COMMERCIAL.

Ashburton Guardian Office, Saturday afternoon, Messrs Miles and Co. (J. T. lord, auc tioneer) report on the Tinwald live stock market as follows We have again to report alight entry at the Tinwald Saleyards. Fat merino wethers brought from 9s to 93 4.! ; good stores ditto, up to 7s each ; i.f nor, 5s tots 6d r fat crossbred ewes, ns each; for '"“'ward : crossbred wethers brought no to 12s each; ewes and wethers, mixed, up to 12s 3d each; old crossbred ewes in good condition lnitable for producing another crop of lambs, up to 10s 6d each ; crossbred lambs brought 8s 6d and 8s gd. In cattle there is no change to note from previous sales—same apathy prevailing throughout the day j in fact, , the attendance was small, and we do not ex pect trade in any way more brisk until the har gathered, when as feed will be more plentiful it will doubtless bring about more competition, and ewes for breeding purposes, both merino and crossbreds, will be in good demand, while through the autumn and winter the price of fat sheep will be ruled mainly by the number prepared for export, and farmers will do well to foster the frozen meat trade, at least sufficiently to keep prices even. Our r gales for various clients were equal to the above quotations. Privately we have p’aced a large fine of ewes and lambs, a number of catfe and fat lambs, at satisfactory prices; also, 1,000 merino wethers. ____

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 1885.

There was not a large attendance at the public meeting held in the Town Hall last night to devise means for the enter* tainment of the excursionists expected to visit Ashburton on the 26th instant. After a long but not very animated dis cussion, it was ultimately determined to allow the committee appointed by the Cricket Club to arrange a programme of amusements. The proposals made by that Committee appear in another column. We understand that the Volunteer Easter encampment will be held this year at Winchester.

“ Sit Launcelot ” in the Referee says— “ The programme . of the Geraldine Racing Club’s Autumn Meeting has been forwarded to me. This is the first autumn prcg ammae put forwa-d by the Club, and as they have cioaen for their first day the same date as that on which the Ashburton Autumn Meeting con cludes their new venture is hsrily likely to prove a success.

The following statements of assets and liabilities have been filed :—Oairncross, John, contractor, of Tinwald.—Liabili ties Unsecured Ashburton : J. W. Hampton, L 3; Charles Reed, Ll 5; Jones and Bradshaw, L 24 6s 3d ; Thomas Bullock, i 55 ; F. Ferriman, L 26 18s 10J; D. Cairncross, L 54 5s 8d ; J Murray, LI 16s 6d ; T. McLeod, LI; sundries, 14a. Christchurch; G G. Stead L 65 ; total unsecured, L 247 Is 3d. Secured— Ashburton; Friedlander Bros, L 35, by bill of sale over horse. Laghmor: John McLean, L 251, by lien and lease over crop, Christchurch :P. and D. Duncan LB, hy bailment ova* plough ; total se cured, L 294 ; total liabilities, L 541 Is 3d. Assets —Book debts, estimated to produce Ll 3; lease of 150 acres land and crop therson at estimated value L 562 10s ; two horses and plough, L 39 ; total, L6os|los; surplus, L 648 8s 9d Madderu, William, commission agent, of Ashburton. Liabilities Ashburton : James Smith, L 6 9s; Marsh, L 3 ; John Moiaon, L2 18a ; R, S. Bean, LI 14s; Tucker and Rested, LI 14s ; Dimant and Coe, LI; John Baker, Lssa ; Scott and Newman, LI 10s. Christchurch : Hobbs and Co, L 3. England : Thomas Braddell, Lll 4s ; sundries, LI 13a 8d ; total, LB9 7s Bd. Assets—Book debts, LI; furni ture, L 3; total, L 4; deficiency, L 35 7s Bd.

A number of persons dissatisfied with the arrangements proposed by the Com mittee appointed by the Cricket Club for the entertainment of the excursionists ex pected to visit Ashburton on kGth instant, are taking active steps to provide further attract'ona in the domain. Subscriptions for this purpose amounting to a very sub stantial sum have already been received. We believe that the costume cricket match and other sports advertised in this issue to take place in the Domain, will be carried out even if a more pretentious programme cannot be submitted. The good weather is having its effect upon the auction sales held in Ashburton every Saturday. As most of our farmers are busy reaping their grain there was to day but few of them and their families in the salerooms, and of course there were but few sales to farmers; but, not withstanding, good prices were realised. To day the weather has been after all of a sort to suit the farmer. At about 12 o’clock the sky wore a very threatening aspect, and for a few minutes a heavy shower fell. Subsequently the sun shone through and the clouds wore away. The afternoon Was excessively warm, and the meterological indications are of the right sort for a continuation of excellent harvest weather.

To-day was the anniversary of St. Valentine’s and a large num ber of valentines passed through the Ashburton post-office. The police offi cers have come in for a fair share of attention in this direction, and pre sumably most of the young bachelor in the town have been honored with valentine attentions. One {unfortunate journalist has received no less than six of the peculiar billets dome passed through the post-office or otherwise on the 14th, but as we saw him alive and well to-day, we take it he still survives. About 3,000 valentines, a telegram tells us, passed throgh the post-office at Christchurch. Some excellent samples of locally grown fruit, including apricots, apples, pears and plums have been on view to-day at Mr W. O. Davis’s, fruiterer, East street.

That husband of mine is three times the man he was before he began using “ Wells Health Renewer.” Druggists. The N.Z Drug Co., General Agents. 2

August Flower.—The most miserable beings in the world are those suffering from dyspepsia and liver complaint. More than 7S 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, heart burn, 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. It costs only 3s 6d a bottle. Sample bottles, 6d.—lAnvr. Holloway’s Pills. Liver Complaints.—The digestion cannot be long so seriously disordered without the de rangement being perceptible on the counten ance. These pills prevent both unpleasant consequences ; they improve the appetite and with the increase of desire for food, they augment the powers of digestion and assimila tion in the stomach. Holloways Pills deal moat satisfactorily with deranged or diseased conditions of the many organs engaged in ex tracting nourishment for our bodies from our various diets—as the liver, stomaoh, and bowels, over all of which they exercise the most salutary control. By resorting at an early stage of this malady to these purifiying and laxative Pills, the dyspeptic is speedily restored to health and strength, and his ssllownesa gradually vanishes, —[Advt.]

METEOROLOGICAL READINGS.

The following are the meteorological readings at Alford Station for the week ending Friday, February 13, 1885: Shade Date. Min. Max. Max. Observations. Feb. 7 50. 82. 148. Fine ~ 8 50. 72. 139. Fine „ 9 51- 74 r - Fine ~ 10 50. 74- 14 8 Fine „ n 50. 69. 145. Fine ~ 12 50. 60. 80. Rain ~13 55. ' 68. 1 140. Fair

CROPS.

Wakauui. I The southern portion of the Wakauui Road Board district—the strip of fertile land lying between tbe Wakanui Creek and the Ashburton river—will this year amply sustain the character for fruitful ness it established in tbe early days of Ashburton agriculture. But although the general appearance of the wheat is good there are a few crops which have proved disappointing, and we anticipate that threshing will reveal a smaller average yield than that of last year. The oats are generally very heavy crops, and the yield will be considerably better than that of last year. Messrs Chalmers Brothers, as usual, have really splendid crops. Their wheat an<j oats will yield about 60 and 70 bushels to the acre respectively. Mr John Harrison has a small paddock of very heavy oats. Mr Malcolm Miller’s wheat is a magnificent sight, and has seldom been equalled even in this prolific district; hia o da will also exceed 60 bushels tc the acre The crips of Messrs Cochrane, Protheroe, Leatham, Maxwell, Brankin, Paterson, . Thomas and Leady are all ex optionally fi,;e. Mr David Johnston has no wheat hut a splendid promise of oats, and Messrs Coe. James Wilson, Black, Edwin Thomas, Hill, James Brown, Meredith Wilson, Thompson, Innes, Lownie, Clep hane, Brown, BonTant, Lemon, Lamb, and McLean Bros will all harvest retnun erative crops of both cereals. The sowing of barley is small, 'but the yield will bt rather better than that of last seson. For the season of 1884 we estimated the results from this division as follows —4,000 acres of wheat, 39 bushels pei acre, 156,000 bushels; 2,100 acres of oats 29 bushels per acre, 60,900 bushels ; 50( acres of barley, 26 bushels per acre, 13,00( bushels.

For the current season wa have formed the following estimate:—4,loo acres of wheat, 35 bushels per acre, 143,500 bushels; 1 800 acres of oats, 40 bushels per acre, 60,000 bushels; 350 acres of bar ley, 30 bushels per were, 10,500 bushels.

Rangitata. Last year the official retu-ns for the Rangitata Road Board district were: 2,953 acres, 62 995 bushels of wheat ;

2,217 acres, 87,260 bushels of oats; 123 acres, 1700 bushels of barley. These returns showed a slight decrease upon the return of wheat for the preceding vear ; and as regards acrea e, there is a further retrogression this season, although the yields will be considerably better There is little difference to note in oats, but the acreage and yield of barley have expanded. The following are our estimates for the current season 2.000 acres of wheat, 25 bushels per acre, 50,000 bushels; 2.500 acres of oats, 30 bushels per acre, 75,000 bushels ; 300 acres of bailey, 20 bushels per acre, 6,000 bushels.

Upper Ashburton.' We have already referred to the Ash burton Forks, Winchraore, Dromore and Lauriston divisions of the Upper Ashbur ton district. The remaining portions, Laghmor and Westetfield, have less in crop this year than usual, and they bear nothing calling for particular notice. We may therefore at once summarise the Upper Ashburton Road Board district. Last season its official record was :

15,624 acres, 271,960 bushels of wheat ; 2,910 acres. 86,260 bushels of oats ; 513 acres, 11,834 bushels of barley. This year we estimate it to produce :—12,000 acres of wheat, 22 bushels per acre, 264,000 bushels; 6,000 acres of oars, 30 bushels per acre 180,000 bushels ; 800 acres of barley, 20 buahels per acre, 16,000 buahels.

Bakaia 8 outh. [From Our Own Correspondent ] In the South Bakaia and Cherts-y dis tricts this year the area of grain sown is vo-y much less than last. Many farmers have sown down with grass, having realised that continue us cropping did not pay, and also that with sUch weather as was experienced last year and the bad price, the risk was not worth running. Taking the grain crops in the district as a whole, they are looking well, and if the present weather continues there will be a ;me good yields. Harvesting is general, and a large acreage of both wheat and o.its is cut. Of course there are some paddocks (as is generally the case) which will never pay to cut, this being the result of over cropping and bad cultivation. Many of the oat crops will run from 50 to 60 bushels. Barley is but little grown here. A large acreage of grass has been cut for seed, and-the average per acre will be about 10 bushels. I should estimate the average of wheat at 20 bushels, and of oats 35 bushels. Mr Bobb has an excellent pad dock of wheat, 180 acres, near Dobbin’s Ford, which is estimated to run 50 bushels ; his crop on the reserve is also a good ons. Mr White has soma very good wheat on Mainwaring’s road, which is now being threshed from the stook. Mr Storry has a fine paddock of Essex near his home stead. Mr Allan, of the Acton station, is well on with his cutting, and expects an average of 35 bushels on the extensive acreage under crop. On this estate Mr Allan was very fortunate with his turnips ; in one paddock of 250 acres especially so. Some weeks ago, roots as large as a man’s head could be pulled. Be has 3,oooacres of turnips all looking well. On the west side of the railway the best crops are to be seen on the farms of Messrs Holmes, McPhail, and Magson. The potato crop is a good one both as regards quality and quantity.

A BANKRUPT’S EXCUSE.

Invercargill, Yesterday.

At a meeting of the creditors of Richard Bourke, farmer, Wyndham, to-day, the bankrupt accounted for his position by the statement that he had gone to the town ship on the 24vh December for a Christ mas stock of liquor, having in his pocket L'265 in sovereigns. On the way home he sat down on the hill and drank most of a bottle of whisky. He got drunk, fell asleep, and when he woke at 4 a. m. the monej was gone. He had taken it from his trousers pocket because of its weight and laid it beside him before going to sleep, had not informed the police of his loss, nor told anyone of the loss, for a fortnight after. The De puty Assignee said this seemed to bo a new departure among bankrupts. They got large sums of money altogether, and then told the creditors they had lost it. For his part he did not believe a word

the debtor had said, and his affrirs would be thoroughly investigated. This is the second case of this kind within a few weeks, and by a coincidence the men are fellow-countrymen.

THE RAILWAY EXCURSION.

Public Me sting.

A public meeting convened by his Wor ship the Mayor, at the request of a num ber of burgesses, was held in the upper room of the Town Hall last night. There was a fair attendance, and the Mayor pre sided.

The Chairman read the requisition, the tenor of which had induced him to call the meeting. He also read the following telegram received from Mr F. Back, the railway traffic manager “ Some people here have suggested to me that the ex cursion to Ashburton would be better on Thursday 26th, as Wednesday is Adding ton cattle sale day. Kindly say if no ob jection to altera ion of date. I should

like to have information early of proposed attractions.” The Mayor said that he had informed Mr Back that he would advise him of the proposed attractions after that meeting hadjdetennined upon a programme. The Mayor then invited suggestions in reference to the character of the entertainment. Mr D. Thomas drew the attention of the Chairman to the fact that February 26th, was the Dune in Cup day.

The Chairman did not think that the Dunedin races would largely affect the number of visitors who would take advan-

tage of the opportunity to visit Ashburton. Mr W. B. Moss said that he had signed the requisition addressed to the Mayor, as he thought the proposed excursion would attract a large number of visitors to the town, and no effort should be spared to send them away with a pleasing impres sion of the place. A suggestion had been made that the Domain should be rendered as attractive as possible, and a o variety en tertainment, free of any charge, offered to their visitors. With this he cordially

agreed. Mr R. Elston had expected that the persona who had signed the requisition would have attended the meeting pre-

pared with some definite proposals. They had failed to do so, and he would move— “ That it ia desirable that some steps should be taken to entertain the excur sionists ” Mr J. Tasker seconded the motion. He thought that the expenditure of a small

amount which might be raised by volun tary subfcription would be sufficient to provide a very attractive programme of sports to be carried out in the Domain. The motion was put and declared carried

Mr W. B. Moss expressed an opinion that their City Fathers should have, in the interests of the borough, moved in the mat'er. The Chairman did not think the re sponsibility devolved upon Borough Coun-' cil, although that body might or might not later on feel disposed to do something to assist in the movement.

Mr Elston suggested that the entertain ment should take the form of a gala. He detailed sports that he thought would prove attractive, and proposed—“ That the meeting form itself into a committee with a view to arranging means of enter tainment for the excursionists.” —Mr Jas. Tasker seconded the proposition. Mr J. A. Oaygill explained that the proposal to provide an entertainment of some descrip'ion for the visitors had emanated from the Committee of the Ash burton Cricket Club They had invited the co operation of a number of other gentlemen, and had little doubt of making a success of the affair, at least so far as the amusement of the excursionists was concerned. That meeting should at once determine upon what steps they proposed, that the Committee already formed might understand their position in the matter. He had no desire to create dissensions about the details of the entertainment, but was anxious to see something attractive and creditable to the town provided. Mr D. Thomas moved as an amendment —“ That some definite proposals as to the character of amusements should be sub mitted before forming a Working Com mittee.” Mr Harrison seconded theamendmentpro forma He had certainly expected to see a much larger attendance of their influen tial townsmen. Personally he was in favor of sports being held, free to their visitors, in the Domain. He would, how ever, heartily assist any movement for the proper entertainment of their visitors. He was only anxious that the thing should b done well. The amendment was carried. Mr W. B. Moss suggested that a tent should be erected on the ground for re freshment and other purposes, a band provided, a part of the ground prepared for dancing, costume swimming races and other sports held in the Domain reser voir.

In reply to Mr Thomas, Mr Moss said he estimated that his programme could be carried out for about L2O. Mr D. Thomas thought that the amount named by Mr Moss would not nearly cover the cost.

Mr Tasker considered that if a part of the ground were made suitable for danc ing and a band provided, and sports arranged for the children it would be sufficient. He moved a resolution to that effect, and Mr McFarlahe seconded it. A desultory discussion followed, and it

was ultimately determined to leave the

arrangements with the Committee already formed by the Ashburton Cricket Club.

On the conclusion of the public meet ing the Committee appointed by the Cricket Club met. Present His Wor ship the Mayor (in the chair), Messrs Thomas, Dr Leahy, J. McLean Dunn, Paul, Tasker, Wroughton, Winser, Hill and Caygill. Messrs J. H. Steel, Elston and Davis were added to the Committee. It was resolved that sports be held at the Athletic (Sports r Ground. That pro gramme should comprise baby show, cos tume cricset match, bicycle and tricycle races, obstacle and other races, Highland and other dancing, and if possible a Fire Brigade competition. Mr Caygill was appointed treasurer, and Messrs Caygill and Dunn secretaries. It was a’so re solved that the Mayor be requested to proclaim a half holiday from 1 o’clock on Thursday the 26th ; also that Messrs Dunn, Thomas, Paul, Wroughton, Tas ker, Secretan, Saunders, Leahy, and Cay gill, be a sub-committee to draw up pro gramme on lines suggested, and report on Monday.

CROPPING EXPERIMENTS IN FRANCE.

Some important experiments have been made by the manager of the School of Agriculture, near Nancy, with the view of illustrating the cost of growing wheat, beetroot, and potatoes, and the results are summarised in a very interesting paper by M. Grandoau, the director of the “Agronomical Station” for the eastern departments of Frame. The land upon which the experiments in wheat growing were made was divided into thirteen lots, and had laid fallow in 1883, after a crop of oats in 1882. In the course of 1883 it was four times ploughed, twice harrowed, and, just before the wheat was sown, manured with sowt per acre of phosphate of lime mixed with 27 per cent of phosphoric acid, the coat of the manure being just L2 an acre. In the spring of this year the land was dressed with 2cwt per acre of nitrate of sod ■, at the cost of 255, so that the total cost of manuring the land was L 3 ss. The rent and labor is estimated at another L2 ao acre, bringing the total expend! ture up to L 5 5s per acre. The thirteen plots were sown with thirteen different varieties of wheat—the Chidham, the ' Aleph, the White Victoria, the Hayes wheat, the Galand, the Foulard, the 1 Dettel, the Golden Drop, the fianter]

West, the light Inlanders, the Australian, the Blood feed, and the Lamed. The yield of these different varieties ranged from six quintals metriques (a quintal is equivalent to a hundredweight) per acre to just double that quantity, the Ohidh»m wheat being at the bottom of the list, and the l amed at the top. It would be too lonuthy a task to follow M. Grandeau through the very elaborate calculations which he has published as to the cost of producing the different varieties of wheat

which have been experimented upon ; and it will be sufficient, in order to show how much the question as to whether wheat growing can pay depends upon the variety grown, to say that, while the coat of producing a bushel of Cbid ham wheat is nearly five shillings, a bushel of Lamed wheat can be grown for Is 3d. In other words, while there is

a profit of only 7s an acre upon the plot sown with Chidham wheat, the plot sown with Lamed wheat showed a profit of L 7 per acre. M. Grandeau adds that a similar experiment, made upon a much larger s.'ale by M. Tounel, a largo farmer in the

neighborhood, produced very similar re sults, the only difference being that, while the lowest yield from the seven varieties tried was at the rate of fifteen bushels per acre, the highest was nearly twenty-four bushels. From this he draws the not unreasonable conclusion that a duty of 2s or 3s upon an article, the cost

of producing which varies from 4a 6d to 15s, can ne of no service to the producer, and that it would be idle to imagine that a duty equivalent to the highest cost of production will ever be imposed upon wheat from abroad, the sole hope of Krench corn growers lies in their increas ing the yield from fifteen to twenty-eight or thirty bushels an acre. The kind of seed used, as M. Grandeau points out, has a great deal to do with this, though the way in which the land is prepared and the manure put upon it are not less important factors.

THE SOUDAN CAMPAIGN.

[rbutbe’s telegrams—copyright.] London, February 12.

Lord Wolseley telegraphs that a letter written by the Governor of Berber has been found at the enemy’s camp at Bulka, stating that the Mahdi captured Khartoum on the 26th January, and that Gordon was killed. Lord Wolseley also telegraphs that a convoy convey ing those wounded in battle near Bulka has arrived at Korti.

General Sir D. E. Wood has been ap pointed to succeed General Earle in command of the column which is pro ceeding to Berber. Indian native troops under orders for Soudan consist of four regiments of in fantry and one cavalry. The offer made by the Government of New South Wales of military assist ance tor the repression of the Soudan rebellion has favorably impressed the public, and the English Government are gratified at the expression of loyalty by that colony, but it is not considered likely that the offer will be accepted.

Melbourne, Yesterday. Mr Service, Premier, has* wired to the New South Wales Government that if its offer of troops for the Soudan is accepted Victoria is prepared to follow suit.

Sydney, Yesterday.

In reply to the New South Wales Government, the Imperial authorities state that the offer of troops is fully ap preciated, but that operations in the Soudan are likely to be deferred, owing to the lateness of the season. The offer is, however, under consideration. Several liberal offers of money have been made towards the expenses of the proposed New South Wales contingent to the Soudan expedition. Great enthu siasm is being shown by the local volun teers at the prospect of active service. (Received February 14, 1.10 p.m ) Cairo, February 13.

The letter found at Bulka, written by the Governor of Berber, stated that the Mqhdi had written to him announcing the capture of Khartoum and the death of General Gordon.

CORRESPONDENCE.

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

THE RAILWAY EXCURSION.

To the Editor. Sib,—l wish, through your valuable medium, to lodge my protest against the proposed entertainment to bp given by the Athletic Sports Committee on the oc casion of the excursion from Christchurch on the 2Gth inst, more especially when I find it is their intention to make a charge for the amusement. We Ashburton resi dents seem to have forgotten that we have a splendid reserve for recreation in our remain, where there is] ample room for our visitors, our country friends and townspeople, where an equally good day’s sport could be carried out without trying to make money on this occasion, at the expense of our good name as townspeople —which, to my mind, still is of some good value. It reminds me of the old sign board over the barber’s shop:—“ What do you think I will shave you for nothing and give you to drink.”

I am, etc., Albert Roberts.

A CHALLENGE.

To THE JEditok.

Sib, —I saw in your issue of last even ing’s paper that a witness named Toomey, in a civil case at the Resident Magistrate’s Court, reflected on the ability of the em ployees of the Borough Council. I hereby challenge Mr Toomey to work at any labor he can mention for one day or one week for the sum of L 5, and it he is not satisfied then my mates will take him up for the some amount.—l am, etc., Joseph Hale, One of the employees of the Borough Council. Ashburton, 14th February, 1885. [We trust the challenge of our correspon dent will be accepted. The competition might form an attractive feature in the excursion sports.— Ed. A.G.]

SPORTING.

PLUMPTON PARK RACES.

These races were held yesterday. There were about 600 persons present. Messrs Hobbs and Goodwin passed L 1,538 through two totalisators. The following are the results :

Handicap Hurdle Race, 25 sbvs ■ two miles.

Mr Bell’s ch g Marquis, 6yrs, lOat 61b, (Owner) 1 Mr Piper s g g Bordeaux, aged, 10st 51h (Stewart) 2 Mr Jennings’ ch g Secretary, aged, 10st 91b (Sheenan) 3 Mr Herbert’s ch m Spreydon Lass, aged, 10at ... (Mr Woodman) 0 Louth, aged, 9at 61b, also ran. Dividend, L2 6a. PiAjMproN Park Cup, of 45 sovs ; second horse, 5 sovs from the stake. One and a-half miles. Mr R. H. Vallance’s b g Kingask, syrs, ••• ••• ... , (Radius's) 1 Mr J. H. Lunn’s b m Rebecca, syrs, 7stl2lb ... ... (Stratford) 3 Mr W. Russell’s b g Irish King, 3yrs, 7st 2lb (Dent) 3 Mr Napier’s bg Wee RoJdie, 6yrs, 7st 91b ’ J J o Oeo, syrs- 7st ; Papapai, syrs, 7st; Mor, syrs, 6at 101 b also ran. Dividend, L2 7s. Novel Race Handicap, of 35 sovs. The winner to be sold by auction, and the whole proceeds to go to the fund. One mile. Mr Piper’s g g Bordeaux, aged, Bst 51b

(Derrett) 1 Mr Bell’s b m Vanity Fair, 4yrs, 7st (Dent) 2 Mr Mcßratney’s ch g Supplejack, aged, 9st 51b _ (Stewart) 3 Little Dick, syrs, Baf; Vanity Fair, 4yrs, 7at also rsn. Dividend, L 4 11s. The winner was submitted to auction, and was knocked down to Mr Piper far L 26. Handicap Time Trot, of 30 sovs; second horse to receive 5 sovs from the stake; three miles. Mr Hacon’s b m Daisy, aged, lOsecs (Thompson) 1 Mr Keith’s hr g Energy, aged, SOseos (Owner) 2 Cock Bobin (scratch). Princess (lOsecs), Warrior (35secs), Raddle (46seos), Ram bler (so3eca), Curly Kate (65secs), and Creeping Kate (65secs), also ran. Dividend, L 3 Bs. - Stewards’ Stakes, of 30 sovs, second horse to receive 6 sovs from the stake ; three-quarters of a mile. Mr H. Lunn’s ch g Faro, 3yrs, 8«t (Stratford) 1 Mr J. Will’s b m Papanui, syrs, 7st (Smith) 2 Mr Napier’s b g Wee Roddie, 6yr4,Bst 4lb (Walls) 3 Rally (9st 71b), Silver Queen (Bst 71b), Nellie (7st 121 b), Nor’-Wjster (7st 91b), Forest King (7st 101 b), Castillo filly (7st 21b), Deception (6st 71b), and Puri Purl (Git), also ran. Dividend, L 4 14s. The Selling Hack Race of 10 sovs was won by Fairplay, and the Scratch Race of 10 sovs by Rex.

DUNEDIN CUP. Dohedik, Yesterday. Cutta arrived from Christchurch to night with July, Wapiti, Nelson, Stoney hurst and Tiger Tim. SPORTING NOTES.

Dunedin, To-day. Some interesting work was done at For* bury thia morning, many horses having a gallop on the course outside the hurdles. Lady Emma and Mokoia started off to gether and went a mile at top speed when the colt dropped out, and his place was taken by Matanaka, who was to bring the Cup mare home. However, the mare ran clean away from him in the last half-mile and finished a splendid gallop alone, and the last round and a half, which being outside the hurdles is over a mile and a half, was . done by her in 2min 50aec. Captain Webster went a similar journey, half a mile alone, acd for the remainder in company with Ouida. He want very free, but his time was not quite so good as Lady Emma’s ; hia beat mile occupying loam 57aec. Ada mant was sent three miles; the first two he covered at slow pace, but put the paoe on in the last round, and finished fast. Ike has been scratched for all his en gagements at the Dunedin : meeting.

CABLE NEWS

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

FbKDTKR's IRLieBAKS—COPYRIGHT.] Annexation. London, February 12. A Commission op the Ne*r Gqjneq, affairs and claims of German subjects ip Fiji meets shortly in London. Monetary and Commercial, Consols remain at too# ; New Zea land securities at last quotations. Bank rate of discount, 4 per cent; market 3% per cent. Bank of England re serve, Its proportion to liabilities is 46 per cent No changes to report in colonial breadstulfs or tallow.

Wool Sales. At yesterday’s auction 10,000 bales were offered, and to-day 6500 bales. The market is weak. The sales close to-morrow. Monetary and Commercial. (Received Feb, 14th, 1.10 p.m.) Londok, February 12. New Zealand securities— 5 per cent, ro-40 loan quoted advance #; per cent. 1879-1904 loan, 103# advance Li; 4 percent inscribed stock is quoted at ggtf.

Wool Sales. Total quantity of wool sold during the past series of sales was 220,000 bales; 350.000 bales were held over for the next month’s auctions. Merinos and scoured wools close j£d to id lower than at the termination of the November sales.

AUSTRALIAN.

(BKUTBB’s TELEGRAMS—COPYRIGHT.)

Shipping. Melbourne, Yesterday. Arrived, this morning—Te Anau, from the Bluff. ; Sydney, Yesterday. Sailed, yesterday afternoon—Ringa rootna, for Auckland. Arrived, this morning City of Sydney, from Auckland. The Markets. New Zealand wheat remains at 2s pdj New Zealand oats have declined to 2s 4d ; maize to 3s gd. Sugar Company's No 1 remains at L 26. v

Adelaide, Yesterday. Adelaide wheat, 2$ 3d to 3s id, quiet ; town flour, LBSS; cbqht& irands, Ly 4s. Market dli}f. (Received February 14, 1.10 p.m.) Bootmakers’ Strike. Melbourne, To-day. - 5 The bootmakers’ strike is now prac tically ended, and it is expected that the men will resume work on Monday.

(The ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 1885.



Wanted. VI7 ANTED Known.—Pears, Apricots, Vfy Apples, PmiTiS, and other season able Frui s (all loca'iy grown) for at W. C ! . Davis’s, Fruiterer, East street. 2 242



T-AISTED —A Caretaker for tbe Ash- VV burton ISa'eyards. Applications must be in writing, and forwarded to my office on or before Monday, February 26 Geobog Jamkson, Ashburton. 2 226



GLOBIOUS NEWS. Andrew Obr will give away on Saturday ICO pairs men’s boots at 6s 9d ; 60 pairs can vas slippers at 2s 6d ; 30 pairs cricketing boots at 6s 6d ; 100 pairs Kaiapoi trousers at 11s 6d —every article at half-price. 2 237



fe- A N ALARMING DISEASE AFFLICT ING A NUMEROUS CLASS. • .The dis ase commences with a slight de rangement of the stomach, but, if neglected, it in time involves the whole frame, embracing ' the kidneys, liver, pancreas, and, in fact the entire glandular system, and the afflicted drags out a miserable existence until death gives re lief from suffering. The disease is often mis taken for other complaints ; but if the reader -trill.ask himself the following questions, he vtrill be able to determine whether he himself is fone of the afflicted; —Have I distress, pain, or : difficulty in breathing after eating ? Is there a dull* heavy feeling attended by drowsiness ? Have the eyes a yellow tinge ? Does a thick, .tkky, mucous gather about the gums and teeth in the mornings, accompanied by a dis agreeable taste? Is the tongue coated? Is ’there p:in in the side and back ? Is there a fulness about the right side as if the liver were 'enlarging? Is there costiven ss? I there .Vertigo or dizz ness when rising suddenly from a horizontal position?' Are the secretions from the kidneys scanty and highly colored, with a deposit after standing? oes food fer ment, soon after eating, accompanied by flatu lence or a belching o gas from the stomach ? Is there frequent palpitation ol the heart? These variou- symptoms may not be present at one time, but they torment the sufferer in turn as the dreadful disease progresses. If the case be one of long standing, t ere will be a dry, hacking cough, attended af et time by expec toration. . In very advanced stages the skin assumes a dirty brownish appearance, and the hands and feet are covered by a cold, sticky perspiration. As the liver and kidneys becopie more and more diseased, rheumatic p-in ap pears, and the usual treatment proves entirely unavailing against this latter agonising dis order. The o: igin of this malady is indigestion or dyspepsia, and a small quin ity of the proper medicine will remove the disease if taken in its incipiency. ; t is most important that the disease should be pr mptly and properly treated in its first stages, when a little medi cine will e ect a cure, and even w en it has obtained a strong hold 'the correct remedy should be persevered in until eveiy vestige Of the disease is eradicated, unt 1 the ap: elite has returned, and the digestive organs restored to a healthy condition. The surest and most effec tual remedy for tbs di tressing complaint is “ Seig l’s Curative Syrup,” a veg table pre paratirn sold by all chemists and medicine vendors throughout the world, and by the pro prietors, A. J, White, Limited, 17, F.’rringdon load, London, 8.C.; or the wholesale agents, Kempthome, Prosser and Co.’s New Zealand Drug Company (Limited), DunedP, Christ church, Wellington, and Auckland. This Syrup strikes at the very foundation of the disease, and drives it, root and branch, out of the system. Market Place Pocklington, York, October and 1882. Sir, —Being a suffe er f.r years with dyspep sia in all its worst forms, and after spending pounds in medicines, I was at last persuaded to try Mother Seidel’s Curative Syrup, and am thankful to say have derived more benefit from It than any other medicine I ever took, and would advise any one suffering f om the same complaint to give it a trial, the results they would soon find out for themselves. If you like to make use of this testimonial you are Quite at liberty to do so. Yours respectfully, (Signed) R. Turner. Seigel’s Operating Pills a e the best family physic that has ever been discovered. They cleanse the bowels from all irritating sub stancees, and leave them in a healthy condi ion. They cure costiveness. St, Mary street, Peterborough, November zetb, 1881. Sir,—lt gives me great pleasure to inform you,of the benefit I have received.from Seigel’s Syrup. I have been troub ed for years with dyspepsia; but after a few doses of the Syrup I found relief, .and after taking two bottles of it I feel quite cured. I am, Sir, yours truly, William Brent.



. Mr A. J. White. • Hensingham, Whitehaven, Oct. 16, 1882. Mr A. J. White. —I ear Sir, —I was for some time afflicted with piles, snd was advised to giw Mother SeigM’s Syrup a trial, which I did. lam now happy to ft te that it has e- Stoied me to complete h alth.—l remain, yours respectfully, (Signed) John H. Lightfoot. 15th August, 1883. Dear Sir, — I w i'e to tell you that Mr Henry Hillier, ofYatesbury, Wilt-, informs me that he suffered from a severe form of indigestion for upwards of four years, and took no end of doctor’s medicine without the slightest benefit, and declares Mother t- eigel s Syrup which he got from me has save I his life. Yours truly, (Signed) N. Webb. Chernis-"' Caine. ' Mr White. September Bth, 1883. Dear Sir, —I find the sale of Seigel’s Syrup steadily increasing. All who have tried it speak very highly of its medicinal virtues ; one cus tomer describes it as a “ Godsend to dyspeptic people.” I always recommend it with confi dence. Faithfully yours, (Signed) Vincent A. Wills, Chemis:-Dentist, Merthyr Tydvil. To Mr A. J. White. Preston, Sept. 21 st, 1883. My Dear Sir, —Your Syrup and 1 ills are Still very popular with n.y customers, many saying they are the best family medicines pos sibe. The other day a customer came for two bottlas of Syrup, and said “Mother Seigel’s ■had saved the life of his wife and he added, “ one of these bottles I am sending fifteen miles away to a friend who is very ill. I have much faith in it. ” , The sale keeps up wonderfully, in fact, one would fancy almo t that the people were be ginning to breakfast, dine, and sup on Mother Seigel’s Syrup, the demand is so constant and the satisfaction so great.—l am, dear Sir, yo . i faithfully, (Signed) W. Bowker. A.j. White, Esq. 3



r ANTED Known—Umbrellas at la , , lid, six doz Buttons for Is, China Matting at 6d, Ladies’ Hoae at 6d, Cor sets at 2s 3d, Shirting at Towels 3|d, 36 inch Oilcloth 91, Calicoes Is 41. -Akdruw Obr’s Cheap Sale 2 185



GLORIOUS NEWS —Monster Clear ing Sale:—-Ladies’ Kid Roots 6s 6d, Girls’, Infanta Is, Men’s Elastic aide, 8a Cd, Men’s vVatertighta 9s. 61, Blucher Boots 6, 6 d, Canvas Slippers 2s CJ. A. Ore’s Ohtap Sale. 2 186



’ AIS TED Known— th.t K. Lakcas Tkr starts the new year entirely on his own account with a rer/ light handi cap, which will enable him to sell moat cheaper than ever. With quality, clean liness and civility combined—defies com petition. So rally round to the Ready- Money Meat Mart, Bull'ck’s Arcade 1 2



7 ANTED Known—Fresh Flounder* are clai'y despatched direct from our own boat, now fishing at Lake Elles mere. Delivery guaranteed within eight hours from time of catching. Ail orders received at my shop will be immediately executed on arrival of the train. W. (\ Page, East street, Ashburton. 11 2151



ANTED Known —Boots ! Boots 1 V V That Hayes and Co. are Clearing a few desperate lines of Boots, etc., to wit, Ladies’ Leather, 4s 6d; Men’s Shooters, Pegged, 10s; Men’s Elastic sides, 9s, and a lot of odd lines that must bo cleared at once. 7 1278



WANTED Known Removed.— Jones and Bhadshaw, Corn and Chaff Deal- rs, have removed to the large premises in Havelock street near'y oppo site Mr A. Harrison’s auction rooms (lately occupied by Messrs Robinson and Townsend), where they will be better able to comply with the demands of their trade. Jones and tradshaw.



WANTED Known.—We are not to be beaten ! Good straw hats, 4jtd, 6d, 9-> ; black Cashmere, double width, is 3d; print costumes, 2s 9d ; white calico, 2s 6d per doz ; a lot of infants’ white and colored satin and merino hats and hoods, Is to 3a 61— usuil price, 4s 6d to J2s 6d. H. C. fcEGERS, ealys’ Buildings, Kast afreet.



WANTED KNOWN— Robert Elston, Bill Poster, Theatrical Agent, etc., Town Hall, Ashburton. Theatrical companies and others visiting Ashburton should communicate with the above. Orders by peat or telegram promptly attended to. 760



AHTED Known— C. Hawkin’s, of Tinwald, havinct decided to com pete with either Christchurch or Ashbur ton, in price and qudity of Boots, will, Ist January, 1885, Sell for Cash Only, at the following reduced rates :—Men’s Harvest Bluchers, tips and nailed, 5s 9d; Shooter Boots, 10s 3d ; Women’s Strong Lace Boots, 8a 6d ; Leather Elastic, 9a 6d; Children’s ail reduced from Is per pair. Motto—“ Small Pro fits and Quick Returns. ” O. Haw .in’s, ’oot and Shoemaker. 12 2393



WAIT rill D Known—J. Meech. & Co., are still Selling On and not Selling Off at saleroom prices. J. M. and Go's Furniture is made for use as well as ornament and not for auction salts. The best materials are used, being specially selected, and combined with good workmanship, all goods aro guaran teed of the best quality, and at the very lowest prices. Fast and Burnett street, Ashburton. 12 2332



Special Advertisements. For kye, ear and throat DISEASES. DR SCHWARZBAOH, M.D., may be Consulted at the Clarendon Hotel (private rooms), Chrhtchurch, from. 15th February, for about One Month. During bis recent stay in Europe, Dr S. was again employed in revisiting the prin cipal Ophthalmic Hospitals, and making himself thoroughly acquainted with all the modern knowledge in regard to Dis ases of the Eye, Ear and Throat. 2 215 TO THRESHING MACHINE PROPRIETORS. Threshing Books of all kinds and sizes neatly printed and bound to order at the Guardian Office.



Cornsacks. OKf) BALES of CORNSACKS to AtJIJ arrive ex ship Atlantigae (now due), size 43 x 26J, 2J. Apply, at once, to HAYES & 00,, I 1 Arcade, Ashburton.



Groceries CHEAPER THAN EVER AT JAMES McGREGOR’S, lancred Street. Sugars— English Cut Loaf, 5d per lb Best White Crystal, per lb Beat Snowdrop, 4d per lb (Reductions by the mat) Teaa, Is 3d, Is 6d, 2s, 2s 6d, and 2a 91 Box Tea from I2s 6d per box Canterbury Cakes, lOdeach. R'ce, 3d Mixedßiscuits, 6d Lunch Biscuits, 3d Currants, 6i Raisins, 7d New Figs, Is per box Best Sago, 3d New Muscatels, la 6d Oysters, 6d Calm's Marmalade, 8d Peacock’s Jams, 6|d Herrings, 7d Kadlec's Marmalade, 9d Salmon, 8d Cheese, 6d per lb English Pickles, 8d Other articles equally cheap jAMfcS ivicGREGOR, Tttncred Street. 13 2342



my readers and the reading public. I Just to hand.—New Books.—Black Poodle, by Anstey ; Our Old Nobility ; The Cuckoo Clock, by Mrs Molesworth ; We Two, by Edna Doyal; Poverty, by Platt; I Say No, by Wilkie Collins; John bull’s Womankind, by author of John Bull and hia Island; The Jilt, by Charles Keide; Good Stories of Man and other Anim>ls, by Charles Reade; Yeateged, by Geo F. Camming; Pages in Waiting, by Edmund Yates; Notes on Ingersoll, by Rev L. A. Lambert, Roman Catholic Jesuit; My Own Child, by Florence Marryatt; Life, Opinions, and Table Talk of Dr Johnson; American Society Novels; inspiration; A Clerical Lympocium; Bos well's Life of Johnson ; Magna O’harta Stories; Taming Down without Banting; Money and Mechanism of Exchange, by S. Jevcns; John Holdsworth’s Chief Mate; My Watch below, by W. O. Rus sel; The Wonder of Nature; Death Shot, by Reed; How to live upon la per Week; Stories of Waterloo; Secrets of Success ; How to Read Character ; Christmas Number of Goodward’a Chrystai Stories ; Longman’s Magazine ; The Book of tho Beginnings, by R. U. Newton; Mistletoe Bough; IGO Illustrated London Graphics, latest copies, to be sold cheap at Thomas F. Farley’s, PRINTER, BOOKSELLER, AND STATIONER, Saunders’ Buildings, Ashburton.



Special Advertisements. NOTICE TO CONSUMERS OF COAL, THE. undersigned are now landing, ex 8.3 Hauroto, the Best N ewcastle Coal Imported for the season A TRIAL SOLICITED They hare also added to their stocks of Building Materials the following lines, viz, y.D.L Timber and Palings | Kauri Timber, Flooring and Lining Roofing Iron, Doors and Sashes Lime, Cement, Fencing Materials, Ac., And every requisite for the trade. MACPHERSON, FILMER AND CO. (late A. Hayes), SAWMILLERS, TIMBER, COAL, AND FIREWOOD MERCHANTS. East street, Ashburton.



25 Branches Now Open 25 THE NEW* ZEALAND Clothing Factory Are now Showing NEWEST STYLES in SPRING & SUMMER CLOTHING, Manufactured I from the renowned j Wear Resisting MOSGIEL TWEEDS The fit and workmanship of every gar ment is undoubtedly unsurpassed, while the large production and increased busi ness enables the proprietors to offer special advantages as to price. Men’s, Boys’ and Children’s Clothing in every variety at Wholesale Prices. SL'rta, Hats, Hosiery, Blankets, Rugs, Portmanteaux, and every requisite at WHOLESALE PRICES, Note the address— NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY, EAST STREET, Ashburton 25 Branches Now Open 25



Davis’s gURPLUS STOCK OF FURNITURE Now selling off at HALF-PRICE. Must be sold to make room for NEW STOCK. Parties about to Furnish will SAYS 50 Pea Cent. BY PUOHaSING AT W. DAVIS’S FURNITURE WAREHOUSE, EAST STREET SOUTH, Ashburton 9 1729



V. R. B E DENNIS O’CONNELL, BANKRUPT, Of Manchester street, Christ church, and Lyttelton, CLOTHIER AND DRAPER. Marked price of Stock, £2,424 Actual Cost, £l,BlB Sold for £954. NOTJCE OF BANKRUPTCY. In Bankruptcy, In the Estate of Dennis O’Con nell, of Christchurch and Lyttel ton, Draper. Tenders are invited for the pur chase, either separately or other wise, of the stock, fittings, and book debts of the business in Manchester street, Christchurch, and also in Lyttelton. The stock consists of clothing and general drapery, and is mostly new, the business having been carried on only since May last. It will be on view on and after Monday next, and the stock sheets can be inspected on the premises, Manchester street. Tenders will be received by the undersigned until 10 a.m. on Monday, Ist December. E. 0. LATTER, Official Assignee. Christchurch, 21st Nov., 1884.



ACCEPTANCE OF TENDER. Official Assignee’s Office, December, 1884. Messrs H. E. May and Co,, Gentlemen, —I have the plea sure to inform you that your tenders for the purchase of stocks in Christchurch and Lyttelton have been accepted, viz— Christchurch ... £1502 18 0 Lyttelton ... £315 7 0 £lBlB 5 0 At 10/6d in the £, being £954 9s. Yours faithfully, E, O. LATTER. Official Assignee. Mr Whitejwill deliver the stocks. Notice of Sale xo the Public. This stock, which really repre sents a retail value of £3,424, was bought by us of the Official Assignee for £954, so that if we get one-half O’Connell’s price it will pay ua handsomely, and that is all we want. We think you are convinced that our sales are thoroughly genuine, and always worth a visit, especially if saving money is an object SALE COMMENCES SATURDAY, January 10. Terms Cash—Nodiscounts or abatements of any kind. H. E. May & Co



Victoria House. Season sale commencing on January 16th, & continuing FOR FIVE WEEKS ONLY. REMARKABLE REALITIES 1 GLARING REDUCTIONS ! ! jKC'For Convincing proof and Special Prices See Windows'®^ Dimant and Coe, READY-MONEY DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, &c., In premises lately occupied by Orr and 00., Coro East and Tancred streets, ASHBURTON.



DAILY MEMORANDA. AUCTION SALES. Tuesday, February 17. Messrs Matson, Cox and 0)., at the Ashburton Sa'eyarda-wStock Saturday, February 21. Mr Thos, LJuliock, at the Azcade, Burnett street—Property and Sundries MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, Etc. Monday, February 16. Borough Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7.30 Arcade Chambers—Star of Ashburton, U.A.0.D., monthly meeting, at 7.30 Frioay, February 20 Ashburton Licensing District—Election of Committee, at Tinwald Saleyards Thursday, February 26. Grand Demonstration and Sports, in the Domain Friday, February 27. taaburton County Council—At Council Chambers, 11 a. m. Tuesday, Marcs 3. TinwaltT School Committee Monthly Meeting in the Schoolroom Friday, Mai oh 6. Lonbgeach Road Board at Road Board Office. Saturday, March 7. Vakanui Road Board, at Hoad Board office, Moore street, at 10.30 a.m. Tuesday, March 10. Ashburton School Committee —Monthly Meeting, in the Schoolroom, at 7.30



The weakest woman, smallest child, and sickest invalid, can use Hop Hitters with safety and "teat good. See —[Ain' t.] “Rough ON Rai s,” —Clears out rats, mice, roaches, flies, "vnls, b* J-bugs, beetles, insects, skunks, jack rabbits, gophers. Druggists, The N.Z. D vp Co,, General Agents, 2



The Bad and Worthless are never imitated or counterfeited. This is es pecially true of a family medicine, and it is positive proof that the remedy imitated is of the highest value. As soon as it has been tested and proved by the whole world that Hop Bitters was the purest, best, and most valuable family medicine on earth, many imitations sprung up and began to steal the notices in which the press and the people of the country I had expressed the merits of H. 8., and in - very way trying to induce sneering invalids to use their stuff instead, expecting to make money on the credit ana g-.;>d name of H. B. Many others started nostrums put up in simi lar style to H. 8., with variously devised names in which the word “ Hop ” Or “Hops ” were used in a way to induce people to believe they were the same as Hop Bitters, All such pretended remedies or cures, no matter what their style or name is, and especially those with the word “Hop” or “Hops” in their name or in any way connected with them or their name, are imitations or counterfeits. Beware of them. Touch none of them. Use nothing but genuine American Hop Bitters, •• ;th a bunch or cluster of green Hops on the « B'te label, and Dr Soule’s name blown in the _;lass._ Trust nothing else. Druggists and chemists are warned against dealing In imita tions <- r counterfeits.



“ My mother drove the paralysis and neural gia all out of her system with Hop *Bitte{B,« —Ed, Qm%o Smi< See,—[Aovt.J