SHIPPING.

’fdOT OP LYTTELTON. U. - Ai*lved. *'! *■ • Y sstbbdat • Ma&napua, b.b., from Dunedin via ** . : To- DAT. 1 Hawea, as., from the South. s,.“'.Sailed.. Y JBTJIIIDAY, Mahinapua, a. a., for Wellington and Weat Coast. Te Anau, a. a., for Melbourne via aouth eni(pbtts.: ■’ : '- To-DAT. Matifda, barque, for England, yroiadet, ship, for Yalparaise. Gainsborough, ship, for England. Glide, ship, for England, barque, for England. SHEETING TELEGRAMS. • ;;?rt . ;■ Auckland, Yesterday, iinived —Rotomahana, from Sydney. Sailed— Ryno, for Sunday Island; Linda Weber, .fer Greymouth; Oity of Sydiieyifbr'Sydney. . i.'jj ; .m;■ v! r> Weiijhotoh, Yesterday. • Arrived —Comet, ketch, from Lyttel ton. . i Sailed —K,iwi, for the East Coast.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

.6 1 ’JLtJCTION SALES ' Feidat, Mat 4. Moastt 'Matson, Cox and Oo.—Draught Horses, etc., on Mr D. Wilson’s Farm, Wakanui, at 12 noon sharp. ' Saturday, Mat 5. Mr T. Bullock, at the Bazaar—Land for Cropping, etc.; at 2 o’clock. Matson, Coi, and Co., at Tattersalls, Horses, Qoirt, Pigs, , Poultry, Sundries, a&f 11.86 a.m. Mr‘Al£red Harrison, at the yards— HbrseSj Pigs, Produce, Ac, ; at 12 noon. • Mf S: D. Nathan—Sale of Drapery, etc., Shop, Havelock Street. •tiBBIINGS. AMUSEMENTS, &o •- Wednesday, Mat 2. County Council—Annual Meeting, at the Codntv Oouml Chambers, at 11 a.m Mount-Hutt-Road Board —Annual Meet ing of Ratepayers ; 3 p.m. HomOUltural Society—Monthly Meeting, at the Arcade Chambers, 8 p.m. Thuesdav, Mat 3. Ashburton Coursing Club—Meeting at Somei'set Hotel, at 8 p,m. vj!v'f /(i,■ Friday, Mat 4. Wakanui Schoolroom—Harvest Ball, at 8.80 sharp. i |,; iMoNDAT, MAT 7. Mount Somers Road Board Annual Meeting/at the Board’s Office, at 12 Ro&d Board—Annual Mieeting, at. the Board’s Office, Lismore; at 12 Uopn.,,-: .• Wakanui Read Board—AnnuaPMeeting of Ratepayers, at Board’s office, at 1 p.m. 'i- ■ Wednesday, Mat 9. Horticultural, Society—Annual Meeting, at the Arcade Chambers. Mount Hdtt Road Board—Election Five Metpbfrs, Cookson and 00. ’s Offices.

MAIL NOTICES.

at the Aahbnrton Post Office u follow* :•*— For Christchurch and North at 6 am. K£SOd.xn., andß p.m., daily. For Chertseyßakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m. and‘ 6 p;m.dailyi For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. For Temuka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., doily.- '' ! - ForTimaru and Sooth,l at 6 a.m., 10 tutiS, l and 4.30 p.m., daily. For Greenstreet and Aahbnrton Forks, oar Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 3.30 p,W- . • . FpTi tf<fWt Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 6 a.m. and 4.30 p. m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 8 a. m. For Ashton,‘ Waterton and Longbeach, atstSOb.m. daily. ■ on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4 30 p. m. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seavxew, Seafield, aiSKylbi on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Satordaya,;at 6.30 &.m. Far. Rowlands, on Tuesdays and Fn-

Mailaarrive at the Ashburton Post Offloo** - ti - FcomOhristchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 *.m., 4.36 p.m., and 7.20 p.m. Prom Chertsey, &a at 10.15 a.m. and and intermediate places at 5.30 p.m. daily. From Tempka and Timaru at 10.40 a. m -5.30 p.m., and 6 p.m. daily. Prom Greenstteet and Ashburton Forks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 *.m. FromMountSomera, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, ;at 40- 5 a-m. and 8.16 p.m. Mayfield,on Tuesdays and batur days,at 10.5 a. in. Frim Ashton, ' Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a. m. daily. From Elgin, Wakahiii, Seafield, and Kylp/lon,Tuesdays, Thursdays,! And Sat urdays, at 4 p.m. ;

TBAVELLERS’GUIDE.

IHAWWirt«AV* AfIHgUBTQN fob Chbist- QHqseHtsd intermediate stations at 7-10 a.in., and (Express) 5,39 p.m. Tins Lbavb Ashbubton fob Timaed AMD South, at '6.so a.m., 10.25 a.m. (Express),and 445 p.m. —the latter pro ceeding no farther than Timaru. Tbains Abbivb at Ashbubton feom C hbisxohubch at 10 20 a. m. (Express), 4.35 p.m.', and 7.20 p.m. Tbains Abbivb at Ashbubton fbom Timabu a?® South at 10.46 a.m., 5.28 i p.m. (Express), andß p.m..

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS.

Advertisements for The Ashburton Guardian must be sent in not later than 3 p.m , with the number «f insertion, written plainly on the copy, otherwise they will be inserted until counter manded, and charged accordingly. Re place Advertisements must be supplied the day previous to that on which they are to be inserted. Special notices can bo received up to 3.30 p.m., but will be charged double rates. All notices of Births, Marriages, or Deaths must be accompanied by the sig nature of the sender, as a guarantee of good faith. All advertisements and business letters to be addressed The Manager ; literary communications should be addressed to The Editor.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit. WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1883.

The Binking Club will hold a meeting in the Town Hall this evening, when the Committee for the ensuing season will be elected. The Government received a cable from the Agent-General last evening, dated London, April 30th, stating that as yet no tenders have been received for the direct steam service.

On account of several typographical errors in the balance-sheet of the Borough Council, as published in our last night’s issue, the balance-sheet is re-published this evening with the corrections made. Mr George Bennett, a very old and much respected Wellington citizen, has offered to hand over to the promoters of the Home for Aged Poor three acres of land in the neighborhood of Wellington as a site for the Home.

The valuable thoroughbred horse Palm bearer, who ran second in the Derby three years ago, was consigned by the Halcione, which arrived at Wellington from London yesterday, to Messrs Clifford and Weld, of Flaxbourne. Unfortunately, however, the animal died during the voyage.

The master of the Ashburton Horae has been requested by the Christchurch Hos pital and Charitable Aid Board to convey to the choir of St Stephen’s Church the thanks of the Board, for their kindness in giving an entertainment to the inmates of the Home on Wednesday, the 18th ult. The following is a list of letters received at the Ashburton Post Office from places beyond the colony during the month of March, and remaining unclaimed on Ist May, 1883 ; —Hurley, Miss ; Linklater, John; Pick, T. A.; Sargeant, Wm.; Simmons, G.; Slimon, Robt. Owing to the inclemency of the weather Mr Bullock notifies elsewhere by adver tisement that he is unable to open his fine new auction rooms, now known as the Arcade. His opening sale will not take place until Saturday May 12th, in stead of Saturday next, as previously notified.

A meeting of the creditors of McLan dreas, Hepburn and Co.’s firm of auc tioneers, at Dunedin, established for about twenty years, was held yesterday. It was resolved that they should execute a deed of assignment, which they consented to. The business will be carried on under the supervision of the trustees till the deed is completely executed. Henry Mills, stove maker, of Auckland, has taken the preliminary steps to secure a divorce from his wife on the ground of adultery. The co-respondent is alleged to be a leading medical man. The peti tioner, who has been married since 1853, alleges in his affidavit that he has lived with his wife until the last few days. On February 6 he became aware of his wife’s bad conduct. She was ill, and, fearing death, she confessed to the priest that sha had for some time past been improperly intimate with the doctor. The petitioner claims LSOO damages from the co-respondent. Professors Tucker and Walker, of the Auckland University, accompanied by a lad named Bydder, a son of Mr Bydder, proprietor of the Northumberland board ing-house, went out for a sail in an open boat shortly after lunch yesterday, though squally. The boat was a small one, and scarcely safe. Near Ponsonby reef, and about 100 yards from land, the boat gave a lurch. Professor Walker fell sprawling over to the leeward with his arms over the gunwale, and the boat capsized. The boy swam to shore, telling them to strike out if they could swim, or otherwise to hold on to the boat till he got assistance. Pro fessor Tucker struck out for the boat and held on, but when he looked round he could not see Professor Walker, who must have gone down. Three boys, Reginald Marfield, Leslie and Stewart saw the acci dent, and putting off in a dingy rescued Professor Tucker before Bydder could re turn with aid. Professor Tucker Was found clinging to the boat in an insensible condition, but shortly recovered. The water police searched for the body of Professor Walker, but were unsuccessful. He was single, and twenty-six years of age, and arrived by the Rotomahana via the South a fortnight ago, and was to have occupied the chair of mathematics and mathematical physics in our Univer sity. The deceased was a fellow of Queen’s College, Cambridge, and second wrangler in 1879. He came here very highly re commended, Holloway’s Pills. —Health or Wealth.— No sane person would hesitate an instant in the choice between these two conditions. Now is the season to secure the former either by restoring or confirming it. These Pills ex pel all impurities from the system which fogs, foul vapours, and variable temperatures in gender during winter ; this medicine also acts most wholesomely upon the skin by disgorging the liver of its accumulated bile, and by ex citing the kidneys to more energetic a:tion ; increases the appetite for food and strengthens the digestive process. The stomach and liver, which most disorders originate, are fully under the control of these regenerative Pills, which act very kindly yet most efficiently on the tenderest bowels.—[Ad vt.]

THE FLOODS.

We regret to have to record that the damage done by the late heavy rains is greater then was anticipated. Shortly after four o’clock yesterday afternoon the Ashburton bridge began to show signs of instability at a point within half-way from the north end of the bridge. Just here a large body of water was flowing, and three of the piles were said to move slightly backwards and forwards, 'sj The force of the water had evidently scoured out the shingle, and the result is that the bridge has sunk fully six inches for a distance of about two chains. Placards have been posted in several places, warning people not to cross, owing to the dangerous state of the bridge, consequently the residents of Tinwald and Longbeach, etc., are very much ,inconvenienced. Considerable damage has been done to the banks of the river opposite Mr 0. C. Fook’s residence, and also some little distance above it. A tre mendous body of water came into the bend of the river at this point, and has washed away a considerable quantity of valuable land belonging to Mr Fooks. The Hinds railway bridge has been slightly damaged, but it is estimated it will not take long to right it. Between Chertsey and the Rakaia, some portion of the permanent way has been damaged, and in places further north the railway has been flooded so that no through trains have as yet been able to proceed. The passengers and mails have, so far, been able to get through by means of trollies, between Ashburton and Christchurch, but it is expected through traffic will be re sumed by to-morrow. [bt telegraph.] Christchurch, To-day. The rain ceased at daylight this morn ing, but the weather is still threatening. Further damages to the railway lines in various parts of the district are reported. The rainfall last month was 6*63in, being over three times more that for the same month for many years past. Timaru, To-day. The weather has cleared up, and the floods gone down. With the exception of the breaches in the railway lino from Hinds to Waimate, not much damage has been done. It is expected that railway communication between Christchurch and Dunedin will be completed to-morrow night.

ASHBURTON COUNTY COUNCIL.

The ordinary meeting of the above Council was held to-day, there being pre sent —Messrs W. C. Walker (in the chair), T. Bullock, Taylor, Lambie, and E. G. Wright. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed. LEAVE OF ABSENCE. Mr Bullock moved, and Mr Lambie seconded, that leave of absence should be granted to Mr Winter from this meeting. MOUNT SOMERS LINE EXTENSION. The following from the Go vernment was read ;—“ i2e letters of 12th and 14th inst., I am to reply that plans for Ashburton Branch Extension are ex pected to be ready next week, and a con tract will be advertised, say, about a week after. — G. T. Benzoni, Acting Under secretary.” chairman’s ’statement. The Chairman gave an account of the work done during the past month. Among the details mentioned was the informa tion that tho Assistant-Engineer of the New Zealand railways, had informed the County Engineer that authority had been received to put in crossings as suggested by the Council at the ends of the Ashbur ton bridge, and that the work would be done as soon as possible. A tracing showing the reserves set aside for the growth and preservation of timber had bean received, and would be placed before the Council, and also a return of the cost of the approaches to the Bakaia Gorge bridge in the Ashburton and Selwyn Counties. Tho amount of rates paid to date is L 1,400. As tho rates were coming in slowly, a warning would be inserted in the newspapers that all outstanding rates will be sued for.

engineer’s report.

The following report was then read: — I have the honor to report as follows:—Ash burton-Rangitata Water Supply : I have taken the necessary levels and staked out the line of branch water-race extending from R.S. 29762 to 31141, for the purpose of supplying the T race below the latter point. This branch will be 5 miles in length, and tenders for it will be placed before you to-day. The upper portion of T race has been running freely during the month; so have all the other races between the Ashburton and the Rangitata, except the lower end of P race, in the Coldstream district, where considerable loss is taking place in some shingly hollows ; but that portion will be im proved at once, so that the 2 miles below this point will then receive the full benefit of the supply. The recent freshets in south Hinds have caused a good deal of silting up in the vi cinity of the dam, and have also rendered necessary some minor repairs to the falls of the head race in the Gorge, but these were exe cuted so as not to interfere to any appreciable extent with the regular supply in the races. The contractors are now prepared to start P 3 water-race, but some of the owners have omitted to defray their share of the cost. The contractor for Willowby extension race is to start work this week.—Wheatstone Water Supply : The settlers in Wheatstone district, having held a public meeeting for the purpose of considering the proposed water supply lor that district, agreed unanimously to support the scheme, and to contribute at once in the proportions proposed, on condition that when the races are marked off in detail the lines will be taken as far as possible along boundaries of fields and properties and in existing ditches, and that a re-adjustment of the proportionate costs be afterwards made in accordance with the service which may be actually supplied. I do not anticipate there will be any difficulty now in arranging all details, and I beg to ask the Council’s author! y to take steps to carry these out and to invite tenders in time for next meeting for the works, including new cut, etc., at Laghmor. In regard to the small branch near Dawson’s road, previously authorised by the Council for Messrs Rundle, Rountree, etc., and which was left in abeyance till the Wil lowby extension race was sanctioned, I would suggest that this branch be made now. The owners are very anxious about it, and it would simply be a continuation of the small stream leading through Messrs White’s property, and which is partly running to waste The extension would not cost more than L 5 or L 6, and the parties to be benefited will defray the cost. —Mount Somers and Alford Forest Water Supply : The water-race for supplying the settlers in the locality of Springburn has now been completed, and the only race remaining to be done in that district is that for Alford Station, for which tenders will be invited for next meeting of Council, the owners having already agreed to defray the cost of construction. Ashburton-Rakaia Water Supply : The service in the various races during the month has, on the whole, been satisfactory, but there have been a few in stances of gross carelessness on the part of owners of threshing machines, who do not only dam up the races for a dipping supply without any authority, but also failed to remove the ob structions in the shape of bags, etc., which they had put in. The lower end of F extension race has been finished during the month, and the water led down to the point of its termimation. The fords on Bi race and also on upper end of B race, have now been finished. The improve ments on Br race, near Great South road, has also been effected, as has also that at junction of roads near Dundas on C, or test channel. The outfall fr»m the latter, through Rural Sec tions 26577 and 26625, requires some improve ment, part of which is due to lack of mainten ance, and falls to be done by Mr Rule, as agreed. Any further improvement can be better effected after the Road Board carries out its intention of making up the two or three large hollows on road, which at present form receptacles for flood and race water. _ I will get out the necessary plans and specifications ( for authorised connection near Hatfield, be tween E and El races, so that tenders may be_ received at next meeting of Council. All the 1 materials have been forwarded for the putting in of concrete trap at Pudding Hill for inter

ceptihg the travelling shingle, but meantime nothing can be done towards the construction of it Ull-the present rainy weather abates, and .flood'in the river subsides. Mr Mitchell, the owner of Rural Section 29645, asks theJCouncil to consider the question of a loopline in A race, near the Lyndhurst road, which he, in common with others, applied for before har vest, but was then postponed; the length in all would be about 3 miles, the general route is indicated on the plan, but it would require to be fixed accurately on the ground, owing to the undulating nature of the surface, and the ex istence of several storm-water gullies, which would require to be crossed at the most favor able points.—Wakanui Flat Water Supply ; Mr Moffatt, late of the Wakanui Mills, having now left the district, the agreement with him for the maintenance of the intake at the river has been cancelled. Mr Paterson, of Wakanui, at the request of some of the resi dents, recently made an offer which the Coun cil accepted, and which seeme l to include the keeping of the inlet clear, but which he sub sequently explained, had reference only to the regulation of the sluices It will now be for the Council to decide as to how the matter is to be dealt with. As the mill is fed from the same inlet which supplies the district, it is clearly chargeable with half the expense of the periodical clearing out etc., which requires to be done after floods in the river, but, mean time, it is idle, and the district will not have the benefit of the supply until the service is again resumed, by executing the necessary work at the point of intake. I would therefore ask the Council’s permission to get this done. I presume the keeping up of this work will have to be included in the general maintenance, same as the inlet for auxiliary supply from river in the Methven district, which is on a ■similar footing.—Ashburton Bridge : The As sistant Railway Engineer writes that he is about to proceed with the improvements of rail crossings at approaches of this bridge.— Upper Rangitata Bridge : Since the opening of the bridge extension on 23rd ultimo, the greater pact of boulder protection for embank ment has been executed. A further expendi ture of about L2S will complete the authorised works. I may state that the expenditure for the renewal of the more defective timbers on old portion of bridge up to this date is L 163, and the decking is now in fair order for or dinary dray traffic, but the renewal of more of it will be necessary from time to time, es pecially as much of it is of sapwood. I would suggest that in order greatly to lessen the ex pense of maintenance of decking over this long bridge, that traction-engines be prevented from passing over it.—Main Roads ; I now beg to submit estimates which I have prepared for completing the main road in Ashburton gorge from Mount Somers township to river crossing near R.S. 30988, at a cost of LB5l 16s Bd, and main road between Rakaia gorge and north Ashburton river bridge at a cost of L 794 13s 4 d. ■WHEATSTONE WATER SUPPLY. Concerning the passage in the Engi neer’s report in connection with this question it was resolved —“ That tenders be invited for next meeting and the ac count to be sent to several landowners, and that they bo informed that the worli will be proceeded with when the amounti are paid.” P 3 WATER-RACE. 1 It was resolved that notices be sent t( land owners who have not paid, informing them that the work will not be carrier out until the amounts be paid. NEW SUPPLY. In reference to the supply for the pro 1 perty of Messrs Bundle, Rountree ant others, it was decided to invite tender! forthwith under the usual conditions. A LOOP-LINE. Mr Mitchell’s application for a loop-lint in A race was referred to the Water Supplj Committee. | WAKANUI PLAT WATER SUPPLY. In the matter of a person being ap pointed to keep the water running it wai 1 decided to let the question stand ore: until airangements are made for a ranger THE BRIDGE CROSSING. The following letter from Mr J. Bur nett, Assistant-Engineer, Christchurch to Mr Baxter was read—“ I have now re ' ceived authority to put in crossings ai ’ suggested by you at each end of the Ash burton bridge, and will get the work dom as early as possible.” MAIN ROADS.

Consideration of this matter was allowed to stand over till next meeting of the Council. RANGITATA TRAFFIC BRIDGE. It was resolved that the Engineer be authorised to carry out the suggestion he had made, and that the matter be left in his hands. SMALL BIRDS NUISANCE. The following report was read : —Your Committee have taken into consideration the several means for the destruction of small birds, viz., the collection of eggs and heads in spring time, and the distribution of poisoned grain in winter ; also the pro cess of netting larks as practised by Mr J. H. Bugera at Kyle. They have also communicated with Professor Bickerton as to the practicability of destroying small birds by a current of electricity from a dynamo machine. Of the last-mentioned process your Committee are not yet in a position to report. We beg to recommend the universal distribution of poisoned grain during the month of June in such a manner as your Council may think most desirable ; also the collection of eggs and heads during the spring and summer months as initiated by the Council. Your Committee would recommend that imme diate action should be taken, so as to commence poisoning operations about the first of next month.

Mr Lambie moved, and Mr Taylor se conded—“ That the report as read be adopted, and that the Road Boards and School Committees be communicated with asking them to distribute the poisoned grain. ” —Carried. Mr Wright moved, “That the Small Birds Committee be authorised to take such measures as appear to them expe dient to secure the pioper distribution of at least 200 bushels of poisoned grain within the county.”—Carried.

INSPECTOR OF SLAUGHTERHOUSES’ REPORT. This report was read and adopted. DOMAIN BOARD. 53 Mr J. Ward, secretary of the Domain Beard, wrote stating that a resolu tion had been come to concerning the re-construotio of the Board, that two members should be appointed from the Borough Council, two from the City Council, and two by ’the Governor. It was therefore asked that this Council consent to this proposal, and that the Chairman and another member be chosen to act.—lt was resolved that the present Domain Board communicate with the Government re the construction of the Board on the basis suggested. dobbin’s ford bridge. A letter on this subject, received from the Selwyn County Council, was read and ordered to be acknowledged. WATER RANGERS. It was decided that the matter of ap pointing Water Rangers be referred to the Water Wupply Committee with power to act. PLANTATION BLOCKS. Mr Baxter was requested to report on the plantation blocks by last meeting, and the matter of advertising for tenders for the supply of 25,000 trees was left in the hands of the Chairman. It was also resolved that the planting alongside (he water-races should be in no case less than 10ft from the races. carter’s creek. Mr Crow waited on the Council 're the water overflowing fro m Carter’s Creek. He wanted to know if the Council would take action in the matter, as the people in the neighborhood suffered con siderably from the present state of the creek. —Mr Crow was informed that the Engineer would see to the matter. On the motion of Mr Taylor, it was carried —“ That the Longbeach Road Board' contribute half the cost of clearing Carter’s Creek, as promised, and that the work be put in hand as soen as that half share is paid.

TENDER. The tender of Thomas Phelan for water

race SI, in the surarof’lß 2d per chain ; and fords at L 3 10s each waijbaocepted. s BAEAIA The-raotibn of Mr Iflfeksort, re the ap plication lot aid tor J&’irge rokd, under the Roadi And Bridges Construction Act, which was adjourned frpm last meeting, was further Adjourned, in consequence of Mr absence. The J meeting adjourned till the 6th June.

Annual Meeting.

After the business had been concluded, the annual meeting was held, the same members being present. The yearly balence-shoet was placed on the table, ap proved by the Council, and duly signed by the Chairman.

JOTTINGS PROM A TRAVELLERS’ JOURNAL.

WRITTEN SPECIALLY" FOE THE “ASHBURTON

GUARDIAN.”]

No. XYl.— (Concluded.) Before 1 describe the carnival, I must say a few words about the city. Nice was founded in the fifth century before the Christi in era, and called Nicsea. In the middle ages it was subject to the Dukes of Savoy, and subsequently to Sardinia. In 1860 it was annexed to France. At Nice the celebrated French General, Marshal Masaeoa,and the still more renowned Guis eppe Garibaldi were born. The Paglione (a river that is often but a rivulet running over a wide stony bed) divides the city into two parts. The old town, with its nar row unsavory lanes and alleys, lies on the left side and is devoid of interest. On the right bank a large modern city has sprung up : it is called the “ Strangers’ Quarter,” and is already larger that the old town. But for the impetus given by the influx of visitors every season, Nice would have remained comparatively insignificant and unknown. Broad avenues and costly buildings now mark the modern localities. The Avenue de la Gase is lined with handsome shops, and the Promenade des Anglais, with splendid hotels fronting thp sea. In the Rue de France a marble cross' commemorates the meeting of the Em peror Charles Y. and Francis I. : and not far off a column is intended to honor the memory of the bold old man Pio Nino, who promulgated the doctrine of the im maculate conception as of divine authority. A good military band.playsinjhe public gardens every afternooh for the pleasure of the promenaders. Out of season, Nice is like a deserted village, but during the season it is full of gaiety arid‘life. -' When I was there, on the eve of the carnival, it had all the hum and stir of a swarming hive.

Great preparations had been made for the carnival. All along the, line of-the procession handsome seats, something like grand stands on a racecourse, were erected to accommodate .spectators who were content to be'stationary, or disliked facing the crowd. From ten to forty francs wore demanded for a seat. Evjsry window affording a view became a source of revenue to the fortunate householder, just as in Fleet street or Cheapside, or other thoroughfares in London when a public procession or important spectacle is to be seen. - I preferred to take my chance amongst the crowd of pedestrians, and therefore resisted the pressing impor tunities of the owners of win dows, and covered seats. King Carnival was to land at the Quai Midi at 8 “’clock oh‘the‘morning of Wed nesday, 31st January. It was announced early in the day that His Majesty’s ship Lasagna had been sighted off the coast, and everyone was in gleeful expectation. But, alas ! the clerk of the weather had no sympathy with the intended revels. Ominous clouds began to gather in the afternoon, and- before evening set in peoples faces betrayed signs of troublous apprehension. Just before the appointed hour it began to rain—slightly /at first, but the wind soon rose to a gale/ and the rain descended in torrents. This des troyed the prestige of the opening cere monies. The signal gun was fired! King Carnival and his suite landed and began their march. Rockets flew aloft, despite, the .moist and murky atmosphere, and strenuous efforts were made to carry eut the programme of the pageant. But the weather washed out all the'beauty of the display, and left but few spectators to witness the drenched and disfigured exhi bition.

The next morning, however, was bright and brilliant, and long before the ap pointed hour for the renewal of the festi val, everybody was astir. Every seat was occupied,: and such crowds thronged the thoroughfares along which the pro cession was to pass, that the police had great difSouity in keeping the crowd clear. Thousands of merry masqueraders per ambulated the line of march, each pro vided with bags full of confetti, and ready for the affray. They were all disguised, some fantastically, and not a few. fright fully. No 6ne could safely venture out of doors without a protection for the face, as constant discharges of confetti were kept up from eveiy aide., These ‘ missiles —in shape like peas—made principally of lime with a little sugar, were thrown in handfuls, or with the help of a tin scoop, and might inflict; serious injury if the eyes and face of the person against whom they were thrown had been exposed. ~ j had provided myself with a peculiarly ugly masque. It seemed to attract special attention, for I W£3, pitilessly assailed both by the occupants of carriages and pedestrians. One masquerader, whoso diminutive feet betrayed her sesx, came boldly up, and with an exclamation I did not understand, deliberately thrust a scoop full of confetti into the mouth of my masque, thereby damaging one of my outer defences, an enormous projecting tooth.

But how shall I describe the grotesque —and yet in many respects grand—pro cession, so as to make it intelligible to my readers ? A string of vehicles of al most indescribable variety, decorated in draperies of divers colorst extended from the Quai Massena to the end of the Promenade des Anglais and round to the Quai Midi. In number I should think they exceeded 1,500. King Carnival was an enormous effigy on a car drawn by eight horses, moving his arms and legs and head in mock salute and benedic tion as he was drawn along. One car riage represented a colossal sheep, with Punchinello dancing on its back, while a band of masqueraders in the guise of children, but rather old-fashioned in their looks, capered all around. Five comically caparisoned horses drew this car and its occupants. One group repre sented negroes from Congo, who grinned and made hideous faces at the crowd, pelting every one within reach as they passed. Intervening companies of more private maskers, some in carriages and others on foot, diversified the scone. There was a walking wheatsheaf, a country lout in smock-frock with a hay fork in his hand, and an itinerant Havanna cigar that seemed to have learned the art of walking on its point. Another vehicle represented a grinder’s apparatus, the grinder at work being an immense orang-outang. Then a company of bakers in white frocks with blue borders, each carrying an inflated bladdsr and bela boring whomsoever they could reach. Next came a party of mummers carry ing an extended blanket, in which they mercilessly tossed the figure of a cardi nal. Then a band of Yoltigeurs riding donkeys “ wot wouldn’t go.” One figure was made of shavings—not from a bar ber’s shop, but' veritable shavings of wood that hung in ringlets from his neck to his heels, completely concealing his person ; a mask with a leer and a squint being the only signs of hia hu

■ -1% r* — r- - 1, !'. i|iartit^. ,: Then V trobp of quins, dancing to the music of their own band, consisting of tin whifjtlea and kettledrums. They were followed by the. figure of a danseusa decked out in a frilled skirt so wide and stiff, that it took up nearly the whole width of the road. Next came a company of Huguenot nobles on horses, some of them with their faces towards the tails of their steeds, Neptune riding on a oar, Pluto’s grooms, in horrid red, with fiery tongues and fiaming eyes, and long tails, carrying three-pronged forks. Then a company of butterflies, admirably got up, with gauzy wings ; and a couple of busy bees. How they managed to disguise. themselves so as to make the illusion so complete, I cannot imagine. Samson stalked along with the gates of Gaza on his head, andin his hand what purported to> be the jaw-bone.of; an ass. There was a jumping grasshopper, and a fierce-look ing Zulu paddling his own canoe. Qne cajr was a magic lantern, the operator being a screeching monkey ; before him hung a curtain, behind which a number of living figures assumed laughable attitudes as he pretended to shift the slides. On the lower platform of the car groups in fanci ful costumes danced and gesticulated ■as if in approval of the exhibition. ,: ;But time and space forbid further de tails, Fun and frolic prevailed all the day, and the battle of confetti was waged with unceasing vigor. But notwithstand-, the turmoil and the license, I did net ob serve a single breach of decorum, nor a drunken man. I could not help thinking how different it would have been if the same orgies had been tolerated in London or any large English city. I fear the roughs would not have been so good humored in their fun nor have. behaved with similar propriety.

,The next day masques ware unneces sary, the weapons were flowers instead of confetti The procession gained in beauty , what it it lost in grotesqueness. The de- . cdrations of the carriages were more lavish, and artistic. The Riviera is a notedplace for flowers, but the supply was .not.equtU to the demand. I was told that large quantities were imported from Toscany for the occasion. The occupants of ‘ehch carriage had hampers and baskets _ 'full of violets, roses, anemones, panssys, arid many other kinds of flowers, done up in. small bouquets, to ke used as missiles. One grand' vehicle wreathed with roses and artificial lilies, and drawn by four spirited horses simi larly docked, was driven by Yiscount Ad hermas de Gransae. His two servants behind, were dressed in the costume of the eighteenth century. A modern lady’s ball dress could scarcely be more costly, or be got up more artistically than the draperies of some of the cars and wag gonettes forming the procession. One I must especially mention. It was adorned - with pink silk, muslin and flowers, and in it rode a bevy of young ladies dressed in a style to match. They hung out the motto Nous voyons tout en rose. There was an other magnificent turn out, in which aat two Russian ladies, drawn - by 'large Ukraine horses, draped in old gold satin flowered brocade, trimmed with lace and moss roses. One vehicle was almost hid den by sunflowers ; and the ladies'who sat in it wore sunflower costumes, and displayed great energy in hurling bpquets at their many admirers. : Altogether, it was a gay and festive scene, such as I had never seen before, and probably shall never see again. I was told the Prince of Wales was present and took part in the battles, both of con-‘ fetti and flowers. But I did not Brio him. - On the first day he must have been dis figured ; on the second day he was pro bably the occupant of a carriage or a bal- - cony. The sports were to be continued until the following Tuesday. But I had seen enough. The next day I resumed'my journey. Yiatob.

THE WANGANUI MURDER.

At the Wanganui Supreme Court in, the murder case, the jury, returned at 11.1 son Monday night,, and gave , a verdict of guilty, recommending the prisoner to mercy. There was a dead silence in the Court. Immediately on the verdict being given, Mr Hutchison informed His Honor of the prisoner’s own statement. She said she was pre|j- ! nant. His Honor remarked that if he had known that before, he would have provided for the presence, of. women from whom to get a jury of matrons. A discussion took place as to the course of procedure, whether the; prisoner should be sentenced .first, and? examined after, or whether the jury should be sworn next morning to make investigation prior. His Honor even tually produced authority to show that sentence should be given first. He then assumed the black cap, and sen tenced the prisoner to death. r s , On the Court resuming yesterday morning, the prisoner was brought up. ■ She stated that site was pregnant, and .in answer to the question why sentence should not be executed, a jury pf twelve matrons was then empannelled. ; His Honor informed them their duty was to ascertain the truth of prisoner’s statements. They retired to an outer room, the prisoner being in charge of the gaoler’s wife. After medical assig- . tance was called in, and about an hour’s deliberation, the jury came outside, and said they all agreed but one. His Honor remarked that they must be unanimous like other juries. 'They must retire. Eventually they agreed, and gave a verdict to the best of their belief that she was with child. His Honor, said there would be a respite till the criminal sessions of October. The recommendation of the jury would’ be communicated to the Governor.

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

[keOTER’S TELEGRAMS —COPYRIGHT.J The Frozen Meat Trade.

London, April 30.

A further portion of the frozen rant* ton ex Cuzco was sold to-day. Meat of good quality brought to and inferior per lb. Monetary and Commercial. Consols remain at io2j£. New Zea land securities—s-per cent. 10-40 loan, 106, ex div.j 5 per cent. 1889 loan, 106; per cent, 1879-1904 loan, 102 ; 4 per cent, inscribed stock, 102 *4. Adelaide wheat, ex store, 50s; New Zealand do., 45s to 48s 6d. Ade laide flour, ex warehouse, has fallen to 345. Australian tallow is firm at last quotations. Best Scotch pig iron, No, 1, f.0.b., in Clyde, has declined to 48s 6d per ton; galvanised iron, 16 guage, packed in cases, f.0.b., in London, Ll 9 10s. Best Sydney sun-dried copra, L3O 15s. Australian leather, best sides, has risen to ro^d.

iThe War in Tonquin. London, May 1. , Telegrams have been received, from ■ Hong Kong, .reporting that great ex-. dtement prevails throughout China in consequence of the state of affairs, in,.; Tonquin, and the action of the French.;' Government in pushing its claims oq ''

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1883.



IP YOU WANT GOOD AND f STRONG FURNITURE, GO TO DAVIS’S cheap; furniture AND RED ding manufactory. bast street south, ASHBURTON. EVERY article Sold at Christchurch Pannes ahd guaranteed bea. of material and workmanship. FUNERA L S TOmnsmta . «1 LANDS , GUIDE No. 5 Mj (lateat Editlori) on sale at the office dfokpepec



Wanted WANTED Three Five and Six' roomed HOUSES for letting’ Apply, S. E, Potntz, East street. 971 WANTED, a MARRIED COUPLE for Grove Farm ; man as general ser vant, woman to cook for men, must be a good dairy woman. —Apply 934 J. CARTER. WANTED KNOWN—Haras and Co. have a lot of EMPTY CASES for sale. Arcade Shops. aul2 WANTED 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 Town Hall will receive prompt attention. Terms cash. 760 c ANTED KNOWN. That BONEDUST, specially prepared for drilling with carrots, mangolds, etc., can be obtained from the undersigned. F. MAYO, Hampstead Bone Mills. WANTED KNOWN—J. C. Duncan Agent, East street, Ashburton, begs to inform everybody that ho is now a Licensed Broker under the Land Transfer Act, and is prepared to com plete transfers, execute mortgages, etc., at schedule rates, and with every-possible despatch. INVESTED. 286 LOANS NEGOTIATED.-®^



Special Advertisements, Money ! Money! ! The equitable investment COMPANY OP NEW ZEALAND, limited, are prepared, through their agent, J. 0. Dunoan, East street, to LEND MONEY on Ashburton approved free hold or leasehold property, repayable by either monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or yearly instalments, or for a fixed period. The Company are also open to DIS COUNT BILLS. J. C. DUNCAN, 883 Agent, East street.



JEL M. Jones’ COUNT BOOKS. NEW VOLUMES— Boys’ Own Annual Girls’ Own Annual Chatterbox Child’s Companion Infants’ Magazine, &c., &c. poe rs VARIOUS Authors ; Sir Walter Scott’s Works, new edition, complete. ; TOYS! TOYS!! TOYS!!! • GREAT VARIETY—in Wood, Tin, China, and Indiarubber. GOOD BUSINESS Envelopes. SIX SHILLINGS PER THOUSAND CASH. A BARGAIN. Good Second-hand PIANBm, £2O. FANCY GOODS ! FANCY GOODS ! A NICE SELECTION of the above now in stock. pstr ALL the above Goods are offered at the LOWEST Possible Prices for CASH. A LIBERAL DISCOUNT allowed to schools on parcels of Toys, Books, etc. SECOND-HAND Pianos, In good order, £ls, £2O, £22 10s, 25. H. M. JONES, BURNETT ST. & BARING SQUARE. 13d STATIONERY OP EVERY DE SCRIPTION. Account Books ‘ Ink—from small to largest jars School Books—School Committees sup plied at lowest rates Latest Novelties in all kinds of Fancy Goods, Toys, &o. All the Home Journals, Magazines, and Papers by every mail. Subscribers wanted for any Magazine or Paper published. Andrewes Bros., BOOKSELLERS, STATIONERS, &0., East street South, Ashburton. nls JJOBINSON AND TOWNSHEND ARE CASH BUYERS OF WHEAT OATS B\RLEY GRASS SEED Agents for A. Moore & Co. ROBINSON AND TOWNSHEND, Havelock street. 229 ~\-TEW WORK. “THE ROYAL PATH OF LIFE; or, Aims and Aids to Success and Happiness,” illus trated with Steel Engravings, in differ ent bindings. Also, a beautiful selection of EASTER CARDS. Andrewes Bros., Booksellers and Stationers, East street South, Ashburton. 77



I AM CASH PURCHASER or BRIGHT MILLING Oats, IN ANY QUANTITY. ALBERT ROBERTS, 763 West street. Roberts, Paxton & Co. CHRISTCHURCH, CASH PURCHASERS OF WHEAT BEANS BARLEY PEAS OATS COCKSFOOT AND RYE GRASS SEED. They supply farmers with the beat quality LARGE CORNSACKS, at the Lowest Market Rates, AND WILL MAKE LIBERAL CASH ADVANCES against grain placed in their hands for shipment to London or elsewhere. ROBERTS, PAXTON & CO., 137, Manchester street, Christchurch Or their Agent,— ALBERT ROBERTS, 278 AsBBTCZojr.



Special Advertisements. gPORTING. I have just received my season’s stock of Guns of every description, and respectfully invite an inspection. Double Breech-loaders from L 5 ss. Double and Single Muzzle-loaders at all prices. Decoy Ducks, Duck Calls. Game Bags. Oartiidge Belts and Bags. Field Glasses. Loading Machines, etc., etc. New Season’s POWDER, Curtis and Harvey’s, and Pigou, Wilkes and Lawrence’s —very best quality. Newcastle Chilled Shot, all sizes. Cartridges, Cartridge Oases, Wads. And every shooting requisite. Being the largest importer of Guns and and Ammunition in New Zealand, ana every Gun being made to my own order, intending purchasers cannot do better than communicate with me. THOS. G. ROWLEY, 630 Gunsmith, Timaru.



AND FOR SALE The UNDERSIGNED have received instructions from the Owner to SELL BY PRIVATE TREATY, All that COMPACT BLOCK OF LAND on the Acton Station ESTATE, SOUTH RAKAIA, Being SECTIONS 31767, 31758, and 31759, Containing 1099 acres. $•. - The block has been SPECIALLY SELECTED /by the Proprietor, and ia thoroughly adapted for farming purposes, the adjoin ing sectiors having this season grown some of the HEAVIEST CROPS ON THE PLAINS. Only a small instalment on the pur chase is required to be paid, the balance to remain on mortgage at 6| per cent, for a term of years as may be agreed on. We have also FOR SALE an Improved Farm Containing 10-6 ACRES. Situated close to Ealing Rilway Station, and well watered. For further particulars apply to THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCANTILE COM PANY, LIMITED. Christchurch or Ashburton. l?au



gPECIAL NOTICE. TO THE INHABITANTS OF ASH BURTON AND SURROUNDING DISTRICTS. GL E. West and Co., MUSIC AND PIANOFORTE WAREHOUSEMEN, Princes street, Dunedin Have great pleasure in announcing that it is their intention to cater for the Music loving population of Ashburton in such a manier as has never before been at tempted. Messrs G, R. West & Co. are the Largest Direct Importers of PIANOS, ORGANS, HARMONIUMS, BRASS, WIND, AND STRINGED INSTRUMENTS In the Colony, and a large and varied stock of the above can always be found. Mr G. R. West, being at present in England, is shipping direct to Dunedin all the latest novelties in MUSIC ! MUSIC ! ! MUSIC !! ! And the firm respectfully solicit a call from their friends, teachers, and the public in general to inspect their magnifi cent stock of Music, personally selected. d!4



Coro Sacks, lowest market rates. J AM A CASH PUR CHASER, AT HIGHEST MARKET RATES, of WHEAT OATS GRASS SEED BARLEY Farmers wishing to SHIP ON THEIR OWN AC COUNT can get information as to Cost, Freight, etc., by applying to JOSEPH CLARK, 267 Ashburton & Tinwald. Corn Sacks, lowest market rates.



THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory HAV fi spared no effort to place before the public a MOST COMPLETE ASSORTMENT OF NEW WINTER MANUFACTURES Comprising all the latest styles in MEN’S & BOY’S CLOTHING Manufactured from the best qualities and newest Designs in COLONIAL, SCOTCH. BRITISH, AND CONTINENTAL TWEEDS. The large and increased trade has en abled the Proprietary to offer their cus tomers still further advantages than hitherto, and THIS SEASON’S GOODS, upon inspection, will be found CHEAPER THAN EVER. A SINGLE GARMENT AX WHOLESALE PRICE. SHIRTS, HATS, HOSIERY, and every requisite at Wholesale Prices. Nineteen Branches now epan in New Zealand. Agents for the Unrivalled WbRTHEIM SEWING MAOHINESS Ashburton Branch : EAST STREET. WANTED KNOWN—Every descrip tion of Plain and Fancy Pointing executed on the shortest notice, at the Guardian Office, next Matson, Cox, and Go.’a, West street.



Special Advertisements. XT ATIONAL MORTGAGE AND AGENCY COMPANY OP NEW ZEALAND (LIMITED). TO FARMERS AND OTHERS. We are prepared to receive Wheat, Oats, Barley, Beans, Peas, Rye Grass, Cocksfoot, and Dairy Produce for ship ment to London, Continental, and Aus tralian markets, or for disposal in local markets, and where required will make Liberal Advances against same. Farmers and others who favor us with their business may depend upon the utmost care and attention being exercised in handling their produce, and also upon receiving prompt returns. In all the Au stralian Colonics we have made special and complete arrangements for the disposal of Grain and Produce generally, and we shall be glad to furnish full information to any of our friends who think of trying those markets. Freights to the United King dom have been arranged by us on favor able terms, and shippers will receive full benehts of the lowest ruling rates of freight. We have made large additions to our Commodious Stores at Addington, where we are prepared to receive Grain, etc., on Storage at lowest current rates, making Liberal Advances if necessary. Cornsacks, large size (48 by 26), full weights, supplied, on application, at cur rent prices. Full information obtains*' 1 1 at our offices, 214, Cashel street, Christchurch. 269 GEORGE KING, Manager.