being Mr Redwood. The presence of the horse in Ashburton will no doubt cause breeders to take advantage of this opportunity of improving their stock. The usual monthly meeting of the Upper Ashburton Board was held at the Board’s office, Tinwald, on Saturday last, when Messrs McLean (chairman), Harper and Friedlander were present. 'I he minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed, and, after a slight alteration, the Clerk’s report was read and considered. Correspondence was read from the County Council re the Alford Forest road ; from Mr E. G. Wright re Road Board gravel pits ; from the Railway Engineer re level crossing at Tinwald ; from the Church Property Trustees re shingle taken from pit on Fraser’s road.—The Clerk was instructed to answer the correspondence. Mr Friedlander proposed and Mr Harper seconded—“ That a separate account be kept at the Bank tor each ward, and that the member of the ward only to counter sign cheques with the Chairman and member.”—Carried, It was de cided to arrange matters in Tanc ed and Allan’s township road with the agents of the original proprietors. Mr J. 0. Harper was nominated to interview the agent and to report the result at next meeting. Mr W. Sutherland's tender for shingle on Hackthorne road was ac cepted. Messrs Harper and McLean signed the new rate roll. Sundry accounts were passed for payment, and the Board adjourned.

Notwithstanding the rain, a large nntn- a her gathered at the Town Hall last nigh w to hear Mr Wright. Mr Wright de- e livered a telling address uj-on “Noah’s Faith.” A great number remained to the c enquiry meeting. The committee have a arranged for an open air meeting in p Baring Square east, on Saturday after- p noon. Young men are especially invited d to the meeting to-morrow night. a The installation ofc the officers of the n Kilwinning Royal Arch Chapter took t place last evening at the Masonic Hall, a i ancrod street. M. B. Comp. W. H. c Gundry, P.Z., conducted the ceremony, 1 assisted by P.Z.’s, W. G. H. St. Hill, J Jubal Fleming (Christchurch), and R. W. * Shearman. The musical portion of the < ceremony was under the direction of t Corap. de B. Wilson (organist), A. Harri- 1 son, and L. Davis. The following officers t were installed for the ensuing year : < M.E. Comp. H. Zander, Z. ; E. Comp. * Ohas. Braddell, H. ; E. Comp. H. Ste- 1 phenaon, 1- f; Comps. J. G. Restell, SP. ; ' S. B. Nelson, S.N.;G. H. St. Hill. PZ., < Treasurer ; H. Dempsey, ls£ S. ; D. McFarlane, 2nd S. ; H. Brittan, 3rd S ; ' R. Cullen, Janitor. After the installs \ tion the Companions adjourned to the Somerset Hotel, where a most sumptuous banquet was provided by Bro. Hill, and served in a most elaborate manner on beautifully decorated tables, which re flected the greatest credit on the caterer. The chair was occupied by M.E. Comp. Zander, Z., and he was supported by M. F. Comp. Fleming, of Christchurch, and the Past Z.'a of the Chapter, the vice-chairs being filled by M.E. Comp. Stephenson and Comp. Dempsey. After the removal of the cloth the usual loyal and fraternal toasts were heartily drunk. Special mention was made of the kind ness of Comp. Fleming in attending from Christchurch to assist in the ceremony of installation. A number of the Com panions gave some excellent songs, and a very pleasant evening was spent. Commenting upon the last New Zealand budget, Money, a London Financial paper, makes the following appreciative remarks: —“ It is clear that the estimates are care fully framed; that the expenditure is care fully controlled; and that the revenue is elastic in the better sense. Large as the total of the public debt of New Zealand may seem, it is yet proved she carefully provides, year by year, not only for its service, but for its extinction. To show ■ how wise has been the action of the colony, and how false have been the pro phecies that it was going too fast, we may . point to the fact that whilst her revenue shows a fair increase year by year, expen diture has been largely reduced and brought within bounds; and this at a time f when large sums have been unstintedly ; spent on the development of the country, I as shown in the increase of foreign trade; r the latter is, however, we should remark, ; but a small indication of the actual irn [ provement of the country, where, within ' the last five years, the land under cultiva * tion has doubled in extent. These are J facts, we think, which prove to demon -1 stration how thoroughly sound are the t securities of this colony.” . An extraordinary instance of tenacity 3 of life is related by the correspondent of ,an English papers as follows ; —A barnful a of barley was commenced to be thrashed ' on the Bth March last. When the straw 1 was being stacked in the stock yard, and 1 was about a yard high, a violent storm came on, and work was left for the night, i A sow (expected daily to farrow) crept s in'o the centre of the stack. Next morn ing several inches of snow covered the straw, and the men standing on the ground forked a great quantity on to the 1 stack from tiie ends and sides without > treading in the centre. Thus the pig was 1 left undisturbed in her extemporised y bed. The dimensions of the stack when completed were 18ft. wide, 36ft. long, and 14ft high. The hole the pig occupied was as nearly as possible in the s centre. She was not fonnd till the straw 1 was removed on the 16th July, just nine s teen weeks after her first incarceration. 3 A more emaciated creature it would be j impossible to imagine. She was full of . flesh when she was lost, but when first ’ discovered her bones were barely covered by skin. She bad a large sore on the side 1 she was lying on. She is not yet able to 1 stand, though gradually gaining strength, s and it will be long ere she resumes her s normal condition. All traces of the litter t of pigs had disappeared. This is, I think, tho longest instance known of a domesti cated animal being without food or water, and with an insufficient supply of air.

A late number of the “North American Review ” contains several articles on church attendance. One of these is by a “ Non-churchgoer,” who asserts that, in these days, only a small proportion, even of intelligent and eminently respectable people, are regular attendants at places of worship on a Sunday ; that people do not like to be fed on the dry leaves of an antiquated theology; that dogmas have lost their power; and that “ people are re pelled from the pews because the pulpit has lost its power.” Moreover, religion has become the luxury of the rich, for he alleges, “ the church to-day is a beggar, not humble and meek in its demands, but greedy, persistent, almost impudent. Our seeker for sustenance and inspiration for his better nature finds himself in a congregation of daughters of Rhe horse leech, ever crying ‘ Give, give !’ and he flees in weariness and disgust from their importunities. And yet it is not his pocket alone that is sensitive. His self respect and pride are hurt. He thought, perchance, that among the professed fol lowers of the meek and lowly One there might be a sort of equality of position, as among joint heirs to a common inheri tance, compared with which earth y resources are said to be insignificant. But he finds that the continual calls for contributions and for aid in the entertain ments and charitable side-shows of the church serve the purpose of gauging a man’s worldly means, and he is relegated to his place in the social grade of the church according to his ability to pay for it.”

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT.

ASHBURTON— To-day. (Before H. C. S. Eaddeley Esq, R, M.) Cattle Trespassing. —Several charges against persons breaking the B irough by-laws were disposed of, a fine being in flicted in each instance. A Savage Dog.— John Meech was charged with being the owner of a savage dog, and also with allowing the animal to go unmuzzled.—Mr Caygill defended.— The police called the following evidence ; —Eliza McGregor said that 'she remem bered being in Burnett'street on the 14th inst., a little after 8 o’clock in the evening. When near Mrs White’s shop a large brown dog, which was lying on the foot path, Hew at witness and bit her severely on the elbow. She was taken to Dr Ross’s house and he attended to her. Felt the consequences of the bite for more than a week. Cross-examined : The dog was on the footpath, not the doorstep, t-he was much hurt, the dog biting her twice.—Three other ladies gave evidence to the effect that Mr Meech’s dog had bitten them on other occasions, and James McGregor (husband of a previous witness) testified to seeing the animal fly at his wife on the 14th, when he secured it and took it to the Police Station.—Mr Cay gill said that his client was quite willing to pay for medical attendance to Mrs McGregor, and if the Court de cided the dog was a savage one it might be destroyed.—His Worship said he would take into consideration what the learned counsel had stated, and he thought the necessities of the case would be met if a fine of LI wero inflicted. The dog was ,

at present in the hands of the police, and < would be destroyed forthwith, as the ! evidence showed it was a dangerous beast. Drunkenness. Joseph Sloane was charged with being drunk at Winslow, and also for maliciously destroying the properly of James Grice. Mr Crisp ap peared for the defence. Constable Neill deposed that he saw the defendant drunk at about 20 minutes to 4 o’clock on the morning in question. There had been a ball on the previous night in Winslow, and several people were about. Grice came to witness and reported that stones had been thrown through his window. Went to the place and found Sloane with his father-m-law and several other people opposite Grice’s house, and heard one|of them say “ We’ve done it right enough now.”—Cross-examined : Saw Sloane at the ball and was talking to him. Defen dant was able to walk straight, but was sufficiently drunk to be “ fit to act the blackguard.” Patrick Girce remem bered being at his brother’s house on the morning after the concert. Heard people outside, when stones were thrown through the window. One of the stones struck his brother’s wife on the head. A minute or two after witness went outside and saw Sloane opposite the house, standing in the middle of the road. Saw some other people running away. Defendant had command of himself and was neither drunk nor sober, though he had some liquor in him. Sloane denied throwing the stones.—James Grice gave corroborative evidence in regard to the stone-throwing. Could not recognise Sloane as it was too dark to see who was there. —Mr Crisp said that there was absolutely no case to answer, and both charges must be dismissed.—His Worship agreed with counsel as to the stone throwing, but was not satisfied in regard to ihe drunkenness.—Defendant’s mother in-law and his wife were then examined, and both testified to his being sober on the morning in question.—His Worship said if this bad been an isolated case he would have dismissed it with a caution, but tho record against the defendant was a long one. The police proved that a prohibition order against him had only ( recently expired. He would fine defend ( ant 'ss for drunkenness and the other I charge would be dismissed.

EUROPEAN ITEMS.

London Sept 12. The Daily News of this morning de mands L the' abolition of the kidnapping system which is now being carried on in the South Seas by Queensland planters. Baron Macleay, who recently explored New Guinea, and who has had extensive experience amongst the natives in the islands of the South Pacific, has written to Lord Derby, denouncing the existing Queensland labor traffic system. In discussing the Tamatave outrages, the press generally condemns the aggres sive line of conduct pursued by Captain Johnstone, of the Dryad, in impeding the operations of Admiral Pierre prior to the bombardment of Tamatave. Messrs’Higginson and Morgan, of Nou mea, the latter gentleman being a mem ber of the firm of Messrs Morgan, and nephew of the land speculators at the New Hebrides, are at present in Paris. It is reputed that they are arranging for a shipment of French convicts to islands in the South Pacific. , The Agents-General for the different Australian Colonies to-day received a reply from Lord Derby in answer to a letter written by Mr Smith, the Agent- General for Victoria, requesting a definite announcement of the course which the Imperial authorities intend to pursue in re"ard to the propsed annexation of Nev, Guinea and the Hebrides. Lord Derby’s statement consists of several vague as surances of the interest taken by the Go vernment in the welfare of the colonies, but the general tenor is evasive and un satisfactory. It states, however, that Go vernment intend to adhere to their pre vious determination not to annex New Guinea, and also that they will decline to annex any other islands in the Pacific. With regard to the report that the French Government intend to deport habitual criminals to the New Hebrides, Lord Derby promises to confer with Earl Gran ville, with a view of determining on the line of policy which the English Govern ment shall adopt. It points out that the Tongan and Ssamoan Islands are protected by existing treaties, and that the inde pendence of the Hebrides is recognised by the French Government. Lord Derby also refers to the representations which have been made to him concerning alleged outrages by Queensland planters engaged in the South Sea labor traffic. He states that he will communicate with Si* Arthur Gordon, the High Commissioner for the Western Pacific, upon the subject, with the view of having the statements thoroughly investigated. An animated discussion is being carried on in the French newspapers as to the propriety of France annexing the New Hebrides. Considerable divergence of opinion is exhibited, the press being very equally divided on the point. A grand festival in celebration of the four hundredth anniversary of the birth of Martin Luther, the Reformer, is being held at Wittenberg, in Germany. The festival was formally opened yesterday by the Crown Prince of Prussia.

The Times this morning advocates that the Agents-General of the various British colonies should form a Council for the purpose of advising the Secretary of State for the Colonies on all questions pertain ing to colonial interests. Australian hops are being sold for L 9 per cwt in the London market.

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Melbourne, Sept. 19. John Mills, Captain of the Ballarat 1 Imperial Football'Club, was so badly injured in the game that he has since died. One of the workmen injured by a fall of a portion of Rocke’s premises in Collins street has died. In the Divorce Court a divorce was grante I to the husband in the case of Hickling v Hickling. The respondent has L9OO a year in her own right. It is believed that the Irish informers now aboard the Saghalien will land at Mauritius. The Rev Mr McEaohran asserts that an outrage has been committed on the Christian community, and that the Rev C. Strong’s public teachings we;e pre cisely on the lines of Mr Justice Higin botham’s lecture. Mr Strong had brought a man to his church to say plainly what he had not the courage or manliness to say himself. The Argus correspondent at New Heb rides writes per Dupleix, dated 3rd inst., from the island of Tanna. He states that the feelings of the natives are very hostile to the French. The chiefs say they will resist by force any attempt at annexation on the part of that nation. They are not 1 averse, however, to annexation by Great Britian. The execution of the convict Burns is fixed to take place in Ararat gaol on the 26th insbint. He received the announce ment of his early execution with the I utmost nonchalance. The police kept watch yesterday for the arrival of the Saghalien, from Sydney, as it was reported in the former place that Kavanagh and Hanlon were aboard. The Government had received no official noti fication that the yrisoners had left Sydney, nevertheless Inspector Mackay boarded the Saghalien shortly before her arrival at Williamstown. He soon discovered Hanlon and Kavanagh aboard the vessel, travel ling third class, Hanlon assuming the i name of James Boyle, and Kavanagh that . of John Reilly. The men seemed very i

desirous of settling in Australia. The in formers promised to stay aboard during the vessel’s stay in the harbor. Mr Bosisto, M.L.A., President of the Victorian Commission oi the Calcutta Ex hibition, has received letters of a highly interesting character from India dated the 21st of August. The opening ceremony will be performed early in December by the Viceroy, supported by the Governors of Bengal, Madras, Bombay, and the North-west Provinces, and Princes and Rajah’s of the whole empire. The Duke of Connaught will also be present at the ceremony. A very large influx of visitors is expected. A very large and mosc successful public meeting was held 4 in the Melbourne Town Hall on Monday night to advocate the establishment of a Working Men’s Club. Over 2,000 were present. The Bishop of Melbourne moved the first resolution, viz, —“That it is desirable to establish Working Men’s Clubs in Melbourne.” He spoke of Clubs as a means of develop ing the better faculties of working men, and as institutions he would like to see placed in competition with the public house. The motion was seconded by Mr Douglas, President of the Trades’ Union, and supported by Mr Justice Higinbo tham. The proceedings terminated satis factorily. A proposal to commemorate the sixth anniversary of Dean Macartney’s ordina tion, by obtaining a marble bust of that gentleman, has been enthusiastically taken up.

Sydney, Sept. 19. The divorce suit of Hoswitz v Hoswitz has occupied attention during the past fortnight, and resulted yesterday in a verdict in favor of the petitioner on all the issues, and L 5,000 damages against the co-respondent, Solomon. The case as presented to the jury appeared very clear as against the respondent and the co respondent, and was supported by docu mentary evidence of an extraordinary kind. The counter charges of cruelty and adultery brought against Hoswitz were found not to be proved. An Italian war vessel, the Caracciola, arrived to refit. She was last at Tahiti and Suva.

The first case of flogging under the Criminal Law Amendment Act was in flicted on Monday for a gross offence of indecency.

Mrs Hampaon, the Lady evangelise, is drawing crowds to her mission services. The Bishop of Brisbane has received formal intimation of Cannon Barry’s ac ceptance of the Bishopric of Sydney. Mr Whilton, brother of the Engineer in-Chief of Railways, committed suicide by blowing his brains out at his brother’s house. He had been in bad health and depressed spirits. A rather destructive fire broke out yes ternight in the warehouse of Messrs Nicoll, Wetherill and Co, Pitt street. A great portion of the stock was destroyed. It was valued at L7,00f) or LB,OOO, and was insured for L 3,000 in the Commercial Union, L2,0U0 in the Scottish Imperial, and LI,OOO in another office. The fire attracted a vast crowd. Bkisbane, Sept. 19. The Honorable F. T, Gregory, M.L.C., has accepted the office of Postmaster- General in place of Mr Morshead, re signed. Mr D. Wallace has purchased the race horse Legrand for two thousand guineas. Major French, C.M.G., Royal Artillery, has been appointed Commandant of the Queensland Volunteer forces. There is little doubt that the Opposition wih have a good majority in the new Par liament.

The barque Ceres was wrecked on the sth August on Brampton reef. Two boats left the vessel, and one was picked up at sea with the crew in an utterly destitute condition. The captain’s boat has not since been heard of. The total amount of risks on the Rock hampton Meat Works was L 22.000.

CORRESPONDENCE.

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

THE MAYORALTY.

To the Editor.

Sir, —I notice, with regret, that a sec tion of the community has thought fit to petition our “ chief magistrate,” Mr Donald Williamson, to once more allow himself to be nominated for the Mayoralty, and I think it is to be deplored that he has been induced to accede (o their request. I think, Mr Editor, common decency ought to have prompted Mr Williamson to de cline, as he must acknowledge there are others who are quite as capable of fulfill ing the duties, and as worthy of the honor as himself. Then, again, how were many of the signatures to the requisition ob tained ? Did not a councillor take up a position in the Council Chambers on the day of the last election, and button-hole burgesses as they arrived to vote? Did not many refuse to sign until informed no other candidates were coming forward, and was not the requisition afterwards hawked round the town by a subordinate official of the Borough ? all this to obtain 78 signatures ! After making due deduc tions for those unauthorised, the said requisition may be estimated to repre sent about a fifth of the ratepayers.—l am, etc., John Humphries. Ashburton, Sept. 25.

THE BANK ROBBERY.

[REUTER’S TELEGRAMS.—COPYRIGHT.] Melbourne, Yesterday.

The robbery at the Commercial Bank is now fully explained. The police finding that Richard Corbett, the Bank care taker’s son, could not be found, prose cuted enquiries. The caretaker's family declared he was living in Sydney, whither a telegram was despatched. A reply was received that he had gone to New Zea land a fortnight. The police, however, discovered that he had been seen in Mel bourne a few days before, and subse quently traced him to Meagher’s Hotel, Sandridge, where he had been living for ten days under the name of Clinton, The police found Corbett in the hotel parlor. Ho denied all knowledge of ths robbery. Upon taking him upstairs, however, three bars of gold were found in his coat pocket, together with L4l in notes, L 39 in gold, and L 32 in silver, also a loaded revolver. Corbett thereupon confessed he had duplicate keys made a year ago for all the safes in the Commercial Bank. He watched his opportunity and entere .1 by the front door, and when Bannock, the Ballarat Bank Manager, arrived with gold he concealed himself. The robbery was effected during the night, and he made his escape in the morning. He declared that he had planted the balance of the plunder in a swamp, but upon being taken there no sign of the gold could be seen. It is certain that Corbett was the thief who stole LI,OOO which was missed from the same Bank two years ago, he having at that time declared that he had won LI,OOO in a sweep. It appears that one of his sisters knew he was in Mel bourne. The police are confident they will now be able to recover the missing bars. Later. Richard Corbett, who is under arrest, iharged with the robbery from the Com nercial Bank of Australia, was brought ip at the Police Court to-day, and rt nauded for a week. Three more bars of ;old, valued at L2 ) 000, were found hidden n the shutter of one of the windows on ( he Bank premises. The place of con- < ealment wa? disclosed by prisoner, who t las a!so| stated the locality where the i thee bars were hid. The Bank has *£

applied for a warrant for the arrest of the caretaker at the Bank, who is the prisoners’ father, and all other members of his family. The application was re* fused by the Magistrate, the case against them being groundless. The prisoner’s mother became seriously ill through anxiety.

THE NEW MINISTRY.

[bt telegraph.] Wellington, To-day. ■ The new Ministry were sworn in before His Excellency the Governor at noon to day. Major Atkinson retains his former portfolio, and has also been appointed Premier. Mr Dick resigns the portfolio of Fostmaster-Qeneral and Commissioner of Telegraphs, and Mr Oliver takes charge of these departments. Mr Oonoliy re tains his former portfolio, and has Also been appointed Attorney-General. Messrs Rollerton, Bryce, and J ohnaton remain as before.

The Messrs Dick and Oliver leave 'or the South by the steamer Wakatipa this afternoon.

CABLE NEWS.

'.ATHST FROM EUROPF, [renter's telegrams—copyright.] A Leaky Steamer. London, Sept. 22. News has been received here that the steamship Sorrento, while outwatd bound for Adelaide, sprang a leak and was compelled to throw a large amount of cargo overboard. Accepted. London, Sept. 24. Mr Edgar Vincent,, who was offered the post of Financial Adviser to the Khedive, has accepted the position. The War in Tonquin. A rumor is current here that the Chinese Ambassador, Marquis Tseng, has assumed an unyielding position in his negotiations with the French Go vernmenttor the cessation of war inTon quin, and evinces no desire to arrive at an amicable settlement of the difficulty. The French press strongly denounces the arrogance and pretension of the Celestial Government, and urges further reinforcement of the French forces in Tonquin, and the prosecution of the war with full vigor. [Received Sept 25,11.30 a.m.] . Two Chiefs Sentenced to Death. Capetown, Sept 24. Intelligence has been received from the Transvaal that the native chiefs Mapocht and Mampoer, the leaders of the rebellion against the Boers in the early part of this year, and who were subsequently made prisoners, have been tried at Pretoria and sentenced to death. Fatal Explosion. London, Sept 24. QA serious explosion occurred to-day in a rocket factory at Woolwich. Hun dreds of rockets were discharged in all directions, many flying into the streets and causing great havoc to the house? and other property. Two persons have died from injuries received by the ex plosion.

AUSTRALIAN. [REUTER'S TELEGRAMS—COPYRIGHT.] Annexation. Melbourne, Yesterday. At a meeting held at Ballarat on Saturday evening, resolutions strongly supporting the annexation of the Pacific Islands were passed. Sporting News. Esmond is scratched for the Mel* bourne Cup. The following are the latest quota tions in the betting on the Cup and Derby :—Cup—First Demon, roo to 7; Nicholas, too toy; Despot, xooto 7; Legrand, xoo to 6 ; Bordeaux, roo to 4; Dirk Hatteraick, ioo to 4; Pollio, ioo to 4; Stockwell, 100 103. The Derby—Archie, 20 to 1; Off Color, sto 1; Martini-Henry, 5 to 1 ; the others, 12 to 1. Shipping. *yd.\by, Yesterday. Arrived, this morning—The steam ship Manapouri, from Auckland. A New Mail. Brisbane, Yesterday. It is announced that the Government has concluded arrangements with the Orient Steamship Company for the conveyance of mails between London and this colony on the same terms as the agreement recently made by the Company with the New South Wales Government.

TELEGRAMS.

[per press association.] Frozen Meat- Wellington, To-day. The Wellington Meat Freezing Com pany send 5,185 carcases of mutton and 20,0001bs weight of beef pec the Doric. Sudden Death. An elderly man named Harrison, a car penter, dropped dead this morning. Hie age was 61 Arrested. Edward Mullens has been arrested on a charge of arson in connection with the fire at the boarding-house at Tawa Flat on Sunday. Christchurch, To-day. A New Invention. Messrs Bird and Gegan, formerly of the telegraph department, have applied for letters patent for a “ secondary bat tery cell for storing or conserving, electri city." They claim to have discovered a means by which they obtain a far greater capacity in a given space than has been obtained in any other storage battery in use. As the great objection to storage batteries is their weight, the invention of Messrs Bird and Gegan, if it can be eco nomically worked, will help, so far as electric lighting is concerned to re move a great difficult) which now stands in the way. The experimental cells were charged by. Ounnington and Kent’s dynamo, and are, so far as is known, the firs', made in New Zealand. It is proposed to exhibit the battery in work at the coming exhibition. Daw Examiners Awards.

The law examiners have recommended Mr T. Hay, of Christchurch, for the Canterbury Law Society’s barrister’s gold medal, W. C, McGregor, of Dunedin, for the Society’s gold medal, for the best ses of solicitor’s papers. They have also made the following awards of certificates of merit for the excellence of work!—P. Kippenberger, Christchurch; H. Y. W. Halliwell, Dunedin. Honorable mention —P. G. Raymond, Christchurch; A. S. Adams, Dunedin; J. A. Caygill, Christ church. Pined. Dunedin, To-day. At the City Police Court the proprietor of the South Dunedin Rope Factory wae convicted of employing women beyond the legal hours prescribed by the £m ployment of Females Act, and was fined 20s and costs.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 1883.



JVOR SALE AT THIS OFFICE. The New Bankruptcy Bill, 1883. The Chattel Securities Act Amendment. HORSE CARDS neatly and cheaply printed in all colors and designs at the Guardian office. JJEMOVAL. REMOVAL. Haring taken tl.o Montgomery’s Conner, I am prepared to ■let my Business Premises on the Waka nni road (with or without dwelling). SHOP, with Fixtures, 18ft 6in x 28ft, with Show Room same size. Dwelling consists of 5 rooms, with scullery, etc. Eta Etc., Etc. Apply, H. M. JONES. 8 37 P YOU WANT GOOD AND STRONG FURNITURE,



DAVIS’S CHEAP FURNITURE AND BED DING MANUFACTORY, EAST STREET SOUTH, ASHBURTON. EVERY article Sold at Christchurch Paxoss and bes. of 'Material and 'Workmanship. " FUNERALS ' CHEAPLY & COMPLETELY FURNISHED sl THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory HAV ii spared no effort to place before the public a MOST COMPLETE ASSORTMENT OP NEW WINTER MANUFACTURES Comprising all the latest styles in . MEN’S & BOY’S CLOTHING Manufactured from the best qualities and newest Designs in COLONIAL, SCOTCH, BRITISH, AND



CONTINENTAL TWEEDS. . The large and increased trade has en abled the Proprietary to offer their cus tomers still further advantages than hitherto, and THIS SEASON’S GOODS, upon inspection, will be found CHEAPER THAN EVER. -- A SINGLE GARMENT at wholesale price. :■ SHIRTS, HATS, HOSIERY, ; and every requisite at Wholesale Prices. ' ’/nineteen Branches now open in New Zealand. ’ ' Agents for the Unrivalled WERTHEIM 'SEWING MACHINES Ashburton Branch : EAST STREET,



Wanted WANTED Known—Best Fresh Butter one shilling per lb.— Friedlandee, Bros. 9 596 WANTEI>, at once, a General SER VANT. Apply, Mrs Clinton Baddeley, Wakanui road. 9 599 WANTED— An active LAD to ride and carry orders. Apply James Tasker, Ashburton. 9 593 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, for the country, a LAD to milk and make himself gener ally useful. Apply to Albert Roberts. West street, Ashburton 9 589 TINTED KNOWN—That Robert V\ 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. 7COc WANTED Known—That in conse quence of the rapid increase of business, John MoiiON, Impermeable Bootmaker, has been compelled to get a large stock of Boots of a superior quality in the town,in order to meets the demands of his customers, and those who may pur chase from him will find no deception as to price or quality. As J. M. has gained the public trust in the past by doing best work and fit, combined with neatness and style, he intends even to make greater exertions in the future. Fowler’s Build ings, Tancred street (opposite Arcade), Ashburton. 7 207 WANTED KNOWN—That Mr Dan Lea’s Gymnasium is the only place for real amusement; admittance free. Every kind of amusement to be ob tvined 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 lessons in Boxing, lesson £i per month, or according co arrangement. 1344 Special Advertisements. Relief from cough in five MINUTES. Bonnington’s Pec toral Oxymel of Carrageen or 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 Bonnxngton, Christchurch. A ndrew;es BROS. Are now selling everything at a GREAT SACRIFICE, For Cash. 77



ARM FOR SQ f Dimant and Coe, ABE Now Showing thoir first parcels of SUMMER GOODS, Comprising, Trimmed and UuntrimmedHats, Laces, Prints, Plain and Fancy Sateens, Galeteas, Dresstuffa, Mens’ and Boys Clothing, Shirts Also, A splendid assortment of Mens’, Ladies’, and Childrens’ Boots and Shoes. All goods marked in plain figures, and offered at prices to compete with any house in Christchurch or Dunedin. VICTORIA HOUSE, Lower end East street, DIMANT AND COE, Ready Money Drapers, Clothiers, etc. 9528 > > ► G & PL. 4 > W CD ui ts H a 3 O Mf' > s g El S CD SL 2 SzS GO fflO® tD c W a n o H GO O z



SEAFIELD, ON EASY TERMS OF PAYMENT BEING RURAL SECTION No. 25234, Containing 300 ACRES 300 Lately in the occupation of Me H. Beckett The land is of good quality, and well- I watered by one of. the County water races. Also, A YERY COMPLETE Threshing Plant, By Eansome—almost equal to now. Apply, THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCAN TILE COMPANY, LIMITED. Wm. HORNE, 12 au Agent, Special Bargains. (JELLING OFF, MUST BE SOLD. Drawing-room S.uitea in splendid Vel . vet, walnut side-board with marble top Small Tables in all patterns of walnut, ■ etc Real Leather Dining-room Suites, in mahogany, and side-boards to match Every class of Furniture. Utensilaof every kind for House Furnishing. Must be sold, as I want to CLEAR OFF all my large and varied Stock. John Meech, FURNITURE WAREHOUSE, Burnett street. > 9 484



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. (J. Brown & Co., FASHION HOUSE. Christchurch. I The splendid stock of General Drapery in all departments has been purchased by E. C. Brown and Co., from the Trustees in the Estate of the late firm of Craig and Smyth,'at a very large discount off cost for cash. Thus articles sold under price leave a good margin of profit for the vendor, while giving unsurpassed value to the purchaser. In all parcels we stake our reputation on the values, and, as suggested above, re turn the money in all cases where the article is not satisfactory. Our No. 1,20 s Dress Parcel, contains — Worth 1 £ 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 I 10 2 doz new oxydised buttons, to match ... ... ... ... 016 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 0 12 6 8 yds good wincey ... ... 06 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 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) 0 18 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. ,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 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 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 0 14 0 1 choice pattern wool tabiecover 0 15 6 2 white Turkish bath towels ... 0 3 0 6 white or unbleached honey comb towels 0 46 2 white antimacassars ... ... 0 2 0 2 white toilet covers ... ... 0 4 0 6 yds linen check glass cloth ... 0 8 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 G Ladies’ linen collars ... ...0 3 0 6 Ladies’ linen handkerchiefs ... 0 5 G 3 pairs Ladies’ nice hose 0 4 6 £5 5 8 Our No. 2, wedding parcel for £lO, contains— Avery 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—Cash returned at ones for any article returned in good condition. Samples post free on application to any part of New Zealand. In ordering any of these parcels, it is sufficient to quote number and name of parcel only. F.C.O. made payable to E O, BROWN & CO., Fashion House, Christchurch. 1362