SHIPPING.

POET OF LYTTELTON

Arrived.

Saturday. Penguin, s.b., frm Manukau and way ports Comet, ketch, from Oamaru. Hawea, s.s , from Port Chalmers. Clyde, schooner, from Foxtnn, ' Awaroa, schooner, from Foxton, y KHTERUA T. Wakatu, s.s., from Wellington and Kai- Ksssa, barque, from Hobart. Sailed. Saturday. Hawea, s.s , for Wellington. Penguin, s.s., for Dunedin. Reward, schooner, for Waitapu. _ Maud Graham, schooner, forJSapior. Alert, schooner, for Napier. Circe, brigantine, for Auckland.

SHIPPING TELEGRAMS.

Auckland, Saturday. Airived—Lady Jocelyn, from London. Port Chalmers, Yesterday. Arrived—Taiaroa, from Timaru ; Hau xoto and Penguin, from Lyttelton. Sailed Kakanui. for Invercargill Stella, for Southern lighthouses ; Kawa tirl, for the Northern ports.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. Tuesday, Dec if mker 30. Messrs Matson, Cox and Or, at the Tinwald Saleyards—Stock

MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, Etc. Monday, December 29 Ashburton Summer Racing Club—Annua 1 Meeting

Thursday, January 1 Winslow Racing Club—Annual Meeting Saturday, January 3. Vakanui Road Board, at Road Board office, Moore street, at 10.30 a.m. Friday, January 9 iaftburton County Council —At Council Chambers, 11a.m.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails dose at the Ashburton Post Off L-j follows: — for Christchurch and North at 6 a.m. 10.30 a.m., and 5 p.ro., daily. for Chertsey Rakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m. tnd 3 p.m. daily. for Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. ¥or Temuka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., for and South, at 6 a. m., 10 «um., and 4.30 p.m., daily. For Groenstreet and Ashburton Forks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10.45 For Wakanui, Elgin, Seaview, Seafield, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a.nu For idount Somers, on Tuesdays and aturdays, at 6 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 6 a.m. for Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, *t 4.30 p.m. daily. For Flemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4.30 p. m. For Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days at 10.30 a.m.

nfftita arrive at the Ashburton Post Iffice— From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 ».m., 4.35 p.m., and 7.20 p.m. From Chertsey, &c. at 10.15 a.m. and 4.35 p.m. daily. From Dnnedin and intermediate places at 5. S''' “Mp. daily. Froui Temuka and Timaru at 10.40 a.m. p. 30 p.m., and 8 p.m. daily. From Green street and Ashburton Forks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 ftsin* Prom Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 10.5 a.m. and 8.15 p.m. From Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 10.5 a. m. From Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a.m. daily. . . Fiom Newlands, on Tuesdays ana Fri days, at 2.30 p.m. From Flemington on Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 10 a.m. From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, and Kyle on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sat urdays, at 4 p.m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit. MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1884. Government Life Insurance.

The election, now in progress, of three directors to represent the policy holders on the Central Board of the New Zealand Government Life Insur ance Association, is an event of con siderable importance to a large body of colonists, and of more than passing interest to all. Without discussing the propriety of a Government undertaking life insurance business, we may take it as a generally admitted fact that the Government office has not, in the past, held that measure of public confidence and support which its prestige and ex ceptional advantages were expected to command. There can be no doubt that the influence and zeal of the large Insurance Companies doing business in the colony have operated against the success of the Government institution ; not only by attracting a large share of the business to themselves, but also by magnifying the shortcomings of their formidable rival. That these short comings have not been wholly insignifi cant was shown in the report of the Joint Committee of the two Houses of Parliament last session. It appeared ftom that report that the accumulated funds of the department had been ex tensively employed to fill up gaps in the Colonial Exchequer, and that loans had been granted on terms and securi ties which would not commend them selves to a prudent investor. .It is also notorious that the routine business of the department has not been conducted with the circumspection its importance demands. The Commissioner is a gentleman with talents of no mean order, which have won for him a favor able reputation in another sphere, but he has not had the technical training nor the experience necessary to master the intricate details of the department he has for some years controlled. Can vassers have been employed who have displayed much anxiety to secure com missions, but very little concern for the credit and future of the department they temporarily represent. These circumstances were candidly admitted by the present Government, and the New Zealand Government Insurance Association Act, 1884, is the outcome of this determination to apply remedial measures. The Act provides for the constitution of a Central Board of Directors, consisting of the Colonial Treasurer, the Solicitor-General, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Public Trustee for the time being, three nominees of the Governor, and three persons elected by the policy-holders. This Central Board is entrusted with the appointment of all officers, the investment of funds and the practical management of the Association. They may also establish local Boards, con sisting of one member nominated by the Centralßoard.andtwo members elected by the policy holders residing in the district wherein the Local Board exer cises its functions. Each Local Board will be invested with such powers as the Central Board may from time to time deem expedient. Although the policy-holders are still inadequately re presented, it will at once be evident that the change is a salutory one, and one to which we trust every qualifica tion—a Government life policy of not less than —will endeavor to give full effect by exercising his vote in favor of candidates likely, by judi cious management, to win for the Go vernment Insurance Department the high place it should certainly occupy in public esteem

The Imperial Navy Increased.

It is non some weeks since we referred

to the condition of the British Navy as revealed by the English Press, and we were not surprised to learn that Lord Northbrook had intimated the intention of the Imperial Government to make material additions to the fleet. The people of these colonies will have received the intelligence with complacent satisfac tion. Anything done in this direction is certain of our good natured commenda tion. From time to time magazines and Ifsyiews have startled .the mother country by sensational articles, in which the “ channel, J> tpe yapptpc} “ silver streak,” was held to he no longeg a sa/eguard against invasion. The fleets of England might perhaps look well upon paper ; but many of the ships were old, and of others the fighting strength was absurdly over estimated. This was the tune adopted by many a half-pay naval veteran, for much of which a sense of slight and the gout were by the general public hold respon sible. At such periods, nevertheless, something like a scare would take plsoa Members of Parliament made pertinacious enquiries from their places in the House, and received bland assurances tl at

everything was as it should le This time, however, the attack upon the nerves of John Bull has been conducted upon a more systematic method. That enterprising paper, the Pall Mall Gazette, has been the chief instrument employed. Article after article bearing upon the inferiority of England to France as a naval power was sent forth. The Gazette professed itself to be in a state of the greatest consterna tion, and succeeded in reducing its readers to a similar condition of mind. Other newspapers took the matter up with the result that the Government have been compelled to act. To be relieved from all fear of attack upon our sea-board towns is the very natural wish of colonists. Were a foreign fleet with aggressive intentions to appear upon our coasts, w;thout doubt our position would be an unpleasant one. The idea is prerogative of pensive reflec tion. Much interest would at once be come centered in our torpedo boats. The crews of these crafts would be earnestly solicited to do their duty. If this safe guard failed us we should indeed be in a sorry plight. Something, perhaps, might be effected by our conveying to the hostile ships our earnest request that they should go away, together with the casual suggestion that for all the purposes of robbery they would find the towns of Australia far belter suited than our own. But it is best perhaps not to think of such a disaster befalling ua. And while the i Mother Country shows itself so alive to its responsibilities, such an event will ,ser • tainly be long delayed.

In reply to an application made by Mr W. C. Walker, M. H.R., the Colonial Secretary has notified that the libraries in the Ashburton and Wakanui electorates will receive free copies of the New Zealand Statutes.

The annual treat of the Ashburton Wesleyan Sunday School is to take place on New Year’s Day, in the Mill paddock, kindly lent for the occasion by Mr 0. W. Turner.

A special general meeting of the Ash burton Racing Club was held at the Club’s room, on Saturday evening. There was a fair attendance, and Mr C. W. Purnell oc cupied the chair. On the motion of Mr M. Friedlander, seconded by Mr C. C. Fooks, it was resolved—“ That rule 5 be rescinded, and the following substituted, viz , ‘ That all members of the Club shall be entitled, on production of their mem bers tickets, to free access for themselves and one lady to all parts of the course and stands, and to free access for one vehicle to the course and enclosures as signed to carriages.” it was further re solved that the foregoing resolution should not take effect until after the Summer Race Meeting. Messrs Cameron and Caygill were e'eoted members of the Club. The Secretary reported the circumstances under which the horse Marmiou and the rider Watts had been disqualified by the Methven Club, and after a prolonged dis cussion, the matter was remitted to the Committee with a request that they would hold a meeting for its disposal at 11 a.m. to-day. This evening Ashburton play-goers will have an opportunity to renew their ac quaintance with Miss Georgie Smithson, a lady who created a very favorable im pression during her last brief visit to the town. Miss Smithson is a thorough enthusiast in her profession, and has fully established her right to be styled “ The Female Maccabe.” Indeed the rapidity of her changes, and the fidelity of her re presentations are even more remarkable than the latter performances of her great model. She will be assisted by th’t very clever comedian, Mr J. F. Henneasy. Persona who have not yet enjoyed Mias Smithson’s entertainment will not regret attending the Town Hall this evening ; those who have been more fortunate will require no pressing from us.

At the quarterly circuit meeting held on 26thinat, MrE. J. Buchanan was appointed Ashburton representative to the Wesleyan Conference, to be held at Dunedin next month.

The annual gathering of Sunday schools took place in the Town Hall yesterday afternoon. There was a large attendance of children from all parts of the county, the Hall being crowded in every part The chair was occupied by Mr R. Sevan; and on the pla'form were seated several ministers, with the superintendents of the various schools. The meeting was ad dressed by the Revs. Jasper Smyth, of Pleasant Point, and J. Nixon, Ashbur ton, who gave short speeches of counsel and encouragement to the children, and were listened to with marked attention, the behaviour of the scholars being excel lent throughout. The celebration hymns were sung with great spirit u rder the leadership of Mr 0. Ray, Miss Kidd pre siding at the organ, and Mr G. Savage rendered great assistance with the cornet. The Rev. 0. H. Standage having led in prayer, and pronounced the Benediction, the children dispersed.

The Committee of the Ashburton Racing Club met at the Club’s room this morning to further consider Marmlon’s running ,in the Methven Hurdle Race, and having taken a quantity of evidence the matter was adjourned until eight o’clock this evening. Miss Gates, whose marriage took place to-day, was the recipient this after noon of a very handsome ladies’ handbag containing upwards of 35 sovereigns. Mr David Thomas made the presentation, which was accompanied by an address, the sentiments endorsed therein conveying but inadequately the feelings of all those who have

known Miss Gates since her residence in Ashburton, and the great assistance always cheerfully rendered by her on all charitable occasions. The following is a copy of the address: “On your’ap-

preaching marriage we cannot allow you to sever your connection with St Stephen’s Church, Ashburton, where you have acted as organist for so many years, without ex pressing our very high esteem for your worth, and tendering you soma slight acknowledgment for the v6ry valuable services rendered both to the church and die cause of charity in this district. Signed, on behalf of the subscribers, David Thomas.” August Flower. —The most miserable beings in the world are those suffering from dyspepsia and liver complaint. More than 7f per cent of the people are afflicted with these two diseases and their effects ; such as sour stomach, sick headache, habitual costiveness, palpitation of the heart, heartburn, waterbrash, gnawing and burning pains at the pit of the stomach, yellow skin, coated tongue and dis agreeable taste in the mouth, coming up of food after eating, low spirits, etc. Go to your druggist and get a bottle of august flower. This valuable medicine has cured thousands and thousands of sufferers, and is known in all civilised countries. Two doses will relieve you, K costs only 3s 6d a bottle. Sample bottles, 6d.—[Advt. Sour stomach, sick headache, and dizziness Hop Bitters cures with a few doses. See.— Adit,] “ Bucuu-PAlliA.”— Quick, complete cure, all annoying kidney, bladder, and urinary diseases. Druggists. The N.Z. Drug Co. General Agents. 2 Tic- Doloureux, Toothache, or any other j neuralgic pain speedily yields to Baxter’s Anti- 1 Neuralgic Pills. J llough ON Rais,” —Clears out rats, mice, j roaches, flies, •ants, be J-bugs, beetles, insects, 1 skunks, jack rabbits, gophers, Druggists, • The N.Z. t»rv.p Co,, General Agents, 3 £

RESIDENT MAGISTRATES COURT

ASHBURTON— To-day. (Before hia Worship the Mayor, and i Thomas Bullock and Hugo Friedlander, ] Esqs., J. P. ’a ) ( Drunkenness. —A first offender was ■ fined sa, with the alternative of 12 hours’ imprisonment, for drunke ness. Henry • Newlands, for a similar offence, was fined 10s, with the alternative of 24 hours’ imprisonment. Malicious Wounding— George Robert son was charged with maliciously wound ing three pigs. —Mr Branson appeared for the accused and applied for an adjourn ment until Saturday next, which was granted, bail being accepted in his own recognisance of L 25. Robbery with Violence. —John De loraine, Henry Green and J. W. Belling ham were charged with robbery from the person of John Alexander and Daniel Boucher, also with assaulting John Webb. —John Alexander, farmer at Lauriston, deposed that on the 24th inst. he was in the ( flice at Patton’s Hotel, Methven. The office is a small room at the back of the bar. A door leads into the room from the passage Mr Patton was upstairs. This was between 11 and 12 o’clock. James McCrennon came into the room, and there was no one with witness in the room previous to the time McCrennon came in. Two others then came in, viz., Green and Bellingham (two of the pri soners now before the Court). Green put his hand in witness’ pocket, and as soon as he did so witness said “ Look here, mister, your fingers are too long for mo.” t As soon as witness said this he was struck and knocked and held down before he

knew where he was. McCrennon pulled Green and Bellingham off witness, and then the whole three ran away. Did not know

which of the prisoners struck: witness.— James MoOrenaon said he was a farmer living at Methven. Remembered the 24th December. Was at Patton’s Hotel on that night. About 11.30 witness was standing in the passage, and heard a souffle in the office near the bar. Went in and saw Alexander lying on the floor with his coat ofl and his face covered with blood. Saw the prisoner Bellingham on the top of Alexander. Witness then went and pulled Bellingham off. Did not see the other prisoners in the office at the time of the scuffle. Witness then went into the passage again, and shortly after wards Bellingham came back and struck witness and ran away. Witness, Hussey and Constable Neill want after him (the prisoner) James Lindsay, barman at Patton’s Hotel, said he was at the foot of the staircase in the hotel about 11 o’clock on the night of December 24th. Saw Alexander lying down with his face bleed ing, also saw the prisoner in the passage. Witness asked what had happened to Mr Alexander. Saw the prisoner Bellingham strike McOrennor, and then the candle was put out.—By prisoner Deloraine; Mr Patton was down stairs at the time. — Sergeant Felton said, owing to conflicting evidence the police could not sustain the charge of robbery from the person, and therefore he would ask the Bench to deal summarily with the cases instead of send ing the prisoner up for trial. As there were other charges against thJ same pris oner ho would ask the Bench to hear them all before giving iudgment.—Daniel Boucher said he was at Methven on the 24th instant. Went to sleep at the Canter bury Hotel the same night with his pocket book in his breast pocket. There were some notes in the purse, also some silver. Witness changed a cheque for L 9 the day previous, and when he awoke the next morning his pocket-book was gone. Witness was a little the worse for drink on that night. — Thomas Leith, barman at the Canterbury Hotel, Methven, said the accused were at that hotel on the 24th December. Boucher was also there asleep in the bar parlor, and left the hotel about half-past ten. —Constable Neill said he heard a noise at the Canterbury Hotel on the night of the 24th. The prisoners were in the road in front of the hotel, and were throwing stones. They ran away, and Deloraine, one of the prisoners, was arrested. Witness found the purse pro duced in the road the next morning, about the spot where Deloraine was arrested. The other prisoners were arrested in a tent the same evening.—John Webb, a platelayer, said he was standing in the road at Methven on the night of Dec 24 A stone was thrown by Deloraine, and hit witness on the head and cut his hat. Saw the prisoners there. —W. J. Hussey said he saw the accused at Methven on

December 24th. 'they had McOreanon on the ground near the railway gates. He also saw Deloraine thow a stone and hit Webb on the head. Went after the ac cused and caught one of them and held him until Constable Neill came up and arrested him.—The Bench said that the charges of larceny were not fully proved, the prisoners Green and Bellingham, would be sentenced to one month’s im prisonment with hard labor for assaulting Alexander, and Deloraine for assaulting Webb would also be sentenced to one month with hard labor.

CRICKET.

VICTORIA v NEW SOUTH WALES

[REUTER’S TEIiEUUAIvr.S—COPYRIGHT.] Melbourne, Saturday,

The Intercolonial Cricket Match was continued to-day, when the New South Wales team continued their first innings, which closed for 403, not 277 as previously telegraphed. Murdoch was highest scorer with 97. At the close of the day’s play the Victorians had scored 143 with one wicket down.

NAPIER v WELLINGTON,

Napier, Saturday.

The cricket match, Napier, v Welling ton, was won by Napier by eight wickets. Wellington, first innings, 109 ; Napier, 159 ; Wellington, second innings, 52; Napier, 3 for two wickets.

WELLINGTON v NELSON.

Wellington, Saturday.

The cricket match, Poneke (Welling ;on) v Nelson, was won by the Wellington leam by 35 runs.

OTAGO v. CANTERBURY,

Shortly after four o’clock on Saturday the Otago men commenced their second innings, and when stumps were drawn for the day the score ato d at 55 for the loss of 6 wickets.

Play was resumed at 2,20 pm. to-day, when in the midst of pouring rain Dawes and Rattray, the not out men, went to the wickets to the bowling of Wilding and Dunlop and made several singles till 60 went up. After a few more balls Rat tray was cleaned bowled by Wilding. 62 7—14, Fairburn took his place, and Dawes was almost immediately after caught by Wilding. 62—8—2. Drabble went to crease and before the score had been increased Fairbairn was given out leg before. 62 —9 —O. Frith took his place. Drabble was caught in slips by Barnes a moment after.

Canterbury requiring 24 to win, Wild ing sept put Ashby and Buchanan to face the bowling of Frith and Cooke. Ashby drove Cooke to the fence for 4- Frith just after clean bowled Buchanar, whose place was taken by Longden. Ashby now began sco ing rapidly and soon 20 ap peared Ashby with 3 and Longden with 2 brought 25 up. The match closed in favor of Canterbury w th nine wickets. Ashby, net ou', 16 ; Longden, not out, 4j extras, 5.

Otago -2nd innings. McGregor, c Buchanan, b Barnes ... 12 W. G. Dixon, c Million, b Dunlop ... o T. Austin, b Dunlop ... ... ... ' 3 E. T. Collinson, b Wilding o W. Parker, b Dunlop ... ... ... II F. H. Cooke, c Million, b Ashby ... II C. Rattray, b Wilding ... ... ... 14 A. Dawes, b Wilding ... ... ... 2 A. Fairbairn, Ibw ... ... ... ... O A. Drabble, c Barnes ... ... ... o C. Frith, not out o Extras ... ... ... ... 3 Total ... ... ... ... 62

SPORTING.

ASHBURTON SUMMER RACES. President—W. C. Walker, Esq., M.H.R. Vice-President—Joseph Ivess, Fsq. Ste wards—E. G. Crisp, T. Quill, A. Harrison, C. C. Fooks and M. Stitt. Judges—S. Saunders. Clerk of the Scales—J. Tasker. Clerk of the Course—John Corbett. Starter —Dr Leahy. Handicapper—S. Saunders. Treasurer—T, Quill. Hon Secretary—G. J. Shaw.

The second annual Summer Races were held on the Ashburton racecourse to-day. Although threatening, the weather con tinued fine and pleasant. The attendance s was not large, and Christchurch sports men were conspicuous by their absence. Mrs Woodley, at the publican’s booth, , and Mr Davison at the confectioner’s booth, displayed their usual solicitude for the comfort of their patrons. The Ash- ; button Brass Band occupied a positio n on ; the lawn, and contributed music, which . added vary much to the enjoyment of the . afternoon, Mr 6. J. Shaw made an efli- , cient and obliging Secretary, and the other officials discharged their duties satis factorily. The following are the results , of the racing : Count v Hurdle Race Handicap of 30 sovs; the second horse to receive ssovs from tho stakes, over six flights of hurdles, about 3ft Gin high. miles. Messrs M. and 0. Hobbs’s b g Moody, aged, Hat 101 b ... (C Hobos) 1 Mr J. Wilkinson’s b g Marmion, syrs, lOit 41b (J. Smith) 2 Betting—2 to lon Moody. Marmion was the quickest away, and led over the first hurdle. At thg, railway turn Moody set a better pace, but was again pulled back at the mile post, the pair going very slow. Half a mile from home Hobbs let Moody have his head, and although Mar mion was ridden out to the end he could never get on terms with the Southern, Moody winning hard held by three lengths. Time—3min 13sec. Totaliaator —37—22 ; LI 10s. ; Christmas Handicap, of 40 sovs ; second horse to receive 10 sovs from the stake, llr miles. Mr T. Quid's b o Grand Dube, 3yis, Bst lib ... ... ... (Derritt) 1 ' Messrs M. and 0. Hobbs’ br g Jack daw, aged, 9st 31b ... (C. Hobbs) 2 Mr J. Napier’s b g Wee Rhodie, syrs, 9st 2lb (Woodward) 3 ’ Mr R. Alex inder’s b g Lauds ton, aged, ’ Sst 91b (White) 0 , Mr S. S. Cox’s g g Pearl, aged, Gst 61b [ (Rapley) 0 Jackdaw and Pearl gave some trouble at ’ the post, but Dr Leahy eventually dis patched the field to the best start ever witnessed on the course. Pearl and Lauris j ton led past the stand, Grand Duke third with Jackdaw at his quarters. At the railway turn Jackdaw took third place, . and at the mile post Wee Rhodie com menced to go up at a great pace. Quarter of a mile further on Pearl was in trouble, ‘ and Jackdaw assumed the lead Turning t into the straight the leaders were all in a cluster, and a splendid race ensued down the straight, resulting in a length victory j, for Grand Duke, Jackdaw beating Wee Rhodie by half a length for second place. Time—2min 47aec. Totalisator—ls6 1 54 L2 Hs, ? Welter .Selling Hurry Surry, of 10 sovs ; no weight under lOst; the win j ner to be sold for 15 sovs, any surplus to go to the funds. Post entry. , Mr A. Maogham’s b g Keep-it-Dark (Demuth) 1 ’ Mr P. Lewis’s b m Miss Maggie ... 2 Mr W. Mitchell’s ch m Firefly ... 3 Eleven started. Firefly jumped away with the lead and led to the distance, were ' Keep-it-Dark got on terms with her, and * won with something in hand by half a * length from Miss Maggie, Firefly close up 3 third. Time—ssiec. Dividend—71 —7 I —L9 2s. The winner was bought in by the owner for L2l. ' Flying Handicap, of 30 sovs ; miles. Mr T. Quill's b m Princess Royal, 1 syrs, 9st4lb (Derritt) 1 1 Mr J. Smith’s b g Frantic, syrs, Bst ’ (Mitchell) 2 Mr O. Matthew's b m lonic, aged, 9st : 71b (0. Hobbs) 3 Mr R, Alexander’s b g Forest King, 6yrs, Bst (White) 0 1 Mr S. S. Cox’s g g Pearl, aged, Cst 710 (Ogden) 0 Mr John Dick’s b m Brown Rose, Gyrs Gst ... ... ... • (Price) 0 Time—lrain 2l£sec. Totalisator—lß4 —96 ; LI 141. MOUNT SOMERS ANNUAL RACES.

(From ogb own Correspondent ) These races were held on Boxing Daj in a paddock kindly lent by Mr Hood foi the occasion. The weather was verj favorable until about two p m., at which hour rain commenced to fall so heavilj that the Committee determined to post pone the remaining sports until New dear's Day. There was a very good attendance, a number of ladies appro priately costumed added very much to the appearance of the gathering, and appear ing to thoroughly enjoy the sport. Mr J. Hood had* a publican’s booth on the ground, and Mr T. E. Mcßae a refresh ment booth, and both caterers would un doubtedly have done well if the rain had not interrupted their business. Mr D. H. Potts acted as judge, Mr B, F. Wright as starter, Messrs Ede, Potts and Wright as handicappers, and Mr W. Edsun as secretary, and all the officials were indefatigable in the discharge of their duties. The following were the remits of the events decided : Maiden Plate, of 5 sovs; weight for age; 1 mile. Mr D. Patton’s Maid of Athens (Bartlatt) 1 Mr D. McCormick’s Lady Nimble (Smith) 2 Mr S. McOlymont’a Sultan (G. McOlymont) 3

After a good start the three kept on even terms until entering the straight, when Maid of Athens came away and won easily. The owner of Sultan entered a protest against the winner for crossing, but it was not sustained.

Handicap Trot, of 8 sovs ; 2£ miles. Mr A. McNeil’s Nell ... (Johnston) 1 Mr S. MoOlymont’s Bertha... (Owner) 2 Mr A. McFarlaue’s Idle Boy (Macfarlane) 3

The three horses all started from scratch. Idle Boy was evidently out of form, and was hopelessly beaten early in the race. Neil was the first to pass the post, tut was afterwards disqualified for breaking, Bertha taking the stake and Idle Boy being placed second. Mount Somers Cup Handicap, of 10 sovs ; 1£ miles. Mr W. T. Smith’s Wild Rose, 10st (G, Nicholas) 1 Mr D. Patton’s Maid of Athens, Gst 7ib (J. Smith) 2 Mr W. T. Smith’s Wild ' Boy, 9at ' (Bartlett) 3 Mr A. McCormick’s Tommy, 7<h 7tb (McClymont) 0

Tommy was the favorite, but after Maid of Athens Had made the running at a good pace, Wild Rose came through her horses and won easily.

Poxy Rack of 3 sovs mile. Mr A. Stevenson’s Polly (Stevenson) 1 Mr E. Mcßae’s Little Doll ... (Owner) 2 Mr T. E. Mcßae’s Tommy(P. Mcßae) 3 Mr W. J. Smith’s Creamy..,(J. Smith) 0 Mr J. Carney’s Nellie ... (Carney) 0 This was a capital race, Polly winning after a very close finish with Little Doll, and Tommy a good third.

Shepherds’ Bags of 6 sovs. 1 mile. Mr T. S. Johnston’s Robert the Devil

(Owner) 1 Sissy, Sarah, Funny aud Lady Nimble also ran.

Robert the Devil came in first, bat waa disqualified on account of not being a district horse. Sissy was thereupon placed first, and Sarah second.

At this stage rain, accompanied by thunder and lightning, commenced to fall and the Committee decided to postpone the remainder of the events until New Year’s Day. The retreat of the spectators from the ground a as a sight to remember —vehicles of every description being crowded to excess. One small dray con veyed upwards of twenty passengers from the ground.

C.J.C. MIDSUMMER MEETING.

The following handicaps were posted on Saturday night : Graven Stakes, miles. st. lb. st. lb JohnnyFau'k- Ike 8 3 ner ... 9 0 Water King 710 Rubina ... 8 10 Take Miss ... 7 7 Taiaroa ... 8 9 Marion ... 7 7 Nelson ... 8 6 Leopold ... 6 7 New Year Welter Handicap, miles. Mata ... 10 6 Holdemesa... 8 5 Taiaroa ... 10 2 Gaiters ... 8 0 Nelson ... 913 Leodogran ... 8 0 Water King 9 3 Puck ... 8 0 Take Miss ... 9 0 Acceptances for the above and final payments for the Middle Park Stakes, I Midsummer Handicaps and Selling Race are due to-morrow (Tuesday) evening.

the above and final liddla Park Stakes, ,ps and Selling Race fnesday) evening.

LOWER HEATHCOTE RAGES. Second Day. The following are the results of Satu • day’s racing : Handicap Hurdle Race, of 53 sore,' about 2 miles. Mr J. Smith’s Ravenswood, aged, 10st 61b (Stewart) 1. Hon W. Rodney’s b h Berrington, (iate Mustard), aged, llst(Kingham) 2 Mr P. Campbell’s b m Madge, aged Sat 101 b (Mr Aynsley) 3 Mr J. G. Seaton’s ch g Andy, aged, 10st 121 b (T. Watts) 0 Totalisator, dividend inside, LI 6s; outside, LI 9s. Hack Hurdle Race, of 15 so vs; about

1 mile. Mr .1. Kerr’s br g Larry, aged (W. Kerr) 1 Mr J. Smith’s g g Bordeaux, aged (H. Piper) 2 Mr 0. Cook’s br m Nell f ...(Owner) 3 Ploughboy, South, Despair, Fidget and Pantaloon also ran. Totalisator, dividend inside, L2 19s ; outside, L 3 Bs. Grand Stand Handicap, of 40 sovs; about l£ miles. Mr E. Cutt’s b c Water King, 3 yrs, 7st 101 b ... (Brown) 1 Mr Kerr’s ch g Supplejack, aged, 7st (White) 2 Mr Goodman’s b g Ploughboy, 6st 71b (Hnxtable) 3 Mr J. Lunn’a b m Rebscca, 6 yrs, Bat (Stratford) 0 Totalisator dividends-Inside L2 outside L2 11s. ' A Handicap Time Trot, of 30 sovs ; 5 sova from the stake for second horse i weight not less than ■ 10st; about 2 miles. Mr J. Turvey’s b m Daisy, aged 40sec 1 Mr J. Hancock’s b g Biddle, aged, 60 sec 2 Mr Hardie’s b m Brownie, aged, 40seo 3 The following also started :—.Wakatu, saec ; Lunatic, 6sec ; Cock Robin, 14sec; Warrior, 30sec ; Prince, 40*ec ; Jerry, Tilly, 40aec ; Gif, 60aec ; Offwood, 60sec; Strike-a-Light, 50sec. Totalisator dividends —Inside L2 Is, outside L2 11s.

Pony or Galloway Race, of 15 sovs ; 13 hands, Sat; 13 <r hands, Sat 7tb; 14 hands, 9st ; 14£ hands, 9at 71b; all horses to be measured before starting;

about 1 mile Mr Coates’ oh m Nelly, syrs, 9st (Lee) 1 Mr Calthro’s b m Floss, aged, 9st 71b (Webster) 2 Mr F. Smith’s b m Fleur de Lis, 9st 71b ... (Smith) 3

The following also started : Grey Nelly, Kitty, Dandy, Bonnie Jean, Cham* pagne Charley, Forget-me-not, Sweet briar and Little Wonder. Totalisator, dividend inside, L2 la ; outside, LI 17s. Consolation Handicap Flat Back, of 20 sots, for all beaten horses that have ran during the meeting; entrance 1 soy ; about 1 mile. Mr Luna’s b m Rebecca, syrs, Sat 101 b (Stratford) I Mr Matthew’s b m Mermaid, 6yrs, 7st

51b ... 2 Mr Kerr’s ch g Supplejack, aged, Bit

Andy, 7at slb, Urland, 7at, and Mabel, 6stslb, also started. Totalisator dividend, inside, L 3 10?; outside, L 3 12s. Hack Race, of 10 sots, for all horses that have not won any public stake; post entry 1 sot ; about 1 mile. About a dozen horses started for this event, which was won by Papanui, with Puri Puri second. Totalisator dividends, inside, L2 18s; outside, L2 14s. BLENHEIM RAGES, (By Telegraph.) Blenheim, To-day. The following weights are declared for the Marlborocgh Ccp. -X. 1L

st lb Mr H. Redwood’s Black Rom ... 9 0 Mr C. Redwood’s Refrigerator ... 8 3 Mr F. Bolton’s Erebus ... ... 7 0 Mr C. Redwood’s Pay 6 10 Mr A, McColt’s Swordsman ... 6 7 Mr E. Bolton’s Marquis ... ... 6 5 Mr H. Redwood’s Capsize ... 6 5 Mr H. Redwood’s Mocka 6 2 AUCKLAND RACES. Auckt, ind, Saturday. Auckland Racing Club Handicap ; If miles. st lb st lb Welcome Jack 9 10 Necklace ... 7 0 Salvage ... 8 7 Telford ... 0 4 Turquoise ... H 4 Carbineer... 6 4 Poet ... ... 7 8 Pipi ... 6 4 Administrator 7 2 Wood Nynysh 6 2 Minerva ... 7 2 The Painter 512 Normanby ... 7 2 Revolver ... 5 10 Libeller ... 7 2 Oast Ashore 5 7 Fishwoman... 7 2 Alaric ... 6 7 Tigredia ... 7 0 . Grand Stand Handicap ; 14 miles. Turquoise ... 9 2 Fishwoman 7 5 Sou’-Wester 813 Piehgirl ... 7 0 Poet 8 3 Victoria ... 7 0 Administrator 8 2 Dressmaker 610 Minerva ... 8 0 Pipi ... 6*lo Libeller ... 710 Torpedo ... 610 Normanby ... 710 Witiora ... 610 At Tattersall’s last night Tigreda was backed to win the Derby-for L4OO, atlOO’i to 23 and 30.

DUNEDIN AUTUMN MEETING. The following acceptances for the D.J.C. February Meeting were received on Saturday night;— Dunbdjn Cup, of 1,000 aova-rWelcopjo Jack, Tasman, Vanguard, Oudeis, Lady Emma, July, Johnny Faulkner, Salvage, Sou’-Wester, Taiaroa, Nelson, Trenton, Fusilier, Liverpool, Matanaka, Captain Webster, Minerva, Adamant, The Poet, Waipiti, Charmer, Clog’, Take Mifl| fceon, Mokoia,

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1884.



TJOMESTIC PATT ERN DEPOT. Mrs Hodge, DRAPER AND DRESSMAKER, East Stbeet, sear Lancaster's butchery. REGISTRY OFFICE For Female Servants. 7 1413 A. Tapper, TIMBER MERCHANT, ' Has decided to Sell Off & c.» » His Largs Stock of TIMBER BUILDING MATERIALS GALVANISED IRON FENCING WIRE BUILDERS IRONMONGERY, at greatly Beduced Prices, As he is retiring from business, therefore ANY REASONABLE OFFER WILL NOT BE REFUSED. Stock must be cleared off by December Slat. A LL DEBTS OWING prior to Ist DECEMBER must be paid by 15th Inst, or legal steps for their recovery will be] taken. ■ H. W. BARRETT, 1587 Manager.



s Davis's URPLUS STOCK OF FURNITURE Now Belling off at HALF-PRICE. Most be sold to make room for 0 NEW STOCK. Parties about to Furnish will EATS 50 Puk Oawr. BY PUCHASING XT'; 4 i - W. DAVIS’S FURNITURE WAREHOUSE, BAST STREET SOUTH. * Aebburtoo 9 1728



Wanted. WANTED— To* Let a three roomed House, with every convenience kpply office of this paper. 12 2397 WANTED —Six P mr-horae Teams for Ploughing and Harrowing. Apply, IoHN Grigg, Lonobeach. 12 2396 ANTED—Tenders for Stripping 400 » » Acreeit-in one or more lota, of grass seed. Apply to' Mr S. Saunders, Guardian Office. 12 2375 ANTED Known— 2 500 ladies’ straw hats (150 different shapes) bought at a great sacrifice, and to be sold about 30 per cent under wholesale prices ; 110 costumes at 3s 9d ; other goods equally cheap; must be sold—come and see them. H. O. Seoers, t ealys’ Buildings, East Street. WANTED Known—Great redustions in the prices of Christmas Fruit during this month, at J. McG kgob s, Cash Groce', Tancred street. WANTED Known—Fresh Flounders are dai'y despatched direct from our own boat, now fishing at Lake Elles mere, Delivery guaranteed within eight hours from time of catching. Ail-orders I received at my shop will be immediately executed on arrival of the train. W. o. j Page, East street, Ashburton. 11 2151 TTTANTED Known—That Jones and \V Bradshaw, next Mr Lancaster’s butchers shop, East street, are now offer ing Pig Feed, Chick Wheat, Horse Feed, etc., etc., etc., cheaper and of a better class than any other in the tewn. All goods delivered free of charge in town. 4 752



WANTED KNOWN — Robbkt Elston, Bill Poster, Theatrical Agent, etc., Town Hall, Ashburton. Theatrical companies and others visiting Ashburton should communicate with the above. Orders by post or telegram promptly attended to. 760 c \\T ANTED Known—Boots 1 Boots 1 V\ That Hayes and Co. are Clearing a few desperate lines of Boots, etc., to wit, Ladies’ Leather, 4a 6d; Men’s Shooters, Pegged, 10s ; Men’s Elastic sides, 9s, and a lot of odd lines that must be cleared at once. 7 1278 SOMETHING worth knowing.—F. F. CLAYTON, Practical Tailor, pro fessed Coat and Habit Maker, is next Jones and Bradshaw’s, East street. F. F. 0. is too well known as a master of his profession to need further comment. One trial will prove it Gentlemen’s own ma terial made up ; repairs and alterations carefully attended to. 10 195^



WANTED Known—o. Hawkin’s, of Tinwald, having decided to com pete with eithtr Christchurch or Ashbur ton, in price and quality of Boots, will, Ist January, 1885, Sell for Cash Only, at the following reduced rates ; —Men’s Harvest Bluchers, lips and nailed, 5s 9d; Shooter Boots, 10a 3d; Women’s Strong Lace Boots, 8s 6d ; Leather Elastic, 9s 6d; Children’s all reduced from Is per pair. Motto—“ Small Pro fits and Qiiok Returns.” O. JHaw in's, Boot and Shoemaker. 12 2393 WANTED Known—J. Mebcu & Co., are still Selling On and not Selling Off at saleroom prices. J. M. and Co’s Furniture is made for use as well as ornament and not for auction sal, s. The best materials are used, being specially selected, and combined with good workmanship, all goods are guaran teed of the best quality, and at the very lowest prices. East and Burnett otroot, Ashburton 12 23?2 W’ ANTED Known—The undersigned beg to notify to their customers and the public generally that they have Removed into the premises adjoining Mr Taylor, Baker, East street. By strict attention to business and making a good article, they hope to merit the continu ance of public patronage. Fowek and McEwen, Bootmakers, East street, Ash burton. 10 1973 Special Advertisements.



Strawberries, Strawberries, STRAWBERRIES, And other Fruit for sale, wholesale and retail, price moderate, B. BROOMFIELD, Kent Nursery, Allenton. 12 2242



R- U\LL O W A WHEELWRIGHT Y. Wakanui road, Ashbtirton. (Next Ray’s Machine Shop) Special attention is devoted to all kinds of repairs. Combined with moderate charges. 11 2199



RRIYAL OF ANNUALS Boys’ and Girls’ Own Annuals, Chatterbox, Sunday, Quiver, Child’s Companipn, battle Folks, Child’s Own Magazine, _ British Workwomen, British Workmen, CHRISTMAS CARDS In great Variety and Newest Designs. PRIZE BOOKS j An immense Stock of PRIZE BOOKS I School Prizes School Committees will do well to pay a visit and inspect for themselves. LIBERAL DISCOUNT ALLOWED Thomas F. Parley, BOOKSELLER, STATIONER, AND PRINTER, Saunders’ Buildings, Ashburton. Cottager and Artisan, etc. Always on hand. to all Schools by



g TU D Y ECONOMY AMJ SUPPORT LOCAL INDUSTRY BY USING Native Coal, Which can be had at the yards of the undersigned. MAOPHERSON, FILMER AND CO. (late A. Hayes), TIMBER, COAL, & WOOD MERCHANTS.



Special Advertisements. Dimant and Coe, ARE authorised LOCAL AGENTS for Singer's SEWING M CHINES, and are prepared to receive PAYMENTS and afford all information in connection (herewith. Treadle and Hand Machines on Time Payments. A supply of Machine extras on hand. CORNER EAST AND TANCRED STREETS, ASHBURTON. 11 2181 NEW TWEEDS ! NEW TWEEDS ! SUMMER SUMMER SUITS. SUITS. Perfect Fit Guaranteed in the latest or any style that may be required, Craighead & Co., MERCHANT TAILORS, WE have much pleasure in announcing to our friends and patrons, and all who may feel interested in the general ogress of our times that we have just coived a splendid assortment of Tweeds Coatings, Serges, etc., etc., of the best juality and latest designs—suitable for the season we are now entering. All Goods Supplied at LOWEST CASH PRICES. I CRAIGHEAD & CO., , Tancred street, Ashburton. [ 25 Branches Now Open 25 j i THE NEW~ ZEALAND ■ Clothing Factory , Are now Showing j NEWEST STYLES s in 0 SPRING & SUMMER CLOTHING, a Manufactured _ from the renowned i" Wear Resisting MOSGIEL TWEEDS. The fit and workmanship of every gar ’ ment is undoubtedly unsurpassed, while B the large production and increased busi -6 ness enables the proprietors to offer 1 ‘ special advantages as to price. - Men’s, Boys’ and Children’s Clothing >f in every variety at l ' Wholesale Prices, j Sh'xts, Hats, Hosiery, Blankets, Rugs, - Portmanteaux, and ’a every requisite at s WHOLESALE PRICES. ’a t Note the address— * NEW CLOTHING FACTORY 3 EAST STREET, Ashburton 5 25 Branches Now Open 25



Christmas Carnival AND FANCY BAZAAR Will be opened on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6th, 1884. SIXPENNY~& SHILLING TABLES, Also, a TABLE of VARIETIES from ONE PENNY to FOURPENCE. All are heartily welcomed. Please observe.—ln the ROOM NEXT to my PRESENT SHOP, specially taken for the Christmas Season. Admission—FßEE. R. Bevan, SAUNDERS’ BUILDINGS, (Next Shop to Quill’a Hotel.)



COMMENCING TO-DAY. CHRISTMAS PRESENTS. FREE GIFTS TO ALL, CHOOSE PROM £IOOO WORTH. AST Year, wo gave, during December and the early part of January, 5)240 Presents. This year we have even a larger selec tion, and intend, from to-day, giving every Customer a Ticket equal to ten per cent on the money spent; so that if you spend LlO you can choose anything up to LI; if L 5 is spout, a 10s present will be given ; if L 3, a 6a present ; if LI, a 2s present; but if you only spend Oce Shilling you will get something. And every time you come during this month of De cember and up to January Gth, you will get a present. If you do not wish to spend a lot of money in one day’s shop ping, you can get your tickets for what you have spent, and so on each time you come, and then get one really handsome thing, equal in value to all the tickets you hold. If you want a pretty hat, bon net, useful dress, or anything in house furnishing, we feell confi dent you will save 12£ per cent by shopping with us, besides getting a present equal to one shilling in every ten, each time you come. H.E. May & Co



1884. Victoria House. 1885. QPRING AND SUMMER SEASON. Prints, Dress Stuffs, Costumes, Trimmings, Fanoy Ties, Hosiery, Millinery, Men’s, Boys’, anp Youths’ Clothing, Shirts (assorted), Hats, &0., «»c., Of newest designs, super-excellent makes, and durability, selected^ and ottered tor the especial purpose of well and worthily recommending Victoria House as pre-eminent for variety, quality, liberality, and incomparable value- Ladies’, Men’s, and BOOTS, &c., at “ c*ll again prices. Patterns of Rosljn, Mosgeil, and KaiapoiTWEEDS received weekly, from which Men s Youths’, and Boys* Garments are promptly made to measure, jut, finish, and fashion perfect. Charges strictly reasonable. Dimant and Coe. Ready-Money Drapers, Clothiers, do, East and Tanorad otreets.fin’premisea Stely occupied.by Orr and Co. |



Special Advertisements. Christmas Fruit. ■jq'EW CURRANTS, 5£ per lb 1 NEW RAISINS, 6|d per lb NEW SULTANAS, 7*d per lb NEW FIGS (per Ruapehu), la per box NEW MUSCATELS, la 6d per lb JORDAN ALMONDS, 2s per lb ] ASSORTED PEELS, la6d per lb ENGLISH CUT LOAF SUGAR, 5d MtX’fiD BISCUITS, Gd per lb PLAIN BISCUITS, 3d per lb BEST WHITE CRYSTAL SUGAR, 3£d JAMES McGREGOR, Taxckkd Street. 12 2342



HBIS TM A S GOODS. Just opened up— j A Large Assortment of F\NOY GOODS, BOOKS, Exc. Also, a GREAT VARIETY OF TOYS Of every description. Andrewes Bros., Booksellers, Stationers, &c., EAST STREET, SOUTH, Ashburton.