SHIPPING.

PORT OF LYTTELTON. Arrived. Yesterday. Falcon, ketch, from Pelorua Sound. Wakatu, s.a., from Kaikoura and Wel lington. To-day. Taiaroa, 8.8., from Dunedin. Sailed. Yesterday. Oreti, b. b.> for Wellington and Wanga nuL Wairarapa, a.s., for Melbourne via South. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. Auckland, Yesterday. Arrived —Tarawera, from Sydney. Wellington, Yesterday. Arrived—Sarah Pile, brigantine, from Kaipara ; Thames, ketch, from Havelock. Sailed—Wallace, for Nelson; Waverley, for Pa tea. ~ t , .; ( . Timard, Yesterday. Arrived—Waitaki, from the South; Ada 0. Oiren* fr.oro: Newcastle. Dunedin, Yesterday. Arrived—Enterprise, from Napier, _ Sailed— Mary King, for Titraru ; Taia roa, for the North.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains Leave Ashburton for Christ church and intermediate stations at 7-10 a.m., 10.55 a.in., and (Express) 5,37 p.ta. Trains Leave Ashburton for Timaed and South, 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 lO 15a.m. (Express), 4.35p.m., and 7.15 p.m. Trains . Ajbmve at Ashburton from iWnfl !ant> South at 10.40 a.m., 6.27 p.m. (Express), and 8 D.m.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALE- 1 . Saturday, November 3. Mr T. Bullock, at the Arcade, Burnett street —Brick Cottages. Mr Dios. Bullock, at the Arcade, Burrett street—Town Section. Mr Ti Bullock, at the Arcade, Burnett street—Show and Race Privileges Tuesday, November 6. Matson, Cox and Co., at the Tinwald fLley&rds—Stock. MEETING?, AMUSEMENTS, Etc - - This Evening. Town Hall—Comedy Combination Com pany;, at 8 p.m, Friday, November 2. Elgin District School —Tea and Concert, at 6 p.m. i Monday, November 5. Ashburton Public Library—Public Meet ing in the Lidrary, at 8 p.m. , Wednesday, November 7. Ashburton County Council—At Council Chambers, 11 a.m. Wakanui Wesleyan Church—Tea and Pub lic Meeting, in the Shcool, Wakanui, at 6.30 p.m. Wednesday, November 14. Ashburton Agricultmal and Pastoral Association- —Annual Show.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office follows • For Christchurch and North at 6 a.m. 10.30 a.m., and 5 p.m., daily. For Ohertsayßakaia, &a, at 10.30 a.m. tnd 5 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a. in. daily. For Terauka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.ra., For Tima.'U and South, at 6 a.m., 10 a.m,, and A. 30 p.m., daily. For Grpenstreet and Ashburton Forks, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 3.30 jun. For llount Somers, on Tuesdays and ■.aturdays, at 6 a.m. and 430 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 6 a.m. ' For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, it 4.30 p.m. daily. For Flemington, on Mondays, Wednes fiays, and Fridays, at 4 30 p. in. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seaview, Seafield, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a.m. For Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days at 10.30 a.m. Mails arrive at the Ashburton Post Office — From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 im., 435 p.m., and 7.20 p.m. From Chertaey, &c. at 10.15 a.m. and 435 p.mv daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places ■t 6.30 p.m. daily. From Temuka'and Timaru at 10.40 a. m. 5.30 p.m., and 8 p.m. daily. From Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 a.m. From Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 10;5 a.m. and 8.15 p.m. From Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 10.6 a.m. From' -Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a.m. daily. FVom Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sat urdays; at 4p.m. From Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days, at 9.30 a.ra. From Flemington on Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 10 a. m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Manga Est Veritas et Prevalebit WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1883.

Four inebriates were summarily dealt with at the Police Court this morning. Mails for the United Kingdom etc., via San Francisco, will close at Ashburton on Saturday next at ten o’clock. In consequence of the recent death of Mr George Wood, the entertainment which it was proposed to give at the Old Men’s Homo this evening is postponed. The Ellesmere Agricultural and Pas toral Association held their annual show yesterday at Leeston. There was a good attendance and fine weather, and it proved a general success.

We would remind owners that entries for the forthcoming Spring meeting of the Ashburton Racing Club must be made with the Secretary, Mr S. Saunders, be fore 9 p.m. to-morrow. At Mosgiel early yesterday morning, Cornelius Peterson committed suicide by cutting his throat with a penknife. The wound would not have been fatal could medical assistance have been more promptly procured. Ho died from the great loss of blood. He was about 29 years of age and unmarried. Friday the 9th prox. being the anniver sary of H.R. H. the Princj of Wales’ natal day, will be observed as a close holiday by the Postal Department, and mails usually despatched on Friday will be made up the previous night. The local telegraph office will open from seven till eight o’clock in tne evening. The report of the liquidators in Messrs Guthrie and Larnach’s New Zealand Tim ber end Woodware Factory Company was presented yesterday, and the shareholders adjourned for a week to consider it. The shareholders are to receive a dividend of 5s per share. The assets have realised very badly. Assets shown in the ledger accounts as worth L 162,630, realised only L 28,250, showing a deficiency of L 134,380. The book debts stood at L 50,688, but were over-estimated by L 12,688. Besides the ascertained deficiency of L 124.389, there is a probable depreciation of unsold assets of L 37,998. A four-roomed cottage at Maryhill, Mornington, Dunedin, belonging to Jere miah Gatehouse, was burned down yes terday morning. It seems that about nine o’clock the place was discovered on fire by one Andrew Millar, who was work ing close by. Millar states that seeing smoke issuing through the door, he ran co the place, and found a quantity of paper and straw on fire underneath a sofa, and that he apparently succeeded in effec tually extinguishing it. Mrs Gatehouse was at homo at the time, but her husband was away at his work. About an hour afterwards the house was discovered in flames and was burned to the ground. The place was insured in the South Bri tish officii for Ll5O, and the furniture for LSO. The circumstances of the fire being of a suspicious nature, the police are en quiiing into them. A meeting of the Ashburton High School Board of Directors was held at the County Council offices yesterday .after noon, there being present Messrs W. C. Walker (chairman), C. P. Cox, E. Wright and S. Saunders. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed. It was resolved in reference to the Board’s property that the Secretary be instructed to see that the terms of the lease be complied with as to payment. In reference to a letter received from Mr S. Burr, calling attention to the fact that there was some inaccuracy in the measure ment of his property, and it decided that the rate collected should ba in future upon 320 acres and 36 perches, instead of 322 acreSi as heretofore. Mr Vincent wrote asking for information as to the constitu tion of the Board, and he was refeired to the Government gazette containing the accounts. It was resolved to ask Mr Sealy to clean the trees round the High School building. On the motion of Mr Cox seconded by Mr Saunders it was re solved that the Secretary be paid L 25 as salary, and a sum not exceeding LlO 10s for inspection and report of all (eserves. The meeting then adjourned.

The Mount Somers Presbyterian soiree was held in the local schoolroom on ths 26th. It was a decided success. The room was very nicely decorated with flowers and evergreens by Mr James Price who deserves the high' st praise. The tables were provided by Mrs Lambie, Mrs Bell, Mrs Hood, Mrs McLymont and Mr Williams, and assistance was also rendered by Mrs Patton, Miss McLymont, the Misses Armstrong and others. The tables were also very richly set off with flowers, and whilst the tea was proceeding Miss Lambie played some lively airs on the piano which were highly appreciated, as also the music rendered by Mr Price, The concert was also very successful, al though the Ooinini.tee were afraid it would be a failure on account of the non appearance of several gentlemen whom they had expected. The Hev A. McLen nan presided, and after singing and prayer he gave a very interesting opening ad dress. The programme which had been prepared was an excellent one, and among the items specially singled out for approval was the playing of Miss Lambie on the piano, the singing of Messrs A. MoNeal, Morrison, Pauling, J. Price, Williams, Dellow, the Rev. Chairmen and Miss McLennan, while the recitations of Messrs Joseph Price and Williams were loudly applauded. A very hearty vote of thanks was passed to the ladies for the very ex cellent tea they had provided, and also to the Chairman, which ho briefly acknow ledged. The room was then cleared when dancing commenced and was kept up till daylight. Mr James Price, the Mount Somers favorite, supplied the music iu his usual grand style, he being occasionally assisted by Mr Joseph Price. Great praise is due to everybody who took part in the entertainment; McWilliams de serves especial mention as he provided a cloak room for the ladies, as also a room for refreshments during the evening. Mr Hood, with his usual kindness, also lent his piano.

A tender has been accepted for the Christchurch Exhibition Building-.

The rights h r publicuis’ booths, etc., at the t.'.J. C. Spring meeting were sola yesterday for L 223. The man found drowned in the Heath cote river yesterday has been identified as Broughton .1. Ollivier, formerly a ship’s steward.

Adolph Duval was yesterday charged at Lyttelton with the larceny of a cish-box containg Lll3, from the Kritish Hotel, and was remanded tiil to-day. Notwithstanding the losses occasioned by big floods, a large number of English and Ameiioan trout have been reared this season at Opawa, and have grown so rapidly that their removal if delayed much longer will be attended with considerable risk.

The Selwyn County Council have re solved to apply to the Government for L 250 for taking water through deferred payment land in Hororata Dis riot. The Council also are again writing to the Go vernment, pointing out that the Otira Gorge toll-gate has not been remov.d, and the tolls still are collected. Our Mount Somers correspondent writes: —On Monday last we had a very violent gale of wind from the N.W., doing con siderable damage, it blew the roof off Mr Mowbray’s house, which I hear is a t ;tal wreck ; it also took the roof off Mr Har vey’s stable, and also stripped the roof from several out buildings. It blew a chimney down on the site of the late Mount Somers store, damaging several other chimneys end several paling fences. It is the most severe gale we have expe rienced for a long time.

We much regret to learn that Mr Quill’s Grand Duke has gone lame, and will not take part in the Welcome Stakes at Christchurch next week. It appears that before Laving Ashburton the colt met with an accident to his knee while at exercise, which has brought about the present unfortunate result. It Is reported that the Hon W. Robinson has purchased Tasman from Mr D. O’Brien at a figure which must be highly satisfactory to the seller.

An annular eclipse of the sun occurs to-day, but it is not visible in New Zea land. The central phase occurs about 11 a.m., and therefore on a raeridiam not far removed from our own, but the posi tions of the sun and moon are such at the time as to cause the shadow of the latter to fall north of the Equator, and in a quarter « f the Pacific in which there is little land, so that the eclipse will be seen by very few of all the millions in the world.

A congregational meeting was held last evening, in the Primitive Methodist Church, to make arrangement for the forthcoming Anniversary. The Rev. J. Nixon presided, and announced that the Rev Joseph Sharp, of Timaiu, had con sented to preach on Sunday, November 11th. It was resolved that the usual tea tako place on November 14th, the chow day, m the Oddfellows’ Hall. A com mittee was formed to get up a programme. After other business of a routine nature had been disposed of, the meeting closed with the Benediction.

Ernest Owen, an apprentice on board the Waikato, at Lyttelton, was picked up from the lower hold of that vessel yester day evening with his skull fractured and one eye terribly damaged. He had been walking between decks late in the after noon, and was not missed when the hatches were put up for the night. The officer in charge becoming anxious at his non-appearanco, ordered the hatches to bo taken off. It is thought that whilst walking about with his hands in his pockets he must have tripped over the combing of the hatch, and fell a distance of over 14ft. He was conscious when Drought on deck, and the doctor has hopes of his life. His father is Mr G. W. Owen of Auckland.

Truth says : —What do the total ab stainers make of the following case, which I see reported in one of the papers ? An old gentleman has just died in Franco at the ripe age of seventy, leaving behind him a log-book of all that he has drunk for the last fifty years. His habits in this respect were very ;egular, his daily allowance being four litres of wine (seven pints), a couple of glasses of ab-'inthe before each of his three meals, and twelve petits verres of cognac, rum, or some other spirit, “to drive away despondency.” The total for the half century thus comes to; Wine, 127,827 pints; absinthe, 109,566 glasses ; spirits, 219,132 glasses. The old gentleman boasted that he had never had a ■ ay’s illness in his life, and he certainly seems to have proved this point that a hard drinker is not necoa arily a short liv, r, although vary possibly j-'ir Wilfred Lawson would say that had this wine, absinthe, and spirit bibber con fined himself to water he would have lived another twenty years. In spite of the unpropitious weather which prevailed last evening, there was a somewhat better attendance at the Town Hall than on the previous night, although the h mse was by no means full. The performance coram meed with the old fashioned farce “ A Kiss in the Dark,” in which Miss Nelson and Messrs Hesford and Alexander managed t> keep the audience amused. “ Baby,” the principal piece of the evening, is a thoroughly amusing comedy, or, to speak more cor rectly, farce in three acts. The plot is decidedly French in tone, and the dia logue and situations are at times un questionably suggestive. People, how ever, who do not go to the theatre to learn morals, but only to be amused will find plenty to laugh at in “ Baby,” as was shown by the merriment caused by last night’s performance. The chief female character, that of “Betsy,” a port but cunning handmaid who has managed to get the upper hand of the so < of the house, was played with considerable spirit by Miss Amy Johns. The part is one which in many respects suits her style, and her acting was satisfactory thorough out. As Mrs McManus, the wife of an Irish captain, whose attention to his mari tal vows is none too strong, Miss Louise Crawford was successful. Miss Nelson’s Mrs St. Paul, the coddli g mother of Baby, was acted carefully and intelligently. Mias Lizzie Lawrence did well whatlittleshe had to do as Madame Poleiva, and the minor parts were well filled. Mr Rede made a decided hit as Willie St. Paul, which was certainly the host played character in the piece, the different points being well brought ou . Th > Dawkins, of Mr Wilkinson, was not so good as the deaf boatman of the same actor on the previous night. Funny this gentleman always is, but fhe made the tutor alto gether too vulgar in vice and manner, and it was impossible to realise that even the infatuated mother would be deceived ai to the true character of such a man Mr Hesford as Mr St Paul was fairly good, but the business of the papers was a little overdone, and its re petition a tribe wearisome to the audi ence. Mr Teeco played the Irish captain, and no doubt his acting will be belter when he is more acquainted with the dia logue. The Charley Atkins of Mr Sim monds was a careful rendering of a small part. Taken as a whole, the perform uca of Betsy was perhaps scarcely so good as that of the “ Guv’nor,” but the actors can not entirely bo held responsible for this. In a bustling play of this kind stage room is a necessity, but in the Town Hall there is such small space to move about that it is no wonder the effects intended by the author are not realised by the actors. On account of the bad weather daring the past two days, Mr Wilmott has deter mined to remain in Ashburton for another night, and this evening the Company will appear in the emotional play “ Lost in London ” and a farce.

During the month of October thee were registered in Ashburton 25 births, 8 marriages, and 14 deaths. The foil wing is the return of patients at the Hospital for the month of Octo ber ;—Number in Hospital on the Ist, 11 ; admitted during the month, 6 ; dis charged during the month, 4 Number in Hospital on the 31st, 13, Deaths, nil. Number treated during the month, 17.

WESLEYAN ANNIVERSARY.

The tea and public meeting held to ce'e brate the sixth anniversary of the Wes leyan Sunday School took place in the Cameron street Church last evening, and the promoters are to bo congratulated on the success which attended their efforts. A large number of persons partook of an excellent tea, which was probably the most well arranged in matters of detail ever given by this body. The efforts of the ladies were ably seconded by a large corps of a?sia‘anrs, who were m st ener getic in contributing in every possible way to the comfort of the visitors. Immedi a:ely after the tea the meeting took place, the chair being occupied by Mr J. E. Buchanan, who delivered a short speech, in which ho referred in rather strong terms to the entirely secular character of the education given in our State schools. The C nnmittee’s report, read by Mr C. Dixon, the Committee’s secretary, made mention of'the successes which had been attained during the past year in the con version of some of the scholars, and the belief was expressed that there were others who were not far from the kingdom of God. The reward system had been in troduced, and this had given a healthy impetus to the scholars’ studies, had acted as an incentive to constant and punctual attendance, and had altogether proved beneficial without any perceptible drawbacks ensuing. Lesson tablets and a teacher’s preparatory class were mentioned as being helpful in the work of teaching. Several teachers had removed from the district, but no death had occurred either among scholars or workers during the year. Monthly services are held once a month, and a cordial invitation was ex tended to parents to be present thereat. The Bible classes, in charge of Mrs H. M. Carson and Mr J. E. Buchanan re s actively, are well attended. There a:e 19 teachers on the roll ; average attend ance, 18; number of scholars, 170; average attendance, 121 ; number of books in library, 278. t everal other matters were referred to, the chief being the urgent need of a schoolroom, but business de pression and the many other claims on members of the congregation had pre cluded any effort being made to effect the object. The Committee for ensuing year are .-—Messrs J. E. Buchanan, I’. Alcorn, L. Causey, Dixon, H. M. Jones, J, Orr, G. Ray, Sparrow, and Mrs H. M. Carson and Mrs Weeks. Mr G. Andrews then road the Treasu rer’s report, showing a credit balance of L 3 19s, which was considered very satis factory. The Superintendent, Mr Ray, thou gave -i description of the work done in the school and made an earnest appeal for the sympathy and encouragement of the parents. The Rev. A. AL Beattie was the next speaker, who took as his subject “ Early piety,” impressing on the children the uncertainty of life, and the consequent necessity of making the all-important de cision in early life. The rev gentleman gave a most impressive address, which was listened to with marked attention throughout. Mr G. W. Leadley followed with a forcible speech upon Sunday School work generally, stating that the Sunday School teacher was doing a noble w Tk, and was deserving of the utmost encouragement, especially fiom parents. After Mr Standage had made a few re marks, the usual votes of thanks were proposed and carried, and the Rev. Mr Beattie pronounced the benediction, which closed the meeting.

NEW MASONIC LODGE

Yesterday a new Masonic Lodge under the Scottish Constitution was opened at Methven. This district, in which there are many old resident Masons, would be out of the way of progress altogether had it not its local Lodge. Consequently it was decided to open a Lodge, which has been the first opened under the Provin cial District Grand Lodge of Scotland in Canterbury, and'from the support already accorded, it promises to be a very strong Lodge in point of numbers. A goodly number of visiting b ethren were present from various parts, and altogether con siderable interest seemed to be taken in the ceremony by the general Masonic body. The ceremony of consecration and in stallation was performed by Bro the Rev James .kill, R. W.D.G.M. of Canterbury, at the Methven schoolroom. The other pro vincial district officers who filled the vari ous chairs were—Bro Jas. Grubb, D.G. S ; James Tail, D.G.T.G.; Henry T. Gour lay, D.G.D-O.; F. W. Francis, D.G.J.D. There were present visiting brethren from —The Robert Burns, Christchurch; Thistle, Ashburton ; Canterbury Kilwin ning, Lyttelton : S.O. Totara, West Coast ; lonic, Timaru : 1.0. Somerset and St John's, Ashburton ; E.C. After the ceremony of conse nation, the follow ing officers were duly installed by the Rev Bro Hill iu a most impressive manner, viz.—J. Loudon, R. W.M ; D. Cameron. D.M.; G. Loudon, S.M.; W. Morgan, W.S. W.; J. Black, W.J.W; R. Patton, Treasurer; J. 0. McWilliams, Secretary; W. Rouse, S.D. ; J. Scrimgeour, J. D.; W. J. Hussey, I.G. ; Geo. Murdock, Tyler. At the conclusion of the installation the brethren adjourned to Patton’s Hotel where a sumptuous ban quet was given, which reflected the greatest credit upon Bro Patton as a caterer. The usual loyal and Masonic toasts were given, and several songs ren dered by Bros Cullen, Dimont, Hussey, H. T. Gourlay, Grubb, and others. The District Grand Master complimented the brethren of Methven [upon having a Lodge in their district, and trusted the working of the Lodge wou'd proceed in the usual Masonic manner. After spend ing a very pleasant evening the company separated, wishing every success to the Methven Lodge and the li spitable Masons of Methven.

THE TIMARU AGRICULTURAL AND PASTOR AL SOCIETY’S SHOW.

[by telegraph.] [by OUR SPECIAL RBi'ORTER.] Timaru, To-day. The 18th annual exhibition under the auspices of the Timaru Agricultural and Pastoral Association was held on the Association grounds, Waieti road, yester day and to-day. The show on Tuesday was confined almost entirely to exhibition and judging of sheep and implements. The attendance of the public was very limited, and the few who did put in an ap pearance during the afternoon wore not long before they were glad to beat a hasty retreat in front of a howling sou’-wester wind and driving rain. To-day, how ever, the weather promises to be more favorable, and as trains from both N rth and South are coming in laden with pas sengers, the attendance at the show bids fairto be both satisfactory and remunera tive. This year’s catalogue shows a con siderable failing off in the number of entries compared to last year, the total being under 500. In a great measure this may be attributed to the fact that the Metropolitan show is yearly becoming 'more attractive, both in respect of variety and [the value of prizes offered, conao

quently some of the hitherto principal If supporters of inor shows are all eyincng I > ajdisposition to concentrate all their ener- ® gies and attention in competing for the more substantial honors to j be won at the premier show of the r colony- There was a fair number of , entries in the various classes for sheep, < and amongst those exhibited wore some t veiy well-bred and heavily-wnoled ani- ; nials. The merinos comprised several i nice looking sheep shown by the N Z and A.L. Co., Joseph Pearson, E. E'wOrth 1 and R. H. Rhodes. These four were the i princ : p"d pvize-takera in themerino classes. Amongst the rams in this class the N. Z. j and A.L. Co. exhibited two very fine sheep, and Mr F,'worth ran the Company very close with a couple of well-bred and densely-woolled animals. In the Leicester class there were two very fine rams ex hibited by the N.Z. and A.L Co., and also two shown by Mr A. Murdoch. The competition, however, in this was solely confined to these two exhibitors, the N.Z. and A.L. Co. of course having the bulk of exhibits, and naturally taking the lion’s share of the prizes. The Lin coln cla*s was very poorly represented, and there were only twelve entries in the Romney Marsh class. William G ant and Andrew Grant showed cood pens of fat wethers ; taken as a v.hole, however, the shew of sheep was not so good as one would like to see at the Timaru show. There was a good show of farm implements and machinery, Reid and Gray and P. and I). Duncan as usual exhibiting good ploughs and disc harrows. For the best broad cast sowing machine for grain and turnip and grass combined, Reid and Gray and P. and D. Duncan gave the judges some little trouble in arriving at a decision, both machines being so nearly equal in point of merit, and both also having several new end recent improvements. There was a good show of reapers and binders, and those exhibited had several new and improved appliances over those in use last season. The show of farmers’ drays and spring carts was only moderate, but amongst the more luxurious and aristo cratic class of conveyances there were several excellently made exhibits, notably a very elegantly got up and well designed lady’s phaeton, exhibited by Messrs Evans, Grand! and Dooley. There was a fair show of washing machines, churns, etc., and also a good assortment of hard ware, ironmongery, etc. The Christ church, Timaru, and Oamaru barbed wire companies were each represented, and various methods of twisting wire and fix ing on barbs was exhibited to the on lookers. This was a new feature amongst colonial exhibits, and the development of these industries naturally attracted a considerable amount of attention. There was but a small entry of cattle, but the horses are well represented, and amongst those shown are some old and well-known favoritesand prize-takers There was a very small showfof pigs, but the dairy and agri cultural produce is fairly well represented. The poultry shown consists of seven en tries, four different exhibitors only deem ing it worth while to support this branch of the show. Next year the Association will probably see the wisdom of expung ing this c'ass of exhibits from their cata logue, as the entries are yearly becoming less. On the whole the show is not so great a success as the one of the previous year, but still there are many good ex hibits, and not a few novelties amongst them.

ASHBURTON COUNTY COUNCIL.

The usual monthly meeting of the above Council was held to-day, when there were present Messrs W. 0. Walker (chairman,', Julian Jackson, H. Friedlander, J. Lam bie and T. Taylor. The minutes of the previous'meeting were read and confirmed. chairman’s statement. The Chairman stated that the Minister of Public Works had informed him that the lower Rangitata ferry would be gazetted a main road before March 31. The Government had intimated that if the Council desire it the applications for that the money under the Roads and main roads and protective purposes would be acceded to. A communi cdion had been received stating Bridges Construction Act would not be available until all the amended applica tions ara received, and it is ascertained what sums required for bridges, as they take priority. The Chief Commissioner of Crown Lands had written to the effect that the reserve, 2027, applied for as a recreation ground for Alfori Forest would be surveyed and a report obtained as to whether a portion of the r, serve was suit able. The amount of rates paid up is L 2,810 18s, leaving a balance of L 153 4a 10J. Since Use meeting the tender of Maud and Co, in L 53, for clearing Lag mhor creek had been received and the work is well in hand. engineer’s report.

The following report was read : South Approach to Rakaia Gorge Bridge : I have prepared plans and sections in detail of proposed deviation for part of this approach, so that tenders may be invited for the work as soon as the necessary financial arrangements are completed with the Government and with the Selwyn County Counc I, who are jointly interested in this matter.—Bridge for Flood water Channel, Thompson’s track : In accord ance with your instructions I have carefully considered as to the best mode of restoring communication at the point wanted, and am of opinion that a bridge consisting of one span 20 feet and two spans ol 15 feet on the line of the present road will serve the purpose better, and at less ultimate cost, than a bridge or ford at any other point; while any questions of sever ance or compensation for land will be avoided. Owing to the large quantities of travelling shingle and the ever-varying widths of channel daring each flood, I am convinced that any ford would not remain serviceable for any length of time. Besides there is surplus tim ber available equal to about half the cost of the bridge, and as directed by your ten der for the work will be placed before the Council to-day. The site of this bridge is on the boundary line between the Upper Ashbur ton and Mount Somers road districts, but the Mount Ilutt road district would benefit equally from the completion of the bridge. In con nection with this subject, the clearing out of channel along R. S. 19532, and cutting off the angle at lower end of said section seems in dispensable for the due p eservation of the road adjoining, which leads through that district. That, howeve 1- , is the only portion of the flood-channel which I should recommend the Council to deal with, and I understand that Mr McGuinness will agree to give the land neces sary for taking off the abrupt turn leferred to which is in a great measure the cause of the mischief there. I will thank the Council for instructions as to this. —Plains Water Supply: The concrete trap for intercepting the passage of travelling shingle in head-race at Pudding Hill is now in operation, and is working satis factorily. The question of protection for vari ous points of Chapman’s creek is stdl in obeyance, pending the formation of a race through Drayton district, which, at Mr Chap man’s request, the Council has agreed to p >st pone till after harvest. The necessary con nection has however been formed with the main race at the starting point of said branch, so that a temporary service may be obtained for R.S. 30818, as requested by the occupier of that section. The willow planting at intake of auxiliary channel North Ashburton river is showing vigorous growth, but the freshets in the river, which have been much more frequent this year than last, are causing some additional expense in keeping up the adjustments at inlet for maintaining a full supply. The agreed-on ratio of a tenth part of the volume in auxiliary channel has not yet been fully allocated for the property in the Springfield district, but a sup sly from one of the Springfield races is being srought on, which will be available for Mr Thompson Mitchell and others in that neigh borhood. As no tenders were received at last meeting for the extension of E2 race in Acton district, I have invited fresh tenders for to-day. The water at the lower end of that race pro ceeds but slowly. With a view to hasten this 1 have arranged to enlarge a portion of the race near the junction at Barrhill aud turn off a little

Vom E race. Tenders will be placed before to-day for 7 miles of branch race in Chert ;ey district, expense to be defrayed by owners, but none of the contributions have as yet been received.—Wakanui Flat Water Supply : I have had the inlet works at the river tempora rily opened up, and the races along the Beach road, as also on Wilson’s road, are again in operation, but the supplying of the race along the river road would meantime be a risky mea sure, as it would connect with the breach caused by the river encroachment on Messrs Brow 1 Brothers’ land, and they naturally de mur to any increased risk there, until the pro posed groins and protective works are in place. —Wheatstone Water Supp y ; About three fourths of the work necessary for this scheme has been completed. A few fords and the syphons for carrying the supply under the flood-channel and road at Wheatstone have still to be put in place. The Lagmhor creek is being cleared out, and during this month the work should be completed. —Ashburton-Ran- gitata Water Suppy : The races in this system have been all working satisfactorily during the month, with the exception of about 2 miles at the lower end of P race in the Coldstream dis trict. The tortuousness of part of the course (caused by undulating ground) the small de clivity, but specially the percolation in gravel, account for this. Should this continue it could be remedied by making a mile and a half of a branch from Q race through rural sections 33281, 30942, and 28829; but I should not advise that in the meantime.—The severe gale on Monday last has been the means of dimin i-hing the supply in several of the races both on the Rangitata and Rakaia Plains during the last two oays by the flowing in of tussocks, wieds, gorse cuttings, etc.; but the necessary clearances are now being effected.—Planta tions : The work of planting such of the blocks as has hitherto not been executed is now pro ceeding satisfactorily. The report as read was adopted. RIVER PROTECTIVE WORKS. A petition was read from a number of farmers in the Wakanui district, against the construction of protective works, on the following grounds :—(1) That conse quent on an understanding by which water was to be brought on to their farms, many of the signatures were obtained. (2) That many of the signatures were not obtained agreeing with the protective works scheme, although the properties of those signing were included within the boundaries of the district liable to a rata for the carrying out such protective works. (3) That, seeing their properties would be in no way benefited or affected by the said works the petitioners consider it would be manifestly unfair to call upon them to pay a tax for river protection. The Chairman said the question of pro tective works was purely in the hands of the ratepayers, and unless they had the requisite authority the Council could not act. According to Mr Baxter there was danger in supplying water to the dis trict unless the protective works were carried out. A conversational discussion ensued, in the course of which it was stated that Mr Ivess had obtained a grant in aid of these works of L 750, under the Roads and Bridges Construction Act. Some of the signatories of the petition were present, and they were invited into the Council Chamber to explain their position. Messrs Rickard-*, Fitzgerald, and Cole then came in, and it was explained that the former petition had been signed with the understanding they would get water on their lands if the protective works were carried out. Brown Bros., however, objected to the water being brought through their land, and this was the reason why the counter-petition had teen got up. The portion affected by the floods was small, and the rating should be on a sliding scale. The Chairman suggested that Brown Bros should bo interviewed on the matter, but Mr Fitzgerald replied that he had seen those gentlemen on Thur day last, and they had stated that they would not allow the water through their lands on any account. Ultimately the Chairman said that the Council could inform the deputation that those rettlers who objected to the works being carried out would be supplied with water. Tuey could then either withdraw or hold to their petition, according to whether they were satisfied. Mr Fitzgerald said th they would bold to the petition if the Council had not power to strike a special rate lon a sliding scale, otherwise they would abandon it. The Chairman said the Council would do its best in the matter to meet the peti tioners’ views, and the deputation thanked the Council an 1 withdrew. It was decided thit the matter of pro tective works stand over for the present. WATER SUPPLY.

Mr Friedlander presented a petition from settlers in the Ashburton forks, pray ing for the construction of a water-race in that district. Mr Friedlander urged the immediate carrying out of the work as it would not be expensive, and a large num ber of people would be benefited. The Chairman said this matter had been brought up at last meeting, and it was then resolved that the work should be done after haivost. The ques ion was whether the work should be carried out at once, and the conditions offthe previous vote be altered accordingly. Mr Friedlander gave notice that he would move the following at next meet ing— “That the resolution passed on October 3rd re Ashburton Forks Water Supply be rescinded, and that the prayer of the petitioners be granted, subject to their contributing half the cost. It was also decided to eaipower the Engineer to invite tenders for the work for next meeting. WHEATSTONE DRAIN.

In response to an application made by Mr Shearer, at last meeting, it was re solved that the Engineer be instructed to repair the drain. It was also decide 1 that the Engineer attend to the banking up of the inlet of the Wheatstone floodwater channel at the end of Ford’s creek. A SUNDAY TRAIN.

Mr Larabie gave notice that he would move the following resolution at next meeting:—“That this Council request the Minister of Public Works to instruct the Railway department to run a train once on every Sunday, between Christ church and Ashburton, each way. ” WATER SUPPLY COMMITTEE.

The report of this Committee was read and adopted. RATING. Mr Bullock’s motion, of which he had given notice last meeting, in regard to the striking of a general rate, lapsed through the absence of the mover, and Mr Jackson renewed the notice of motion. ACCOUNTS. The usual monthly pay-sheet was passed. DOG COLLARS. It was resolved, to advertise for tenders for dog collars for next meeting, and also that tenders be invited for selling collars for 1884, in connection with the dog tax, the successful tenderer to find security. RAKAIA GORGE ROAD. The Clerk of the Selwyn Council wrote, stating that his Council approved of the L 250 grant for the deviation of the Rakaia Gorge road. PROPOSED NEW ROAD DISTRIBX. A petition from residents in the South Rakaia district re the formation of a new Road Board, was deferred till next meet ing. METHVEN ROADS. A letter was received from the Mount Hutt Road Board, relative to the damage done to the roads by storm water. Mr Pat ton waited on the Council as a deputation, and after he had explained the matter, it was resolved," on the motion of Mr Lambie, (seconded by Mr Friedlander— “ That Messrs, Winter, Taylor, Walker, and the mover report on the damage to the roads near Methven. BANGITATA TRAFFIC BRIDGE.

The Clerk was instructed to arrange with the gentlemen appointed by the Geraldine County Council for an iuepeo

tion of the accounts in connection with the' above bridge. PROTECTIVE WORKS, On the motion of Mr Friedlander, se conded by Mr Latnbie, it was resolved— “ Tha f this Council concurs in the peti tion of the ratepayers of Ashbu.ton Forks, praying hia Excellency the Governor to proclaim the district described in the said petition under the Counties Act Amend ment Act, 1883, section 51. TENDERS. The following tenders were accepted:— - E2 race extension, Furneaux and Dunlop, L 65 ; Chertsey race, Silcock, L 49 ss; bridge at Thompson’s track, L 34.. -4.- The Council then adjourned till Nov. 28th.

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Sydney, Oot. 25. Kir Alfred Stephen made a long and exhaustive speech of three hours' duration last evening in the Council against the Contempt of Court Bill. A Bill has been introduced into tha

Assembly to amend the Licensing Acts. Its main feature is the extension of hoars : for selling liquor, and a modification of tha definition of a bond fide traveller. Tha breach between Mr M'llfaone and the Government has culminated in an open rupture. He accuses the Ministry ■ of breaking faith with him, and asserts that ha could have had any portfolio he liked, and that he was consulted upoh the . , appointments of all the Ministers. The cargo of frozen meat sent by the Teviotdale comprises the best mutton to be obtained in New South Wales, every care and attention b»ing paid to storage. The steamer also takes s everal hundred >■■ kegs of butter. The western pastorali ,is are opposed to the new Land Bill, but within the areas’ *''"' of settlement it is generally approved, Sufficient rain has fallen in all parts of . the country to improve the prospects of the crops. New buildings are to be erected at the' corner of Pitt and Bathurst streets for the Young Men’s Christian Association at a cost of L 33.000, of which L 12,000 has already been received. Mr John Frazer has given L 2,000. Mrs Hampson has closed her successful mission here, and leaves for New Zealand. The game of chess with living has drawn large attendances, and was"weTl conducted. Queensland, Oct. 25. The masterof the Government schooner Peale has discovered six new islands east ward of Normanby Group, New Guinea. They contain magnificent country, well watered, and thickly populated. , ’ J 1 The Congregational Union has passed a 1 ; resolution urging the annexation.of New Guinea. It is stated that a large number of «n-> • migrants, recently arrived, are leaving the colony. " Victoria, Oot. 25. - H. Williams, publisher of tha Stovv ’ was committed for trial on a criminal in* formation for libel, at the instance of tha Evening Herald. It is stated that Dr Beaney has com menced an action for damagei against the Committee of the Melbourne Hospital Robert Carter, convicted of fraudulent insolvency, has been sentenced to six months’imprisonment. The Tariff Commission, fay a majority, passed a resolution calling attention to the scarcity of labor in the manufacturing and agricultural districts.

SPORTING.

0.J.0. METROPOLITAN MEETING.

The following handicaps were declared last night:— The Free Handicap; a sweepstakes of 3 so vs each, with 100 sovs added. Ac- - ceptauces, with 2 sovs, to go to the fund, by 9 p.m., November Ist, and sweepstakes of 3 sovs by 9 p.m. on Saturday, November 3rd. 1 mile. st lb st lb Welcome Jack 9 12 Water Nymph 7 6 Tasman ... 9 5 Epicure ... 7 5 Mischief ... 9 4 Rubina ... 7 2 Cheviot ... 9 4 Ahitbach ... 7 2 Lady Emma 9 2 Violin ... 7 2 Salvage ... 9 2 Leopold ... 7 1 Vanguard ... 9 1 Spinaker ... 7 1 Turquoise ... 9 1 Leodogran ... 7 1 Siesta ... 813 Digby Grand 7 0 Nonsense ... 8 10 Comet ... 7 0 Emir Bey ... 8 8 Trumpeter ... 6 12 Oudeis ... 8 8 Selena ... 6- 7 Iris 8 7 Painter ... .6 6 Tim Whiffler 8 3 Molly Bawn 6 CL July ... 8 1 Trinket ... 6 0 Envious ... 8 0 Statesman ... 6 0 J ohnny Eaulk- Marchioness ner ... 8 0 Neil ... 0 0 Jack ... 712 Clarence ... 6 0 Minerva ... 711 Gold Dust ... 6 0 Hippodamia 710 Ravenswood 6 0 Hyacinth .. 7 9 Batman ... 6 0 Sir Bedevere 7 9 Mermaid ... 6 0 Adamant ... 7 9 Bredonhill ... 6 0 Jilt 7 9 Shepherdess 6 0 Taiai-.ia ... 7 9 Barbary ... 6 0 Hercules ... 7 7Wildßoy ... 6 0 Riccarton ... 7 7 Composer ... 6 0 Poet 7 7 Psyche ... 6 0 Master Agnes 7 6 Sunlight ... 6 0 The Hunters' Flat Race Handicap of 100 sovs, with a sweepstakes of 3 sovs each, to go to the second horse. For horses that have never won 25 sovs in one event on the flat. Minimum weight, 10it. The sweep of 3 sovs on acceptance, by nine p.m. on Saturday, November 3rd. Two miles. st lb st lb Johnny Faulk- Commissioner 10 9 ner ... 12 7 Mermaid... 10 5 Riccarton... 12 0 Brendonhill 10 0 Psyche ... II 7 Shepherdess 10 0 Barbara ... 11 2 The Riccarton Welter Handicap, of 100 sovs, with a sweepstakes of 3 sovs each, to go to the second horse. Mini mum weight, Bst. The sweep of 3 sovs on acceptance, by 9 p.m. on Saturday, November 3rd. Six furlongs. at lb si lb Mischief ... 11 2 Epicure ... 813 Lady Emma 10 13 Whitbach ... 8 12 Emir Bey... 10 7 Rubina ... 810 Minerva ... 910 Leopold ... 810 Johnny Faulk- Leodogran 810 ner ... 910 Statesman 8 0 Jack ... 9 7 Marchioness Sir Bedevere 9 6 Neil ... 8 0 Taiaroa ... 9 4 Trinket ... 8.0 Water Nymph 9 3 Molly Bawn 8 0 Master Agnes 9 3

VICTORIAN RACING. [rEUTEr’s TELEGRAMS.—COPYRIGHT.] Melbourne, Yesterday. Calma, while out at exercise this morn ing, was tried over the Cup distance, and covered it in a second less than Darebin’fl Derby time in 1881, viz , 2min 41£secs. The second forfeits for the Melbourne Cup were declared to-day. The following horses have accepted :—Aide-de-Oamp, Anglesey, Archie, Bisbis, Bordeaux, Calma, Claptrap, Commotion, Cunna mulla, Despot, Dirk Hatterick, Dukedom, First Demon, First Water, Jessie, Kath leen Mavourneen, Kingsdalo, Kohinoor, Lo Grand, Lesbia, Linda, Magnet, Mar-' tini-Genry, Nicholas, Off Color, Pollio, Recovery, Santa Claus, Sardine, Signor, . Sir Modred, Stockwell, Sweet William, , The Gem, and Yernet. Thirty-five horaea - now remain in.

[special to press association.] Melbourne, Yesterday. Heavy rain is seriously interfering with ut training. Commotion had a splendid gallop twice round the course this morn ing. Stockwell did useful work, and finished a mile fast. Signor and Oanna-

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1883.



Licensing act, isai, on sale at Office of this Paper



THIS PAPER is on PILE and” Advertising Con traotaforltandaU other newspapers can be made on the most thvorablo terms at the Ad- | vertising Agency 1 of H. P. HUBBABD, KewHaven, Conn., Publisher Cf the newspaper and Panic Directory of the World- GOOD , RTICLESI GOOD Snewspapers Special Bargains. gBLLINO OFF, MUST BE SOLD. Drawing-Room Suites in splendid Vel vet, walnut side-board with marble top. Small Tables in all patterns of walnut, etc. ' Ptal Leather Dining-room Suites, in mabogany,and side-boards to match Every class of Furniture. Utensilsof every kind |pr House Furnishing. Hurt be sold, as I want to CLEAR OFF all mylairgd and varied Stock. John Meecli, g DRlflT UB B'VTA REHOUSE, i * Burnett street. 9 4*



Wanted. T*7ANTED KNOWN— That Robert V\ EiiSTON, Burnett street, Ashbur ton, having procured the newest appara tus, is prepared to Sweep Chimneys at very low rales. Any orders left at the Town Hall will receive prompt attention. Terms cash. 760 c WANTED for the Ashburton Borough School, a SECOND MASTER. Qualifications and salary according to Re gulations and scale; i-ttendance at pre sent, 430. Also, a FOURTH ASSIS TANT TEACHER. Salary about LBO per annum. Applications and testi monials to be forwarded to the Chairman of the Committee on or before TUES DAY, the 6th November, 1883. —By order, J. Ward, Secretary. 10 789 WANTED Known—That in conse quence of the rapid increase of business, John Moison, Impermeable Bootmaker, has been compelled to get a largo stock of Boots of a superior quality in the town in order to meets the demands of his customers, and those who may pur i 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



TTTANTED KNOWN—That Mr Dan VV 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 2a 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 £1 per raon*h, or according to arrangement. 1344 Special Advertisements. JIOR SALE AT THIS OFFICE. The New Bankruptcy Bill, 1883. The Chattel Securities Act Amendment Etc Etc., Etc. STOP THAT COUGH 1 DON’T DELAY. —How can you stop it 1 Where is the Remedy. Bennington’s PiSCTORAL OXYMEL OF CARRA GEEN or IRISH MOSS (registered), can produce more evidence of real merit than any other article for the purpose. Sold everywhere. —G, Bonnington, Christchurch.



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