SHIPPING.

J>ORT OF LYTTELTON. Arrived. Yesterday. Manapouri, s.s., from Melbourne, via Hobart and Southern ports. Iris, barque, from Newcastle, Sailed. Yesterday. E. and U. Cameron, scho ner, for lington. . -JMjluapouri, as., for Sydney, via Auck- Und and way ports. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. Auckland, Yesterday. Sailed —Cygnet, for Tonga. Ss=-. - Wellington, Yesterday. -Arrived — Hawea, from the North. "" Sailed —Alert, schooner, for Lyttelton; Herald, schooner, for Lyttelton; Hawea, for. Lyttelton: Oxford, ship,rfor Batavia. . - Dunedin, Yesterday. - Arrived—Rotorua, from the North. Bluff, Yesterday. Sailed—The Natal Queen, with a cargo of bats, for Auckland; Kebroyd, with a cargo of oats, for Adelaide; To Anau, for Melbourne.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains Leave Ashburton for Christ church and intermediate stations at 7.10 a.m., 10.55 a. m., and (Express) 5.37 p.m. ,i Trains Leave Ashburton for Timaru and Sooth, at 6.50 a.m., 10.25 a.m. (Express),and 4.45 p.m. —the latter pro ceeding no farther than Timaru. Trains Arrive at Ashburton from Christchurch at 10 loa. m. (Express), 4.35 p.m., and 7.15 p.m. Trains Arrive at Ashburton from Timaru and South at 10.40 a.m., 5.27 and 8 p.m. - r DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES - - Saturday, September 22. Mr Thbsi Bullock, at the Arcade, Burnett

Street —Building Allotments. Mr Thos. Bullock, at the Arcade, Burnett Street—Clydesdale Stallion. Tuesday, September 25. Matson, Cox and Co., at the Ashburton ,y.arda-'-Stock. ;

MBETMGS,' AMUSEMENTS, &o t Wednesday, Sepiembbr 12. Ploughing Match—Meeting at Patton’s Hotel, Methven, at 8 p.ih. Monday, September 17. Borough Council, at Borough , Council . Chamberkj at 7 d’clock.' ;ll Tuesday, September 18. Presbyterian Church —Annual Tea Meet ing, in the Town Hall, at 5.30 p.m. . : ;;, THURSDAY, , SEPTEMBER 20, Town Hall—Ashburton Poultry, Pigeon and Canary Society Concert’, at 7.30 p.m. Watertou Library Oddfellows Anni .yezeary Concert and Ball. ; Wednesday, October 3.

Ashburton County Council —at Counci Chambers ; 11 a. m.

Saturday, October 6.

Ashburton ; Agricultural and Pastoral A^pciatibn—Annual Show.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office 98 follows * For Christchurch and North at 6 a.m. 10.30 a.m., and 6 p.m., daily. For Ohertsey Rakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m. and, sp. m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Eangitata, Orari, Winchester, and. Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. Tor Temuka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., daily. For Tima.ni and South, at 6 a.m., 10 a|r..» and4.3P p.m., daily. For GreeP°treet and Ashburton Forks, oid 'Wednesdayi> Sat u; Jays, at, 3.30 For Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 6 a.m. and 430 p.m. FbrMayfield, oh Tuesdays and Satur days, at 6 a.m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, at 4.30 p.m. daily. For STemington, on Mondays, Wednes- and Fridays, at 430 p.m. F6r 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 am.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 1883. A Barren Session.

It has become a stereotyped re mark to say at the conclusion of every session that the work done by Parlia ment during the previous three months or so has been infinitesimal as com pared with the amount of talk that has been expended. But probably never in the history of this colony has the saying been more incontrovertibly true than as regards the session just com pleted. The Governor’s speech did not lead us to expect that anything very great would be done, but even the few promises contained therein have not been fulfilled. During his tour of the colony, immediately before the opening of Parliament, the Treasurer discoursed enthusiastically of various projects of reformj but not one word has been uttered concerning them during the session. There would have been little fault to find with this fact, for we could have well spared the time spent in dis cussing fanciful theories, if important legislation had been carried out. The record shows, however, that at most not more than two measures of national moment have become law, as the result of nearly three months’ deliberation of the two Houses. We refer to the Bankruptcy Act and the Native Land Laws Amendment Act. That these will institute urgently called for reforms cannot be questioned, but when we find that they are the sole product of a whole session, we are justified in characterising that session as a barren one. It would probably not be an ex aggeration to say that nine-tenths of the contents of the three volumes of Hansard is taken up with reports of speeches on merely local matters, which could be more effectively treated by County Councils or Road Boards; mutual recriminations between antago nistic members, who have a strange pen chant for washing their dirty linen in public ; and discussions of factious and obstructive votes of want-of-confidence, brought forward for the purpose of affording members; the opportunity of airing their vapoury eloquence. But what especially strikes one in re viewing the doings of the past session is that the tone of our Parliament has deteriorated to an extent that would have 'been inconceivable a few short years ago. Last year it was bad enough in all conscience, but the state of things existing then found apologists on the score that many of the members were new men, who were strange to the work, and as yet unacquainted with the forms of the blouse. The lowering of the franchise had given a greatly increased power to the mob, and that power had in very many cases not been used wisely. Representatives were returned who had no knowledge of the political requirements of the colony, but could tickle the ears of the electors with high sounding phrases that had little or no meaning. _ It was in the larger centres of population that this kind of man met with most suc cess, and except in or two instances, not the least noticeable of which is in close proximity to our own doors, the country districts were not deceived by mere claptrap, and returned really practical members. Auckland has its Dargaville, Wellington its Hutchi son, Christchurch its Holmes, while Dunedin possesses two members in Messrs Fish and Green whose un seemly personal wrangles have done as much as anything to bring the New Zealand Parliament into disrepute. With these disturbing influences con tinually present, it is not a matter for wonder that the session has proved to be a barren one. In ’ the earlier part business was obstructed in every pos sible way, and at the conclusion im portant measures were rushed through or else abandoned at the last moment. The demoralisation has even spread to those who hold the highest positions in Parliament. The Speakers of both Houses and the Chairman of Com mittees have more than once acted in a manner contrary to all precedent and rules which determine Parliamentary procedure, and there was not a single member in either branch ot the Legis lature who knew enough of his business to protest. The most sanguine optimist who believed that the state of things which obtained last year would be disappear in the following session, must admit that his belief has not been justi fied. So far from improving, matters have become worse, and there is little chance of any alteration for the better while the present Parliament remains in existence. We venture to assert that more attention is paid to the amenities in a Fleet street forum, where the affairs of the nation are discussed under the influence of not grog, than is frequently shown in the New Zealand House of Representatives. It is a dreary out look, but we are afraid it is only two clearly apparent, thattheultimatesession of this Parliament will be the worst of all. Party and personal rancour will be still further intensified, and it will not be till a general election comes round that we can hope for a change in the present state of affairs.

The Union Insurance Company’s risk on- the Rockhampton property was LB3O, not L 5,000 as stated in the telegrams. An appeal for a new trial was granted yesterday by Mr Justice Johnston in the case of Fuchs v. the Union Steamship Company. At a meeting of the Westland Racing Club last evening, it was resolved to issue a programme for the Christmas Meeting of two days. About L4OO of added money will be given as prizes. Messrs Mason and Vallace have scratched Bundoora for the New Zealand and Canterbury Cups. The horse was first favorite for the former event, s'and ing at latest quotation at 100 to 12. Geo. Robertson and Joseph Strong are paying up deposits regularly for the champion wrestling match, to take place on the 29th instant. The New Zealand Refrigerating Com pany carried a resolution yesterday to increase the capital of the Company by the issue of 4,000 shares at L 5 each. The Company contemplate the extension of the present works near Dunedin, and the erection of a branch establishment at Oamaru.

Une of the cases for hearing at the civil sitting of the Wellington Supreme Court is an action brought by Mr? Geo. Dixon against the New Zealand Accident Insur ance Company to recover the sum of LSOO on a policy taken out in the office of that company,

The Grafton floated off the Westport beach on yesterday morning’s tide. A highly satisfactory report has been given by the Crown 1 ands Ranger to the Auckland Waste Lands Board of the im provements effected on Grant and Foster’s special settlement of 20,000 acres at To Aroha.

Messrs Pickering and Co.’s flax mill, at Spring Creek, near Blenheim, was totally destroyed by fire on Thursday evening, only the wheel being saved. The pro perly was insured in the Liverpool, Lon don, and Globe for L3OO, The loss is estimated at LSOO.

The Guiding Star Company’s mining manager reports that he has exposed and cleared down the reef in several places on the north side of the Maori gully adjoin ing Morning Star lease,! where the so exposed reef shows good gold. The tea meeting and entertainment in connection with the Presbyterian Church which takes place on Tuesday next at the Town Hall promises to be very successful as there are a large number of tickets sold. In addition to all the local ministers of various denominations, the Rev. D. Gor don, of Temuka, will deliver an address. The exhibition of New Zealand and Australian views takes place this evening, at the Town Hall. Mr De Beere intends showing 200 views with the aid of a very powerful lime-light, all of which exceed 12 feet in diameter. As half the proceeds arc devoted to the Catholic school, there will no doubt be a large attendance. A number of comic scenes will also be in troduced. Mr De Beere intends visiting Longbeach, and will exhibit his views at the schoolroom.

“Major” Barker, of the Salvation Army, arrived at Timaru from Dunedin yesterday, rnd was welcomed by the local corps of the Army, who then proceeded to march through the principal streets of the town, with drum and tin whistle band They had been warned by the Mayor and by others that their actions were likely to frighten horses, but they refused to deaist. The result was that a child nar rowly escaped being killed ,by a runaway horse and dray, and which, passing over the child, broke one of its legs. The National Mortgage and Agency Company have received returns of their clients' sheep shipped per s.s. Fenstanton on her first voyage, which of how a result per head on 1,492 sheep of 3d per lb at Fort Chalmers, after paymg for the cost of freezing, freight to London, and all shipping expenses and commission. Reck oning about another Id per lb for the skins and rough fat this gives a very ex cellent price for the sheep, compared with present values in the local market.

The Oddfellows’ concert at Rakaia last evening was a thorough and well deserved success, there being a large attendance, which was lavish in its applause. The first part consisted of vocal and instru mental selections, all of which were given in such good style and met with such hearty approbation that it would be in vidious to particularise. The second part consisted of a farce entitled “The Darkey Photographer,” which was given with great spirit and evoked hearty roars of laughter. At the conclusion a member tendered the thanks of the Lodge to the public for their patronage, and a similar compliment was paid to the chairman for presiding. The hall was then cleared for dancing, which was kept up vigorously till half-past four this morning. As the outcome of constant agitation and a correspondence with the Board of Education during the past three years, the residents of Winslow have at last a school erected close to the township. The opening of the school was inaugurated last evening with a concert and dance, at which there was a very large attendance.

The c mcert consisted of vocal and instru mental music, Highland dancing, etc., mongat the performers being visitors from Ashburton, Lagmhor, Hinds and surrounding districts. At the conclusion cf the entertainment an adjournment was made to Mr J. Grigg’s grain-ahed, where dancing was kept up with much spirit to a lata hour. Mr Batson has been appointed to the mastership of the school, which has been opened with an average attendance of about 30 scholars.

The following letter from the member for Ashburton appears in this morning’s Lyttelton Times : —Sir, —Mr Wason, in common with many others, myself in cluded, has a grievance against the Rakaia and Ashburton Forks Hailway Company on account of the manner in which the lands in the district were mapped out and classified for rating purposes under the District Railways Act, but that, in my opinion, is no reason why a bad law should be perpetuated. As Mr Wason is aware, there are other localities in the Colony in which District railways are being made, and to relieve the ratepayers in these localities from the injustice which I had myself suffered, it appeared neces sary to amend the Act by constituting a Court of Appeal to deal with all griev ances under the classification and rating powers of those Companies who are now constructing district railways, but have not yet completed them. In connection with the amended Act, I claim credit for nothing more that an en deavor to place the ratepayers within the rating area of the Rakaia and Ashburton Forks Railway Company in the same position as regards such Court of Appeal, as the ratepayers in other railway dis tricts where the Companies have not yet obtained a certificate of the completion of their railway ; and, as Mr Wason con tends, the Rakaia and Ashburton Forks Railway Company having not yet com pleted the railway which they undertook to make, their liability to complete is in no way affected by the Amending Act just passed, whilst the greatest blot in the original Act is removed by providing a Court of Appeal against unjust classifica tion of the lands.—l am, etc., Howard G. Wright.

A great deal has been said as to the in ventor of the art of printing, the period when the invention itself first saw the light, and the locality where it was born. Two out of three of these points need not, however, says the Echo, excite discussion. It is a good while since the remark “ that there is nothing new under the sun ” was made, but anterior to that remote period viz, some fonr thousand years ago—the first printing machine existed in Babylon ! If proof be required of this startling asser tion, it may bo easily found, for it exists no farther off than Trinity College, Cam bridge. In that place there is preserved a solid cylindrical figure about seven inches in length and three inches in dia meter at each end. On the surface of the cask-like cylinder, minute and finely wrought characters are engraved, and these are arranged in vertical lines. It is, therefore, a striking example of the in genuity of the ancients, and only shows their method of preserving and multiply ing national or family records. It is quite evident from the indented letter of the Babylonian printing machine—for such it really is—that some means of applying pressure to it was in use among the Nine vite typos. This being so, the primitive appliance at Cambridge must be said to embody the identical principle of the newspaper machines of the present day. |

The attention of fanners and others is directed to an advertisement from Messrs Reid and Gray, the well-known implement and reaper and binder manufacturers, which ap pears in another column. A list of the Crown Lands reserves for sale appears elsewhere. Take Hop Bitters three times a day, and you will have no doctors 1 bills to pay. See. Advt.] Thick Heads, heavy stomachs, bilious con ditions—Wells’ May Apple Pills—anti-bilious cathartic. $d and is. Moses, Moss and Co., Sydney, General Agents. 5 *

A meeting of the Methven Library Committee was held last evening at Patton’s Hotel. All the members were present. The tenders for the new build ing were laid before the Committee, and that of Mr Walker was accepted, subject to the approval of the County Council. It was resolved that Mr Allington obtain a statement from the Black Diamond

> ommittee, showing the receipts and ex penditure of their late entertaiment, and in the event of the statement being satis-

factory the various accounts incurred by the Black Diamond Committee be liquid ated, (he latter to hand over all stage fittings and curtains to the Library Com mittee. Mr Cameron stated that he had signed the transfer of the site, being a | .acre section, to the Library Committee, and had returned the deed to Messrs Harper and Co. A vote of thanks was unanimously passed to Mr Cameron for the site. The Secretary was instructed to return all the unaccepted plans with thanks, and to acquaint Mr Searell with the decision arrived at by the Committee. Mr Allington reported that Mr Reynolds had informed him that Mr W. B. Comp ton would pay the sum of L 3 18s on his account into the funds of the Library Committee, It was resolved that Mr Allington obtain an order on Compton for the amount. Mr J. Jackson sent in his resignation, which was accepted. The meeting then adjourned. One of the most remarkable reasons ever urged for the release of a criminal is that which has beon put forward in a petition addressed to the Governor of North Carolina for the release of a negro desperado known as “ Tim Buckner,” confined in the gaol of Plymouth in that State. About eighteen months ago Buck ner got up a riot in Plymouth, and placed himself at the head of a hundred lawless negro lumbermen who threatened to de stroy the town. The Governor was com pelled to call out the military before the riot could be suppressed ; and Buckner, as ringleader of the mob, was tried, con victed, and sentenced to two years’ im prisonment. At the time of his arrest he owned two “coon” dogs, which daily visited the jCourt during the trial of their master, and sat by his side. When Buck ner was sent to gaol the faithful dogs took' up their station at the prison gate, and from that date have not been absent from their post a single night. They relieve each other during the day to get food, but at night are constantly at the door. This touching conduct on the part of the dogs has won for them the respect and sympathy ot the inhabitants of the town, who built them a kennel near the door and within sight of Bucknar’s cell win dow. Governor Jarvis’s wife visited the dogs the other day, and was moved to tears by the spectacle of their fidelity. She has now joined ethers in recommend ing the Governor to pardon Buckner, who has still a year to serve—not for his own sake, but for that of his dogs. By last accounts it was considered probable that the dogs’ devotion would be rewarded by the release of their master.

MILITARY POWER OF CHINA.

In connection with the French proceed ings at Touquin, ani the possible rupture between France and China, the Times of India calls attention to the gigantic stride which the latter country has made in the development of her practically unlimited warlike resources. She is supposed to have a standing army of 1,000.000, but the despotic ruler of 300,000,000 people need never lack for soldiers. There is no such thing as a Chinese army in the sense in which we speak of an English or Prus sian army. Each province finds its own army complete in itself, the Governor acting as generalissimo, on whom the effi ciency of the force depends. Hence while there are some provincial armies which constitute a mere rabble armed with seventeenth century weapons, there are others which have attained a high state of efficiency, and are armed with the best of modern rifles. Thus Li Tsung Tang, Governor of the province of Pich-li, has under him a force of 70,000 very efficient troops, armed with the .Remington rifle. We have already shown the efficiency of the Kan-su army with the great military reformer, Tso Tsung Tang. The weak point in the Chinese military sys tem is the officers, (the soldier’s pro fession ranking very low in Celestial opinion. Nowhere is the sentiment of Arma cedant togae more forcibly carried into' effect than in China. Still, though the Celestials do not imitate the radical inaugurated by their neighbors in Japan, it must not be supposed that they lag very far behind. Of late they have despatched numbers of young men to England and Germany to learn the art of war by land and by sea. China is well supplied with ordnance of the best European manufacture, Krupp having already supplied her with 150 siege guns and 270 field pieces, and with guns in position the Chinese can fight well, as we discovered to our cost at the mouth of the Pei-ho. A number of seaboard towns, such as Tien-tsin, Shanghai, Nankin, Canton, etc., contain arsenals, where guns, both light and heavy, are cast, and where breech-loading rifles of the newest pattern are turned out in thousands, with ammunition to match. At the arsenal of Kiang-Nan Chinese workmen produced in 1879 twenty 40-pounder Armstrong guns, which, on being tested by European engineers, were declared to be equal to anything that had ever left Elswick or Woolwich. Tha approaches to the more important seaports are guarded by heavily armed forts,, which France would have considerable trouble in “negotiating.” No could the French have it all their own waj on the coast. The Chinese fleet is by no means despicable, and its numbers are constantly increasing. There are two large Celestial ironclads constructed in Germany, one monitor, two frigates, and twelve corvettes, two of which were built of steel in England, and are warranted to do their sixteen knots an hour. Besides these, China has thirty or forty unarmored vessels, each of which carries a solitary 35-ton gun. The light draught of these vessels would easily enable them to escape tha French cruisers, while their heavy armament would pro bably succeed in inflicting serious damage on their pursuers. At Foochoo there is a factory for making torpedoes and sub marine mines of various kinds. Nor is China without those terrible modern en gines of destruction—torpedo boats. Re cently she got out several from the Vulcan Company at Stettin, and the pattern once given she will be able to execute copies ad libitum. Should the negotiations now pro ceeding at Shanghai end in failure, and war be declared, Fiance will find the fates against her at every turn. An ad vance of her troops up the Sonkoi will re sult in their decimation, to be followed of course by the customary demoralisation of the survivors.

THE WAR IN TONQUIN.

[Received Sept. 15, 12.39 p.m.] Hostilities Resumed. Hong Kong, Sept. 14. News has been received that hostilities have been resumed between the French troops and the Anamite force, known as the “ Blackflags.’' The accounts to hand state that fighting, lasting for fully eight hours, recently took place at Ptioukai, The engagement was a very severe one, and resulted in a loss of 52 to the French. The “ Blackflags ” are reported to have lost fully 500 men. The latest intelligence from Canton states that the Europeans in that city are very uneasy in consequence of the violent anti-foreign placards which have been ex tensively posted there.

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EURO^F. [REUTER’S TELEGRAMS —COPYRIGHT. ] Monetary and Commercial. London, Sept. 13. The reserves in the Bank of England in notes and bullion are L 14,500,000, being an increase of L 600,000 since last Thursday. The proportion of re serve to liabilities has fallen 2 per cent during the week, and is now 36 per cent. Consols remain at 100)4. New Zealand securities are quoted as follows: —Five per cent 10-40 Loan, 103, ex div; Five per cent. 1889 Loan, 106 ; Four and a-half per cent 1879-1904 Loan, stock, 101. The produce markets are without quotable change. The Wool Sales.

At to-day’s wool sale 11,700 bales were offered. The tone of the sale is firm. Since the opening of the sales 17,750 bales have been withdrawn. The sales close on October 8. The British Premier. London, Sept 14. Mr Gladstone, who for some time past has been yachting on the Scotch coast, sailed for Norway. Committed. Doctor Connelly, who with his brother was arrested at Limerick on August 22nd, charged with conspiracy to murder, has been committed for trial.

AUSTRALIAN. [REUTER’S TELEGRAMS —COPYRIGHT.] Sporting News. Melbourne, Yesterday. The following are the highest weights for the Caulfield Cup, to be run for at the Victoria Amateur Turf Club meet ing on October 20th;—Sting, gst jdb ; Pellmell, qst 51b; Sir Modred, qst Sib. Shipping. Sydney, Yesterday. Sailed, yesterday afternoon The Union steamship Wairarapa, for Auck land. Arrived, this morning—The steam ship WakatipUj from Wellington. The Markets. _ New Zealand wheat remains at 4s 3d. New Zealand oats are quoted at 2s 4d, being an advance of id upon last week’s price. Maize, 2s iid. Sugar Company’s No. 1 pieces, per ton, L3S. Adelaide, Yesterday. Wheat remains at 4s 1 od; no busi ness doing. Town flour, per ton, Ln to Li 1 ss; country brands, Lio to Lio 10s. There is very little doing in the market.

TELEGRAMS.

[per press association.] Pound Drowned. Auckland, To-day. The body of George Marley, formerly a draper, was found floating in the Har bor to-day. It has the appearance of having been several days in the water. A Cordial Interview. Wanganui, To-day. Mr Bryce, the Native Minister, who arrived in town on Wednesday last had an interview with Major Kemp, the Maori chief at Upokonagaro yesterday. It was a most cordial meeting, as if no strained relations had ever existed be tween Kemp and the Government, After a short interview they parted on the best terms. A good number of natives were present with several Europeans.

A Terrible Threat! Masterton, To-day. An indignation meeting of the Master ton Volunteers was held last evening to protest against the conduct of Major Bunny on the occasion of the visit of the Governor to Masterton. About forty were present and Captain Donald pre sided. After several condemnatory speeches had been made, the following resolution was carried unanimously: “ That the Masterton Volunteers after the treatment received from Major Bunny on Thursday last tender their resignation in a body.” A petition drawn up to the Minister of Defence, stating the reason, was signed by all present. The New Steamer. Dunedin, To-day. The Union Company have been advised of the sailing of the Takapuna from the Cape yesterday.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 1888.



SttEP FROM COUGH IN FIVE — Bonnington’s PEC TORAL OXYMBI OF CARRAGEEN OH IRISH Moss (Registered).—The most certain and speedy remedy for disorders of the Chest andTLungs. May be obtained at most of the Storekeepers and Chemists throughout the Province. Sold every where.— George Bonhingtok, Christchurch.



NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory J,,aparedno effort to place before the public a MOST COMPLETE ASSORTMENT :■ OJf MANUFACTURES •jCompriaing all the latest styles in MEN’S & BOY’S CLOTHING Manufactured from the best qualities and • newest Designs in COt&NIAL, SCOTCH, .BRITISH, .AND CONTINENTAL TWEEDS. and increased trade has en abled the Proprietary to offer their cus tomers still further advantages than hitbertdyhhd THIS SEASON’S GOODS, upon inspection, will be found CHEAPER THAN EVER. A SINGLE GARMENT AT WHOLESALE PKIOE. - SHIRTS, HATS, HOSIERY, and every requisite at Wholesale Prices. Nineteen Branches now open in New Zealand. n t, J Agents for the Unrivalled WERT HEIM SEWING MACHINES Ashburton Branch : EAST STREET,



Special Bargains. SELLING OFF, MUST BE SOLD. , Drawing-room Suites in splendid Vel vet, walnut side-board with marble lop Small Tables in all patterns of walnut, etc BMA Leather Dining-room Suites, in mahogany, and side-boards to match Gvery class of Furniture. Utensilsof every kind for House Furnishing. Must be sold, as I want to CLEAR OFF all my largd and varied Stock. Join Meecli, ‘HBNITHE'E "WAREHOUSE, " t street. S> 484



Wanted WANTED— To BUY 25 Ashburton ! Saleyards Company SHARKS. Apply to Matson, Cox and Co. 8 380 Annual Tea Meeting. WANTED KNOWN—Two Ladies would find a comfortable resi dence, with use of piano.—Mrs G. H. Thompson. Tancred street, near Arcade. 1443 Monday, September I7tb, Templar Hall. WT ANTED KNOWN—That Robert 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 j Town Hall will receive prompt attention. Terms cash. 760 c



The Da'wa of Peace Tea. WANTED Known—That in conse quence of the rapid increase of business, John Mox-on, Impermeable Bootmaker, has been compelled to get a large stock of Boots of a superior quality iii 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



Rememberl Templar Ball I WANTED KNO^N—That Mr Dan Lea’s Gymnasium is the only place for real amusement; admittance free. Every kind of amusement to be ob tained on the premises calculated to please the general public—American Bowls, Skittles, : Shooting, Boxing, Fencing, Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, etc. Temper ance Drinks, Cigars, etc. Tickets— monthly 2s 6d, for use of Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, Single-sticks, Dumb-bells, Indian Clubs, etc. Dan Lea is always at his post to give lesions in Boxing, lessons £1 per month, or according to arrangement, 1344



Nest Monday! Special Advertisements. NDEI WE S BROS Are now selling everything at a GREAT SACRIFICE, For Cash.



REAT OLE \RING SALE. FOR ONE MONTH ONLY, : Commencing Saturday, August 18th. STATIONER!, FANCY GOODS, TOYS, Etc. \ A GREAT REDUCTION PRICES OF ALL OUR GOODS. Andrewes Bros., BOOKSELLERS, STATIONERS, &c., East street South Ashburton. n!5 IN THE An Inspection Solicited.



SEAFIELD ► > H •=1 o w CO !> tr* tei Dimant and Coe, A EE Now Showing their first parcels of SUMMER GOODS, Comprising, Trimmed and UuntrimmedHats, Laces, Prints, Plain and Fancy Sateens, Galeteas, Dresstuffs, 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, DIAMANT AND COE, Beady Money Drapers, Clothiers, etc. 9528



ON EASY TERMS OP PAYMENT RURAL SECTION No. 25234 Containing 800 ACRES 300 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, I F YOD WANT GOOD AND STRONG FURNITURE, GO TO DAVIS’S CHEAP FURNITURE AND BED DING MANUFACTORY, EAST STREET SOUTH, ASHBURTON.



fiVVERY article Sold at Christchurch Pbicbs and &dwantepd bes. of 'material and workmanship. FUNERALS CHEAPLY & COMPLETELY FXTKNISHED



Special Advertisements. INTRODUCTION OF THE PARCEL SYSTEM. . Fashion House, Cashel street, Christchurch, Great success'has been achiever! 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. 0. Brown & 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 n 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 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 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 0 12 6 8 yds good wincey ... ... 05 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 0 2 0 £2 19 6 Our No. 5, household parcel for £2 10s, contains — Worth 1 pair large size good witney blankets ... 1 10 6 1 nice large size good honeycomb quilt 0 14 6 1 pair good heavy white sheets 0 9 6 6 good value honeycomb towels 0 4 0 6 yds heavy Welsh flannel ... 0 8 0



£3 0 G Oar No. 6, family parcel for £3, contains — Usual price 12 yds super Roalyn flannel (pure wool) ... ... ... _ ... 018 0 24 yds splendid white calico, heavy make 0 13 0 24 yds good strong brown or grey wincey 0 14 0 6 yds tartan plaid 0 6 6 6 yds good brown holland ... 0 4 6 12 yds hemp carpet, dark stripe 0 7 0 6 pair Girls’ or Women’s warm winter hose ... ... ... 0 7 6 4 large unbleached Turkish towels 0 4 9 £3 15 3 Our No. ,7, mourning parcel for £2 10s, contains— Worth 10 yds good black French cash mere 1 G 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 Lndies’ two-button choice black kid gloves 0 4 G £ 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 ... 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 Oar No. 1, wedding parcel for £4, contains— Worth 1 dress (12 yds) pr etty shade in cashmere ... ... 1 17 6 2 yds pretty shade in satin, to match ... ... 0 13 6 1 dress (12 yds) good costume cloth ... ... ... ... 1 1 0 2 yds rich colored velveteen, to match ... ... ... ... 0 7 0 6 yds good silesia ... ... 0 6 0 3 doz buttons, to match dresses 0 2 0 8 yds braid, to match dresses ... 0 0 8 1 pair two-button first choice tinted or white kid gloves ... 0 5 0 6 Ladies’ linen collars ... ... 0 3 0 6 Ladies’ linen handkerchiefs ... 0 5 6 3 pairs Ladies’nice hose... ... 0 4 6 £5 5 8 Our No. 2, wedding parcel for £lO, contains — A very complete trousseau. Our No. 9, Ladies’ (hrdf-price) parcel for L 5, contains— Usual price 1 Ladies’ handsome mantle ... 217 6 1 Ladies’ beautiful real sable muff and collarette ... ... ... 4 10 0 1 Ladies’ quilted satin skirt ... 1 0 0 1 fashionable tweed ulster, in leading shades... ... ... 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 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. 0.0. made payable to E 0. BROWN «fc 00., Fashion House, Christrhuyoh, 1362



Don’t Die in the House..—“ Rough on Rats ” clears out rats, mice, beetles, bed-bugs, flies, ants, insects, moles, jack rabbits, gophers, Moses, Moss and Co,, Sydney, General Agents. I Wells’ “ Rough on Corns.”—Ask for Wells’ “ Rough on Corns.”. Quick re lief, complete, permanent cure. Corns, warts, bunions. Moses, Moss and Co., J-ydney, General Agents. I



TOWN EDITION. Issued at 4.30 p.m. For continuation of reading matter see fourth page. Gazette in Bankruptcy. y. R. N OTICE— The Ashbukxok Gtjahdian h a Gazette for all notices under the Debtors and Creditors Acts,



IN the District Court of Ashburton, holden at Ashburton. In the matter of the Debtors and Credi tors Act, 1876, and the several Acts amending the same and in the bank ruptcy of JAMES BEGG, of Tin wald, blacksmith, a debtor. I hereby summon a meeting of the Creditors of the abovenamed debtor to be held at the District Courthouse, Ashbur ton, on TUESDAY", the 18th day of September instant, to consider the said debtor’s intended appplication for an order of discharge. Dated this 14th day of September, 1883. W. R. BOYLE, Trustee. Gerald D. Branson, Solicitor for debtor. 9 536 IN the District Court of Ashburton, holden at Ashburton. In the matter of the Debtors and Creditors Act, 1876, the several Acts amending the same, and of the bankruptcy of BENJAMIN EDE, of Alford Forest, farmer, a debtor. ■ This is to notify that at the sitting of the above honorable Court, held next after the expiration of ten clear -days from the date hereof, application will be made to the said honorable Court for an order of discharge to be granted to the said debtor. Dated this 14th d <y of September, 1883. GERALD D. BRANSON, 9 537 Solicitor for debtor^



Late Advertisements ASSOCIATION YARDS, Messrs matson, cox & co. will have a grand line of Head of young CATTLE FOR SALE BIT AUCTION, ON TUESDAY, SEPT. 18th. 9 541 MATSON, COX & COT' F, WILDING, Barrister, Solicitor, and Notary Public. JOHN A. CAYGILL, Barrister and Solicitor. WE hereby give notice that we have This Day entered into PARTNER SHIP at Ashburton, under the style of Wilding and Caygill. Mr Wilding will continue to attend the sittings of the Courts. 1 - A member of the firm will attend at Rakaia every Wednesday. Dated this 12th day of September; 1883. F. wilding; 9 540 JOHN A. CAYGILL.



Public Works. U B L I C WO B K S, New Zealand. ~r. FLOOD CHANNEL BRIDGE CONTRACT. WRIT-TEN TENDERS will bereoeiyed at this office until noon of THURSDAY, the 27th Sept., 1883, for the above con tract. They are to be marked “ Tender for Flood Channel Bridge Con tract,” and addressed to the Hon. the Minister for Public Works, Dunedin. Telegraphic tenders, similarly, .addressed and marked, will he received if presented at any Telegraph Office by noon of this 1 same date, provided that written tenders, be lodged at any District or RetsidWrfe Engineer’s Office, or with the Chief master, Timaru, by the same hour. ! Drawings, specifications, and genMd* conditions may be seen at this-office, mid to the Public Works Offices at Auckfaijdj’ Wellington, and Christchurch; and at tfce Post-office, Timaru. - ' The lowest or any tender not neces sarily accepted. By command. RAKAIA GOR GEi Engineer-in-Charge, Middle Island W. N. BLAIR. , ■ i Public Works Office, ‘m c Dunedin, August 22nd, 1883. . 9 501' 9 5010



Meetings. T7ILEMINGTON OONQER,T. ■The TONIC SOL-FA CONCERT been Postponed until the 28th inst. 9 638' THE OPENING MATCH of theawth Rakaia Cricket Club will take place on SATURDAY, Sept. 22nd/ A MEETING will be held afterwards. All intending members are requested- to attend at 1.30 p.m. sharp. : ANNIVERSARY, TEA., CONCERT AND BALL, WATERTON LIBRARY, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20. Tickets, 2s 6d each. 9 639 T O. O. F., M. U. THE ANNIVERSARY Dinner andßallL UiJ xxii& LOYAL PIONEER LODGE, W. DIXON, 9 531 Hon. Sea AT win do neia in SPRINGBURN SCHOOL,; SEPT. 21st, 1883. will be held in. Dinner at 7 p.m. ; admission to dinner, ss, to dance, sb. ... t. L Dancing to commence at 10 p.m ---9 600



PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, ASH BURTON. L. The ANNUAL TEA MEETING will be held, D.Y., in the Town Hall on TUESDAY, September 18; Addresses will be delivered by the Revs E, 'A. Scott,,G.i Standage, J. Nixon, and A. McLennan. Vocal and Instiumental Musio by 'the Choir. : Rev A. M. Beattie, M.A., Chairman' . Tea at 5.30. Tickets 2s Each. N.B.—A SALE of LADIES; WORK will be held in the afternoon on the platform, commando gat 2 o'clock* . > ;i TTNITED GOSPEL MISSION. '“TOWN HALL, ASHBURTON,; I Mr Duncan Weight will conduct eg" Eight Days’ MISSION from SONDA®}- i?he 23rd instant, to the end of the month. On Sunday Morning, the 23rd .a. Public Service will be held, commencing at 8 a.m. , On Sunday Afternoon, the 23rd Inst., a childrens’ ter vice will be held,_ commenc ing at 3 o’clock p.m., to which all, the' Sabbath Schools in the district are. in vited. On Sunday Evening, the 23rd met., a Public Service will be hold, commencing. at 8 o’clock. -



Doors open at 7.30. Every Evening during ths week, Public Services at 7.30. Doors open ht, 7 o’clock p.m. h very day Prayer Meetings at noon, for an hour from 12.30. 9 627 Entertainment. rp OWN HAL* L. THURSDAY, SEPT. 20th, 1883. Grand Concert AND ENTERTAINMENT. The Committee of the Ashburton Poultry and Pigeon Society have the honor to announce that a Concert and Entertainment will be held in the TCwtl Hall aa above, the proceeds to be given towards liquidating the debt of the Society, which was incurred at the late. Show. Songs and Solos by eminent amateurs. To conclude with a farce. See programme in future advertisements. Tickets—2a and la, to be . had from-the members of the Committee. , ~, s ( 9 47b- MR LAURENCE OXLEY has been Appointed Agent for the Aahbor* ton Guardian at South Rakaia.