COMMERCIAL.

Ashburton Guardian Office, Monday afternoon, Mr T. Bullock reports on the horse market fer the week ending Saturday, December 12: There was about an average attendance of far mers and other settlers. horses were brought forward for the days sale amongst them were a number of very u draught?, for which the biddings were spirited, and those at all suitable for farm wo-k oi ex port sold at high figures as given below. Out of the day’s entry 14 were sold at the follow ing prices—viz: Medium draughts of a fair y good stamp, L 24 10s, L 25, 1-25 10s, with a good demand; ditto of a lighter description, Lis, Ll 5 10s; light harness horses of a good description. Lit to Ll 5 ss; ditto 2-year-old unbroken, 1 12; ditto not so good, Ly 10s to L 7 15s. Hacks, those offered were mostly in ferior, and only low prices were obtained, — Implements, etc.—A second hand McCormick string binder brought L 32 105; Cambridge roller, Ly 10;; o,ls, is yd to is rod per bushel according to samples.

MEMORANDA

AUCTION SALES. Wednesday, December 16 Mr Thou. Bullock, at the Town Hall- Sale of Furniture

MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, Etc. Monday, December 14 Borough Council, at Borough Connell Chambers, at 7.30 Tuesday. December 15 Drill Shed—Volunteer Parade Wednesday, December 16 Orange Hall—Star of the Bast Lodge, 1.0.G.T., at 8 o’clock Wakanui Wesleyan Church—Annual Tea Meeting . _ , St Stephen’s Parsonage—Annual Garden Party Monday, December 21 ilclde Chambers—Star of Asbbnrton, U.A.0.D., at 8 o’clock Friday, January 8 Asaburton County Council—At Connell Chambers, 11 a.m.

MAIL NOTICES.

ftTailw 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 Chertaey Rakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m. und 5 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. For Temuka, at 10 a.m. tfnd 4.30 p m daily. , for Timaru and South, at 10 a.in., and 4.80 p.m., daily. _ , . . For Greenstreet, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10.45 a.m. For Wakanui, Elgin, Sea view, bean eld, ndKyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a.m. For Mount Somers, daily at 4.30 p.m. For Mayfield and Ruapuna, on Mon days and Thursdays, at 4.30 p.m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, at 4.30p.m. daily. For Fiemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4.30 p.m. For Newlauds, on Tuesdays and Fr. rytat 10.30 a.m. Fos Hampstead at 9 a,m. daily. arrive at the Ashburton 1' < From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 a.nL, 4.35 p.m., and 7.20 p.m. From Ohertsey, &c. at 10.15 a.m. and 4.36 p.m. daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places at Am. daily. Froitn Temuka and Timaru at 10.40 a. m. and 5.30 p.m daily. , From Greenstreet, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 *.m. From Mount Somers, daily at 10.5 an. _ From Mayfield and Ruapuna, on Wed •eadfiys and Saturdays, at 10.6 a.m. From Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a.m. daily. fTiom Newlauds, on Tuesdays and Fn days, at 2.30 p.m. From Fiemington on Tuesdays, Thurs lan, and Saturdyaa, at 10a.m. From Hampstead at 9.30 a.m. daily.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit. MONDAY DECEMBER, 14, 1885.

Mr Thomas Bullock, JR, presided at the Resident Magistrate's Court this morning, and dealt *ith tho following offenders :—John Howard, charged with the larceny of wearing apparel the pro perty of Mr Julian Jackson, of Methven, was remanded until to-morrow.—James Fleming, charged with the larceny of a pair of boots the property of Hardy and Co, was remanded until to-morrow. —Jas. Fleming was fined 10s and costs, with the alternative of 21 hours’ imprisonment for drunkenness. A first offender was fined 5s and cos's, with the alternative of 12 hours' imprison ment, for drunkenness. —Mary -Smith, alias Mcfincbniu, was fined 20s and costa, with the alternative of 18 hours’ impri sonment, for drunkenness. Charles Evans, alias Piccolo Charlie, a character well known to the police, who aaid he had boon in the empley of the salvation Army for some months, was fined 20s and Costs, with the alternative of 18 hours' impri sonment, for drunkenness. A Gazette extraordinary has been Issued, which further prorogues Parliament to Monday, March 16 next. At Blenheim on a poll of bnrgesses the proposal to borrow l<3 000 for Borough improvements was carried by a large majority. The Janet Nicoll reporta that the new volcanic island near Tonga is two miles long and 309 feet high- A patriotic trader has hoisted the English flag on it, aud claimed It for Queen Victoria.

Skinny Men. —“ Wells’ Health RenewerJ restores health and vigor, cures dyspepsia im, potence, debility. The N.Z, Drug Co.- General Atrents.l »

Holloway’s Pills.— Weary of Life.— Derangement of the liver is one of the mfic dangerous of diseases, and the most prolof source of those melancholy forebodings whch are worse than death itself. A few doses|io these noted Pills act magically in dispelling loe spirits, and repelling the covert attacks made on the nerves by excessive heat, impure atmose pheres, over-indulgence, or exhausting excite ment. The most shattered constitution may derive benefit from Holloway’s Pills, which will regulate disordered action, brace the nerves, increase the energy of the intellectual faculties, and revive the fading memory. By attentively studying the instructions for taking these Pills, and explicitly putting them in practice, the

The usual fortnightly meeting of the Ashburton B -rough Council will be held at the Council Chambeis this evening. A meeting of the Committee of the Ashburton Racing Club will be beid at 9 o’clock this evening. The Premier, Mrs Stoat, and family passed through Ashburton this moroint en route fur Dunedin.

Train arrangements for Anniversary Day are advertised in this issue. The vs. Alameda, the first steamer to bring the San Francisco mail under the new contract, arrived at Auckland yester day afternoon. The usual summary of mail news in this issue crowds out leading and other matter.

The Auckland Star is responsible for the statement that Mr Steward, M.0.R., recently purchased on behalf of the Governuu-nt Insurance Company the de benture* < f the Rotorua Railway Com pany. 'the Bile was negotiated at L 93 per iilOO debenture, and our contemporary states that. Mr Steward received something like L 1,500 as commission, which it terms “a nice little sum easily earned.” His Honor Judge Williams opened the Supreme Court, Timaru, to day. The civil business, including the libel case Graham v Clayton, has oeen adjourned until January. Sir Julius Vogel left Christchurch for Wellington yesterday. Among other items teleg aphed in our mail summary te-day is an extraordinary statement to the effect that John the Baptist has bankrupt France. As the news of this evangelistic revival and monetary crisis appears to lack reasonable probability we have excluded the sensa tional announcement.

At Seafield on Saturday a child of Mr

Edward Oollison was crushed in a hone power. The injuries inflicted on the child were of a most shocking character, and death was instantaneous An inquest was held to-day. A meeting of the Moont Somers School Committee was held on Friday evening Present—Messrs D. Macfarlane (chair man), J. Hood, W. Edson, J. Price, and A Harvey. A letter was read from the North Canterbury Board of Education approving of the appointment of Mr A. Buohler as master.—The Chairman was authorised to communicate with Mr Buchler, and to inform him that the school would re-open on January 4.—Mr Price was authorised to have certain work done on the school grounds, and the Chatman's action in paying salaries was approved o , The social gathering of the Tinwald Gospel Temperance Society was held on Friday evening and passed off most suc cessfully. During the afternoon the members engaged in outdoor sports on ground kindly placed at their disposal by Mr Baxter. The entertainment in the Temperance Hall was of a varied descrip tion and gave the utmost satisfaction to a large audience. The Rev A. Blake, the president of the society, occupied the chair, and opened the meeting with devo tional exercise. The following ladies and gentlemen contributed vocal and instru mental items : —Mrs Biggs, Misesa Lewis, Kidd, Jeff, Messrs Shearer, Dickie, Smith, McKay, McKenzie, Williams, Blake, E. Blake, Dakers, and Dunn. The Chairman and the Rev Mr Harris do livered addresses bearing on the subject of temperance, and refreshments were provided by the lady members of the society. Messrs W. H. Mnith, F. U. Shearer, and H. Bradshaw were appointed to the committee, and votes of thanks were accorded to Miss Kidd for presiding at the harmonium, and to the other ladies for the assistance they had given. The chairman stated that the financial results of the entertainment were eminently satisfactory and would place the society in a solvent position for soma months to come.

“ German Syrup.” —No other medicine in he world was ever given such a test of it erative qualities as Boschee’s German Syrup, In three years two million four hundred thous sand small bottles of this medicine were dis tributed free of charge by Druggists in the United States of America to those afflicted with Consumption, Asthma, Croup, severe Coughs, Pneumonia and other diseases of the throat and lungs, giving the afflicted undeniable proof that German Syrup will cure them. The re sult has been that Druggists in every town nd vllage in civilised countries are recommending it to their customers. Go to your Druggist and ask what they know about it. Sample Bottles 6d. Regular size 3s. 6d. Tbr |pit mr\w 4

CORRESPONDENCE

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

SHEEP STEALING.

To the Editor. Sir, —I read in your valuable paper of the Hon W, Peter very wisely offering a reward for the discovery of sheep stealers. Would it not be to the benefit of other • quattersto follow the hon gentleman’s example by offering a farther reward, and endeavoring to put a stop to the long prac tised game;—lt appears to be no very diffi cult matter in this colony to steal sheep without mnch danger of detection, espe cially to men, owners of email flocks and in possesson of a convenient place to keep them.—l knew of a well-to-do cook atoo being convicted for sheep stealing, thanks to the vigilance of Inspector Pen der He had carried on the game for some years, before his black deads were die covered, but he met with the punishment he so richly merited. It ia possible to play with tbe bull till you get the horns in your arm. I am, etc, Honesty.

DISTRICT COURT.

ASHBDRTON- Today. (Before His Honor Judge Ward.) BANKRUPTCY—ORDERS OP DISCHARGE. Re John Oairncross.—Mr Branson for the bankrupt. —No opposition ; order granted. Ee Henry Knight.—Mr Orisp for tho bankrupt.—No opposition; order granted. Ee Peter Hansen. —Mr Branson for the bankrupt.—No opposition; order granted. Re John Devery.—Mr Crisp for the bankrupt.—No opposition; order granted, PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS Re J. H Raine. —Mr Branson, on be* half of Mr Hammersley, for the bank rupt.—Examination declared closed and next Court day fixed as the time for the bankrupt to make application for hts dis charge. Ee J. S. Savage.—Mr Branson for the bankrupt,- Examination declared closed and next Court day fixed as the time for the bankrupt to make application for bis discharge. assignee’s costs. The Deputy Official Assignee, address* ing His Honor, said he wished to ascer tain whether the Court would withhold orders of discharge from those bankrupts whose estates were insufficient to pay the expenses incurred by the Assignee.—His Honor replied in the negative. The Court then rose.

PULPIT EOHO S.

Carrying out the spirit of a thorough tempeiance service, -he prayers at the Wesleyan Chare - yesterday morning had particular reference to the subject ef total abstinence. I-i U’e opening grayer, sup plica) ion was made for all efforts and or ganisations having for their object the re format! .n of drunkards, and fur those who suffered from the intemperance of their friends. In the course of the concluding prayer, intercession was made for those who trafficked in liquor, and a request preferred chat, having their eyes opened to the sinfumess of their business, publi cans might be led to abandon their trade, for a better mode of livelihood.

The preacher plunged unhesitatingly Into the enemy’s camp, and wielded their moat powerful weapon to discomfort them t he text was the advice given to Timothy —“ Drink no longer water, but use a little wine fur thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.” This passage was often quoted by both moderate and ardent drinkers with much confidence: they fondly imagined that it proved the poaitioo they held. Christianity neither favors ascetic am or licentiousness ; the tendency of human nature is to run to both extreme s Timothy was a teeto taller, and as such was only one of a vast host of those who, for conscience sake, ab stained irom intoxicating d ink. Among such were to be found the N»z irites, Rechabites, Daniel, and maybe, Paul himself, who gave the advice comprised in the text. It was supposed that Timo thy, as a total abstainer, copied the ex ample of St Paul. A total abstinence vow had been registered, and Timothy, who was not of a robust constitution, carried the vow too far, and hence the great apostle prescribed wine. He took wine, not as a beverage, bnt rs a meal cine ; and in modem times, the position or status of a Reohabite or member of any total abstinence society is not assailed when taking alcohol on the advice of his physician.

He (Mr MoNiooll) was not one of those who anathematised alcobolic drink, or desired to sweep it entirely out of the world. It was not altogether a bad thing; it had its uses. Bat its place was the druggist’s shop. la so Paul’s advice to Timothy was spoken under inspiration, and there was a kind of Divine authority for the use of aicoho as a medicine. But it mast be remembered that the wine of Scripture was not the vile ruobish retailed now a-days. Recipes could be had which would manufacture a “ fine old port,” compounded from all sorts of trash, and which never knew the juice of the grape. Timothy was not advised to drink such stuff.

Were men who drink to excess to obtain an analysis of the "doctored” liquors which they daily poured into their stomachs they would be Startled. The wine men tioned in the Bible contained about 20 per cent of alcohol. Dilute! with water this would be reduced to 10 or 7 per cent, and there was as little alcohol in that as there was in a bottle of gingerbeer.

What is right in some ages of the world i B wrong in others. it was his opinion tha*- if the Divine Teacher trod the world now be would be a total abstainer, and ueve r give countenance to drinking cus toms by turning water into wine. Tbe Jews were not addicted to intemperance- On the other hand the British nation, notwithstanding its influence and power, was branded as the most drunken—at tfie game time most religious—nation on the face of the earth: a bitter pill to swallow !

The strongest argument in favor of total abstinence was that laid down by St Paul in 1. Corinthians viii., 13. Self denial was at tbe root of the matter, and no man or woman should claim to be a follower of the saviour who, if the call of duty was clear, would not abstain from drink for his brother’s sake.

Concerning the seller and purchaser of strong driuk, " heil and damnation ” were hurled at the dealer, while the drunkard came in for a large amount of mistaken pity. If be (the preacher) had his way, the man who played ducks and drakes with his money in oriuK, and then aouted and ill-used his family, would bo strapped to a post and receive forty laahes.

Teetbtallors needed the caution that " total abstinence ” did not mske a Chris tian of a man. There was something to be thankful for in reformation, but there were higher and safer grounds to be attained to which he would exhort them to make the additional step.

An open-air service took place last night on the railway reserve, opposite the Somerset Hotel. Brief exhortations were given by the Rev D. McNiooll and Mr G. w. Leadley. It was announced that the ser vices would be continued on fine Sunday evenings during the summer mouths.

MOUNT HUTT ROAD BOARD.

A special meeting of ratepayers of the Mount Hutt Road District was held at tbe Road Board office, Methveo, on Friday to consider a proposal by the Board to close a road near Barrhill. The attend ance was vety limited. Mr Jackson, Chairman of the Road Board occupied the chair, and it was unanimously resolved that the road as shown ou tbe plan pro duced be closed.

immediately alter the above meeting the usual monthly meeting of the Board wes held. Present -Messrs J. Jackson (Chair man), W, McMillan, D. Cameron (Spring field), and 6. .*l. Alington. The Over seer's monthly report was read and ap proved of. Four tenders were received for making cuttings and formation of por tions of a road on the Springfield Estate, and that of R. Patton, being the lowest, was accepted. A letter was received from the Ashburton County Council, asking for return of rates collected and collectable for period ending March Slst next. Re solved the Overseer furnish the return asked for. —The Committee appointed at the last meeting to meet ths Railway En^

gimer with regard to the Railway road reported that they had explained all the circumstances in connection with the road to the Engineer, and he bad promised to forward a definite rep y at an early date. A letter was received from Mr Mere wether, Lake Heron, asking tho Board either to repair the road leading to his homestead or authorise him to have the necessary works done. Resolved to ask Mr Mem wether to furnish the Board with a tracing of the portion of his property in this district showing the road referred to. —lt was resolved that a rata of o|d (one farthing) in the £ be struck for the period ending 31st March, payable in one instalment on the Bth January next.— Accounts amounting to LSO 16a were passed for payment, and after transacting the usual routine business the Board ad journed.

EUROPEAN ITEMS.

London, December 3. It is rsmored that Mr Childers, Chan cellor of (he Exchequer in the Ist e Min istry, who has been defeated for hie former constituency by the Conservative candi date, intends contesting Chatham. The question whether the deposits lodged by colonists in banks in England are legally subject to Income t*x bus been referred to counsel. The opinion given on the' matter is that the banks may be made liable for the collection of the tsz. A letter appears in the Times this morn ing, stating that a p >wvrfut Committee rs being formed for th purpose of opposing the sbipping ring, which is endeavoring to maintain high frieghtage rates to Australia.

The management of the Bank of South Australia are taking steps to promote a Bill to extend the charter of the institu tion, and enable it to trade In London. Mr Gladstone is jnbilaut at the tarn the elections have taken. t ddressing a meet ing of his constituents in Midlothian last i evening, he alluded to the proposal that has been made for a anion of the Tory and Moderate Liberal members in the House of Commons, and expressed himself as totally opposed to such a union, which, morever, he describes as impossible. Mr Richard Lalor, orother of Mr Peter Lalor, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly in Victoria, who represented Queen's County as a Home Baler In the last Parliament, has been re-elected. London, December 4.

Harold George Parsons, who was until recently a student of the Church ot Eng land Grammar School in Melbourne, baa gained one of the five Wadham Scholar ships at Oxford. Mr Boraiily, Deputy High Commissioner, will be temporarily appointed High Com missioner of New Guinea, in succession to the late Sir P. Soratohley. It is regarded as probalbe that Mr Thnrstan will be offered the appointment. London, December 6. Lord Harrington, speaking at Matlock, in Derbyshire, condemned Mr Chamber lain’s extreme views, and ascribed the de feat sustained by the Liberal candidates for Boroughs to the colourless programme issued by Mr Gladstone. In consequence of Servia having de clined to p»y an indemnity for the invas ion of Bulgaria, Prince Alexander has an nounced that he will resume hostilities. London, December 7-

The statement that Sir J. Gorst, Solicitor-General, was to be appointed successor to Sir M. Lopes as J edge of the Queen’s Bench Division of the High Court of Justice, has proved to be premature. Samuel Grey, who has been arrested in Ireland on a charge of embezzling L3OO belonging to the Portland branch of the Union Bank, Victoria, a year ago, has been remanded nntil January, pending the arrival of further information. Bail has been refused.

Messrs Tyson and Co., who are en* gaged in an effort to break down the Australasian shipping ring monopoly, are nsing every effort to achieve their purpose, and state that they are resolved to perse vere so long as the slighest prospect of final success remains.

SPORTING.

BAK&IA rapes. The following handicaps have been de clared for the Time Trot at the Rakaia Sports Meeting to be held on Boxing Day : Poll]! ... scr Larrikin ... 20seo Kate (Kerr’s) scr Weka ... 35seo Jessie ... 15s»o Maggie ... 36sec Kate(Ward’a) Is»ec Beauty ... 40seo Unction ... ISaeo Barley ... 75i00 Aspasia ... 15seo

TIN WALD-WIN SLOW RAO 38. The following nominations have been received for the handicaps to be run at the New Year’s Day Meeting Handicap Hurdles Mr J. Worner a Wrangler Mr J. Dawson’s Why Not Mr J O rbitt's Captain Mr J. 0. N. Grlgg’s Zanetta Mr L. Markey’a Dan O’Brien Mr A McLeod’s Gold Dust. Cop. Mr J. Grice’s Mountain Dear Mr J. Lewis’s Lass Mr J. Worner’a Wrangler Mr J. Thompson’s 'amelia Mr J Oorbitt’s Oaptain Mr J. Moorhead’s Bag Shot (late, if So) Mr J. 0. N. Grigg’s Misfortune (late Fraud) Mr R. Hick’s Lady Florence Mr B. Hlok’s Tramp Mr 8. Alexander’s Orsnmec Mr A. McLeod's Brown Bose. Trotting Handicap. Mr J. M. Thompson’s Wakanul Mr J. W. Mcßae’s Jane Mr J. Moffat’s Larrikin Mr M. Dtgby’s Kate Mr O. Digby’s Bijou Mr L. Msrkey’a Queenie Mr D. Tippett’s Lass Mr F. Standiah’a Lady Grey Mr Ivory’s Midnight Mr R. Hick’s Alma

NEWS BY THE SAN FRANCISCO MAIL.

GENERAL SUMMARY. A special staff of Irish constables, organ ised in London early in the dynamite scare, haa been ordered back to Ireland, as their services are no longer needed. The London Exchange Telegraph Oo received a telegraph despatch from Paris on November 21, stating that the French Government had resolved to terminate the Madagascar expedition. It was mentioned that in all probability the French troops wonld also soon be withdrawn from Ton qoln. A free fight occurred io a political meet ing held by the Conservatives, at Burton, on November 14, In which Mr Charles Allsop, M.P., who presided, was beaten almost oat of recognition.

The case, Adams v the Lord Chief Jus tice Coleridge, came up on November 10, in the Court of Q aeon’s Beach, but Sir Henry James begged the Court to allow au adjournment, on the plea that an understanding had been arrived at ontside the Court. Adams is to receive a large snm for damages and costs. The suit was brought by him on account of a libellous letter written by the Hon Bernard Cole ridge, but inspired by the Lord Chief Jnstioe himself.

IRISH MATTERS. Owing to recent civilian attacks, a large party of the King's Royal Riflea broke out of Limerick barracks on the night of No vember 10, and made an indiscriminate attack upon the people residing In the vicinity. Several were badly injured, and the disturbance was with difficulty qnelled. The soldiers were conveyed back to the barracks by the police. Earl Carnarvon declined to interfere with the conviction of eleven men charged with conspiracy to murder an obnoxious landlord. Five of them ware given seven years, the rest six and twelve months* im prisonment A London telegram of November 8 atys a movement of great importance is being quietly organised among .the various So cieties of Irishmen. It is proposed to form a vase federation, comprising all the repre sentatives of organised labor in Ireland, for the sola purpose of keeping out of the country all goods of British manufacture with the exception of such as Ireland ia Unable, to .produce, The movjayuQt ia nwiy by Mfc&w Writ*, |ad

a deputation waited oc Mr Para ell to ee» core bia approval and that of the Iruh National League. Great excitement was oanaed at Killai ney on November 8, by the auction rf e number of cattle that had been seized for non payment of rent. Bepresentativea of the National League bought the animate in for L6O. father O'Connor aude a speech, in which he encouraged the pea a .iota, 2,000 <>t whom were present, bat advised them against a breach of the peace. Three hundred tenant farmers, of Youehal County Oork, demanded 85 per cent reduction of t eir rents. The land* lords* < ffer of 16 per cent redaction was rejected, and the tenants deposited the rent money they proposed to pay in the banka j y At Oarriok-on-Sair on November 14MI mob of 2,000 persona, armed with pltchT* forks and scythes, expelled the police, who were trying to serve writs of eject* meat.

AMEBIDAN SUMMARY. The agent of the Zealand!* claimed the right to carry the English mails to the Colonies, alleging that the contract had not expired. The agent of the New Zea land Government in San Franobci notified the postal authorities to place the mails aboard the Alameda. This was done, the agent of the Zealsndia formally protest lug, and threatening to bold be Now Zealand Government responsible for dam* ages. The Chinese Ambassador denies that the Chinese Government have granted any concessions for making railroads. Mrs Parnell, mother of the agitator, is stamping the United States in favor of the Parliamentary Fund. -

Ferdinand Ward, General Grant’s part ner, has been sentenced to 10 yegrr im prisonment. John SnlHvsn, the pugilist, starts for Australia in April. A crusade against the liquor business in the United states, under Catholic aus pices, is threatened by the Pope’s endorse meat of the Anti-liquor Decree of the American Plenary Connell. There ia a great revival of the American iron trade, and the mills are active. The Freetrade Conference in Chicago was largely attended. The Rev, Mr Beecher denounced Protection as of the devil.

Rodrigues, who accompanied De Les seps to Panama, has published a book in New York fail of damaging oritioiama re* gardiog the CanaL He declares the scheme has already coat L 20,000,000 sterling, and ia doomed to inevitable failure. The Economist Frangaise warns its country* men that the whole concern is 1 on the verge of probable bankruptcy,- and the collapse will be the most terrible of the nineteenth century- ■'

Opposition to vaccination continues In Montreal and Toronto, and: smallpox con* tinues its ravages. It has aUo spread to Prince Edward Island. Forty-one cases ace reported in Charlotte Town. Civil war continues to rage in Peru.

THE BALKAN DISPUTE. The Ambassadors of the Powers at Con* atantimple reached, on November 10, a unanimous decision, recommending the complete autonomy of Bulgaria and Ron melia. The revolution by which the union of the two States was effected is con sidered an accomplished fact. The Roa* sian demand for the removal of Prince Alexauder was agreed to. The British opposition to the removal was also over* come by an offer of the vacant throne to Prince Henry of Battenbnrg, 41ex»ndor’s youngest brother, and husband of Princess Beatrice. Germany, however, objected to Prince Henry, but would consent to a substitution of Prince Lonis, PrioeeAlex* ander’s brother, djw in the British Nayy, and the latter ia regarded as the probaWks choice of Roumaha. Theßusslan AnwaSk. aador was ordered by bis Government to press the demands of Russia before the Conference, for the immediate disarma ment of Servia, Greece and Bulgaria. The North German Gazette maintains that the fact that Servia has declared wee against Bulgaria will nor alter the pros pects of the Balkan Conference. Later despatches pot a different aspect on the state of things at the scene of ho utilities. The fortune of wsr had turned in favor of the Bulgarians. They had gained so many victories that the Servians despaired. The most brilliant was Slivnitza, where the Bulgarians forced the Servian right wing back at- the point of the bayonet for several miles, with great loss. This turn in the tide of affaire is said to be doe to Prince Alexander's brother, Francis Joseph, and other ex- German army officers, coming Into tha Bulgarian army. Prince Alexander was in the thick of the battle from beginning to end.

All advices received In London, on November 23, tend to confirm the report that England, as well aa the teat of Europe, ia sickening at the details of the bloodshed in Bulgaria. Terrible atrodtiea are related, among others, that the Ser* viaoa attacked the third Bulgarian regiment while escorting ah ambulance train, and bayonetted aQ the prisoners. Both King Milan and Prince Alexander are said to have been wounded In the fights. The Bulgarian victories have worked a sudden change in Austrian opinion, and Prince Alexander has grown very popular in Ministerial circles.

The French take little interest in the conflict. Few Frenchmen have any Idea ■ where Bulgaria is. Probably King Milan will be disauadaa from attacking Sofia, even if he were able to do so, against the present prestige of Bulgarian arms. The hope is strong in official cirolss that the Oonlereuce now sitting will secure peace. It Is generally believed that the ma jority of Servian officers, sud the rsnk and file of the army, are favorable to the Bulgarians. Tab Latest.

The New York Serailda Constantinople cablegrams uy thi Conference baa con* eluded ita labors, but it will probably not dissolve formally, bo aa to foe ready to assemble should acy further question arte out of the Commission charged with the revision of the organic status of Eastern Bonmelia. To this, however, not the slightest opposition is anticipated. Latest accounts from Eastern Roamelia tend toshow that the people are thoroughly disgusted with the present state of affairs, and will readily welcome a Turkish Oom missioner. Le will probably be either a Mussulman or a Christian in tbs service of the Forte. A personage of neutral origin will doubtless be chosen, to avoid possible offence to the susceptibilities of the Creeks and the Slavs.

London, November 22. A despatch from Athena to the Stan* dard says: -Turkey is inclined to force a conflict with Greece before the latter baa completed her preparations for war. Advices from Zatibrod state that the weather there is terribly severe. The Dragoman Pass is blocked with snow, and the roads across the mountain* ara im passable. The Arina division forced ita way through, afters hand-to-hand struggle in Saturday’s fight, and Joined the main army before Slivoitza Orders have been sent to Belgrade to delay the formation of the second Reserve Division, as it is not needed-atpresent. King Milan moat yield or be deposed.

THE BURMESE WAR. Lx France makes a vialent attack on England, saying the British expedition.to Burnish is ready aimed at France, Mid urges M. de ffreycinet to ante with Russia t® a(jp Boglaud’e territorial a^reo^i*

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 1885



Wanted. W' ANTED Known The Cheapest House in Town for first class Millinery and Drapery, H. 0. Skgev.s, East street. ■s \ r ANTED to dispose of a first-olas V\ Furniture Bu iiiesa fronting on East street and Tanrrea street. —J. Masch 12 105 . u ANTED—Tenders f< r Harvesting Vs (with tiltar)ab ut 120 acres wrasa, at t-oottsden J. Fobxb... 12 G 3 POTATOES! POTATOES ! 1 ___ R. S. Bkan has a few more sacks of potatoes on baud for sale. — R. S. Bean, Wtat street. 12170 WANTED KNOWN — Robxbt 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 promptl) attended to 76* ■ ANTED Known- Orders for Christ W mas and New Year’s Cake art. being booked at the lowest possible price, by W. Nokkish, Preotrade Bakery, East street, Aahburton. ,



Fruit just arrived by steamer, j\ new currants, 5d per lb ; new rai sins, 7d per lb; new sultanas, 8d per lb ; new tigs, 8d per box; white sugar, d 3 per lb; mixed biscuits, 6d per lb ; fresh but ter, 7d —at McGbeoob a, Tapered street. WANTED Known — Down again 1 What, the price of wheat! No But the price of meat- Lamb, fore quarters, 2s 6d; hind quarters, 3s 6d. Best sausagea in the tuwu, 5d per id, at Baker and Dos, London Butchery, Tail ored street. H 971 WANTED Known — That aas as a*u 1 Go. has bought 1009 yards superior Velveteen, all shades, from Is; dress goods graud value, worm 2s, now la; lauies* jackets, cost 26s 6d, now 4s 6d ; hats and bonnets half-price ; winceys, 1 yard wide, 6d ; ladies' ulsters, 2s lid. 637 WANTED Known—That R. Lancas ter, will cot his family orders direct from the Freezing Chamber, in East street, on and after November 1, when his customers can rely on well-hung meat and tree from flyblows.— R. Lan caster, Beady-Money Moat Mart, Bur nett street, and Somerset Butchery, East street. 9 && WANTED Known—Wertheim hew ing Machines can be had on Time Payments at the New Zealand Clothing Factory's Branch, East street, Ashburton 227 b WANTED Known—To the Ladies of Ashburton and sunonnding dis tricts and the public in general. Mr J. Moiuon, Impermeable Bootmaker, has re ceived a large shipment cf French, Eng lish and German ladies’ shoes, buttoc up and elastic sides, great choice, now for inspection, which J. Moison intends dis posing of at reasonable rates auriug the coming holidays. Bis own make always on hand or made .to order. Repairing done with care and promptitude. Colo nial boots ot all kinds. Next to the Club, lanoreii stieet, Ashburtuu. 10 880



Special Advertisements. B A KG A-IN.—First o.ass English Lever Chronograph STaP WATCH ; Cheap. J, SALIiiK) Pawnbroker, 12 148 hast street. Boating, AMu SCEMERY. an WEDN eSDaY NeXT (December 2), the undersigned WILL OPEN b.s ex tensive grounds, on the Wakanui road, to visitors and picnic parties- The Garden la replete with every variety of fruit, plea sant lounges and shady wal&s. The boat ing is in every respect excellent. Special arrangements made for the reception of private picnic parties, school children ana other large numbers of visitors. Admission, 6d; boating, Is an hour, boatman extra ; fresh fruit, lowest price. 11 78 H. HUM T. Bees. Bees. Bees. WaX WaX. WaX. HIVES. UiYifio. HIVES. From is 6d each at the Steam Sash, Door and Cabinet Works, Wakanui road, Ashburton. T. E. XILWUkTH, 11 31 Proprietor. JMPORTANT. ino Francisco Mail leaves Ashbnrton November 7tb, and reaches Loudon about December 18th, and ad who wish to re member their Home friends had better apply to T. F. FARL'- Y, Bookseller, Stationer, Printer, and Newsagent, Saunders’ Buildings, Ashburton, FOR CHRISTMAS CARDS 1 ohristmaS cards j i Christmas cards i : 1



TOWLE’S pennyroyal and steel pills for females quickly all Irregnlari ties and relieve thedistreat Ag symptoms so prevalent with the sex. Boxes Is lsd and 2s 9d, of all chemists. Prepared only by E. T. Towle, chemist, Nottingham, Eng land. Wholesale of all the wholesale Bouses.“-Beware of imitations. 1 12



partnership notice. Thu; undersigned has much pleasure in stating that he has admitted Mr JOHN ANDREW MAOPHBRSON into Partnership with him, and that the bus! ness will in future be carried on under the style or firm of * ZODOH & MAOPHERSON, Auctioneers, Land, Estate and Stock telwmw, Valn«toi.jeto^ Auctioneer. Every description of Agency Business, ales In Town and Country, Valuations «od Commissions undertaken on the most seasonable terms. The usual Saturday Market Sales will be ms'ie as attractive as possible, and farmers may rely upon their stock and produce realising the HIGHEST MARKET VALUE, at a minimum coat. No yard ees charged whan sales are effected. ZOUCH & MACPHtRSON AUCTION EE R 3, &o. BKWAREI BEWARE!! OF IMITATIONS. ASK FOE HOULT’S TONIC ilerbal JtJeer. None Genuine except that bearing my label. Try it! Try it! llt »• one °* ® eat 1 Medicinal and Summer Tonics ever offered to tbe Public. Delivered in Ashburton at 2s per doz*-* Bottles not returned will be charged f >r. T. HOULT, BAST STREET, ASHBURTON. US Groceries CHEAPER THAN EVER AT JAMES McGREGOR’S, Tascbbd SmW {opposite the Arcade). Be* White Crystal Sugar, 3d per lb by the mat Beat English Cat Loaf Sugar, Aid per lb Be*. Tea, from 12s fid per hot a mnd mortment of new tin Fiat—- Herrings ia Shrimp, Tomato or Tenoel Sanet.* Kippered, Spiced or Devil d HerringsDigby Chicks or Findon Haddocks, at Is per tin Nresh Herrings, 7d. Best Oysters, fid Muir’s Oatmeal, 3s 9d per ba g I, 8d Bast Gutting Brand, 9d Mackerel, lOd Sardines, fid Pnffaiaaa new Figs, 9d per box _ Cadbury’s Cocoa, Is per tin Biscuit#, 3d Cheese, fid ■p n ». Bice, Sago and Tapioca, 3d per lb i jfry't Cocoa, tin or packet, Is fid per lb I JAM v S MoGREGOR, { : Steeal Ul 9i



A splendid assortment is now open, and inspection is solicited. bOflOuL, TiUZclb— A large shipment having just come to baud, cboui Committees are respect fully requested to make an eany selection Thomas T’. T'arley, BOuKSELIis-K. JiTO. f Corner of »aandera* Building, Ashburton



Special Advertisements. 1%/FOUNT HUTT ROAD BOARD Ji. DISTRICT. Notice ia hereby given that it is the ion of the Mount Hutt Road board t iti next meeting, on F IDAY, De cember 11, to Strike a Rate of Qd) one farthing in the £ on all the rateable pro perty in the District for the period ending Mi.rch 31, 1886, and payable in one in aU mem on January 8, 1886. »be Rate book ia open for ir spectioo at the Road Board Office, Methven. JULIAN JaOKSON, Chairman. Mount Hutt Road Board Office, Methven, November 26, 1886. II 6 FOR Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis, Asthma, Coryza, Influenza, Con sumption, etc. K AST'S Compound of Linseed, Ani seed, Senega, Squill, Tolu, et-, with Chlcrodyne. KAY'S Compound, a demulcent ex pectorant, for Coughs, Colds and Or test Complaints. KAY’S Compound, for Coughs and Golds, is equally serviceable for Horses and Cattle. KAY’S Tic Pills, a specific in Neu ralgia, Face Ache, etc. Contains Quinine, Iron, etc. COAGULINB Cement for Broken Articles. Sold everywhere. Sole makers—| KAY BROS., 101 Stocknort, 'England Changed Hands! BRANCH SHOP, TOWN HALL, Ashburton.



THE BOOK & STATIONERY Business lately carried on by Messrs EL J. Wood and Co, of Christchurch, has been purchased by me, and at a price con siderably below original cost; this will give my many patrons an opportunity of ob taining a number of requisites at GREATLY REDUCED PRICES. STATIONERY,—SpeciaI care is given to all orders. Promptitude guaranteed. M MANUFACTURE of ACCOUNT BOOKS Having made arrangements with a first data firm for the execution of all Com* missions as described above, clients may rely upon receiving PROMPT ATTENTION, first class work being made a specialty. LITERATURE. Any book not in stock will be procured without delay. Orders taken for all news* papers (British and Foreign included), Public Committees receiving liberal con cessions . 1 ■ PRINTING. This branch is b ing fostered, and every attention paid to accuracy, neatness, and promptitude in the execution of all orders, all work receiving personal superintend ence —— DELIVERY OF NEWSPAPERS. Customers may rely upon receiving their Morning and Evening Papers stfely de livered at their doors, and not upon the front lawn. The same remanc applies to Home Papers, Journals, and Periodicals ; also, purchasers may have their Parcels delivered promptly. Wholesale Lines lways in Stock. Brown Paper, Grocer's Bags, Tea Papers, Twine, and tradesmen’s general requisites. Bookbinding Orubrs Received. £. b’. Farley, BOOKSELLER, STATIONER, PRINTER & NEWSAGENT, Saunders’ Buildings and Town Hall, Ashburton. rjl H K NEW ZEALAND Olotbing Factory CONTRACTORS To m ' j New Zealand Government Rail | ways. Post Offices, Volunteer Corps, &o, &o. <Vc. I ft Are now prepared to enter Into contracts lot the supply of j NAVAL AND MILITARY UNIFORMS in any quantities, the organisation of the Factory being specially adapted for turning out large supplies in the most Inexpensive and expeditious manner. ARMY AND NAVY CONTRACTORS Estimates and drawings supplied on the shortest notice. Head Offices and Factory— DOWLING STREET, DUNEDIN. NOTE -Measures for all uniforms may he entrusted to the Manager of the N.Z. Clothing Factory branches in the follow ing centres, via:— Dunedin Nelson Palmeraton N. Invercargill Hokitika New Plymouth »amarn Greymonth Napier Waimate Reefton Waipawa Timaru Wellington Bastings Ashburton Masterton Gisborne Christchurch Wanganui Thames Lyttelton Hawera Auckland



Victorian Steam Carriage Works. J. R. STEEL & SOM WISH to intimate to the Public of Ashburton and surrounding districts that, having obtained STB AM POWER and other Machinery requisite for the carrying on theii w >rk efficiently, are now in a position to meet the demands of the public with a first-class article at prices to suit the times. Every description of Carriages nnd Traps made, Painted and Repaired. Spring Traps from £2O. Whitechapels from £25. Buggies from £3O. P.B.—Special attention paid to Repainting and Retrimming. VICTORIAN STEAM IRON WORKS AND GENERAL SHOEING FORGE. J. R. S. & SON, while thanking the public for their past liberal support in this department, beg to Intimate that, having procured first-class Machinery, they are now in a position to undertake all kinds of Engineering work. Special attention is given to Turning, Boring and the Repairing of all kinds of Machinery, including Combines, Engines, Reaper and Binders and every description of Agricultural Implements. ESTIMATES given for Contractors and Builders Ironwork. HORSES CAREFULLY HOD—Draughts, 7s; Hacks, 6s. 8 415 “ " Victoria House. S'i BAND D I S T R IBUTION OF BOHEMIAN GLASS VASES, Etc., To Purchasers of Farce’s amounting to IEN SHILLINGS AND ONE POUND. c tides to be Exhibited in Wirdowa in a few days. Presents equal to a reduction of THREE SHILLINGS IN THE POUND, to be distributed upon arrival. Dimaut and Coe, GENERAL drapers, clothiers, Y™. Em* Tanoied SUaqfai, Aahtiwten



Special Advertise meats. SHB RTOH GOAL iiega to inform the inhabitants of Ash burton that he still continues to deliver NEWCASTLE. WiiSTPOBT, AND BROOKFIELD OOaL at lowest rates. Firewood, Post and Kails, Stases Kto., Potatoes Chuff, Cato, B.an, Sharps, Etc FIREWOOD DEPOT. AND Eu 8r Bean R. S. BEAN, 8 419 West street.



ÜBLIO NOTICE. MESSRS SPENSLEY & 00., Music Warehousemen, CHRISTCHURCH, Have appointed T. F. Farley, Book seller, Stationer and Printer, Ashburton, their agent for the sale of Pianos, Harmoniums, American Organs, and have supplied him with a large stock of Sheet Mnsio, comprising the latest and most popular Songs, Duets, Piece Music, Dances, etc.; also, Violins, Cornets, Flutes, Aocordians, Violin Bows, Concer tinas, etc. Pianos, American Organa and | Harmoniums sold upon deferred pay ments. Easy terms granted. A splendid stock now on view at T. F. Fasmt’s Music Warehouse, Saunders’s Buildings, Ashburton. More thaii 3,000 sheets of music now on hand. 8 288 Australian mercantile UNION INSURANCE COMPANY. Thk onia Company in Canterbury WHICH DID NOT RAISE RATES 33J PER cent on Country Rises. We arcs wow, as we have been por THE Fast three years, accepting rises AT 25 PER CENT OFF TARIFF. W. B. MOSS, Agent for Ashburton District. September 22, 1885. 9 615 HAVING purchased the Asphalting Plant and Business formerly carried on by Mr James Bradley, 1 am in a posi tion to execute any orders I mey bp favored with. All asphalt work guaranteed. Ranges taken out and re-set in the bea possible manner, Jobning work in gene ral done. OPPOSITE UOiN VENT, Wakanni Road, orders may be left with Mr J. 0. Duncan, Old New Zealand Bank. 10 799 J. Cram,



CHRISTMAS 1 Bazaar! Bazaar!! NOW OPENED. Table of Articles from Id to 4d. The Wonderful 6d Table. The Marvellous One shilling Table. Please observe in the room next to my Present Shop. NEW BOOKS suitable for rewards and presentations conveniently arranged on Tables—Reduced Christmas Prices—Free Admission—Everybody come and wel come. "■ R. Bevau, STATIONER, BOOKSELLER, Ac., (Next Shop t<> Quill’s Hotel), Saundbes’ Buildings.



Wilhelm Zander Respectfully notifies the public of Ashburton and its vicinity that he HAS TAKEN OVER MR F. CLARK’S hairdressing, tobacco, and FANCY GOODS BUSINESS, And will carry on the same on his own account. In addition to the well assorted stock 1 have just opened out a variety of Pipes, Scents, Bkushwabe, and Fancy Goods of Every I'EscttipxxoN, ALL DIRECT IMPORTED, Also, Cricketing and Lawn Tennis Matkeial at greatly REDUCED PRICES, A trial solicited.—Ladies’ and Gentle* men’s Hairdressing and Hair Work of every description made up on the shortest notice.—A Private Room for wadies.— Monthly subscriptions now open. WILHELM ZANDER, Tobacconist, Hairdresser, and Fancy Goods Dealer, EAST STREET, AaHBDJRTON. 11 997



Force of habit—Oare is required in the formation of habit, seeing its important bearing on character. Many characters are spoiled through inattention to the most ordinary and simple matters Some drink tea and coffee from mere force of habit, "because it is usual to do so,” 'regardless of the panally oftentimes of nervousness and indigestion. Cadbury’s Cocoa Essence contains the refreshing properties of tea and coffee, with additional advantagess over those beverages, whilst it produce none of their iojoricme eflMtfr



Don't Die in the House. “ Rough on Rats ” clears out rats, mice, beetles, roaches bed-bugs, flies, ants, insects, moles, jack rabbits, gophfs.ers. The N.Z. Drug Co General Agen I Now money is so scarce it behoves every one to be on the alert and endeavor,to make there twenty shillings go as far as possible. One t>lapce at H. E. MAY AND Co.’s advertise ment, which appears in our columns this event ing, should convince one and all that the pfOt prietors of The Hall, High street, Christ church, are determined to do their part. The S rices quoted for the various items are, we be eve, lower than on any preir tus occasion, and should iadnee all buyers ofDiap iv and Cloth ingtogjw