DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. Saturday, April 11. Mr Thos. Bullock, at the Arcade, Burnett ■treet—Contractor’s Plant Tub-day, April 14 Messrs Matson, Cox and Ox, at the Ashburton Saleyards—Stock MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, Etc. Wednesday, April 8 Mr ZjKh’s Grain Store—Skating Rink, Oral^Ball— Star of the East, 1.0.G.T., meeting at 8 o’clock Thursday, April 9 St John’s Lodge—Monthly Meeting, in (he Masonic Hall, at 7.30 Friday, A pail 10. Lonbgeach Road Board at Road Board Office. - Saturday, April 11 tfakanul Road Board, at Road Board office, Moore street, at 10.30 a. in. Monday, April 13. Borough Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7-30 Arcade Chambers —Star of Ashburton, U.A.0.D., at 8 o’clock Tuesday, April 14. St Stephen’s Schoolroom —Tea and Concert Ashburton School Committee— Monthly .Meeting, in the Schoolroom, at 7.30 Wednesday, April 15 Tinwald Annual Races Friday, Ap il 17 Masonic Hall—Concert, at 8 o clock Wednesday, April 29 Ashburton Racing Club —Autumn Meet ing Friday, May 1 Ashburton County Council —At Council Chambers, 11 a. m.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails 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, &c., at 10.30 a.m. »nd 6 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. Yor Temuka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a. in., For Tima-ru and South, at 6 a.m., 10 «.m., and 4. SO p.m., daily. For Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10.45 For Wakanui, Elgin, Seaview, Seafield, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a. m. For Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and sturdays, at 6 a,m. and 4.30 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur flays, at 6 a.m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, »t 4.30p.m. daily. For Flemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4.30 p. m. For Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days at 10.30 a.m. Mails arrive at the Ashburton Post •>ffioe— From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10. lo 4.35 p.m., and7.2o p.m. From Chertsey, &c. at 10.15 a.m. and i. 85 p.m. daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places at i.m. daily. Froiu Temuka and Timaru at 10.40 a. m. i>, JO p.m., and 8 p.m. daily. From Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, "Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 a.m. Tor Mount Somers and Ashburton Gorge, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 6 a.m. and 4.30 p.m., and on Wednesdays >t 6 p.m. From Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 10,5 a.m. From Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a.m. daily. From Newlands, 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. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 1885.

A meeting of Justices of the Peace, for the purpose of revising the jury list, will be held at the Courthouse on Tuesday next.

It is expected that the session of the Grand Lodge, 1.0.G.T., now sitting in the Orange Hall, will be concluded early to-morrow.

An additional nomination, that of Mr Charles Kent’s br m Polly, has been re ceived for the Trotting Hand : cip at the Tinwald races.

The usual monthly sitting of the Ash burton District Court will be held on Fri day, 10th inst. before His Honor Judge Ward. The following is the Jause List: —Friedlander Bros {Mr Purnell) v Coffey and Brick (Mr Wilding), claim L 154 4s, (adjourned from last Court day); Thomas Jones (Mr Wilding) v J W. Mcßae (Mr Branson), claim L 3 5; Mount Somers Road Board (Mr Purnell) v D. Cameron, claim L 149 16s Bd. Bankruptcy, orders of discharge—J. A. Persson (Mr Branson), Tate, Rolston and Anthony (Mr Wilding); Public examinations, W. T. Davison (Mr Branson), John Stephens (Mr Branson.) W. Brown, the jockey, has been pro hibited from riding by the Canterbury Jockey Club till after the Timaru meeting, for insolence and insubordination yester day at the start of the Selling Race. The grain season appears to be on now in earnest. To day quite an un usually large number of drays blocked up West street, awaiting their turn for un loading at the several stores. The crush of grain drays indicates the rapid progress of thrashing operations, and the present excellent weather in which to proceed with the transit of produce is a matter for congratulation.

On Monday and Tuesday at the C.J.O. Autumn Race Meeting, Messrs Hobbs and Goodwin passed L 16,589 through their tot&Hsators.

Swan at 10 o’clock last night had dis posed of Anderson, the second of six local men who are competing against him in Christchurch He had then covered 170 miles against the local men’s 141 miles.

Our readers doubtless require no re minder of the railway excursion to-morrow to Christchurch and Lyttelton. One of .the attractions at the port, and one that should be very powerful in drawing coun try residents to Lyttelton, will be the steamer Ruapehu. The Ruapehu is ad mirably fitted up, and will be an interest ing sight to many of the excursionists from this and other parts of the County. Hop Bitters gives good digestion, active liver, good circulation and buoyant spirits. Get the only genuine American’s Go’s. Read.

“ Rough on Rats.” —Clears out rats, mice, roaches, flies, <vrts, bad-bugs, beetles, insects, skunks, jack rabbits, gophers. Druggists, The N.Z. H t <r Co., General Agents. 2

Coughs. Colds, Bronchitis, etc., are quickly cured by using Baxter’s t- Lung Preserve I '.’. This old-established medicine is pleasant to the palate, and highly extolled by members of the medical and clerical profession. Read ad vertisement.

“ German Syrup.” —No other medicine n the world was ever given such a test of its curative qualities as Boschee’s German Syrup. In three years two million four hundred thou sand small bottles of this medicine were dis tributed Jree of charge by Druggists in the United States of America to those afflicted with Consumption, Asthma, Croup, severe Coughs, Pneumonia and other diseases of the throat and lungs, giving the afflicted undeniable proof that German Syrup will cure them. The re sult has been that Druggists in every town and village in civilised countries are recommending it to their customers. Go to your Druggist and ask what they know about it. Sample Bottles 6d. Regular size 3s, 6d, Three doses will relieve any case.— f Arwr. ]

THE GRAND LODGE, 1.0.G.T.

The Grand Lodge resumed business this morning at nine o’clock, when the con sideration of the official reports was con tinued. An interesting discussion took place on the adoption of the report of the General Superintendent of Juvenile Temples, which, with the important re commendations contained therein, was unanimously adopted. The question of the relations of the Grand Lodge with the Worthy Grand Lodge of Australasia was considered, and after full discussion it was agreed to adopt the report of a Committee recommending the rescinding of a resolution on this subject adopted at the Oamaru session, which instructed the Executive to take steps for the sever ance of the connection between the two institutions.

On the motion of the Superintendent of Juvenile Temples, it was resolved— That the G. L- Executive be instructed to urge upon the Government the neces sity of taking vigorous measures for the better enforcement of the provisions of the Licensing Act, regarding the illegal sale of liquors during prohibited hours, and to this end that inspectors of licensed houses be appointed as provided for in the Licensing Act. Duri ig the sitting the following re presentatives attended and took their seats in Grand Lodge:—Bro J. H. Patrick (Geraldine', Bro W, Walton (Greymouth), and Bro J, Sawlo (Green dale). Fraternal greetings and congratulations were received from Bros Turnbull and McDonald (Greymouth), ai d the Grand Lodge of Victoria inseaffon. The following resolutions were adopted: “ That this Grand Lodge instruct tlxeir Executive to urge upon the various Friendly Societies the desirability of pro hibiting the meeting of their branches in places whore intoxicating liquors are sold. “ Whereas, believing it would greatly tend to'ipromota temperance among a large section of the community were the Government Savings Banks open for (he receiving of deposits from 7 to 8 o’clock p m., say every Wednesday and Satur day, it is therefore resolved ‘ That this Grand Lodge through its Executive peti tion Government to that effect.’ ” “ That it is desirable this Grand Lodge sanction the admittance into our lodges of clearance members from the Order of the World, and that such members retain all honors.” “ That it be a recommendation to the R. W. Grand Lodge that the initiation ceremonies of our Order should be short ened.” [Left sitting.] 1

ASHBURTON VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE.

The Conference arranged between the Fire Brigade Committee of the Ashbur ton Borough Council, and a deputation from the Volunteer Fire Brigade took place at the Council Chambers, Library Buildings, last evening. Present—Bis Worship the Mayor (in the chair), Messrs James, Thomas, Sealy and Harrison (re presenting the Council), Messrs Par kin, Keir, Biggins, Dolman and Davis (representing the Brigade.) The Mayor explained the object with which the conference had been arranged. A letter written by the Brigade to the Council in respect to the amendment of rules and some other matters had been re ferred to the Fire Brigade Committee, and the Committee had sought the present opportunity to confer with a deputation from!ho Brigade. He asked the mem bers of the Conference to proceed with the business. Mr Harrison, Chairman of the Hire Brigade Committee, laid on the table the report and correspondence received from the Brigade in respect to the business to i be brought before the Conference. The Mayor asked if the deputation from the Brigade wished to make any statement before proceeding to the recon sideration of the rules. Mr Keir said that he had been re quested to act as spokesman, not on ac count of any oratorical ability he possessed but because he had been unconnected with the old Brigade, and ho approached the matter untrammelled by prejudice occasioned by past oocurreu ee The firemen had been charged with iuconais tency in assenting to the rules and then applying for certain alterations He would point out, however, that the rules themselves provided for alterations to be made by the Brigade, and approved of by the Council. Further, the members of the Brigade had not had sufficient time to consider the new rules before they were called upon to sign them. It was true they had met two members of the Council in that room professedly to examine the rales. One of those gentlemen read the rules, and the other, who occupied the chair, asked as each rule was read, Is there any objection to that 1" Discussion was not encouraged, and one member of the Brigade, who had more to say than the others, was told that he was obstructing the business. The Chairman informed them that he did not think the Borough Council would consent to any alteration in the rules suggested by the Brigade, and when at the conclusion of the meeting the firemen were requested to sign the rules they did so without mature deliberation- The alterations In now sought by the Brigade were as follows :—(1) To be allowed to elect new members without re ferring the candidates to the Council; (2) To hold a general meeting once a month instead of once a year; (3) To elect the Working Committee monthly in stead of annually ; (4) To have two funds —one for ordinary purposes, the other to be called “ The Incidental Fund,” far the reception of donations and honorary mem bers’ subscriptions, the latter fund to be employed in making payments to members who may suffer injury at fires and for other purposes of a like nature. He thought these alterations would conduce towards the efficiency of the Brigade. The Brigade had also desired him to direct the attention of the Council to the neces sity tor more extensive accommodation for the engine and plant. The present shed was much too small ; the hose-reel and ladder carriage, instead of standing, as they should, in travelling order, hooked on to the engine, had to bo uncoupled, and there was no meeting place for the members of the Brigade. The Brigade had applied tor new uniforms and boots. Those at present in use had been worn for five years, and were no longer fit for in spection by daylight, although just the thing for fires. He thought every other Brigade in the colony had two uniforms, one for attendance at fires, and the other for meetings, processions, competitions and similar occasions. If the new uniforms were issued the Council would have the satisfaction of seeing the Brigade present a respectable appearance upon public occasions, and nothing further by way of wardtobe wou'd be required for five or six j'ears. Other Brigades re ceived one pair of boots annually, but the Ashburton Brigade would be satisfied with a pair every other year. The sub sidy asked for (LSO per annum) he had no doubt would bo regarded by the Com mittee as reasonable. The Brigade would also like it made clear as whom the plant belonged, as some of it had been procured before the existence of the Coun cil.

The Mayor might say at onoa that the plant was undoubtedly vested in the Council, but before proceeding to deal with the other matters he suggested that they should dispose of the amendments proposed in the rules. He hoped that the rules would now be settled for at least twelve months. It did not look well to frame and agree to a set of rules and then before they bad been fairly tried, one side or the other demand material alterations. The first amendment suggested by the Brigade was that the firemen should be allowed to elect new members without consulting the Council. He thought the present arrangement entailed no hardship upon the Brigade. In none but very exceptional cases would the choice of the Brigade be interfered with, and_ the re striction, such aa it was, was likely to avoid conflict between the Council and the Brigade in the future. The present Brigade he thought was a good one, and they did not wish it to deteriorate. Mr Kpip pointed out that the rule in its present form caused pmch inconvenience. It was not the new but thp old members who occasioned trouble. Ho thought that none but certain members of the old Brigade could be objeo'od to by the Council. Mr Thomas said there were a number of men it would be undesirable to admit as firemen. He did not think the present members of tho Brigade should seek to ap point others ojq a different footing to themselves. Practically the Brigade had selection of members even now, sad the amendment was so trivial ho hoped the deputation would not press it. After further conversational discussion it was agreed to allow the present rule to stand without amendment

The request of the Brigade to have monthly in place of annual general meet ings was acceded to.

It was resolved to establish an inciden :al fund as requested by the Brigade, and ,o recommend the Council to grant power

;o the Brigade, on a vote of two-thirds.

to expel members. During the discussion of the latter question Mr Keir stated that he thought the Brigade would soon require to expel several members. The sub tidy applied for was agreed to, and the Mayor promised that the question of new uniforms would be referred to the Council at its next meeting ; he did not, however, tiling their funds would allow of the application fcping at once enter tained.

The Chairman, referring to the applica tion for additional engine accommoda'.ion, pointed out that use might be made of the old Council Chambers. The present site was not large enough for the purposes of the Brigade. The suggestion of the Mayor was dis cussed at s uns Messrs Thonjas and Sealy supporting it, and Mr Harrison and members of the Brigade pointing - oat objections to the proposed new site.— Consideration of the matter was ultimately deferred.

Mr Harrison said that with the permis sion of the Chairman he deired to make a few remarks with regard to recent oc currences connected with the business of

the Brigade. Having made these remarks

would be for the Committee to condemn

him or to condemn other people to whom he would bo compelled to refer, As de sired by the Council, the Fire Brigade Committee had met the applicants for ad mission to the new Brigade for the pur pose of considering the rules ; m virtue of his office as Chairman of the Com mittee, he had preside! and had en-

deavoured to show the utmost courtesy to the applicants as they presented them- J selves at the meeting. Mr Sealy was un- I fortunat°ly unable to be present at the I meeting, but Mr Jameson was there, and I he (Mr Harrison) asked that gentleman to I correct him should he inadvertently make I any misrepresentations in his statement. I It had been stated that he had not I afforded the applicants an opportunity to discuss the rules submitted to them. As a matter of fact the rules had been read scriotim and comments invited from those present. Some alterations were actually made. He had at the conclusion ' of the meeting said, in the plainest I language at his command, that he thought 1 it would be wise for the Brigade to try I the rules for twelve months ; it • at the 1 end of that time they were found unw rk- I able or to press hardly upon the Brigade, I he was sure the Council would facilitate

the necessary alterations. The statement made by Mr Higgins that he (Mr Harri son) had prevented free discussion was a deliberate falsehood. Mr Harrison here read the following statement: —“The statement made in the report to the Coun cil by Mr Higgins as follows ; ‘ That it would be useless to bring any alterations suggested by the members before the Borough Council is entirely untrue. — John Hefford, Joe Harrop, J. H. Stephens, 0. Grant, Andrew Young, Wihjam Marsh.” Messrs Higgins and Keir rose to speak, but Mr Harrison addressing Mr Keir, said he did not wish to be interrupted by a gentl man who was unacquainted with the circumstances. The Mayor asked the three gentlemen then on their feet to resume their seats. They were there to ventilate this un pleasant matter and place it in a proper light before the public, and It would be very discreditable to the Council and the Brigade if the business could not be con ducted without a “row.” He would allow any of the gentlemen present to speak, but aiked them to deport themselves in a regular and courteous manner, and avoid as far as possible any offensive phrases. He hoped the meeting would not termin ate in a disagreement between the Council and the Brigade, or in ill-feeling between individuals Mr Keir explained that he bad merely risen to ask if the matter had anything to do with the business .for which they had met

The Mayor thought it had. The local papers had reported certain statements made by members of the Brigade which demanded investigates Mr Higgins asked Mt Harrison to refer to him as Secretary to the Brigade not in bis private capacity. Mr Harrison had charged him with telling a lie ; he denied

it. I Mr Harrison said, “Of course Mr Hig- I gins denies it. Mr Higgins had recently i aised his (Mr Harrison’s) store and told I his clerk that he was going for him. He asked if that was Mr Higgins or the I Secretary to the Brigaded He (Mr Harri son) could hardly believe that Mr Higgins I had been directed in his capacity as Secre- J tary to the Brigade to call at his office and make such a statement. Perhaps Mr Higgins would deny the written evidence I that had been produced. A member of j the Brigade had informed him (Mr Harri son) that the report sent to the Oounc 1 I was framed by only a small section of the I members. Another member had told him (Mr Harrison), that if he was again I treated with such scant courtesy he would J leave the Brigade. Mr Higgins had said I that be had not made a statement to the I effect that the Mayor had stated that Mr Harrison had no business at the meeting called for the consideration of the rules. I Mr Harrison here read the following letter “ Higgins said in our presence that: ‘He had seen the Mayor and Mr I Harrison had no right to be in the chair.’ I —Andrew Young, John Hbfjord. Hp had been charged wilh discourtesy J at that meeting, but had evidence to re- I fute this charge also. I Mr Harrison here read a third letter to j the following effect; —“ We, the under signed, wish to bear witness that Mr I Harrison was most courteous to all who deserved it at the meeting held at the Council offices to peruse the Fire Brigade rules. — John Hefford, Job Hakkop, J H. Btjphens, O. Grant, Andrew Young, William Marsh.” Mr Harrison then at length detailed the proceedings at the meeting referred to, and concluded by stating that his accusation against Mr Higgins was that he hud been guilty of “ direct and deli berate falsehood.” Ha (Mr Harrison) had received an anonymous latter refer ring to the subject which he placed in the hands of the Committee for their private perusal. Appealed to by Mr Harrison. Mr Jameson said he much regretted the un pleasantness that had arisen. He hoped it might be smoothed over and forgotten. He saw no discourtesy on the part of Mr Harrison at the meeting. Mr Higgins asked Mr Harrison upon what data he (Mr Higgins) had called at his office. The Mayor said he had not wished to interrupt Mr Harrison, but this and some other matter referred to could not be allowed to bear upon the case. Mr Higgins said that he could state most solemnly he had never been inside Mr Harrison’s office. Mr Harrison had recently changed his views in reference to him in a most singular manner. Ha denied the charge of obstructing the business, and of having reported the Mayor to have said that Mr Harrison had no business at the meeting. Re had said that the Mayor had expressed, regret that he had been unable to attend the meeting himself and preside. The docu ments produced by Mr Harrison could be of no value, the signatures were en tirely without weight. The resolutions

passed at the Brigade meeting were sup ported by all tlja members except one present. The members signing Mr Har rison’s letters had given their support to the resolutions.

Mr Parkin said that with the exception of one all the members had agreed to the resolutions. Mr Harrison, at the meet ing over which he presided had distinctly said it was of no uso submitting amend ments to the Council, as they would not be accepted. Mr Jameson said that the rules had been discussed for threa hours, and he thought all the members of the Brigade had spoken on them. Mr Dolman said that ha had been charged with putting the resolutions to the Brigade unfairly. Ho asked Mr Keir’g opinion on the matter.

Mr Keir said that the resolutions had been put in a very fair manner, and ap peared to be carried unanimously. Some of the members appeared, however, to be very po3iihar gentlemen. They had first supported the resolution, and then signed letters in direct opposition to them. The signattfres of men capable of such an un manly course were entitled to no weight. Mr Dolman thought it was strange Mr Harrison had not asked some other members of the Brigade to sign the letters. Mr Davis said that the members whose signatures were attached td the letters had certainly supported the resolutions adopted by th® Brigade, Mr Parkin was surprised that Mr HarrU son had not called upon all the members of the Brigade. I

Mr Harmon said he was not likely to

call upon Mr Parkin, although he knew well where to find him between 8 a.m.

and 12 p,m. Mr Thomas objected to personalities He thought such insinuations highly im

proper and offensive. Mr Harrison said : “If you would keep still and let me finish speaking, then speak I yourself, it would sound much better. I Perhaps that’s personal.” Every man he 1 had applied to had signed the letters. I Mr Sandos had promised to sign, but had 1 omitted to do so. Mr Davis, who was present, had said there were two parties in the camp and had consequently de clined to sign. Mr Higgins said that he had that morning met one of the members of the Brigade, who had signed the letter, and the member had said “ I have just signed your death warrant. Harrison has pro mised us five gallons of beer at every meeting, and two gallons two start with.” Perhaps Mr Harmon would deny that, and that the name of the member was Andrew Young. Mr Harrison— * : I do deny it.” Mr Sealy explained that ha had been unavoidably absent from the Conference between the Committee and the Brigade. Mr Thomas thought that much had been said that evening which would have been far better unsaid. The representa tives of the Brigade present agreed that

the report sent in by Mr Higgins was a correct transcript of the minutes of the Brigade’s meeting. It was therefore difficult to see upon what grounds Mr Harrison impugned the veracity of Mr Higgins. The preponderance of evidence was in favor of Mr Hig Jus. It was evi- ] dent that Mr Harrison had put himself about considerably to obtain the signatures to the letters he produced. But they had seen that “ Fire Brigade signatures were not worth a button.” He (Mr Thomas) very much deplored the disagreement that had arisen, particularly as it threat ened to preclude them from ever pulling amicably together. A split had evidently been created in the Fire Brigade. If the members signing the letters had voted at the Brigade meeting as they

appeared to have done, the duplicity J had completely stultified them. Like many J other troubles in Ashburton the embrog - J Ho had started from small things, but j would now be very difficult to smooth I over. He deprecated the language used I by Mr Harrison towards Mr Higgins, I and thought the signatures appended to the letters produced by the former gen tlemen were entitled to no weight. The Mayor said that it appeared to him that the whole trouble had arisen from the business of the Conference having been conducted in a loose way. I Mr Higgins had made remarks which he undoubtedly had no right to make ; he had probably forgotten himself. The matter had been placed fully before the Com mittee, and he asked the Brigade’s repre sentative and Mr Harrison to retire while it was considered. He was glad that the rules had been agreed to, and he hoped the fear expressed by Mr Thomas that they would now be unable to work to gether would not be realised. Ho thought if Mr Harrison were to take less notice of newspaper reports he would encounter less trouble. He thauked the deputation for their attendance, and promised that the interest of the Brigade should receive the most earnest consideration of the Council. The deputation from the Brigade and Mr Harrison then retired, and the Com mittee proceeded to consider the matter in camera. Tha Committee will report to the B.irough Council at its next meeting (Monday, April 42.)

DISTRESSING SUICIDE.

New Plymouth, Yesterday.

Captaid Davidson, J. P. and coroner for the district, committed suicide at his residence this afternoon by blowing out his brains with a revolver. The bullet entered the roof of the mouth, and the brains were blown through the top of the head. Monetary complications are as signed as the reason Deceased was con nected with public bodies, and was Chair man of Justices of the Peace. Ho was formerly Mayor of New Plymouth (and captain of the Taranaki Cavalry, and at one time held the rank of Major-General in the American army. Ha leaves a wife and large family. Farther particulars show that deceased had been at his business all day till three p m., when he returned home, after having procured a revolver from a shop in town. About ten minutes after his arrival, he went into the shrubbery ad joining his residence and shot himself, death being instantaneous. Deceased was well known and much respected. An in quest was held this evening, when evi dence was given to the following effect:—

John Bleadda'a stated that he was in the same grounds with deceased a few minutes before, the occurrence, but left, and after wards heard the report of a pistol. He looked in the direction where he had seen deceased sitting, and saw him lying on the ‘ground. Went to him, and found him lying on his side quite dead. Dr Leatham stated that the bullet had passed through the upper part of his mouth, penetrating the brain and skull. De ceased, it is understood, was embarrassed in money matte-s, and had used a threat the day previous that he would shoot himself He leaves a wife and seve ral children. The inquest is still pro ceeding, and it is not expected to be con cluded till midnight. The Courthouse is crowded to overflowing. Deceased com manded the mounted troopers at Pari haka.

NATIVE AFFAIRS IN THE NORTH

Auckland, Last Night. Sydney Taiwhanga waited on the Pre mier this morning, and presented to him an address, signed by Mitihapa and him self, as members of the Maori Self-Pro tection Society. The address begins by stating that the signatories ■ believe the native people have been benefited by the change in the administration of native affairs. It goes on to ask for an Act granting Maoris self-government, and asks if Mr Stout will attend a great native meeting at Waitangl on April 23. The address ponclqdps with a request that a Northern native may be called to the Upper House, and points out that each of the other Maori elect iral districts has a member. Mr Stout replied that he thought the Maoris could have the man agement of their own territory in the King Country by means of native com mittees. He did not think he would have time to attend the native meeting. With reference to Taiwbanga’s scheme of grant ing increased power to native committees, he said he deeply sympathised with the proposals. He could not give an answer with reference to the calling of a Northern native to the Upper House till he had consulted his colleagues. The Premier left to-night for Whangarei, accompanied by Mr Blair, Engineer, to examine the northern railway route, and proceeds to Russell. He gives his address to the Auckland citizens next Monday.

PUBLIC TEA AND MEETING.

A public tea and meeting in connec* tion with the session in Ashburton of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand 4 1.0.G.T., was held in the Oddfellows*

Hall last evening. About 250 persons, mostly children, partook of the good things provided by Mr Ranger, of East

street, to whom was entrusted the con tract of catering. The attendance was not up to expectation, and, as a conse quence, there remained after the wants of every person had been satisfied a large quantity of cakes, etc., which were served at a supper held subsequent to the public meeting, a small charge for admission being made. The public meeting followed, at which Mr J. Harding, G.W.O.T. of New Zealand, presided, and the Rev B. A. j Scott and Messrs Capper, Jago, Green and other delegates attending the Qrapd Lodge meeting occupied seats upon the platform. The proceedings were opened by the choir, under the direction of Mr C. Ray, singing one of Sankey and Moody’s hymns. Rev B. A. Scott then I offered ‘prayer. The Chairman said that he was not alto* I gather a stranger to Ashburton. He re- I collected passing through Ashburton when there were only four houses in the I township. During his first visit he had I the pleasure to open a Rechabite Tent, I and he now appeared here as the princi- I pal member of the Good Templar Order lin New Zealand. He was a colonist of forty-three years’ standing, and during that time had seen the progress of New Zealand as almost continuous, and

although he had been more than twice round the Globe, there was no spot he liked better than his island home. T uring his forty-three years’ experience he bad seen the fearful effect of drunkenness in its most terrible aspect. Had the early colonists, say one of them—Mr Wakefield used his ability to introduce legislation.to . cope with the evil, the liquor traffic could have been kept entirely down, and as a i consequence New Zealand would lhave been very much more prosperous than, it is at the present moment. He (Mr Harding) knew Mr Wakefield well,-and he was extremely sorry to say that the latter—one of the brightest, and most talented men in the colony—had allowed the demon drink to take such a hold of him, that in a few years he died a pauper in the Old Men’s Home. I Had, as he before remarked, the colony 1 been governed on Good Templar principles I they wouldfhave now no national debt, to I contend against. ] The Rev H. W. Green said that although I he was not a veteran amongst the Good 1 Templars like many others on the platform, I ha could not but help admiring the energy displayed by the Order in helping to keep down the terrible consequences of the drink traffic. In large cities as well'as v small towns and villages be (the speaker) h d seen some fearful sights which were caused directly though drink. In Sydney be had seen a drunken mother in the I streets, in lifting her infant from the I ground let it fall, causing its immediate I death. This was only one of the many I cases of murder which -were continually I occurring through the effects of drunken | ness. He would like to see the legisla j ture of New Zealand take effective mea- I suras for dealing with this infamous I traffic in drink. The speaker then de- I scribed a case of a publican who had been sentenced to death, but shortly afterwards I reprieved, for causing his wife’s death.. I This unfortunate man is now in Welling- I ton Gaol, and although quite inn oont of I the charge of murder, he could not obtain I bis release. The sole cause of this was drink, and no one was more determined to impress upon his fellow prisoners the awful effect of drunkenness than was this unfortunate man. Let all aid with their

strong determination to Streep this ter* rible curse from this fair land, and leave

it what it ought to be, a truly fair and noble country. The Chairman said the ladies were in

many cases the cause of much drunken*. ness, and although he (the Chairman) had been a Templar for fifty years, he fouqd : at times the greatest difficulty to resist the temptation of drink when 1 offered it by ladies, as they did sometimes on his . birthday. Mr S. Capper, a prominent member cf

the Good Templar Order, from IManches* ter, then addressed the meeting. Ha said the Good Templar Army was now the largest in the world, and an army repre sented by men and money. In Africa the organisation had spread rapidly, and in fact everywhere where the British sailor

or soldier had been sent out to fight for their country, Good Templar Lodges had - been formed. 6,000 of the British army and 3,000 of British tars belonged to the Order, and the highest as well as the - lowest in the ranks enjoyed its benefits equally. The First Lord of the Admiralty was a good Good Templar, and many . other of England’s highest men were', amongst its ranks and they coqld call them brothers. Mr Capper spoke foe upwards of an hour, and kept his audience in a state of merriment with his cuaint anecdotes and concluded with an earnest and eloquent appeal to those present to give every assistance in their power to swell the ranks of the Good Templars in New Zealand, and resumed his seat amid loud and continuous ap* plause. Mr Jago, P.W.G.0.T., said the more v he saw of life the more was he convinced that the temperance movement was scien tifically and philosophically sound to tha coro. Total abstinence was the only way to ensure a satisfactory end of the demon drink. He hoped' tbpt what been said that evening would 'convince th'gaj that the temperance cause would wju tfig struggle in the long run. The Choir during the evening rendered hymn 385, in Sankey’s and Moody’s collection and a number of Good Temp ar odes, in a very pleasing manner, under the leadership of Mr Charles Ray.

Votes of thanks were accorded to the chair, and to the speakers, and the pro ceedings closed with the Bonadiotlod by the Chairman.

THE MAORI RELIGIOUS CRAZE.

Wellington, Last Night. The following letter has been received by the Native Minister re the religious craze in the North: —

1 “Russell, Aprill, 1885. 1 “ Sir—l have the honor to inform you that I again visited the camp of the pro* ' phetess yesterday, the final-day, I found that at least half the people had already ’ left for home, and many more intended leaving to-day. A few will probably stay a few weeks longer. That the woman is crazed there can be no doubt. Most of her deluded followers are not slow in- ad mitting it. She made a statement ,on Sunday last which partly opened tlieiw eyes. She said : ‘ I hear some of the people have threatened to burn me. They can do so if they please, but X would rather not, as X wish to attend Tawhiao’s meeting|on April 23.' One man immediately inquired how she re conciled this statement with the one that the end of the world would be during March. A few days ago she all the numberless presents—rings, chains, lockets, greenstone, etc.—amongst tho crbwd'to be scrambled, for. This relieves, her from the imputation that she was ac tuated by a desire of gain. Yesterday, while I was at the camp, she was at the. village trying to induce the native clergy man to iqarry her to a yoqng map wpfl went with her. A difficulty, however, arose, the youth having left a wife a; Houianga. Now that itjis ad over, I am of opinion that the amount of property alleged to have been sold at ruinous price*

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 1885.



NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS,



AdvrTtisements for The Ashburton Guardian must be sent in not later than 8 p.m., with the number of insertion, written plainly on the copy, otherwise they will be inserted until counter manded, and charged accordingly. Re place Advertisements must be supplied the day previous to that on which they are to be inserted. Special notices can be received up to 8.30 p.m., but will be charged double rates. All notices of Births, Marriages, or Deaths must be accompanied by the sig nature of the sender, as a guarantee of good faith. All advertisements and business jert i s M be addressed The Manager ; literary communications should be addressed to The Editor. •



Canterbury Mills. fjpo FARMERS AND OTHERS, CORN SACKS, ii. 8i29 and weights. At lowest current rates, 3 292 0. W. TURNER. ItHE ASHBURTON COUNTY STOCK AND SALEYARD3 COMPANY (Limited), la prepared to Dip Sheep IN large or small lota at the following scale of charges : For the first 500 sheep, ons penny each For the second 500 sheep, one half penny each Forjthesecond 1,000 sheep, one farthing each For flocks of over 2,000 special arrange ments will be made. The material* used will be charged for in addition to the above. GEORGE JAMFSON, 3 207 Secretary. WAR WITH RUSSIA.—At the pre sent Juncture it would be difficult for any one exc 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 j ' 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 bo 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 time, therefore, to lay in a stock of clothing, before the general ad vance begins. In order that wo 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, wh:ch we are prepared to offer at unusually low prices for Cash. Regarding style and fit, it is almost needless for ns to repeat what everybody knows, viz , that by our scien tific mode of cutting, and the care exer cised by us In fitting the figure, a mis fit lean impossibility. —Craighead and Co., Merchant tailors, Tancted street.



Wanted. fT 7 ANTED —A Nurse. Apply Mrs YV Sc ir, Tinwald hotel. 4 515 TTT ANTED Known—Before buying V? Dress Materials, Ulsters, Jackets, Dolmans, Millinery, etc , call and inspect our stock. The cheapest first-class Drapery and Millinery Establishment in Ashburton —H. C. Segkbs, ealya’ Buildings, East treat.



REAT Reductions for Cash at Tones and : Rjidshaw’s.—Good oaten sheaf chaff from 50s per ton, la 6d per bag ; prime oat straw chaff 35a per ton, 9d per bag; new oatmeal 4s per bag; good cheese 5d per lb ; ffour, bran, sharps, and chickwheat at very cheap rates. TTT"ANTED Known—Wertheim- Sew- W ing Machines can be had on Time Payments at the New Zealand Clothing Factory’s Branch, East street, Ashburton. LOEIOUS NEWS. Andrew Orr will give away on Saturday 100 pairs men’s boots at 6 s 9d ; 60 pairs can vas slippers at 2s 6d ; 30 pairs cricketing boots at 6s 6d ; 100 pairs Kaiapoi trousers at 11s 6d—every article at half-price. T7C7ANTED Known—Fresh Flounders » * 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 21611 TTfANTED Known —Boots ! Boots 1 VV That Hayes and Co. are Clearing a few desperate lines of Boots, etc., to wit, Ladies’ Leather, 4s 6d; Men’s Shooters, Pegged, 10a; Men’s Elastic sides, 9s, and a lot of odd lines that must be cleared at once. 7 1278 WANTED Known—Umbrellas at Is lid, six doz Buttons for Is, China Matting at 6d, Ladies’ Hose at 6d, Cor sets at 2s 3d, Shirting at 4£d, Towels 3£ d, 36-inch Oilcloth 9d, Camisoles Is 4d. 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 2 276 2 237 Andrew Orr’s Cheap Sale. 2 185 attended to. 760



Persons with Dogs ’TRESPASSING on Kuna 20 and 21, south bank Baaaia River, will be prorecuted. 3 330 SAMUEL BOYLE.



Excursionists TO PORT LYTTELTON. On the day of the Excur sion to Lyttelton the steam launches CANTERBURY and LYTTELTON will run trips round the Outer Harbor, affording visitors an excellent opportunity of viewing the Forts now in course of erection. No war risks..... ...Fares Is. God save the Queen. AGAR & ROBERTS, 4 502 Proprietors.



W. Fowke, BOOTMAKER, BEGS to inform his friends and the public generally that be has started business on his own account. He hopes by strict attention to business and making a good article, to secure a share of public patronage. Address—BUßPETT STREET, In premises occupied by Mr J. Meech. 4 486



PATTERN DEPOT. Mrs Hodge, DRAPER AND DRESSMAKER, East Stheet, near Lancaster's butchery. Ladies' Dressesand Underclothing made at the shortest notice. REGISTRY OFFICE For Female Servants. 7 1413



SELIiING OFF FANCY GOODS, TOYS, BOOKS, STATIONERY, &c. Must be sold—even if at a loss To Suit everybody at prices that cannot be beaten. Andrewes Bros., Booksellers, Stationers, &c., Ashburton.



G XL I 0 U L Machine \ WAKANDI R< OH ARLES Repairs Engines, Combine Reapers and Binders, am machinery. Special attention give Tricycles and Sewing Mac Lawn Mowers repaired, adjusted. Model work. Gene Read, mark, l INWARDLY DIG accomplish the above feat, lishment, and lighten your by appeasing your appetite ful by inspecting the me ARTISTIC EASTER ever imported into Ashburt Home). You are then a spect the contents of a personally selected, and 1 bedeve it was Lord Wols the barmens to be the moat



Special Advertise mants. 1 rjlHB LONDON AND LANCASHIRE Fire Insurance Co. We have much pleasure in informing the public of Ashburton that Mes-bs WILDING, LEWIS & CATOILL £ have been appointed AGENTS for the above Company in the Ashburton Dia i trict. All risks taken at lowest current rates. LEWIS & GOULD, ] 3 328 General Agents for Canterbury. Timber Timber TO FA.RMERS and Others about to. Build—Buy your timber from the Producers at first coat 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, PILMER AND 00, (late A. Hayes), TIMBER, COAL & WOOD MEROH ANTS, Fart street, Ashburton. | 25 Branches Now Open 25 i THE NEW~ ZEALAND' ■ Clothing Factory ’ Are now Showing j NEWEST STYLES in , SPRING Sb SUMMER CLOTHING, , Manufactured 1 from the renowned i Wear Resisting MOSGIEL TWEEDS 1 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. a Men’s, Boys’ and Children’s Clothing a in every variety at Wholesale Prices. Shirts, Hats, Hosiery, Blankets, Rugs, Portmanteaux, and every requisite at WHOLESALE PRICES. Note the address— v NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING a • FACTORY, „ EAST STREET, Ashburton 25 Branches Now Open 25 N OTIOE TO FARMERS. WOOD, SINCLAIR & CO., Millers and Grain Merchants, High street, Christchurch,



Are Cash Purchasers of Wheat, Oats, Barley, Beans, Peas, Potatoes, Bye and Cocksfoot Grass Seeds at highest current rates. To farmers desirous of holding their grain we are prepared to offer special facilities for storage. 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 AND WINTER. H. B. 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. 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 best pro curable for money. WE IMPORT DIRECT From the Best Manufacturers 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 most economical way, thus saving the immense cost of an Extravagant Establishment with manager, sub-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, we will give 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 special attention, an of carriage (by AKY PART OF Ci



Victoria House. Season sale commencing on January 16th, & continuing FOR FIVE WEEKS ONLY, REMARKABLE REALITIES I GLARING REDUCTIONS Convincing proof and Special Prices See Windows'®^ Dimant and^Coe, READY-MONEY DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, Ac., In premises lately occupied by Orr and Co., Corn i East and Tancred atre ASHBURTON^



Special Advertisements. Groceries CHEAPER THAN EVER AT JAMES McGREGOR’S, Fancred Street. Sugars—English Out Loaf K d por 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 2a 9d Box Tea from 12s 6d per box Canterbury Cakes, lOd each. Rice, Sd j Mixed Biscuits, 6d Lunch Biscuits, 3d Currants, 61 Raisins, 7d New Figs, Is per box Best Sago, 3d New Muscatels, la 6d Oysters, 6d Cairn’s Marmalade, 8d Peacock’s Jama, 6|d Herrings, 7d Keillor’s Marmalade, 9d Salmon, 8d Cheese, 6d per lb English Pickles, 8d Other articles equally cheap. JAMES McGREGOR, Tancred Street. 12 2342



That husband of mine is three times the man he was before he began using “ Wells Health Rer.ew'er.” Druggists.; The N.Z Drug Co., General Agents, 2 Another unfortunate.—Again we must draw the attention of our readers to the fact that a £2,424 stock of doming and General Dra pery, in the estate of Dennis O’Connell, tra ding' in Lyttelton and Cristchurch, now bank rupt, was purchased by H, E.May& Co., of the Hall, High street, for £954, or only a little over one-third of its value. 11. E. M. and Co. are now selling it at half the marked 1 price, which surely ought to secure a speedy J clearance. I