SHIPPING.

PORT OF LYTTELTON. Arrived. Yesterday. Waibora, b.«., from Melbourne via Hobart and South. JBmm* from Nelaon, Picton and TV* Sailed. Tmtkrdat. for Akaroa and Dunedin. Waihora, as., for Sydney via way port*. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. ■ i Auckland, Yesterday. Sailed—Endeavor, for the South", Roto mahana. for Melbourne via the South. , ■ : DonBWN, Yesterday. Arrived—Alfred Hawley, barque, from Freemantle. Sailed—Gepfc o’ the North, for Ade- Jaide ; ship, for London, Waira- barque Conference and the brig Star of the Mersey, from Newcastle* a l ® oonsiderab'y overdue —being out thfrty and twenty-nine days respectively. Port Chalmers, Yesterday. Arrived—. Ifred Hawley, from Free m an tie. _____

COMMERCIAL.

. Ashburton Guardian Office, Friday afternoon. The following is the Christchurch Corn Ex change report for-the week ending Friday, 23rd inst.—The local market for grain and produce continues in the-samc dull slate, while inter- orders are Jew and far between, and no marked improvement .can be expected for some weeks. A few fine samples of new oats have been.shown this week, but without elicit ing offers, buyers being shy of quoting. The probable opening price is not expected to reach over 2s per bushel. Recent shipments c jprime butter have had the effect of harden ir nprices, and one penny more may be fnrly quoted -Quotations To. date as follows: Wheat: Tuscan, nominal value, 3s ; Hunter’s and pearl, 3s 2d to 3s 4d f.o.b. ; chicken feed, is 6d to 2s.—Oats: Bright short feed, (old), 2s 4<i ; new, undecided, f.o.b. —Barley : 3 5 .6 d to 4s for malting.; feed, 2s to, ss, Christ church.—But terr ?d to 7J£d; Cheese, 4d to f.o.b* ■ -

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. ’ Saturday, January 24 Mr Thos. Bollock, at the Arcade, Barnett Street —String Binders Tuesday, January 27. Messrs Matson, Cox and Cj. , at the Tinwaid Saleyards—Stock

MEETINGSAMUSEMENTS, Etc. Friday, January 23. Oddfellows’ Hall—Remenyi Concert, al 8 o’clock

Monday, January 26. Meeting of Householders for Borough School Committee Election. Monday, February 2. Borough! Council, at Borough Cpuncil Chambers, at 7.30 Friday, f ebruahy 6 tshbiirton County Council—At Council CHambors, 11 a. m. ■ : Friday, Matca 6. Lonbgeech Bead Board at Hoad Board Office. Saturday, March 7. Fafeknut Hoad Board, at Road Board ibfficia,'Moore street, at 10.30 a.m.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails dose at the Ashburton Post Office follows For Christchurch and North at 6 a.m. 10h8O-*m. f -and 6p. m., daily. ■ Woe Chertseyßakiua, &&, at 10.30 a.m. Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Bangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. Iftwr Temnka, at 6 am. and 10 a.m., For Tiraa/u and South, at 6 ».m., 11) *.m., and 430 p.m., daily. For Qreenatreet and Ashburton Forks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10.45 Fc* Wakanui, Elgin, Seaview, Seafield, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at,6.30 a.m. For Jlount Somers, on Tuesdays and . aturdays, at 6 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, 6a.m. _ _ For Abhtcn, Waterton and Longbeaoh, at 4.80 p.m. daily. For Flemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4.30 p.m. For Nowlands, on Tuesdays and Fn daysat 10.30 a.m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 1885. School Committees.

On Monday next every householder is called on to perform a truly impor tant duty ; one affecting the welfare of his children and children’s children, as well as the private prosperity of each individual, the public position and the political credit of New Zealand. If any law had been passed that restricted the control of the education of our children to a tenth part of the householders of the colony, how loudly and justly should we have complained. And yet it has hitherto been, not only accasion ally but generally, the practice to do worse than that, and to leave the elec tion of all the officers to work our edu cation system to a few dozen indi viduals, who happen to feel some in terest in the matter, or who may have an axe of their own to grind, an inter est in some paid officer, or who have been casually invited 'or induced to “ look in ”to the little assembly. How often do we hear that “it is only the election of a School Committee !” Let us reflect for a moment what that means. It is the only opportunity you have during the year to give practical effect to your views and wishes on the highly important subject of education. The local School Committee you are now called on to elect will virtually ap point or dismiss your teachers; will make your public schools a credit or disgrace to your locality; will make your children more or less fit to bear their part in the world; will elect the Board of Education, and through it, all the executive officers who are to make the system a success or a failure. Is all this not worth a few hours attention from you on Monday next, even though you have no children ? Can it be 'a matter of indifference to you as a colonist ? Can you feel that you have done your duty as a citizen, if you will not give one hour in the year to such a very practical public question ? But, as important as this subject must be at all times and to every part of the colony, therearespecialcircumstances surround ing it just now that call for very special attention from the householders of this

locality. Those who have read the correspondence that has for a long time passed between the South Canter bury Board of Education and the Ashburton School Committee, who re member the conflict between the Head master, the Headmistress, and the Committee, who have noted the evi dence taken at the public inquiry into that unseemly dispute, and those who have been alarmed by the opinion expressed by the joint inspectors as to the present condition of our Ash burton schools in their last report, will recognise the importance of electing a Committee fit for their work, alive to the importance of public education, and composed of men with souls above the petty, parly, and even sectarian squabbles that have created for us such an unfavorable reputation. The salaries that are paid to the teachers in the Ashburton Public School are sufficient to command the services of thoroughly efficient officers, able and willing to produce results'very different to those displayed by the recent examination. What we want is a Committee that will see that we secure value for the money expended, and who, without any per sonal feeling either for or against any particular teacher, will root out every disturbing element and insist upon having a staff of teachers who will pull systematically and harmoniously lo-

gether, in promoting the intellectual and moral progress of the children com mitted to their charge. Such a Com mittee is not likely to be elected if the matter is left to a few busybodies, or to a few individuals excited by, or interested in, the late deplorable bick ering. Every householder, but especi ally every parent, who has a child at ihe school should feel that he is dis tinctly wanting in his duty as a citizen or a parent, if he does not actively in terest himself in the really important election that will take place next Mon day evening. Although the School

Committee have expressed the nselves as satisfied with the master’s “ explana tion,” the very fact of the joint inspec tor’s report being so condemnatory of the school, and its officers, is sure to lead to an active interest being taken in the coming election by those who are interested in the continuance of the present unsatisfactory condition of the school. We do not assume that the headmaster or any other individual is responsible for the deplorable state of affairs revealed by the late examina tion ; but its existence is indisputable, and we hope to see a strong muster on Monday evening of those who are primarily interested in our public re putation, in the public well being, or in the progress and efficiency of their own children. We cannot con clude without an appeal to our readers against another danger that threatens our education system. A seat on a School Committee brings no pecuniary profit and very little glory, whilst the position is often disgraced by being held by men little worthy of any public trust. Hence the increasing danger that good men will not accept the office. This only offers another strong reason why a position so really important should be made respectable by the more general and united action and interest of all true friends of education in every annual election. Let the householders show that they are prepared to trust good men, and good men only, with their educational interests, and good men will not hesitate to accept the position. No man should feel that an office is not honorable, which gives him an opportunity to lift up the future electors of the colony; to protect the well-being of present, as well as of coming generations, and to prove that New Zealand is ripe for institutions, which can only be successful when the people who possess all the power are prepared to rule with diligence as well as with public spirit and intelligence.

The system of ministerial itinerary,' which is one of the distinguishing features of the Wesleyan commission, will entail this year a change in the superintendency of the Ashburton circuit. The Rev. O. H. Standage, who has labored with much devotedness and no small amount of suc cess in this district during the past trien nium, loaves Ashburton in April next. At present his successor is not definitely known, but from a telegram received from Dunedin by the circuit stewards, we learn that the Rev W. Kirk (at present in charge of the Richmond circuit) one of the senior and highly esteemed ministers of the Wesleyan body in the colony, is down for Ashburton on the station sheet at its first reading.

A trotting match has been arranged to take place this evening at South Kakaia between the local horses Midge and Maggie, and a considerable amount of speculation as to the result has been in dulged in.

Yesterday, through the kindness of W. Allen, a trial of reapers and binders took place on the Acton Estate, Rakaia. Ihe crop cut was a very heavy one of oats, which would run over 50 bushels per acre. There wore eight McCormick’s wire binders, one Osborne’s self-binding harvester (twine), and a Samuelson'a low delivery twine binder at work. The Os borne did good work, turning out well made sheaves, and seemingly was of light draught, and promise! in the course <>f time to become a favorite with the local farmers. The Samuelson machine did

not work smartly, as many sheaves were left untied, and the others were so slack that they would not bear handling. The agent in charge stated that his twine was not good enough to stand the tension re quired. A considerable number of farmers and others were present, and the general opinion appeared to be favorable to the McCormick machine.

The annual meeting of the Ashburton Rifle Volunteers will be held at the Arcade Chambers on Friday, 30;h instant, at 8 p.m., to receive a statement of ac counts, and to elect a Committee. There was a large and thoroughly repre sentative gathering at the Commercial Hotel last evening to bid Mr S S. Revana farewell, prior to his departure for Waimato. Mr Quill vent to great trouble apd expense in providing a moat sumptu oua repast, and his efforts appeared to be high y appreciated by those present. The gathering was u most enjoyable one, and the company did not separate till a late hour, A full report appears in another column.

Daring the hearing of Dolman v Har rison, at the conclusion of the case for the (-lain tiff, Mr Bad delay referred the learned counsel to the case Beswell v Christie, 1 Cowper’s reports, page 395, which, he said, seemed to be exactly cn all fours with the present case, judging from the plaintiff's own statement. In this case plaintiff instructed defendant, an auctioneer, to sell his gelding, and not to let it go under LIS. Defendant sold it for the highest amount bid LG 16s 6i. Lord Mansfield considered it a fraud on the public owners buying their own goods, they should go to the best real bidder. It was contended the auctioneer should have obeyed instructions, as plaintiff otherwise would not have left his horse, and in structions of this nature were given at all auction sales, and therefore were not a fraud on the public. Against this it was urged that it would have been a fraud ups>n the sale if the auctioneer had bid or provided some one to puff, and therefore the action could not be maintained. In structions not to let a horse go under a certain sum implies that there will i e bidding under that sum. The basis of all dealings should be on good faith, and bidding of this kind would be unfair and therefore not -allowed. If the owner, as was done in the celebrated case of Lord Ashbourne, bad inserted in the condi tions that he would bid the Ll 3, or had instructed the auctioneer to do so, the case would have been quite different. The nature of a sale by auction that the goods go to the highest real bidder unless such instructions are given. Late this afternoon we received through

Reuter’s Agency the following additional particulars of the British victory at Abu kla Wells :—The official telegram from Lord Wolseley states that on Saturday last the British column under Colonel

Stewart inflicted a complete defeat on ten thousand Maddites, occupying a position at Abukla Wells, between Cakdul and Metemel. Colonel Stewart leaving the

camels and baggage at the camp advanced in a square, the whole force being on f«ot. He outflanked the enemy, who charged bravely under a witheringfire, and succeeded in penetrating the loft of the equate. The British were admirably steady, and maintained a hand to hand fight with the rebels, who at length were driven off completely defeated. If there are any of the settlers in the Ashburton township and County, possess ing the organ nailed by phrenologists “ Music,” they will be untrue to them selves if they fail to gratify that organ by being present to-night at the entertain ment given by Remenyl, the greatest violinist of the age. The writer has had the pleasure of listening to most of the cele brated violin players who have fljurished during the past twenty-five years, and while allowing to them all as deserving the credit that has been paid to them, feels that the bay wreath as a performer must be accorded to Remenyi. New Zealanders up to the date of Remenyi’s visit have been pleased to look upon Wil helmj as exhibiting the highest point of perfection in violin playing yet placed before them. In this they are perfectly correct. The writer will not dare to take even a single leaf from Wilhemj’s laurel crown in comparing him with the master of the “ King of Instruments,” who is to perform to-night, for Wilhemj is a man in a thousand, but though he can do with the violin what not three or four other men in the world can do on the same instrument, Remenyi is one of those three or four, and he adds to his playing a

power which Wilhelmj does not possess in

even a tenth part of the intensity in which it centres in Remenyi. That power is

the ability co work his own soul into the souls of those who listen to him, and carry with a sort of magnetic force, his hearers with him. Those who heard Wilhelmj “ could not choose but hear,” and would have been less than human ; but to such as may have the opportunity of listening to Remenyi a new experience is awaiting. The music he will pour from the strings of his grand instrument will wind itself around their heartstrings, the simple homage of listening and admiring will dwarf before the higher and holier feeling of love begotten of the special God given gift of genius possessed by the player. Listeners to Remenyi must hear, must admire, and must love the player. To-night his pro gramme will be a grand one but, stepping aside from the conventionali ties of present day musical genius, he is sot above playing down to the musical taste of those in his audience less gified or less cultivated. Hence some of the sweetest national melodies of Scot land will come from the master strings of the great violinist. Remenyi brings with him a brilliant soprano ia Miss Downing and a superior tenor in Mr Himmer, while a pianist well-known to fame will bo found in Mr Luokstone. Wells’ “Rou;h on Corns.”— Ask for

Wells’ Rough on Corns,” Quick relief, complete, permanent cure. , Corns, warts, bun.ogs, The N.Z. Drug Co., General Agents. I indigestion and Inver Complaints.—-For these complaints Baxter’s Compound Quinine Pills have proved a specific, acting powerfully on the liver and mildly on the stomach. Sold everywhere, or post free from J. Baxter, Chemist, Christchurch, for 19 or 44 stamps.

BANQUET TO MR S. S. REVANS.

The large attendance at the banquet given to Mr Revans at the Commercial Hotel last evening, on the eve of his de parture from the district, testified to the general esteem in which that gentleman is held. The gathering, in addition to being a large one, was thoroughly representa tive, and we have seldom seen more genuine enthusiasm displayed on any similar occasion. The catering reflected the very highest credit upon Mr Quill, and his efforts earned him well deserved expressions of satisfaction. The chair was occupied by his Worship the Mayor (Mr R. Friedlandor), supported on his right by the guest of the evening and Mr Thomas Bullock, J.P., and on his left by Mr Enabling (the Inspector of the Bank of Hew Zealand) and Mr Joseph Ward. The ex-Mayor (Mr D. Williamson, J P.) filled the vice chair, and the company in cluded nearly all the leading commercial and agricultural gentlemen of the district. Letters of apology for non-attendance were read from Messrs Holmes, Hardy Coster, MaiuWaring, Dowding, Clayton and Thomas, Ample justice having been done to the good things provided, the Chairman proposed the usual loyal and patriotic toasts which were duly honored.

The Vice-Chairman proposed “ Our Legislature, the two Houses of Parlia ment.” He congratulated. the town of As .burton upon having secured an emi nently efficient representative iu the lower House.' He was sorry that air VValker was unable to be present, but he would couple the torst with the name of another gentleman well known in politi cal circles —Mr Purnell. Mr Purnell said that he cordially re echoed the wish expressed by Mr William son that one of their representatives had been present, as doubtless either Mr Wal ker or Mr Grigg could have spoken with more fervor and with more appropriate ness than he could, upon the particular in stitutions to which Mr Williamson had re ferred. Ashburton certainly had no cause to be ashamed of its representa tives, but in view of the new and impor tant questions which must shortly occupy the attention of their legislature, he hoped that at next general election even increased [interest would be displayed in the choice of representatives. The Government had recently developed a foreign policy, a matter of very grave im portance to the inhabitants of this colony. Neither New Zealand nor Australia could stand quietly by and see other nations an nex the adjacent islands. A section of the colonial* press had affirmed that Britain had no pre-emptive right to the islands of the Pacific. But he contended that they had a pre-emptive right to those islands. It was a British navi gator who had discovered them, British missionaries had partially civil : sed them, aud British commerce had pioneered their trade. They, there fore, had a - pre-emptive right, and the very instinct of self-preservation should induce them to assert it at the present crisis. He trusted the Government would maintain the attitude they had assumed, and that they would receive the cordial and hearty support of the House and the country. The relation of the colony to the mother country was another important question which would shortly demand the attention of their legislators. Mr J. Ward proposed “The County 'ouncil,” coupling the names of Messrs Bullock and H.Friadlandar with the toast. Mr Bullock, in briefly acknowledging the compliment, referred to the import ance of the traffic bridge, the construc tion of which, thanks to the efforts of the local bodies and the ex-M!ayor (Mr Wil liamson), would shortly be undertaken. Mr Friedlander said they heard a very great deal in commendation of the works effected by the County Council, but there the outward indications of appreciation ended. He thought the early Councillors —of whom ho was not one—those who initiated their water scheme, were entitled to some more tangible recognition of their great public services. Dr Leahy proposed “ The Borough Council,” whose public record, he sub mitted was nothing inferior to that of the much-extolled County Council. They had provided footpaths, the Alford Forest road, a road to the Hospital—(laughter)— and many other, much-needed con veniences, and the Mayor had recently promised them a swimming bath, in re ference to which he would like to remind His Worship that the present bathing season was rapidly passing. He congra tulated the Council upon the resumption of amicable relations with the Fire Brigade —(laughter)—and coupled the toast with the names of the Mayor and the Coun cillors present. The Chairman (the Mayor) said that Dr Leahy had omitted to enumerate one very important improvement effected by the Council—the road to the Cemetery. [Dr Leahy—That was before my time— loud laughter ] The Mayor briefly referred to the works and propoaa's of the Council. Crs J. Orr, A. Orr, R. Bird, S. Nelson, and G. Jameson also acknowledged the toast.

The Chairman proposed “ The health of our guest, Mr S. S. Revana.” He said that he wished very much that the toast, the health of their old and much esteemed friend, had fallen into more capable hands, as he realised his own in adequacy for the duty. During Mr Revahs’s six years’ residence amongst them he had shown himself to be a gentle man in every way qualified to fill the im portant position with which he had been entrusted, but it was not in that capacity alone that he had won the sincere regard and esteem of a large circle of friends. Their guest had always been ready to do anything or everything calculated to ad vance the interests and well-being of the district. He had associated himself with their local industries, and had worked arduously and judiciously for their ad vancement ; any undertaking having for its object the good of the district had received his cheerful

and disinterested support; and he (the

Chairman) was sure that he was only re echoing the sentiments of Mr Revans’s many friends when he stated that his departure was regarded as calamity to the town and the district, and would be a matter for very sincere and general re gret, He (the Chairman) deplored that the exigencies of the banking business demanded these occasional changes, but that unfortunately was a matter beyond their control and to which they must sub mit He asked them to drink the health of their guest with all the honors, and to wish him a very large measure of success in his new sphere of action. (Loud and prolonged cheers.)

The toast was drunk with musical honors, and was followed by repeated cheers for Mr Kevans. Mr Revans said ha thanked his friends sincerely for the kindness they had ex-

tended towards him. As he looked around the table and saw so many friends with whom he had been associated, socially and commercially, in Ashburton, he could but feel great regret at severing his connection with a district in which bis sojourn had been so pleasant. The Mayor had kindly referred to what he (the speaker) had been able to do for the dis trict, but he could not claim to have done anything more than his duty. If the execution of that duty had awakened kindly feeling, the knowledge would be a source of very great and lasting gratifi cation to him. He could not but feel that many of the flattering things said of him were really evoked by the character of the important institution to which he belonged ; an institution which bad always shown itself ready la extend a helping hand towards any struggling do serving enterpiiae- Ho regretted that he was not an orator; be could but

poorly express what he felt oa the occa sion, but he deeply thanked them for their kindne o, which he would remember with pride at;d gratitude wherever he might be situated. (Loud cheers.) Mr Purnell proposed “ The Mercantile and Banking interests.” He said the two interests were inseparable, and their representatives in New Zealand reflected the greatest credit upon the colony. He spoke hopefully of the speedy removalof the pn sent depression, and the ultimate expansion of Ashburton and the success of its local industries.

Messrs John Drr, McGowan, Tribe, and Jameson appropriately responded. * Mr Bullock proposed—“ The Agricul- 1 tural and Pastoral interests,” coupled with the names of Mr D. H. Brown H. H. Secretan, and Mr M. Friedlandor. Mr D. H. Brown said that one of the great bug-bears to New Zealand farmers had been the Indian wheat. He, how ever, had no fear of it supplanting their own cereal : it was of too harsh a character to obtain a largo degree of favor with English millers. But New Zealand wheat would not establish itself as a favorite until some very salutary changes were made in the method of ship ment. He had now had considerable experience in the trade on both aides of the world, and could speak with some degree of authority. Their wheat was shipped unclaased and it was impossible for a London buyer to secure a line accord ing to sample. This he could assure them was a very grave objection in the Euro pean markets, although apparently not regarded as of the same importance here. The varieties of wheat grown in the Colony, too, were not the best adapted for the voyage Home. The large mer cantile companies, having the interests of the producers at heart, should import other varieties, such as Scotch Fife and Manitoba, which could be delivered in better order, and distribute the seed to their clients. He was the representative of a manufacturing interest which, he was pleased to say, was a success, and for the future of which and that of the farmers of Ashburton he was sanguine. Messrs Secretan and M. Friedlander also responded.

Mr H. Friedlander asked to. be allowed to refer to the Mr Brown’s com ments uponthe English character of New Zealand wheat. He had the highest es teem for Mr Brown as a miller and ex* pert, but he strongly dissented from the views he had expressed In reference to their grain. The first wheat sent from the district realised from fid to Is more than Adelaide, and until the damp sea* sons they had now experienced for two years in succession. New Zealand wheat was highly valued in London. Their wheat required to be thoroughly ripe and dry, and under those favorable conditions would, he was sure, recover its high character. Mr Brown while in some measure dis senting from Mr Friedlander, said his main contentions were, that the samples were exhausted, and the method of ship ment faulty. Mr Oaygill proposed “ The Ladies,” and Mr Farley responded in a humorous speech. Dr Ross proposed “ The Press,” and Messrs Saunders, Paul, and Kay re sponded. The Chairman apologised for its omis sion at an earlier stage of the evening, and proposed “ The Tinwald Town Board," coupled with the name of Mr M. Scott. Mr Scott briefly responded. The Chairman proposed “ Our Host,” and highly complimented Mr Quill upon the arrangements he had made for the banquet. Mr Quill acknowledged the toast. The Company having sang “ AuldLang Syne ” a very enjoyable evening con cluded.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT.

ASHBURTON— To-day.

(Before H. 0. S. Baddeley, Esq., R.M.

Drunkenness. —A first offender was fined 5s and costs, with the alternative of 12 hours’ imprisonment.—Charles Mc- Donald, against whom there was a very unfavorable record, was fined 60s and costs with the alternative of 7 days’ im prisonment. CIVIL CASES. Ashburton Borough Council v James Tasker, claim L2 2s.—Mr Crisp for the plaintiff j. —Judgment by default for the amount claimed and costs.

Same v H Knowles, claim L2 2s.—Mr Crisp for the plaintiffs,—Judgment by de fault for the amount claimed and costs.

Orr and Co v W. Martin, claim LI,

Judgment by default for the amouni claimed and costs.

Orr and Co v James Skilling, claim Ll 7 6s 6d.—Judgment by default for the amount claimed and costs. Friedlander Bros v James Gibson, claim L 26 15s 6d. Judgment by default the amount claimed and costs. Hazeltine v. Donaldson. Judgment summons, L 5 11s Bd. Adjourned for a week.

Veal and Rands v. Chapman, claim L2l.—Mr Branaonlor the plaintiffs ; Mr Purnell for the defendant. George Veal, a carpenter, said that a contractor named Scrimegeour had undertake to erect a church at Methven. Subsequently Scrimegeour was unable to complete the building, and witness undertook to do so on receiving what he regarded as a guarantee for payment from the defend ant and other members of the Church Committee. Witness signed a contract to Scrimegeour, but the defendant pro mised that whoever finished the work would receive payment from the Church Committee. On completion of the work it w»s passed by the defendant. The de fendant, had in the presence of witness, told Scrimegeour to give him (wit ness) an order on the Church Vestry for L2O. Witness received the order, but it was dishonored, and still remained unpaid.—By Mr Pur nell ; Scrimegeour had called for tenders for the completion of the Church build ing. The defendant was not a party to the contract signed with Scrimegeour. Witness had not seen defendant in refer ence to the matter until two or three days after the contract was signed. Witness had proved on Scrituegeour’s estate, but the Official Assignee had returned the claim. This closed the plaintiff’s case, and Mr Parnell submitted that they should be nonsuited, as it was clear they had no claim against the defendant. The work was dona in pursuance of a contract be tween the, plaintiffs and Scrimegeour.— Mr Branson having replied, the plaintiffs were nonsuited with costs.

Harrison v. Dolman, claim L 5 5j 6d.— Mr Oriep tor the plaintiff; Mr Branson f>»r the defendant. A cross action, Dol man v. Harrison, claim Ll 6 2a. was taken at the same time, but on argu ment between Counsel, it was de cided to withdraw the first case. The case of Dolman v. Harrison was then proceeded with. The plaintiff stated that he left a dray and some pigs at the auction room of the defendant, for sale. A reserve price was placed on the dray of Ll 3. It was sold for L 7 16s. Had never received the proceeds for them although application had been made to defendant's clerk for payment.—By Mr Crisp : Had bought the dray from the defendant pre viously for til, for which a promissory note had been given but which had not been paid, owing to instructions given to his (plaintiff's) Bank not to pay same until the defendant had lodged the proceeds of the y ale now sued for, to his account. Plain tiffs instructions were to sell the dray for ijla and the pigs for what they wculd bring. Never instructed the defendant otherwise Had oot yet paid the amount

of bill to defendant.—Hia Worship said that before going farther with the ca'B he would point out to Mr Branson, thi t judging from the plaintiff's own state* m*»nt the case was exactly on all fours with a case Bex well v. Christie, in wh’ch the plaintiff instructed the defendant (an auctioneer) to sell his gelding and not let it go under Ll 5. Defendant sold it for the highest sum bid,.viz, L6l6s 64. Lord Mansfield considered it a fraud on the public, owners baying,their own goods. They should go to the next real bidder. Mr Baddeley also quoted “Bateman on Auctions,” page 26—“ No action lies against an auctioneer for selling a chattel at the highest price bid for it contrary to the owner’s express directions not to let ; it go under a larger sum named.” An adjournment of the case would he granted until Friday next, in order that authori ties may be looked up by the learned counsel for the plaintiff, Casa adjourned accordingly, without costs. C. Braddell v Maddern, claim L 8 9a. — Mr Crisp for plaintiff; Mr Branson for defendant.—The claim was made- by plaintiff, under power of attorney, (or the Hon Thomas Braddell. The plaintiff, after stating his case, called Mr Cambridge to prove that the defendant had promised in bis presence to pay aome money re ferred to in a letter, the rent due, which defendant had acknowledged having re ceived from the plaintiff. The defence was that certain fencing had to be erected, according to an agreement, which was not carried out, and that the defendant never bad “use and possession” of the premises.—Hia Worship said that it was quite clear defendant bad acknow ledged hia liability by offering to pay the plaintiff in the presence of a witness, and that he had taken possession of the land. Judgment would be giveu for amount claimed with coats.

Shepherd v Neate, claim L2O for dam age alleged to have been sustained by the plaintiff from medicine supplied in error by the defendant.—The evidence of Dr Boss went to show that there h*d been no negligence on the pa t of the defend ant, and the plantiff had sustained no in jury.—The plantiff was therefore non suited.

WESLEYAN CONFERENCE.

Dcnediv, Yesterday.

The opening session of the Conference took place this evening in Trinity Church, a large number of the public being in attendance. The retiring President, the* Rev W. Morley, delivered an address re viewing the events of the past year. By an almost unanimous vote the Rev Joseph Berry (Dunedin) was raised to the chqjr, and the Rev U. Bull was re-elected Secre tary of the Conference. A Presbyterian deputation was received from the Synod. A resolution of welcome was heartily adopted! It was resolved that letters of affectionate esteem be sent to the Revs James Wallis, John Aldred and George Stannard, who, on account ■of advanc ing years, were unable to be present at the Conference. The results of the examination of the probationers were read. The highest number of marks has been secured by the Rev J. T. Pin fold, and the highest average by the Rev 0. H. Garland. The third highest number of marks falls to the Rev G. Marshall. The Revs Garland, Parsonson, Pinfold and Slade were recommended-for ordination, -subject to the result of oral, examination. The following probationers for the ministry passed in their respective years ;—Revs Jones, Wills, Marshall, and Mather; Revs Griffi h and Dean condi tionally. The first station sheet, which is subject to amendment on second and third readings, was brought up. The following refers to the

CANTERBURY DISTRICT. Christchurch—Durham street, W. Mor ley, G. Bond. Colombo road—D. M'Nichol.

St Albans —J. Berry, C. H. Garland. Lyttelton—W, J, Williams. Maori Mission—Te Kote.

Springston—W. Canned. Malvern—o. H. Standage.

Kaiapoi—J. A. Luxford. Rangiora—W. Rowaa. Woodend—Lewis Hudson,

Amberley—Home Missionary, Timaru—P. W. Fairclough. Waimate—J. H. Gray. Temuka—D. J. Murray. Ashburton —W. Kirk, and probationer.

SPORTING.

LOWER HE ATHCOTE {RACING

CLUB.

The following are the acceptances for, these races, which take place on the 24th inst., and will be run in this order:—

Handicap Hurdle Rack.. ' st. lb. I ‘ st. lb. Secretary ... 11 5 | Bordeaux ... 10 3 Harness Teot. Princess (late I Pet 40sto Peggy) ... sor I May Queen... 40seo Daisy ... set | Jenny ... 40no Hack Hurdle. Post entry. Flat Rack. Supplejack... 10 o I Bordeaux ... 8 7 Oeo ... 9 7 1 Puri Puri ...8 7 Fair Play ... 9 0 | Pony Tkot. Kate ... ecr Gipsy ... ISseo Blox witch ... s<ec Kitty ... ISseo Biddy ... Sseo Dandy ... ISsec Jo lOsec Sweet briar... ISseo Toby ... loses | Queenlo ... 15seo Scratch Race. Post entry. ITABATAHI RACES. Caetekxon, Yesterday. The Taratahi races took place to-day. There was a large attendance. Hurdles. Oribbage 1 Kohu 2 Hauka 8 Maiden Plate. Rata 1 Ingomar ... ... ... 8 Dan O’Connell 3 Taratahi-Carterton Handicap. Gabble ; ... 1 Administrator . 2 Pasha ... ... ... ... 3

Anniversary Handicap. First Water 1 Slave ... 2 Little Scrub ... ... ... 3 The Consolation was won by Den O’ConnelL

rOXION RAGES.

Wellington, Yestetday.

At the Fozton races to-day the weather was fine. The attendance was about 2,000. • Handicap Hurdles, 45 aovs. Totara (late Parnell) 1 Rambler 2 Abolition ... 3 Dividend, L 5 4s. Hack Hurdles. Egmont ... Maiden Plate, 25 sova. Kimika I Touch and Go ...- ... 2 Ivy 3 Dividend, L 6 ss. Fox con Racing Club Handicap, 110 sovs j If miles. Bayard ... ... ... 1 Armourer ... ... ... 2 Trickster ... ... ... 3 Time, 3min 22Jsec. Dividend, L3l9«a. Pony Race. ' Cinderella ... 1 Stewapds' Stakes Handicap. Bayard I Kimika 2 Lady Artist ... ... 3 Dividend, LI 19 1.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 1885.



Wanted. WANTED —A Man to make himself generally useful. Apply, But ler’s Family Hotel. 1 123 ANTED T ‘ LET, a seven-roomed House in Barnett street, two minutes walk from centre of town ; good outbuildings; moderate rent to a good tenant. Apply office of this paper. 1 128 WANTED Known That persons wish ing to purchase Cheap Groceries would do well to look at J. McGueqor’s advertisment in another column. WANTED Tenders—-For Harvesting 20 acres Oats and Wheat, Win ter’s Read, Allenton. To be In bv noon Saturday, January 24tb; Particulars can be seen at Messrs Fooks and Son’s WANTED Known—That R. Lancas ter starts the new year entirely op his own account with a very light handi cap, which will enable him to sell meat cheaper than ever. With quality, clean liness and civility combined —defies com petition. So rally round to the Ready- Money Mea 1 . Mart, Bullock’s Arcade. 1 2 VS T ANT ED Known—Fresh Flounder* » * are daily despatched direct from our own boat, now fishing at Lake Elles mere. Delivery guaranteed within eight hours from time of catching. All orders received at my shop will be immediately executed on arrival of the train. W. O. Page, East street, Ashburton. 11 2161 ANTED Known—Boots ! Boots That Hayes and 00. are Clearing ■ a few desperate lines of Boots, etc., tf I wit, Ladies’ Leather, 4s fid; Men’i r Shooters, Pegged, 10s; Men’s Elaatii 5 sides, 9s, and a lot of odd lines that mus Office. 1 111 be cleared at once. 7 1271



Comsacks. OKA BALES of OORNSAOKS to AOU arrive ex ship Atlantigue (now due), a'ze 48 x 26J, 2|. Apply, at once, to HAYES & CO„ I Arcade, Ashburton. OF ANNUALS Boys’and Girls’ Own Annuals, Chatterbox, Sunday, Quiver, Child’s Companion, Little Folks, Child’s Own Magazine, British Workwomen, . British Workmen, Cottager and Artisan, etc. CHRISTMAS CARDS In great Variety and Newest Designs. PRIZE BOOKS ( An immense Stock of PRIZE BOOKS ( School Prizes Always on band. School Committees will do well to pay a visit and inspect for themselves. LIBERAL DISCOUNT ALLOWED to all Schools by Thomas F. Farley, BOOKSELLER, STATIONER, AND PRINTER, Sadhdbbs’ Buildings, Ashbukton. O T I 0 E EW BAKERY & FLOUR STORE, &c. Benjamin Morris Desires to return his. best thanks to the public foe the liberal support accorded to him sinoe he has taken over the Wester field Mills. He bega to state that he has BOW OPENED a STORE in the TRIANGLE, WAKANUI ROAD, where all orders by his former customer •nd others will be promptly attended to.



WHE ATEN STEAL from Westerfield BRAN and SHARPS always in stock He also bogs to intimate that he “°* i OPENED A BAKERY, under the management of a first-class Baker;and trostsby strict attention t bnsifrffn fb intent a share of publi pattba«gA : 7 ANALYSIS OF WESTBEF ELD FLOUR. - a *« I have examined both chemically and microscopically the whole grain flour mamfacturedbyMr B. Mobeis. _ I find It to be quite free from adulteration, an/ made from aooiut «l.eat of good Quality “i. 'V BIOKERTUN, “Colonial vnalyst.’’ 1884 ‘ 8 158



WANTED Known Removed.— Jones and Bradshaw, Corn and Chaff Dealt 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 t badshaw. WANTED Known.—We are not to be beaten ! Good straw hats, 4jd, 6d, 9J ; black Cashmere, double width, Is 3-3; print costumes, 2s 9d ; white calico, 2a 6d per doz; a lot of infanta’ white and colored satin and merino hats and hoods. Is to 3s 6d—usual price, 4s 6d to 12s 6d. H. C. SBGEES, tealys’ Buildings, East Street. 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 post or telegram promptly attended to. 760 SOMETHING worth knowing.—F. F. CLAYTON, Practical Tailor, pro fessed Coat and Habit Maker, is next Jones and Bradshaw’s, East street. F. F. 0. is too well known as a master of his profession to need further comment. One trial will prove it Gentlemen’s own ma terial made up ; repairs and alterations carefully attended to. 10 1962 WANTED Known—C. Hawkin’s, of Tinwald, having decided to com pete with either Christchurch or Ashbur ton, in price and quility of Boots, will, Ist January, 1885, bell for Cash Only, at the following reduced rates : —Men’s Harvest Bluchers, tips and nailed, 6s 9d; Shooter Boots, 10a 3d; Women’s Strong Lace Boots, 8s 6d; Leather Elastic, 9s 6d; Children’s all reduced from Is per pair. Motto—“ Small Pro fits and Quick Returns. ” 0. Haw in's, boot and Shoemaker. 12 2393



WANTED Known—J. Mbboh & 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, beiug specially selected, and combined with good workmanship, all goods are guaran teed of the best quality, and at the very lowest prices. East and Burnett street, Ashburton. 12 23 *2 WANTED Known—The undersigned beg to notify to their customers and the public generally that they have Removed into the premises adjoining Mr Taylor, Baker, East street. By strict attention to business and making a good article, they hope to merit the continu ance of public patronage. Fowkb and McEwbn, Bootmakers, East street, Ash burton. 10 1973 Special Advertisements.



Diman t and Coe, ARE authorised LOCAL AGENTS for Singer’s SEWING M A OHINES, and are prepared to receive PAYMENTS and afford all information in connection therewith. Treadle and Hand Machines on Time Payments. „ A supply of Machine extras on hand. CORNER EAST AND TANORED STREETS, ASHBURTON. 11 2181



“ Veni, Vidi, Fid.” /CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR CARDS AT HALF PRICE TOYS & FANCY GOODS GREATLY REDUCED IN PRICE. Andrewes Bros., Booksellers, Stationers, &0., EAST STREET, SOUTH, Ashburton. ' Q PEOIAL NOTICE FANCY BAZAAR Continued a few days to clear ont surplus slock. GREAT BARGAINS. sixpenny & shilling TABLES, Also, a TABLE of VARIETIES from ONE PENNY to FOURPENOE, Please observe.—ln the ROOM NEXT to my PRESENT SHOP, specially taken for the Christmas Season. R. Bevan, SAUNDERS’ BUILDINGS, (Next Shon to Quill’s Hotel.)



Special Advertisements- NOTICE TO CONSUMERS OF COAL. THE undersigned are now landing, ex b.b Hauroto, the Best N ewcastle Coal Imported for the season A TRIAL SOLICITED They have also added to their stocks ot 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, &c., And every requisite for the trade. MAOPHERSON, FILMER AND 00. (lata A. Hayes), SAWMILLERS, TIMBER, COAL, AND FIREWOOD MERCHANTS. East street, Ashburton.



25 Branches New Open 25 1 THE “NEW" ZEALAND Clothing Factory Are now Showing , NEWEST STYLES in SPRING & SUMMER CLOTHING, Manufactured from the renowned 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’.rts, 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 aelliog off at HALF-PRICE. Must be sold to niake room for NEW STOCK. Parties about to Furnish will SAVE 50 Pb* Cent. BY PUCHaSING AT W. DAVIS’S FURNITURE WAREHOUSE, EA S T STREET SOUTH, Ashburton 9 1729



T>E DENNIS O’CONNELL, J-V 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 hook 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. C. 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, viis Christchurch ... £1602 18 0 Lyttelton ... £315 7 0 £lBlB 5 0 At 10/6d in the £, being £954 9a. Yours faithfully, E. 0. LATTER. Official Assignee. Mr White will deliver the stocks.



Notice of Sale to the Public. This stock, which really repre sents a retail value of £2,424, was bought by us of the Official Assignee for £954, so that if we get one half O’Connell’s price it will pay us 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 —No discounts or abatements of any kind. H. E. May & Co



Victoria House. (EASON SALE COMMENCING ON JANUARY 16th, & CONTINUING \ FOR FIVE WEEKS ONLY. REMARKABLE REALITIES*! GLARING REDUCTIONS 1! j&£/'For Convincing proof and Special Prices Sec Window&'SJ^ Dimant and Coe, READY-MONEY DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, £c. t In premises lately occupied by Orr and Co., Corn East and Tancred streets, ASHBURTON,



Purify the blood, cleanse the stomach, and sweeten the breath with Hop Bitters, Read [Advt.] Skinny Men,— “ Wells’ Health Renewer restores health and vigor, cures dyspepsia, inr potence, debility. The N.Z. Drug Co, General Agents. I Don’t Die in the House. “Koungh on Rats ” clears out rats, mice, beetles, roaches, bed-bugs, flies, ants, insects, moles, jack* rabbits, gophers. The N.Z, Drug Co,| General Agents, |