COMMERCIAL.

Ashburton Guardian Office, Thursday afternoon,

Messrs Matson, Cox and Co. report upon the live stock market for the A shburton district, forthe week endi-g April 14th, as follows: On Tuesday at the Ashburton Yards we held our usual weekly sale of sheep, cattle, and pigs. The entry for ihe day’s tiansaction was again a very large one, but prices as a rule were a shade weaker than the previous week, and several lines of really good we 1-grown lambs were tuned out unsold ; in fat sheep there was scarcely any demand, and also most the whole of the fat lambs tvere passed in. We quote mutton at 2d per lb ; beef, 16s to 18s per lb We sold on account of the following J. fl. Rodgers, C. Primmer, A. Hewson. G. Mur doch, W. H. Rule, A. Jackson C. Miller, Jas. Bent, J. R. Campbell. D Leddy T. Hardy, A. Frisby, S. McLeary, W. Srrachan, S. Chapman, John Gngg, A. Might, E. Her ring W. H. Parsons, I. F. Rickards, John Boag, McLean Broq G. Cole, O. Digby, John Toner, E. Thomas, E. Doak, and W. Brown, and chained the following prices :—Fat merino wethers, 7s rod, Bs, and 6s rod; fat crossbred wethers, 12s ; stores and aged cross bred ewes, 6s yd, 4s gd, and 7s 5d ; crossbred lambs, 7s to 8s ; aged merino ewes, is 2d to 2%; merino wethers, 4s id to 5s 3d; rams, Lincoln, ij£gs; Border Leicester, L 3 3s ; English Leicesters, L 3 3s; Southdowns, L 3 3s. Pigs—l sow, 3 1 boar, stores, L i 9s; 2 at Li 13s; 2 at 17s 6d. Cattle—fat steers, L4ssto L 4 12s 6d and L 4 15s * fat cows, L2 ios to L 3 ; cows in profit, 14 5s Mr E. G. Staveley (for the New Zeala d Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, Limited), reports on the Ashburton live stock market under date 14th April, as follows: The e was a very large supply of sheep, about 17,000 being penned, and moderate entries of cattle and pigs. The sheep sale was quiet, though steady, and the bulk of those brought forward was disposed of at our quotations. We sold aged crossbred ewes, 4s nd, and fairly good ditto, 9s nd. We cleared the Whiterock merino ewes at $s 6d to Ss 1 id, and sold small 2-tocth crossbreds at 7s, and 2- tooth wethers at 9s I id. Fat merino wethers fetched 6s 4d and 7s $d ; store ditto, 3s 4d d 4s 3d ; small mixed 2-tooth crossbreds, 7s, 6d and 8s 6d. Crossbred Jambs, which met good demand, 7,7 s 5d and 7s lod; fair out merino ewes, 4s 2d, 5s and 5s 6d ; cu'l . yd to 2s 6d ; aged crossbred ewes, 6s c; ood ditto, 9s fid and ios lod ; forward mei.no wethers, Ss id. At the Addington yards cn Wednesday large supplies of sheep and pigs were received The entry of cattle was not more than an average one, and the attendance was not very numer ous. Sheep—The low prices ruling for fat sheep seem to have little or no effect on the supply, as 'here was again a full market. The quality was very uneven, and although there were one or two lots of prime crossbreds, yet a very large majority were not more than second 1 ate. The trade was very indifferent as to purchasing, and could not be induced to buy except at a further reduction on late rate -, and as a matter of course a large number went un sold. - Good crossbred wethers sold at from 13s to 14s 6'l and for a small line 16s was paid. The quality, hbwev* r, was exceedingly goo , and being the only lot of such descriptio i on offer, the p: ice must be regarded as quite ex ceptional, and in no way indicating the true state of ihe market. Second rate lots realised from ios to J2s. Merinos, of which there were a very large number of inferior quality, brought from 61 to 8s 3d. We quote mutton at a little under 2d per lb on an average. The remarks made with regard to fat sheep apply even more forcibly to store sheep. The entry although large, was not so heavy as on the two previous weeks. A large proportion consisted of very inferior sorts. The sale was a wretched one throughout, and line after line was passed, and it was only with the greatest difficulty that sales could be effected at all. Cross-bred ewes sold at from 6s to ios pel; merino ditto, at from 2S to 53 6d, and crossbred lambs at 5s Bd, Cattle—The supply of fat cattle was not large, but still there was an increase on theen'ries of the past week or two. The sale, as usual, was enthely without arimation, and several lots were passed in. We have no alteration to report in prices, and quote from 163 to 18s per loolb as the current rate for beef. There was not much business done in store cattle, but a good demand still continues for dairy cows. Pigs— The pig yards were well filled, with a variety of sorts. For most lots t ere was a good de mand, and, except in the case of small stores, late prices were fairly well maintained. Por kers sold at from 27s to 465; larger sorts at proportionate rates, and small stores at from 6s to 15s. .

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. Saturday, April 18 Mr Thos. Bullock, at the Arcade, Burnett street—Race Privileges, Land, e!c. Tuesday, April 21 Messrs Matson, Cox and C j., at the Tinwald Saleyarda—Stock MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, Exo. Friday, Apsil 17 Masonic Hall—Concert, at 8 o’clock Wednesday, Aphil 22 Wesleyan Church—Reception Soiree Monday, April 27. Borough Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7.30 Arcade Chambers —Star of Ashburton, U.A.0.D., at 8 o’clock Wednesday, April 29 Ashburton Racing Club—Autumn Meet ing Friday, May 1 Ashburton County Council —At Council Chambers, 11a.m. Lonbgeach Road Board at Road Board Office, Saturday, May 2. /Takanul Road Board, at Road Board office, Moore street, at 10.30 a.m.

MAIL NOTICES.

itTnilw close at the Ashburton Post Office follows: — For Christchurch and North at 6 a. m, 10.30 a.m., and 5 p.m., daily. For Chertsey Rakaia, &0., at 10.30 a.m. tnd 6 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, sod Geraldine, at 10 a-m. daily. Tor Toxnuka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., For Tiimu'u and South, at 6 a.m., 10 *.m., and 4.30 p.m,, daily. For Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10.45 *.ra. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seaviow, Seafield, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a.m. For vlounfc Somers, on Tuesdays and aturdays, at 6 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 6 a.m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, at 4,30 p.m. daily. For Flemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4.30 p. m. - For Newlauds, on Tuesdays and Fri days at 10.30 a.m. ETnila arrive at the Ashburton Post •Jffice — From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 am., 4.36 p.m,, and 7.20 p.m. From Chertsey, &c. at 10.13 a.m. and i. 35 p.m. daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places at 6-3° daily. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.40 a.m. u.dO p.m., and 8 p.m. daily. From Greenstreet and Ashburton Porks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 a.m. Bor Mount Somers and Ashburton Gorge, on Tuerdays and Saturdays, at 6 •.m. and 4.39 p.m., and on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. From Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 10.6 a.m. From Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a-m. daily. From Newlauds, on Tuesdays and Fri days, at 2.30 p.m. From Flemington on Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 10 a. m. From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, and Kyle On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sat urdays* at 4 p.m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Manga Est Veritas et Prevalebit THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 1885.

a J T ct V( Cl IV: P s< Cl P a fi a D t 2 i C i i < 1 i Eleven stacks of wheat, the property of Mr P. Madden, were destroyed by fire at Wakanui last evening. Mr Madden and his family retired for the night at about nine p.m., and an hour later ware aroused by the glare of fire. It was discovered that two blocks of stacKß, nearly half a mite apart, were on fire, and the whole were destroyed, notwithstanding the efforts made to suppress the flames Me Thomas Bullock, J.P. , presided at the Resident Magistrate’s Court this morning, and cautioned and discharged a Bacchanal, who made his first appearance before the Court. The Glasgow Mail relates the following anecdote of General Gordon In the last fortnight of his stay in England, before ' hia departure for Khartoum, he met a beggar in the lanes of Hampshire, near Southampton ; and that beggar, monsuo, pitched to him a wondrous pitiful tale. Gordon had but one coin in his pocket, I and that coin was a sovereign, which he ! readily subscribed for the benefit of the beggar. An hour later he discovered from a police officer that the beggar was a hoary imposter. Gordon immediately proceeded to select the thickest ash cudgel hia house could supply. He walked fif teen miles, and succeeded in laying hands upon the delinquent, whom he trounced within a few inches of hia life. Unfortu ately, he forgot to ask for the sovereign back again ; and three days later he went to Khartoum. The tea meeting and concert held on Tuesday evening last in St Stephen’s schoolroom was not so well attended as the promoters expected, but those who were present appeared thoroughly satis fied with the excellent tea and the varied programme of music provided for their delectation. Songs were given by Mrs Crisp, Miss Gates, and Messrs G. D. Branson, H. A. Gates, H. Pickford, J. G. Rose and J. W. Jones, a duet by Miss Gates and Mr Stephenson, and a flute obligato by Mr'G. Jameson. The choir, under the leadership of Mr H. Gates, randereJ some appropriate pieces, which were well received. Mrs Branson and Mrs A. Claridge acted as accompanists with their usu il success. There is a theory advanced by scientists that if you whisper in the ear of a sleep ing man the impression of your words will be conveyed to hia mind as by a dream. We* recently experi mented with this theory, says the Boston Post, and it worked very satisfac torily. A noted Western scout who boasted of having slain 200 Indiana, was stopping at the hotel where we reside. We entered into his room and whispered in his ear, “ We are attacked by Indians! The red devils are upon us !” Did he spring up, grab for a fray ? He did arise from the bed, and he crawled under it. There can be no doubt that the theory is correct. A meeting of the members of the Ash burton Club was held at Fowler’s Build ing last evening, Mr S. Nelson, the Presi dent, occupying the chair. The Chairman reported the routine business transacted by the Committee since last meeting. Applications were received for the ap- , pointmeut of steward, and that of Mr Andrews accepted. It was resolved— “ That a cold collation bo held on Monday ; evening next to formally eaJebrate the opening of the Club, and that Messrs ; Fowler, Robertson, Hoult and the ate- , ward be a committee to make all arrange- ] ments in connection therewith. ” Several < members present promised to make dona- f tinns of books and periodical* toward the t library of the Club. i Herr Kreutzhuber is a member of the ® secret police. Being on his way home ' after midnight he observes on the street 1 lamp a placard : 11 Ha ! these scoundrels of Socialists have posted a placard de- 1 nouncing his Majesty,” said Kreutzhuber 1 to himself. Being determined to destroy c the placard he painfully climbs up the ‘ lamp post, and haying secured the trea- n sonable document be reads, “ Fresh v Paint ” 0 Balmy sleep, good digestion, nth blood, 6 clastic step and cheerfulness in American 1 Co.’s Hop Bitters. Read and believe. That husband of mine is three limes the d man he was before he began using “ Wells x Health Rer.ewer.” Druggists. The N.Z P Drug Co., General Agents. 2 d Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis, etc,, are quickly rl cured by using Baxter’s “ Lung Preserver. . d This old-established medicine is pleasant '.to n the palate, and highly extolled by members of a: the medical and clerical profession. Read ad- P vqrtisement, . cl

A meeting of the Committee of the nthven library was held on Monday ,st. Present—Messrs Allington, Duff, Hibbs and J. Jackson. In the absence f the Chairman Mr Allington presided, he Secretary reported that he bud re lived the sum of Lll 7s from the Go ernment, being the grant-in-aid for the urrei't year. The Librarian reported that Ir H. Mcl'raiib, of Broompark, had resented the library with a useful as ortment of well bound books, and a par el of periodicals and parliamentary iapers. It was unanimously resolved that , vote of thanks bo passed to Mr Mcllraith or his handsome and valuable present, md that the same be recorded on the* ninutes. It was decided to give ;an en ,attainment in the schoolroom on May J2nd, in aid of the funds of the library. offer from the Methven Amateur Dhris'y Minstrels to assist on the occasion (vaß accepted with thanks. The Dunedin Star in commenting upon the correspondence that has appeared in our columns with reference to “ the ox policeman," refers to Mr 11. W. Green and the Mev J. P. Oliver. As most of our readers are aware the titles should have been reversed. The Hon Mr Ballance was expected to arrive in Ashburton by the express this morning, but did not do so. His Worship the Mayor, Mr W. C. Walker and a num ber i f press representatives wore in at tendance at the railway station for somo time awaiting th * arrival of the Minister, but ultimately dispersed without any de finite information as to the gentlem m’s whereabouts. Later it was underatooi Mr Ballance would ariive by the 4 35 tiain this afternoon. We are pleased to learn that the mini mum amount of capital required to float the new Woollen Factory Co. has already been subscribed, and active operations at the Factory will be commenced at an early date. At a musical soiree a lady, after execut ing an intermin'ble piano solo, faints dead away. A gentleman, with great promptitude, seizes a glass of water and administers a few drops to the lady, who revives. Then, with a compassionate cry, “ Now for the other sufferer,” he pours the remainder of the wa er on the piano A general meeting of the Ashburton Volunteer Fire Brigade was held at the old Council Chambers, Burnett street, last evening. There were sixteen mem bers of the Brigade present, and Mr W. B. Dolman occupied the chair. Messrs P. Walker and A. Christie, having been approved of by the Borough Council, were elected members of the Brigade. The election of officers for the ensuing year was then proceeded with. Mr Keir announced that he had induced Mr J. A. Caygi'l to offer himself for election as Captain, and the other candidates having withdrawn, Mr Caygill was d.dared duty elected. Messrs Dolman, Keir and Davia having been nominated for the office of Lieutenant, the two latter gentlemen withdrew, and Mr Dolman was elec ted. A ballot was taken for the office of Foreman, resulting in a tie between the two gentlemen nominated and the Chairman gave his casting vote in favor of Mr Wilmshurst. Mr Davis was elected DeputyjForeraan,Mr Keir, Treasurer, and Mr R. Christie, Secretary. The following gentlemen were elected as a Working 0 mmittee for tho month, viz : —Messrs Young, Parkin, Sandoe, Walker, and Harrop. uring the evening the members expressed themselves as pleased with the proposal made by the Borough Council for the simply of uniforms, but tho Ohair mm said he had not yet received any old ;ial communication on the subject. The roll having been called the meeting a Ijourned. Madame Pauline Rita and Mr John Radcliff, the former a vocalist of great merit, and the latter described as “ the world’s greatest fl must,” will appear at the Oddfellows’ Hall, Wills street, on Wednesday and Thursday evenings next. An extended notice of these artistes will appear in our next issue. We remind our readers of the Masonic dress concert to be held in the Masonic Hall, Tancred street, to-morrow evening. An excellent programme has been ar ranged, which will be carried out under the direction of Mr S. Wolf, and «eve r al performers new to Ashburton audiences will assist. The preparation of the comic onera “ H. M >S. Pinafore” by tho Ashburton Choral and Orchestral Societies is making most satisfactory progress. The oast has bee i somewhat changed, and while appreciating the efforts of the previous performers, wo think the alterations will contribute towards the increased success of the opera. Mrs Wolf will fill the part of Josephine, and the re-appearance of this talented lady will in itself prove a greit additional attraction. Mr J. W. Jones will sustain the role of Sir Joseph Porter, and we have no doubt will do so with satisfaction to his audience and credit to himself. Tho third cheap excursion train from Christchurch to Timaru passed through Ashburton at 11 o’clock this morning It comprised fifteen carriages, which were all crowded with excursionists. Telegrams, giving interesting particulars of the operations of the New South Wales contingent in the Soudan, appear in this issue. The Wellington correspondent of the Christchurch Press telegraphed yesterday: —This morning’s New Zealand Times has the fo lowing :—“Yesterday the Go vernment received from the Agent-Gene ral a telegram stating that the position of aftkirsbetween England and Russia was still very serious, and that it behoved New Zialand, in common with all other parts of the Empire, to hasten tho com p'etion of its defence preparations.” It is clear, therefore, that Sir Francis Dillon Bell believes war to be imminent; and there certainly appears to be good grounds for the opinion, if we may judge by the intelligence which every day comes to hand. Upon enquiry of Ministers as to the truth of the statement, 1 was in formed that it was little short of pure fiction. The only cable received yester day from the Agent-General on the sub ject simply stated the affairs of Russia still look serious. This was the statement of the Colonial Treasurer. Notwithatandr ing the statement of the Times, that the cable was received by the Government from the Agent-General, a member of the staff afterwards asserted that the published information was obtained from His Excel lency the Governo*-. Upon learning this Sir Julius Yogel despatched his Private Secretary ,to His Excellency, and received a message to the effect that no such infor mation had been received by His Excel lency, and was not, therefore, communi cated to the iVeto Zealand Times. It seems good and necessary to make this explanation in the hope of allaying un necessary anxiety which may have re sulted from the dissemination of sensa tional and exaggerated rumours having little truth in fact. He entered the coal office with a small market basket on his arnt “ Giya me a son of coal.” “ Yes, sir,” replied tfie joal merchant; “ where shall I send it P '* Oh, just put It into this basket ; I’ll jarry it home myself." “ But we have a vaggon right here and can send i' up at >nce. ” “No; lean carry the coal easy mough, but you might send the bill up n a waggon.”— Pottsville Chron. A other unfortunate.—Again we must draw he attention of our readers to the fact that a £2,424 stock of Clothing and General Dra >ery, in the estate of Dennis O’Connell, tra ling in Lyttelton and Cristchurch, "now bank upt, was purchased by H. E. May & Co., of he Hall, High street, for or ° ul y a ittle over one-third of its value. H. E. M, nd Co. are now selling it at half the marked nice, which surely ought to seenre a speedy learance,

EUROPEAN ITEMS.

(By Telegraph fkom Wellington.)

(“Age" Special.) London, April 8. Mr Murray Smith, acting upon instruc tions received from Victoria, has ordered a number of Whitehead torpedoes. Prince Bismarck has issued an order forbidding German manufacturers to sup ply torpedoes to any foreign powers. The Victorian L 4,000,000 four per cent, redemption loan is to be placed upon the London market very shortly. London, April 9. The report that Earl Roseberry is about to visit Berlin, with the object of conclud ing an agreement with the German Go vernment on the subject of .annexation in the Pacific and in Africa, is declared to bo premature.

(From the “ Evening News ” War Correspondent. ) Suakim, April 5.

In the skirmishing near Taraai the Im perial troops had one private killed and an officer wounded, 'Jhe New South Wales contingent who smelt powder for the first time behaved with great steadiness all through. They had three men slightly wounded, namely, Privates Charles Harrison, C. 0. Downey, and Learoyd. The enemy’s loss is not known. On this occasions our fellows did not get the share of fighting that was given to some of the other troops, and I am inclined to think that the geneial in command wished to ascertain how they would he? have in actual warfare before he carried out his promised of brigading them with the Gua-ds. That he is satisfied is sh >wn by the announcement now that in the general advance we are to have the place of honor.

Suakim, April 6

The weather is getting very warm, and the heat where we now are is intensely dry—just like that of Darling, New South Wales. Our fellows stand it very well. Attacks of sunstroke cf a slight nature are prevalent, principally among the 1m perial troops.

Suakim, April 7.

The Arabs beat up our quarters on the zareeba on the road to Handoub last night. They came up without order in pretty considerable numbers, but warned by their former attacks on the zareeba at Tamai, they made no attempt at a general assault. However, they opened a brisk but harmless fire. They made their ap pearance on two aides of the zareeba, and their bullets, with few exceptions, passed over our heads. At the same time, the situation was quite sufficiently dangerous to test our men’s nerves, discipline and order under fire, and what these ware you will judge when I tell you that in the morning the officer in command of our post, General A. J. Lyon Fremantle, com plimented the New South Wales men on their general smartness, but more particu larly upon the way in which they re turned the A.rab fire. This was not done at haphazard but like marksmen should do, taking advantage of every little open ing in the z ireeba from which a fair sight of the enemy could be obtained, and not blazing away recklessly, but only firing when there seemed to be something worth hitting. ihe guards and the rest of the garrison were equally brisk in the Arab fire, and it is supposed that a good many Arabs were hit and carried off by their friendi. The exchange of firing lasted a couple of hours, after which the Arabs drew off and we slept peaceful/ for the rest of the night.

Suakim, April 8

A camel driver who returned to the headquarters camp last night, after having been missing some time, reports that he was taken prisoner during the fight at Hassen on March 22 between the British, under General Graham, and the Arabs, under Osman Digua, when the Arabs, though subsequently beaten, fought stub bornly for some time. The man was with the Arabs as a prisoner when our men had their first “brush” with the enemy at Tamai on Friday morning, and when, with the Guards, we drove them back among the lower hills. The camel driver reports that our fire on that occasion was much more destructive to the enemy than was supposed, and they had 250 killed and wounded. This confirms the impression that thq Australians are showing their superiority as,marksmen, which I men tioned in ray telegram yesterday, when I described the night attack on the zireeba on the road to Handoub. The carnal driver says that the Arabs are very much disheartened, and cannot now be brought up to make a charge upon us. They are burning tbeir villages and retiring inland. As a result of the depressed state of the Arabs they released their watch over their prisoners who escaped without much diffi culty and came into Suakim as I have described. The New South Wales Artillery still remains at the headquarters, close to Suakiip, and it is not yet known whether it will join in the general advance upon Berbsr or remain at Suakim. The former is, however, most likely if the report of the camel driver as to the demoralisation of Digna’s people bs true.

YESTERDAY'S LATE TELEGRAMS

Auckland. The South British Insurance Company have declared an interim dividend.

The clerks in the various banking insti tutions of the city propom raising a rifle corps. It is expected that 80 members will be obtained.

The experiments in manufacturing gun cotton in Auckland have proved must satisfactory.

Auckland contractors have to-day stripped their works of 100 mori to woilk at the harbor defences. Two hundred and f irty men are to be employed. An excursion train left this morning for the Waikato, with a number of leading citizens, to take part in the ceremony of turning the first sod of the Punui railway extension. GtSBORNB One thousand votes were polled in favor of the harbor loan, and only five against. The Board decided on taking the preliminary steps for raising the loan, and will discuss the appointment of an engineer at next meeting. Tamai Mahe, a Maori, has poisoned himself with tutu, which he boiled and drank as medicine. Wellington. The question of appointing local Boards under tne Government Insurance Associa tion will probably come before the Central Board next week. A charge of- assaulting the chief gaoler has been laid against a prisoner named Dimmots. Thefollowing tenders have been received for the Post and Telegraph Office, Grey mouth :—Accepted: R. Martin, Dunedin, L9OB. Declined : Arnott and Seabrook, Greymouth, L 972 ; Holder and Reilly, L1,(’59; P. Uyndman, Christchurch, LI 245; F. J. Gleason, Greymouth, L 1,324. Dunedin.

A fire at Otakia on Monday destioyed a stack containing 200 bags of oats, ’ the property of Mr Thomas Shand, valued at LBO. The oats were uninsured. This is the second fire on the same farm recently, and incendiarism is suspected. A deputation from the University Coun cil waited on the Hon Mr Larnach to day to ask Government assistance towards permanently establishing a school of mines in connection with the University. Mr Larnach said ha thought he would have little difficulty in persuading his col leagues to meet the Council in the matter

The Defence Department has been offered, through Lieutenant-Colonel Stave ley, the services of a number of men who

are excellent marksmen, good horsemen, and thoroughly acquainted with the coast line between Waikouaiti and the Taien. r ] he idea is that such a corps of irregulars could act as scouts. Seventeen prisoners were charged at the Police Court with misconduct and insubor dination in refusing to work at the Heads. Vickers, a ringleader, was sentenced to eight days’ bread and water and to forfeit 50 marks, and the others got five days’ bread and water. At the local option polling for the city to-day, the majority was about four to one against tha inereise of any licenses There were only about 300 votes polled. ] The glove fight, Pettengoll v. Scott, resulted ir favor of the former, who had an easy victory, Scott being beaten at every point. A lad about 16, named Smith, son of an hotelkeeper at Anderson’s Bay, died very suddenly to-night. He returned from school apparently quite well, was taken ill about half-past five, and died within an hour. Dr Ooughtrey does not know the cause, and an inquest will probably be held.

THE MAHDI.

The following account of the Mahdi was drawn up by the late Lieutenant Colonel Stewart, who was killed at Merawi on his way down the Nile from General Gordon at Khartoum :

Mahomet Achmet, the Mahdi, is a Dongolawdi, or native of the province of Dongoli. His grandfather was called Fahil, and lived on the Island of Naft Arti (Arti-Dongolaws for “Island”). This island lies east of and opposite to Ordi, the native nami for the capital of Dongola. His father was Abdullahi, by trades carpenter. In 1852 this man left and went to Shindi, a town on the Nile smith of Berber. At that time his family consisted of three sons and one daughter, called respectively Mahomed, Hamid, Ma homet Achmet (the Mahdi), and Nur el- Sham (Light of Syria ) At Shindi an other son was born called Abdullah. As a boy Mahomet Achmet was apprenticed to Sherif-ed-deen, his uncle, a boat (?), residing at Shakabeh, an island opposite Senaar. Having one day received a beating from his uncle, he ran away to Khartoum, and e joined the frie school or “ Medressu ” of a faki (learned man, head of a sect of dervishes), who resided at Hoghali, a village east of and close to Khartoum. This school is attached to the tomof Sheikh Hoghali, the patron saint of Khartoum, and who is greatly re vered by the inhabitants of that town and district. The Sheikh of this tomb or shrine, although he keeps a free school and feeds the poor, derives a very handsome revenue from the gifts of the pious. He claims to be a descendant of the original Hoghali, and through him of Mahomet.) Here he re mained for some time studying religion, the tenets of his sheikh, etc., but did not make much progress in the more worldly accomplishments of reading and writing. After a time he left and went to Berber, where he joined another free school kept by a Sheikh Ghubuah at a village of that name situated nearly opposite to Mek herref (Berber). This school is also at tached to a shrine greatly venerated by the natives. Here Mahomet Achmet remained six months completing his re ligious education. Thence he went to Aradup (Tamarind Tree) village, south of Kana. Here in 1870 he became a dis ciple of another faki—Sheikh Nur-el- Daim (Continuous Light). Nur-el-Daim subsequently ordained him a sheikh or faki, and he then left to take up his home in the island of Abba, near Kana, on the

White Nile. Here he began by making a subterranean excavation (khaliva=re treat) into which he made a practice of retiring to repeat for hours’ oue of the names of the Deity, and this accompanied by fasting, incense-burning, and prayers. His fame and sanctity by degrees spread far and wide, and Mahomet Achmet became wealthy, collected disciples, and married several wive?, all of whom he was careful to select from among the daughters -of the most in fluential Baggara Sheiks (Baggara tribes owning cattle and horses) and other notables. To keep within the legalised number (four) he was in the habit of divorcing the surplus and taking them on again according to hia fancy. About the end of May, 1881, he began to write to his brother fakis (religious chiefs) and to teach that he was the Mahdi fore told by Mahomet, and that he had a divine mission to reform Islam, to establish a universal equality, a universal law, a universal religion and a community of goods (“beyt-ul-mal ”); also that all who did not believe in him should bedestroyed, be they Christian, Mahommedan, or pagan. Among others he wrote to Maho met Saleh, a very learned and influential faki of Dongola, directing him to collect hia dervishes (followers) and friends and to jom him ac Abba. This sheikh, in stead of complying with hia request, in formed the Government, declaring the man must be mad. This information, along with that collected from other quarters, alarmed his Excellency Ee'out Pasha, and the result was tke expedition of August 3, 1881. In person the Mahdi is tall, slim, with a black beard and light brown complexion. Like most Dongo lawis, he reads and writes with difficulty. He is local head of the Gheelan or Kad rige order of dervishes, a school originated by Abdul Kader-el-Gbulami, whose tomb is, I believe, at Bagdad. Judging from his conduct of affairs and policy, I should say he had considerable natural ability. The manner in which he has managed to merge the usually discordant tribes to gether denotes great tac*> He had pro bably been preparing the movement for some time back.

THE RUSSO-AFGHAN DIFFICULTY

(REUTER’S TELEGRAMS —COPYRIGHT.) (Received’April 16, 10.30 a.tn.) v Bombay, April 15. Earl Dufferin, the Viceroy, who is now returning from Rawal Pendi to Calcutta, was to-day presented at La hore with an address from the local Municipal Board. Replying to the same, His Excellency took occasion to say that the dominions of the Ameer of Afghanistan had been the scene of an unprovoked attack on the part of the Russian forces, and he rejoiced to find that the princes and people of India were rallying to the British standard. It was impossible, His Ex cellency said to forsee the present crisis, but if war resulted it would be in despite of efforts of moderation on the part of England.

SPORTING.

TINWALD ANNUAL RACES.

The results of the four principal events at this meeting were published in yester day's issue, and we now append details of the races decided after we went to press. Owing to a variety of circumstances the concluding items on the programme were much delayed, and the last event, the Hurry Scurry, was decided in tlie deer eat shades of evening. The Selling Hack Race was distinguished by one of the mo t flagrant cases of “ pulling" we ever witnessed. The rider of Brown Boy, a horse reported to be the notorious Pippen that has figured in similar escapades, had the greatest difficulty in preventing his mount winning. On returning to the paddock the jockey was hooted, and it was only the intervention of the police that saved the delinquent from more tangible indications of popular in dignation. Constable Smart escorted the miscreant to the confines of the course, and recommended him to make the best possible use of the opportunity he had to escape a well merited retribution. The stewards met immediately after the race, and passed the follow ing resolution :—“ That the rider of Brown Boy (Robert Boss) be disqualified for ever ; that all wagers on the race be declared off, and the totalisator money be returned to investors, less the usual com mission."

Selling Sack Race of 10 bovs ; 1 mile; winner to be sold for Ll 5, any surplus to go to the* funds ; Bst up. Mr J. Graham’s b g Fox ... (Cox) 1 Mr Quigley’s b g Brown 80y... (Kobs) 2 Mr Lewis's g m Flirt ... (Johns)' 8 Fox led from the start throughout, and

won easily at the finish, Brown Boy being

hard held the whole distance. At a meet ing of Stewards, held immediately after the race, to consider the running of Brown Boy, the rider (Ross) was declared dis qualified and all wagers on the race de clared off. The money on the totalisator was returned to investors, lees the com mission of 10 par cent. Consolation Handicap of 10 boys ; 1 mile.

Mr T. Brankin’s Redwing, Sat 61b (Johns) 1 Mr J. Smith’s Frantic, 9st lOlbs (Owner) 2 Mr J. Smith’s Frolic, 6st 71bs (D. Price) 8 Mr 0. Kent’s Little Wonder, 6st 101 b 0

Little Wonder and Frolic ran off at. the first turn, leaving Redwing with a length r lead of Frantic. Entering the straight both horses were under the whip, but the mare staying the better of the two she won by half a length. Totalisator 32 2—Ll4 Bj. Farmers’ Trot of 6 sova; 2 miles; catch weights ; for farmers’ horses that have never won public money. Mr McLeod’s Alma ... (Physick) 1 Mr J. C. N. Grigg’s Flora Temple ... 2 Mr McKendry’s Dick ... ... ... 3 Mr J. John’s Tommy, Mr J. Parker’s Kate McKay, Mr 0. Jephson’s Little Jim, Mr J Nee’s Rosy, Mr O. Digby’a Prince, and Mr D. Jackson's Strawjack also ran. Alma entered the straight 200 yards in front of the second horse, and walked past the post ten lengths in front of Flora Temple. After the race a protest was entered against the winner on the ground of his having previously won public money, but it was subsequently withdrawn. The rider of Dick made an unofficial protest against the rider of. the winner, supporting his objection by it few vigorous blows and a promise to re turn to the discussion of the matter at a more convenient season. Totalisator—B -3—L2 Bs. Hurry Scurry, a sweepstake of 10a each. miles. Mr A. McKay’s br m Miss Lyle (D. Price) 1 Mr Lewis’s b m The Lass ... (Johns) 3 Mr W. Pearce’s g m Stella ... ... 0 Mr C. Sullivan’s The Madam ... 0 This race was 'run in the dark and a description is impossible. Totalisator— -17-2-L7 13s.

CAMBRIDGE RACES.

(by telegraph ) Auckland, To-day. Hurdle Race of 50 sovs ; two miles. Claude, lOfit 41b ... 1 Alaric, list ... 2 Marams, 9st 71b... ... , M ... S Aliric's owner entered a protest against Claude,' on the grounds that Claude’s jockey struck Alaric on the head at the finish. The protest was sustained. Bull’s Eye won the Selling Race. Cambridge Cup, of 130 sovs ; two miles. Victory, Sat 7ib ... I Mystery, Sat 101 b ... ... ... 2 Buzzard, Bst 21b 3 Director, 7st, also ran. Victory led from the start to finish. Totalisator dividend (10s ticket), L2 7s. Joe won the Maiden Steeplechase, and Bob Sawyer the Hack Hurdles. Shorts Handicap. Victory, 6st 101 b 1 M.traelluse, Bst 21b 2

S.O.J. CLUB ANNUAL RAGES. First pay.

(By Our Special Correspondent), j Timaru Racecourse, To-day. t, Welter Handicap, of 30 bovs ; six a furlongs, j Talebearer, 9st 51b ... (Stratford) 1 Princess Royal, Sat 101 b (Dorritt) 2 j Jack, Sat ... ... (Blackmore) 3 Viking, Sat 21b, (Rndings), and Merlin, 7st 71b (Johnston) also ran. r Time —Imin I7sec. Totalisator—ln side, L2 10s ; outside, LI 16?. Handicap Hurdle Back, of 80 sovs, with a sweepstake of 3 sovs for accept ors. Amount accruing from sweep to ‘go to the second horse. 2 miles. Moody, lOst 71b... ... (0. Hobbs) 1. Linwood, lOst 71b ... (Sheenan) 2 Garibaldi, Oat 31b ... ... (Cotton) 3 Faust, 10at (Nicholls) and Hector, Sat ' 71b (Allan) also ran. 1 Won easily. Garibaldi fell at the first ■ hurdle. [ Time —4mln 14seo. Totalisator—in side, L2 4s Gd, outside L2 6s. Timaru Cup, a handicap of 200 bovb. Acceptors to pay a sweepstake' of 6 sovs. Amount accruing from sweep to go to the second horse. 1J miles. Administrator, 7st 41b ... (Yaile) 1 Lady Emma, 7at 71b ... (Sharp) 2 Wapiti, Gst 101 b ... (White) 3 Sou’-Wester, Bst (Rudings), and Gfanfl Duke, Gst 21b (Huxtable) also ran. Time—3min 8?eo. Totalisator dividend —lnside Lll 18s, outside Ll2 18s. D J.O BIRTHDAY MEETING. The following are the nominations for the Queen’s Birthday Meeting of the D.J.C. : Provincial Handicap Blabkboy, Ju;y, Lady -imrna, Marion, Sou’-wlstar, Kingask, Adamant, Tim Whiffler, Taia roa and Captain Webster. , Hurdle Race—Rocket, Maggie, Hec tor, Matipo, Garibaldi, Trapper, Glenara, Modesty, Mokarakara, Gang Awa, Little John, Moody, Mokorata and Foreman. St Clair Handicap—Leopold, Mata naka, Marion, Ruasley, Sou’-woster, Kingask, Tim Whiffl-jr, Talebearer, Taia roa, Captain Webster, Ouida, Borderman, Don Jose and Trumpeter. ’ , Birthday Handicap.—Blackboy, Deo poltj, July, Blife jacket, Lady Marion, Son’-wester, Kingask, Tim Whifflsr, Taiaroa, Captain Webster. Tradesmen’s Handicap. Leopold, July, Blue Jacket, Matauaks, Marion, Russley, Sou’-weater, Kingask, Tim Whiffler, Talebearer, Taiaroa, Captain Webster, Don Jose.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 1885.



Wanted. WANTED —A correspondent for the f (i uardian, at Mount Somers. Apply to the Manager. WAITED —A good general Servant, - with references. Apply Mrs R. Friedlander, Tancred street. 4 549 WANTED —An Assistant Mistress for the Ashton District School -Ap plications will be received up to the 25th instant, addressed Geo, Gilmour, Chair man, Ashton. 4 536 TTTANTED Known—Before buying Vf Dress Materials, Ulsters, Jackets, Dolmans, Millinery, etc , call and inspect our stock. The cheapest first-class Drapery and Miilinory Establishment in Ashburton --H. 0. Regers, - ealya’Buildings, East Street. RE AT Reductions for Cash at Jones VX AJ) - D Fradshaw’s. —Good oaten sheaf chaff from 50s per ton, Is 6d per bag ; prime oat straw chaff 35s per ton, 9d per bag; new oatmeal 4s per bag ; good cheese 5d per lb ; ffour, bran, sharps, and chickwheat at very cheap rates. WANTED Known—Wertheim Sew ing Machines can be had on Time Payments at the New Zealand Clothing Factory’s Branch, East street, Ashburton. 2 276 GLORIOUS NEWS. Andrew Orr will give away on Saturday 100 pairs men’s boots at 6s 9d ; 60 pairs can vas slippers at 2s 6d ; 30 pairs cricketing boots at 6a 6J ; 100 pairs Kaiapoi trousers at 11s 6d—every article at half-price. WANTED Known—Fresh Flounders are daily despatched direct from i our own boat, now fishing at Lake Elies- I mere. Delivery guaranteed within eight 1 hours from time of catching. All orders ' received at my shop will be immediately I executed on arrival of the train. W. O, Page, East street, Ashburton. 11 2161 ANTED Known—Boots ! Boots 1 c VV That Hayes and Co. are Clearing * a few desperate lines of Boots, etc., to 1 wit, Ladies’ Leather, 4s 6d; Men’s shooters, Pegged, 10a; Men’s Elastic , sides, 9s, and a lot of odd lines that must I be cleared at once. 7 1278 WANTED Known—Umbrellas at 1s lid, six doz Buttons for Is, China : Matting at 6d, Ladies’ Llose at 6d, Oor ; sets at 2s 3d, Shirting at 4£ 1, Towels 3£d, s 36 inch Oilcloth 9J, Camisoles Is 4d. 1 Andrew Obr’s Cheap Sale 2 185 > 07 ANTED ENoWN — Robert Elston, r W Bill Poster, Theatrical Agent, I etc., Towd Hall, Ashburton. Theatrical ■ companies and others visiting Ashburton 3 should communicate with the above. • Orders by post or telegram promptly attended to. 760



Special Advertisements



fpHE LONDON AND LANCASHIRE Fire Insurance Co. We have much pleasure in informing the public of Ashburton that Messrs WILDING, LEWIS & CASTGILL g have been appointed AGENTS for the above Company in the Ashburton Dis trict. All risks taken at lowest current rates. LEWIS & GOULD, 1 3 328 General Agents for Canterbury. Timber Timber mO FARMERS and Others about to JL Build—Buy your timber from the Producers at first cost and Save Money. To Housekeepers who wish to have the satisfaction of burning Good Coal — We are now landing, ex s.s. Tekapo, PRIME NEWCASTLE COAL, which will bo sold at Lowest Rates. Every Requisite for the Building Trade kept in Stock, and Building supplied throughout. *** Farmers would do well to call and obtain quotations. MACPHERSON, FILMER AND CO. (late A. Hayes), TIMBER, COAL & WOOD MEROH ANTS, Fast street, Ashburton. 25 Branches Now Open 25 THE NEW ZEALAND i Clothing Factory ! Are now Showing ’ NEWEST STYLES [ in I SPRING jb SUMMER CLOTHING, j Manufactured , from the renowned Wear Resisting i MOSGIEL TWEEDS The fit and workmanship of every gar* ’ ment is undoubtedly unsurpassed, while 5 the large production and increased busi • ness enables the proprietors to offer , special advantages as to price, 9 " 1 Men’s, Boys’ and Children’s Clothing 1 in every variety at Wholesale Prices, i Starts, Hats, Hosiery, Blankets, Rugs, - Portmanteaux, and every requisite at WHOLESALE PRICES. Note the address— NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING i FACTORY, f BAST STREET, Ashburton 25 Branches Now Open 25 • OTIOE TO FARMERS. WOOD, SINCLAIR & CO., Millers and Grain Merchants, High street, Christchurch, Are Cash Purchasers of Wheat, Oats, 5 Barley, Beans, Peas, Potatoes, Rye and Cocksfoot Grass Seeds at highest current rates. } To farmers desirous of holding their gr«in we are prepared to offer special facilities for storage.



Special Advertisements. Money. i OiEYERAL sums of Money to Lend on r JO freehold security, at current rates of > interest, vPrincipals only dealt with. [ 3 428 CHAS. W. PURNELL. | jQOMESTIO PATTERN DEPOT. Mrs Hodge, F DRAPER AND DRESSMAKER, Bast Street, near Lancaster’s butchery. Ladies’ Dressesand Underclothing made at the shortest notice. ' [ REGISTRY OFFICE For Female Servants. 7 1413 SELLING OFF FANCY GOODS, TOYS, BOOKS, STATIONARY, Ac. Must be sold—even if at a loss To Suit everybody at prices that cannot be beaten. Andrewes Bros., Booksellers, Stationers, &c., Ashburton. Canterbury Mills. rjYO FARMERS AND OTHERS. CORN SACKS, li. size and weights. At lowest current rates, 3 292 C. W. TURNER. AGRICULTURAL Machine Shop, WAKANDI ROAD, OH ARLES RAY Repairs Engines, Combines, Chaff-cutters, Reapers and Binders, and all classes of tnacflinery. Special attention given to Bicycles, Tricycles and Sewing Machines. Lawn Mowers repaired, sharpened and adjusted. Model work. General repairs. 3 384 Read, -mark, learn and JNWARDLV DIGEST, and to accomplish the above feat, visit my estab lishment, and lighten your inward gloom by appeasing your appetite for the beauti ful by inspecting the most delightfully ARTISTIC EASTER CARDS ! ever imported into Ashburton (direct from Home). You are then at liberty to in spect the contents of a largo case of books personally selected, and just received, Ibe ievo it was Lord Wolseley who taid (he happens to bo tho moat popular man of the day, and one must squeeze a little popularity into advertisements), “ A man who aspires to great heights should read j incessantly, and never forget his news papers; ’ and I say the same ! Read ! Real ! Read ! When both you and my self will bo considerably benefited. Not having room to give a detailed list of the contents of my shelves, I can only finish f by saying—Come and see for jouraelves, | and if you are disappointed come again.— I Nothing like Perseverance 1 I



In addition to our large brick granary we have erected a large iron warehouse. This, with the stores lately occupied by Messrs A. Moore and Co. and now leased to us, enables us to offer to farmers extra facilities for the storage and classification of grain at nominal rates. We are prepared to make liberal cash advances on grain sent in for storage, or will ship same under advance on grower’s account or otherwise, as may be arranged. 3 454 TCMN AND WINTER. H. E. May & Co., Are now showing their NEW SEASON’S GOODS, Which are well worth your inspection, They comprise the Newest and Best of every kind of MILLINERY; DRAPERY, UNDER CLOTHING FOR INFANTS, GIRLS & LADIES. MERCERY. MEN’S, BOYS’, & YOUTHS’ COLONIAL, VICTORIAN, AND ENGLISH CLOTHING, At the Lowest Possible Cash Price. I If you will trouble to think for a minute, we feel sure you will be convinced that the way our business is conducted must insure you the beat pro curable for money. j WE IMPORT DIRECT From the Best Manufacturers I WE SELL FOR CASH Avoiding all bad debts WE BUY CHIEFLY FOR CASH, Securing all Cash Discounts Our Business is managed personally by the proprietor in the moat economical way, thus saving tho immense coat of an Extravagant Establishment with manager, »ul»-manager and an expensive staff ; therefore we will not allow any house or company to undersell us. So if they should advertise or make a special lead or ■draw of any particular article, wa will igive you the same at their price or lower, guaranteeing, taking things all round, our Value will be found by far the best. Country Orders sent by post will receive special attention, and be sent free of carriage (by rail) to ANY PART OF CANTERBURY. H. E. May &> Co., THE HALL.



Thomas F. Farley’s, BOOKSELLER AND STATIONER, Saunders’ Buildings, East St., Ashburton.



Victoria House. N EW SEASON’S ADVERTISEMENT & INTIMATION EE FINE GOODS, CREWEL SILKS, INGRAIN COTTONS, TRANFER PATTERNS, &v.. To appear in our Next. DIMAN T & COE, General Drapers, Clothiers, &0., East and Tancred Streets, Ashburtod<



Special Advertisements. Groceries CHEAPER THAN EVER ; AT JAMES McGREGOR’S, ; Takored Street. , Sugars— English Cut Loaf- *<i per lb Best White Crysta., S|d per lb ; Best Snowdrop, 4d per lb (Reductions by the mat) Teas, Is 3d, Is 6d, 2s, 2s 6d, and 2s 9d Box Tea from 12s 6d per box Canterbury Oakes, lOd each. Rice, SI Mixed Biscuits, 6d Lunch Biscuits, 3d Currants, 61 Raisins, 7d New Figs, Is per box Best Sago, 3d New Muscatels, Is 6d Oysters, 6d Cairn’s Marmalade, 8d Peacock’s Jams, 6£d Herrings, 7d Keillor’s Marmalade, 9d Salmon, Sd Cheese, 6d per lb English Pickles, 8a Other articles equally cheap. JAMES McGREGOR, Tancred Street, 12 2342 WAR WITH RUSSIA.—At the pre sent juncture it would be difficult for any one exe pt a prophet of the highest rank to say whether 'or not the present negotiations between England and Russia will lead to a general European | war, or whether they will end in smoke. The absence of full information as to what is transpiring between the two countries may indicate that the political breeze is blowing harmlessly past; or, it may be the awful silence which generally precedes a storm. In either case, we ought to be prepared for the worst. If a general war breaks out the price of nearly every article of commerce will rise. Among other commodities wool and labor will go up. Now is the tims, therefore, to lay in a stock of clothing, before the general ad vance begins. In order that we may not be caught napping we have just purchased a Splendid Assortment of Winter Tweeds and other materials necessary to a well equipped tailoring establishment, which we are prepared to offer at unusually low prices for cash. Regarding style and fit, it is almost needless for us to repeat what everybody knows, viz , that by our scien tific mode of cutting, and the care exer* ciaed ky us in fitting the figure, a mis-fit i« an impossibility. — Craighead and Co., Merchant Tailors, Tancred street.



W. Fowke, bootmaker, BEGS to inform his friends and the public generally that he has started business on his own account. Re hopes by strict attention to business and making a good article, to secure a share of public patronage. Address—BUßP ETT STREET, In premises occupied by Mr J. Meech.



Wellington, Laat Night This evening Government received the following telegram from the Agent- Genetal : “ Quite uncertain whether peace preserved, Gladstone’s statement last night not re-aaauriug. Naval pre parations active.”



August Flower. —The most miserable beings in the world are those suffering from dyspepsia and liver complaint. More than 75 per cent of the people are afflicted with these two diseases and their effects ; such as sour stofijach, 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 apd 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,—[Advt, i