DEATH.

Doak. —At Wukauiii, on Thursday, 20th instant, Alice, beloved daughter of John and Margaret Doak ; aged, 14 years. Deeply regretted.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, MAY 21, 1886. THE MIDLAND RAILWAY.

Wk have already predicted that the provisional agreement made between the Government and the London syndicate, lor the construction of the East and West Coast and Nelson Railways, will not be confirmed by the House until the more unreasoning opponents of the scheme have urged their objections with all the pertinacity and vindictiveness of men convinced against their will. The first well defined note of this opposition was sounded in the House of Representa tivesjast night, when Mr G. F. Richard son, the member for Mataura, moved, “ That the Government be requested to cause to be prepared for the infor mation of the House plans showing the several blocks of land proposed to be given to the Company for the con struction of the East and West Coast and Nelson Railway, with schedule giving descriptions of the character and areas ot such lands.” Mr Richardson submitted this motion without com ment, but Mr Seddon was not disposed to allow the matter to pass in silence, and moved, as an amendment, for a return showing the amount of land reserved in the provincial districts of Westland, Nelson, and Canterbury, and assessed on the latest property tax valuation. He complained that too much land had been set apart for the railway, and settlement had been re tarded. Sir Julius Vogel pointed out that it would be inadvisable for the Government so put forth a statement of values at present, and promised that a schedule of the land through which the railway would go would shortly be laid on the table. Sir George Grey followed with a characteristic speech in which he stigmatised the scheme as “ an attempt to rob the people of New Zealand of the heritage of their children,” and concluded by moving that the whole question of the expedi ency of granting large blocks ot land as a concession to companies for the construction of railways be referred to a Select Committee. The Colonial Treasurer was at considerable pains to explain that he had not the smallest connection, directly or indirectly with the company that proposed to con struct the railway. At a later stage Mr G. F. Richardson asserted that there was not half of the land proposed to be given as a bonus to this Company to be found anywhere adjacent to the line, and he thought it was only right the Company should know this. Mr Fisher, on the other hand, considered the Company was securing very much the better of the bargain, but another Otago member, Mr Uovvnie Stewart, insinuated a great deal when he stated he “ preferred the colonies should not obtain railways if they had to obtain them by defrauding Home capitalists.” Ultimately the amendments and motion were all rejected, but not by sufficient majorities to afford any addi tional assurance that the proposals of the {Government will be brought to a successful issue. We have little doubt, however, that the construction of the line will shortly be commenced, but, before the turning of the first sod, we expect to see an acrimonious, unprofit able, and we fear, unseemly, debate on the question in the House of Representatives.

The Timaru Woollen Factory Company’s new buildings were formally opened yesterday morning, by the Mayor of Timaru.

Sir William Fox and Mr Glover will address a public meeting at the Town Hall this even ing.

An ordinary meeting of the North Canter bury hoard of Education was held in Christ church yesterday afternoon. Inspectors’ reports were received on the Hampstead, Ncwlands, North Elgin, Wnkanui, Willowby, Flomington, Longbeach, and Ashton schools. A deputation waited on the Board in relation to the question of building a school or schools in the Itangitata district. It was suggested that the Board should provide a teacher to teach the children in the lower part of the district in one of the houses, say for twelve months, and then the Board would be in a position to know more about the requirements of the district. The deputation was of opinion that one school would be suflicient. A letter was read objecting to the late election at Itangitata. After the deputation hadwith-

drawn, Messrs Anson and Saunders were

appointed to inquire and report on both quos. (ions. Mr Berryman asked the question, which was refered to the Board’s solicitors, whether a householder could use some votes and withhold the rest. The Board directed that fresh elections should bo hold in res-

pact to the Tinwald, Alford Forest, and Barry’s Bay Districts. The appointment was approved of Mias Amy Harband as assistant mistress of West Christchurch School. Some routine business was disposed of, and the Board adjourned. At the meeting of Canterbury Chamber of Commerce yesterday, it was resolved, “ That the Government be requested to take steps to have the agricultural statistics completed and published during the month of March instead I of May, as they are of little practical use to the agricultural community when not pub lished until the latter month.” The inquest on the fatal blasting accident was continued in Dunedin yesterday. Mrs Vivian described what the witnessed in the room when Mrs Finch was killed. William Barnes, overseer of works, and Josiah Itogers, who had charge of the powder, were examined at great length, and the inquest was adjourned till the 27th.

INTERPROVINCIAL NEWS.

Auckland, May 20.

Enough is known of the cornua returns to make a tolerably accurate estimate of the total population of the city of Auck laud and suburbs, This is now placed at over (10,000, the checking of the city returns being finished to-day. There are only ihroo cities in the Southern iloiuis phero that now beat Auckland in point of population—Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide. It is just within the bounds of possibility th.t the census returns of the present year may show that Auckland holds third place instead of fourth, “hud in the race for pre eminence has beaten Adelaide, fr >m which latter city there has been a considerable exodus of the

population. At a mooting of the shareholders of the Auckland Tobacco Company, a resolution to wind up the Com pany was confirmed. At tho annual meeting of the shareholders of the Now Zealand -Sugar Company the balance-shoot showed aLaa of L 3742 9a. Tho sale of 11,100 tone of sugar was, tho Chairman said a roaiilt encouraging in face of the disorganised market. The Company, oxpect tojrecoivo their first sugars from thoir Fiji estates in July. Tho reports respecting tho crops were encouraging. The report and balance sheet were adop ted. iSir F. Whitaker was re-elected Director.

Wellington, May 20-

Upwaads of 150 J signatures have been obtained to t he address to bo presented to the Hon. J. Bryce. A nor' west gale with heavy rain, hao been experienced hero -o day. Tiie ollicora of tho Japeneso war ship, Tsukuba, have been entertained at a dinner by the Wellington Club, and to morrow an at home will be given onboard the ship. In the Court of Appeal, a motion for tlAxromoval of a rule nisi, made la Christ- in the case of tho National Bank v. Moe, was over ruled without calling upon counsel for respondent (National Bunk) fur argument, and the rule was made absolute. Argument is proceeding in the case of Thompson v. Friodlander (Christchurch), a motion for a new trial. Napier, May 20.

At a meeting of policy-holders in the Government Life Insurance Association, held to night, 59 were present, represent ing L 32,000 inauied The meeting was addressed by Mr Shannon, who spoke strongly of Sir J. Vogel's action especially with refernco to the purchase of property and the appointment of Mea.rs Diver and Speight. The following resolutions were unanimously carried “That this meet ings views with regret thereaulutionpassed by the policy-holders at the Thames to memorialise Rariiameut, playing that the Government should resume the entire control of the Association, and it strongly protests against Mr Dargaville’s action in the House before tho wishes of the policy holders have been ascertained ; that this meeting is of opinion that the interests of the Association can best be served by the amendment of those sections of the Act which led to the constitution of the Board, and that, In place of four |Government officials, three Government nominees, and three elected members, the Board should consist of sever members —four to be elected by thopolicy-holdera, and three non-official gentlemen to be nominated by the Govern ment ; that this meeting respectifuliy re quests Mr Fisher, M.H.R ,to Introduce a Bill giving effect to the foregoing resolu tions; that this meeting condemns the recent appointment of the highly-paid branch managers at Dunedin and Auckland and would urge upon the Board the advis ability of cancelling these appointments.” A fifth resolution expressed onfidieuco in Messrs Shannon and Fisher.

Dunedin, May 20.

The Dunedin Presbytery, at a special meeting held to consider the Premier’s letter on the New Hebrides question, passed a resolution that they could not entertain tho proposal submitted by him, which would jeopardise the interests of

tho Natives, and declared their opinion that tho best means of preventing the importation of couvic a to the South Seas is by not aff'irdiug facilities to France to extend her territory in those regions, and expressed the hope that Government may be able to co-operate with tho Victorian Government in the action which they have taken.

THE IRISH QUESTION.

[REUTER’S TELEGRAMS —COPYRIGHT]

Lord Salisbury's Views. London, May 20

The Marquis of Salisbury addressed a crowded meeting of the Primrose League in Her Majesty’s Theatre last night. Lord Salisbury complained that his advocacy of coercion for Ireland had been greatly overdrawn by his political opponents, and urged upon Parliament the necessity for granting full powers to govern Ireland, which powers should be exercised firmly and with wisdom.

COUNT DE PARIS.

Republican Jealousy.

[keUTEU’s TELEGRAMS —COPYRIGHT. 1 Paris, May 20.

An outcry is being raised by the organs of the Republican party against

the manner in which the Count de Paris i? permitted to hold grand recep tions in this city. Government are discussing a exclusion from France,

PARLIAMENTARY.

[PER PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

HOUSE OF EEPEESENTATIVES.

Thursday, May 20. AFTEENOON SITTING The House met at 2.80 p.m.

QUESTIONS,

Several unimportant questions were asked and replied to. Replying to Mr Dargaville, who asked it the Colonial Treasurer is aware that there exists among the policy holders in the Go vernment Insurance Association throughout the colony, grave dissatisfaction with the present system of management, and a desire that Parliament should resume more direct control of the business of the Association, and whether he will, during the present ses sion, bring in a Bill to repeal “ The Govern ment Insurance Act, 1881, ’ Sir J. Vogel said Government were aware of the dissatis faction that exists, and, he considered, natu rally so. The question was now before the policy-holders as to a change in the present constitution of the Association. He was not prepared to state at present what decision Government had arrived at on the subject, but the question would have to be dealt with this session.

NEW BILLS. The following new Bills were introduced: —Boundaries of Wellington and Wanganui Education Districts Bill (Mr Wilson); Land Associations Bill (Mr Iveas) ; Eight Hours Bill (Mr Bradshaw); Employment of Females and Others Act, 18,SI, Amendment Bill (Mr Bradshaw) ; Native Equitable Owners Bill (Hon. Mr Ballanoe) ; A Bill to Authoriso_ the Purchase or Other Acquisition of Private Lands for Purposes of Settlement (Sir G. Grey).

RETURNS. A number of returns were moved for

The House adjourned at 5.30.

EVENING SITTING. The House resumed at 7-30. THE MUNICIPAL COUPOHATIONS BILL,

The Hon It. Stout moved the second read ing of the Municipal Corporations Bill. One of the new provisions related to the public health ; another to raising special loan for works within boroughs; also to enable general rates to be levied, Mr Downie Stewart said no doubt the Bill was a useful one, but he thought the House should not go into Committee on it for at least ton days, so as to give members more time to consider its provisions. Mr Sutter also hoped that the committal of the Bill would be postponed, as there were some important now clauses in it. The Hon R. Stout said he had no desire to hurry on the Bill, and would be glad, in the meantime, to receive any suggestions from hon members.

The motion was agree ! to. LOST DEIiENTUBES BILL.

Tho House went into Committee on the “ Lost Debentures Bill,” which passed with out amendment, was road a third time and passed. THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS. Sir J. Vogel moved —•“ That a Select Com mittee bo appointed to examine into and report upon questions relating to public accounts, four to be a quorum; the Com mittee to consist of Major Atkinson, Messrs Ballance, Cowan, Dargaville, Holmes, Montgomery, Moss, Peacock, Wilson, and the mover.”

JMr Downie Stewart complained that only one Otago member was on this important Com mittee, while there were three from Canter bury. He moved—“ That Mr Holmes’ name be omitted, and Mr Barron’s substituted.” After some discussion, in which Major Atkinson, Messrs Montgomery, Fergus, and Sir J. Vogel took part, the orignat motion was carried, Sir J. Vogel agreeing to insert some additional names on the Committee.

THE MIDLAND BAILWAY. Mr G. F. Kiohardson moved—“ That Go vernment be requested to cause to be pre pared, for the information of the House, plans showing tho several blocks of land proposed to be given to tho Company for the construc tion of the East and West Coast and Nelson Kailway, with a schedule giving descriptions of tho character and areas ot such lands." Mr Seddon moved, as an amendment, for a return showing the amount of land reserved in the provincial districts of Westland, Nelson and Canterbury, and assessed on the latest Property-tax valuation. He complained that too much land had been set apart for the railway, and settlement had been retarded. Sir Julius Vogel said the movers of tho resolution and of the amendment did not exactly apprehend the position of affairs, as the Government understood them. Govern ment were not in a position to state what blocks of lands were to be given to the Com pany, as that had not yet been decided. He apprehended that part of Westland would be taken, and the remaining part would then be made much more valuable. Ho thought it would not be advisable for Government to put forth a statement ot values at present. One of the first things the Company would be obliged to do under their contract was to select their land, and thus prevent it from being locked up longer than was necessary. A return of the land through which the railway would go would shortly be laid on the table. He hoped the resolution would be withdrawn. Sir G. Grey intimated his intention of moving a further amendment—“ That the whole question of the expediency of granting large blocks of land as a concession to Com panies for the construction of railways be referred to a Select Committee.” The amendment was lost on the voices.

Sir G. Grey then moved his amendment.

He said an end ought to be put to this system of giving blocks of land for making railways. It was an attempt to rob the people of New Zealand of the heritage of their children. Sir J. Vogel said it would have a very bad effect if the House should show itself so inconsistent as to pass the amendment now proposed. He said nothing was more certain than that the House affirmed that this rail way was to be constructed without spending the money of the Colony upon it. He wished to say that he (Sir J. Vogel) had not the smallest connection, directly or indirectly, with the Company that proposed to construct the railway. The Hon. R. Stout pointed out there was a special clause in the Act providing that the value of mineral lands was not lost by the proposal made for constructing the railways Mr Soobie Mackenzie thought Sir G. Grey should have brought in a Bill to repeal the East and West Coast Railway Act. He believed, the time would come, when the East and West Coast Railway would be pointed at as a concern that brought a large amount of disaster to those people in England who undertook the construction ot it. Mr G. F. Kiohardson said there was not half of the land proposed to be given as a bonus (o this Company to be found anywhere adjacent to this line, and he thought it was only right the Company should know this. Mr Hursthouse thought Sir George Grey’s action was empty trilling with a serious ques tion, especially now that the railway was about being constructed on such favorable terms.

Mr Fergus did not think the House was going to repudiate its action because members like Mr Seddon saw the error of their ways in formerly supporting this line. He hoped the motion of the member for Mataura would be carried.

Mr Levestam protested against any attempt being made to discourage the Company from going on with the railway. Mr Downie Stewart preferred that the Colony should not obtain railways if they had to obtain them by defrauding the Home capitalists.

Mr Turnbull could not understand the op position to the question at the present stage. Sir G. Grey’s amendment was finally put, and lost by 17 to 9.

The original motion was then put, and lost by H I to '2l. The Hon. R. Stout read a telegram tv the New Hebrides.

Major Atkinson asked if the date of the delivery of the Financial Statement could be named.

The Hon. Sir J, Vogel said he could not fix a day. The House rose at 10.50. p.m.

FROZEN MEAT.

(uecter’s telegrams—copyright )

A Successful Shipment

London, May ig

The cargo of frozen meat ex R.M.S Cu?co, from Melbourne, has been landed, in good gonc|iuon.

MAGISTERIAL.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT

ASHBUR TO N— Friday.

(Before Mr U. C. S. Badde’ey, R.M, an t Mr D. Thomas, J. P.)

CINIL CASKR- Dimant and Coe v. Pulford, claim L2l4sßd. Judgment for plaintiff for tha amount claimed and costs. •Shearer v. Patterson, claim L 9 81, on a dishonored pronrasory note Judg ment for plaintiff for the amount claimed and costa.

Morgan v, McKonzie, claim L 3 10s lOd. Judgment f>r p’aintifif for the amount claimed and costs.

House v. Goldsmith, claim L 8 13. Mr Cay rill for plaint,ff. Judgment for plaintiff for the amount claimed and coats.

WATER RACE DIVER-lON.

William Waste, 13, Wia charged with the larceny of a key and a lid of a box at Pudding :J ill, the property of the Ash burton County Council, and also with di verting water at the headworka. The accused pleaded guilty. Sergeant Felton said the offence was a very serious one, jand liable to a penalty of £SO Had an adult person been charged, the police would have pressed for a severe penalty, but as the father of the lad was in rather poor circumstance* the Bench would bo asked to deal lightly with it. Sergeant Felton called Mr Bax ter, who said the effect of the diversion was to deprive about 130 miles of water races en irely of water ; occasioning great inconvenience among settlors. This oc curred three times. The key was kept in a box, and this box was broken into aoe the key abstracted. The father of the boy said he was in the habit of behaving very strangely, and was difficult to control. Ho was afraid the hoy was rather weak minded. Aftes a ime consultation between the Bjueh, Felton, and the father of the boy, it was decided to send the accused to Burnham until he attained the age of 15 years, and to be brought up in the Wealejan religion. ALLEGED LARCENY. James Scott was charged with the larceny of a saddle.—Mr White, with Mr Outhbertson, appeased for the accused, who pleaded not guilty. Constable Remer stated that in company with Mr Fox ho had ssarc od the accused’s house and found a saddle there. The accused stated the saddle had been lent to him by a man whose name ha could no. remember. Ha said ha had borrowed the saddle beoiuse his own was locked up in the j ickey room at the racecourse. On the day following the accused said the man who lent him the saddle lived near Drotnore.

Joseph Harris saw the accused using a saddle about 11 am. on the 4th inst., which he got from about one of the stands. Accused went up town and re turned in about half an hour. When he returned he did not take the aadlleoff the horse, and witness did net sea it taken off when he left.

Frederick Kit ten berg, horsebreaker at Leeston, said he was at the Ashburton races. He had with him a saddle te longing to Mr Spring, which he left in the jockeys’ dressfng room. The saddle produced was the one. Did not authorise anyone to use it. The saddle was now a great deal mere knocked about than whan witness left it in the room. Samuel Saunders, secretary to the Ashburton Rac ng Oiub, said the accused

had the keys cf the stands and jockey’s dressing-room at the racecourse. In re piy to Mr White, the witness said ho had

seen -the accused on the morning of the 14th, riding in the di o:tion of the race course, but did not remember whether he was usibg a saddle or not. William Baker said that on the after

• loon of the 14th inst, the accused gave him charge of the racecourse, and handed him the keys. He returned them to Mr Fox about six in the evening. The ac cused was drunk during the afternoon, and very drunk when he left at five o’clock. He rode home. Tie horse he

had was saddled, but witness did not know where he had obtained the saddle.

This was the case for the police. Mr White submitted there was no case to answer. It had been shown that the accused was very drunk on the day whet it was alleged the larceny was committed, it had also been shown that ha had gone to the course with a saddle, and he had only came away with one saddle, and it was a fair inference that the accused being drunk, had made a mistake and taken the wrong saddle. He called Anthony Lea, who, In reply to Mr Onthbertson, said that on May Bth the accused borrowed a saddle from witness. Did not g;t the saddle back from Scott, but took it himself from the race c urae on the 14th inst. That day accused calledj witness’s attention to the saddle, telling he had put the saddle on the horse. Witness looked at the eaodle, and saw that it wai not his. The one produced was the one on the horse. Told Scott the saddle was not witness’s, but accused, who was very drunk, maintained that it was. Accused then went into the bar at one of the booths, and witness proceeded to take the saddle off, but he did not remember whether he got it entirely off, in consequence of a row that look place between Scott and the barman, and witness going hurriedly to the bar to restore peace. When witness cams back from the bat ho saw hia own saddle in the weigh office. He put it on his own horse, and rode off home.

la reply to the Bench, the witness said Ills saddle was something like the one produced, and a drunken man might easily mistake one for the other.

The Bench considered there was no evidence of felonious intent, and dismissed the case but at the same time administered a severe lecture to the accused, pointing out to him the trouble into which his love for liquor had led him. Jotm Mcliroy, a lad about 14 years of age, charged with the larceny of £1 2s from A. Dee, was sentenced to 24 hours’ imprisonment, and ordered to receive 10 strokes with a birch rod. The Court then rose.

SOUTH KAKAIA—THURSDAY. (Before Mr H. C. S. Baddeley, R.M.) CIVIL CASES. Patton v. Cox. — Claim, £ls 4s 3d, on a judgment summons A doctor’s certifi cate that defendant could not appear was put in. A. Pearson gave evidence that defendant had stated he would not pay a shilling, but would rather go to prison. An order was made for the payment of £5 in six weeks, and the balance by in stalments of £o per month.

Burrows v. J. Pearce.—Claim. £3 lbs 2d, for wages. Judgment for the amount claimed and costs.

C. B. Howell v, Hopkins and Co.— Claim, £O, for rent. Judgment for the amount claimed and costs.

Daly v. Emerson —Claim, £3 ss. Case adjourned till next Court day.

THE KIMBERLEY GOLDFIELDS.

[reuter’s telegrams—copyright.]

A Bush; Melbourne, May 20,

Reports from Perth, Western Aus tralia, state that fully a thousand diggers are now round the Kimberley goldfields,

METHVEN.

HARVEST HOME AT SPRINGFIELD

(from OCR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

There is r saying “ that where e’er a Scotchman roves” he never forgets his native heather, 'nor fails to retain a recollec tion of the happy hours be spent at the social gatherings in his native land. Mr and Mrs Cameron, of Springfield, being no excep tion to the general rule, with their usual

hospitality invited most of the residents in

this district to a “ Harvest Home” (which is one oi the most popular o£ the Scotch gather ings) last Wednesday. In response to their invitation upwards of 150 people assembled at their homestead, where each and all received a hearty Highland welcome. The large shearing shed was converted into a tem porary suite of apartments for the occasion. The comfort of the guests was evidently a first consideration, as the walls of the build ing were lined throughout, and the numerous openings incident to such buildings were carefully closed to prevent the intrusion of draughts. One end of the building was set apart for the concert hall and ballroom, in which was erected a small but very neat dais for the performers. The portion of the shed known as the “shearing board” served as a corridor leading to the other apart ments, but so profuse were the decorations that it resembled a conservatory. The first room of the corridor was rather a novel adjunct to ballroom requisites, being fitted with cots for the sleeping infants who were too young to be deprived of their materna attentions for any length of time. The general comfort mast have pervaded this apartment, for although largely patronised, the juvenile choruses were conspicuous by their absence. Next in order were the draw- « ing-room and the ladies’ dressing-room, both of which were elegantly furnished. Access to the dining or supper room was through the former, the tables of which literally groaned under the weight of ing viands. The whole building was profusely and artistically decorated with ferns and evergreens, tastefully relieved with bunches of golden grain, and brilliantly lighted with lamps and Chinese lanterns, the whole having a very pleasing effect. Mr Cameron, on behalf of Mrs Cameron and himself, welcomed the guests to Springfield, and stated the evening’s amusement would commence with a concert, but as he was so busy elsewhere Mr Angus*- his storekeeper, would take charge of that part of the pro gramme. Mr Angus asked for the kind indulgence of the audience on behalf of the performers, who were principally employes on the estate. On the conclusion of a rather long programme it was evident that such a request was superfluous; as each item merited the encore it received. After the concert the company adjourned to the supper room in relays, and did ample justice to the good things provided. In the meantime the concert room was cleared for the dance, which was kept up until daylight did appear. Mrs Fitzgerald presided at the piano in her usual artistic style, and Mr A. McKay was equally successful as violinist and piper. A plentiful supply of tea, coffee, and other drinks of the Blue Ribbon order, was served daring the evening and all night long, in fact Mr and Mrs Cameron and their numerous employes seemed to vie with each other in minis tering to the wants of their guests. Three cheers were given for Mr and Mrs Cameron and the performers, and the company returned to their respective homes highly pleased with their night’s entertainment.

CRICKET.

AUSTRALIANS v. NOTTS.

[REUTER’S TELEGRAMS COPYRIGHT ]

London, May 19.

TheTcricket match, Australians v. Notts, was continued at Nottingham to-day. The rain which has prevailed for some days past cleared off, and the weather was fine during the remainder of the match. The attendance, consequently was good. The wicket bad re covered from the effects of the wet, and was fairly lively. The bowling of the Australian team was much admired, being, as a role, dead on the wicket; but they do not seem to work together yet. Their fielding was rather weak, several good chances being missed. The Australians, who, on the previous even ing, had one wicket down for 50, resumed their innings, and put together 109 before being disposed of. The principal scorers were as follows ;

Bonnor, bowled .. .. .. 2S Scott, bowled 23 Garret, run out .. .. .. 30 The home team then went to the wickets and made 104, the most prominent run gettera being— Selby, caught .. .. .. 22 Shacklock, bowled .. .. 14 Shaw, not out .. .. .. 15 Sherwin, bowled.. .. .. 14

The Australians then went in for their second innings, and when time was (called had scored 12 for the loss of two wickets. As the first day was lost on account of the rain, the match could not be played oat. A draw was therefore declared.

THE NEW HEBRIDES.

[Reuter’s telegrams —copyright]

LordlGranville’s Assurance. London, May 20.

Mr Graham Berry, Agent-General for Victoria, had an interview with the Secretary of State for the Colonies with reference to the New Hebrides. Lord Qranville assured him that Her Majesty’s Government would act in conformity with the wishes of the colonies in the matter. He expressed himself anxious concerning the ultimate settlement of the recidiviste difficulty.

THE BUDGET.

Vigorous Opposition [aSUTEß'S TKLHGKAMS—

i Sydney May 20. he details of the Budget proposals a ‘ s, -the Government are still under mu ussion in Committee of the Legis ve Assembly, the imposition of five l )er cent ad valorem duty on a number of articles hitherto admitted free, and increase on the present duty otherwise, meeting with vigorous opposition from Sir Henry Parkes and his followers. Sir Henry threatens that if the pro_ posals be insisted upon, he will do his’ utmost to force a dissolution. Sir John Robertson also expresses himself op posed to the proposals brought down by Sir Patrick Jennings.

ANTIQUITY OF WHEHT.

President Charles Barnard, in an article in the “Century” for January says, that the wheat plant la one of the oldest in cultivation. The Chinese recorded Its culture as early as 2700 b,c., and It 1s one of the prehistoric plants, remains of wheat seeds being found In the rains’ of the houses of the lake dwellers. While there are several races of wheat, and while these have been crossed, producing hybirds, it has retained its true character, and been entirely independent of other plants since its culture began. Compared with wheat, rye is a modern plant. It is not figured on any Egyptian monuments, and seems to have been first cultivated in the Roman Empire abont the beginning of the Christian eta, though It may have been known somewhat earlier in Russia and Tartary. While these two com mercial plants have been cultivated side by side for centuries, the first plants appearing to be true hybtis between them bore seeds this year in the United States. Wheat and rye may have been crossed before, yet there appears to be no record of anything like the results here obtained.

THE ASHBURTON .GUARDIAN, FRIDAY, MAY 21, 1886.



ASHBURTON HIGH SCHOOL BOARD, TENDERS are invited by tho Board of Governors of the Ashburton High School for the lease of Reserve No. 1120, containing 136 acres, more or less. The Reserve is divided into four blocks, and will be let for a period of 14 years. Tenders for the whole or for separate blocks will be received at the Ashburton County Council office, where conditions of lease may he seen, up to 4 p.m. of TUESDAY, June 22ud proximo. J. E. BUCHANAN, Secretary. FUNERAL NOTICE. THE friends of Mr John Doak are res pe-tfully informed that the funeral of his beloved daughter Alice will move from bis residence, Wakanui, on Satur day, 22nd inst., at 2 o’clock, for tho Ash burton cemetery. B AKER BROS., Undertakers. f pHE Friends of Mr John Gorton are J- respectfully informed that his funeral •will leave his late residence, North-East Belt, on SUNDAY, May 23, at 2 30 p.m. ’ BAKER BROS.. Undertaker, WA IS TED KNOWN —Vote for direct cable Fresh Rabbits and fresh Fish daily. Smoked F.ah always on hand. ASHBURTON FIRE BRIGADE. Notice is hereby given that on an alarm of fire the first horses at the Station will take the Engine. By Order. CHARLES BRADELL. Town Clerk.



ASHBURTON HIGH SCHOOL. I >HE second term commences on Tdes- JL DAY next the 25th. The boys will assemble at 9.30 a. m. J. E. BUCHANAN, Secretary. tn 19 WANTED » PLOUGHMAN. —Apply to D Williamson, Eist street. ASHBURTON COUNTY COUNCIL. NOTICE TO OCCUPIERS. ashburton-ra fai u water SUPPLY. RACES will be CLOSED for purposes of overhaul as fallows : E Race and ail branches for 4 days from 25»h May. C and D Races and all branches for 4 days from 2nd June. A, B, and F Races and all branches * for four days from 9th June. By order. WILLIAM BAXTER, County Engineer. TO RAGE at Tinwald at lowest current I Rates, apply,- 553 FRIEDLANDER BROS. HAKATERE TOWN DISTRICT. FIRST ELECTION OF COMMIS SIGNERS, f IIHE following Nominations have been j received: GEORGE WILLIAM ANDREWS BENJAMIN CARTER JOHN CALDICOIT PETER FAWCETT BARTHOLOMEW HUGHES FRANCIS TH‘»MAS MAYO WILLIAM WTNSBURY WHITE A POLL for the election of Five of the above will be held on SATURDAY, May 29th, at the HampsteadSohoolhouse, com mencing at 9 a.m. and closing at 6 p.m. CHAS. C. FOOKS, Returning Officer,



NOTICE, Mr f. brookk-smith, a.s.a., will give Lessons in Drawing and Painting, both Oil and Water Colors. Pupils received at the Studio, or waited on at their own houses. Evening Classes will also be formed for tuition in bepia, Indigo, and Indian Ink Painting, Drawing, Bookkeeping, and Shorthand. All particulars and prospectuses to be obtained from Mr T. F, Farley Stationer. Paintings on view at the shops of Messrs Farley and Jones, m 10 B LACK, B EaTTiB & COMPANY, Criterion Jtxousej 201, 5203, 2u6 > Hi S tl Btreel « CHRISTCHURCH. We have the pleasure to advise our Customers and the residents generally a the Ashburton District that we have low received vary large of newest drapery goods :or the Present Season. The vhich we possess in being able to buy iu ■he Best British Markets, and the borough experience of ear buyer, rnables ns to supply all Goods under OUR CASH SYSTEM of business T LOWEST PRICES. We endeavour to give our Customers [jest value procurable, whatever Prices hey may wish to purchase Goods at, and >ur Stock is so LARGE AND WELL-ASSORTED hat the most varied wants can be sup ped, We append a list of our Depart nents, In each of which an immense Variety of most Novel and Fashionable jtoods will be found.



Wanted. WANTED Known—Greater reduction than ever at the Stale of Bank rupt Stock. — lt ayes AND Co , Arcade. WrANTED Known —The Gospel will be preached every Lord’s Day evening in the Arcade Chambers at G.bO p.m. (d.v.) Free fur all. No collection, ' 5 697 ■iITANTED KNOWN—Long looked VV for come at last. T. Hoult, having comnienced bacon curing, he ia able to .supply a real good Pork Sausage at G i per lb at the Factory, Moore at, Ashburton, Pigs cured in any quantity dried, smoked and deliverei homo at One Penny per lb. L'. Houi/r. PRESENTS ! Presents ! We are now giving Presents to the valno of 4s in the £ to every purchaser of One Shilling and upwards on Drapery and Millinery, etc. For description of Presents see W’indow. Dressmaking on the premises. Perfect fit guaranteed.— H. O. Segeks, Melford House. _ WANTED TO PURCHASE— -1,000 SACKS of beconds of Wheat. Apply to FRIEDLANDER BROS. 2 284 Monthly advertiser, issued by Robert Elston, Theatrical Agent and Bill Poster ; terms —40 inch space 6s per month, centre spaces 10s ; for longer terms special arrangements can be made ; advertisements should not be later than the 26th ef each month. 760



WANTED Known—VSertheim bow ing Machines can bo had on Time Payments at the New Zealand Clothing Factory’s Branch, East street, Ashburton. 2 276 CASH.-—White Sugar, 2|d ; F White Crystal, 3d ; Sperm Candies; 5d ; Lingtisli, 4d ; best Lobsters, Gd ; Plaid Vestas, 5d per doz. : Tea, Is peril); Sago, 2,jd; Tapioca, 2£d; Catting Salmon, 8d ; Venus Nuilrod, os 6d ; Groats, 9d.— McGregor, Tancred Street. special Aaveixibemenub. MR J. H. B BOOKS is now receiving Pupils for the Pianoforte, Organ, Violin, Singing, eic. For particulars, apply to J. id. Brooks (Mr S. Wolf’s lato residence), Wills street, Aphourton. 4 533 CANTERBURY MILLS, ' ASHBURTON. I WILL BE a BUYER of UPWARDS OF 800,000 Bushels MILLING WHEAT THIS SEASON. Also some Large Lines of OATS AND OTHER PRODUCE. CORNSACKS, Fall Size and Weight, at 5a 6d per dozen. 0, W. TURNER, 340 PerD. H. BROWN. A USTRALIAN MjERO AN TILE UiSION INSURANCE COMPANY. The only Company in Canterbury WHICH DID NOT RAISE RATES 33£ PER cent on Country Risks. We arc wow, as we have been for THE PAST THREE YEAKS, ACCEPTING RISKS PER CENT. OFF TARIFF. W. B. MOSS, Agent rot Ashburton District. September 22, 1885. 9 615



K OTIU JS. IT is requested that all ACCOUNTS owing “ The Ashburton Guakdian Company, Limited,” up to 30th April, be Paid at once to Mb B. Hughes, whose receipt alone will bo a sufficient discharge. CHAS. W. PURNELL, m 11 Chairman. JACK SAht —X.S. 197 and part 190 Jj (adjoining Mr J. Ward’s) with eight zoomed bouse and etc lam prepared to accept a very low price for this eligible property. T. BULLOCK rsiO the Ashburton Guards and Volun- JL teets.—THE VOLUNTEER RED BOOK, containing the whole o the Exercises in Battalion Drill, fcjquau _>/ill, Bayonet Drill, Infantry Drill, Etc, NOW IN. The above should be perused by all Volunteers and will be found useful to those intending to compete for Govern ment appointments. This book being difficult to procure all intending purchasers had better apply at once to T. F. FARL EY. School Committees will do well to con sider the many advantages to be derived from purchasing their prize books from me, as 1 am now offering prize books at very reasonable prices, in fact, at Christ church prices, and no carriage to pay, whilst my stock consists of about 3,SOU volumes. School requisites of every description kept in stock. Thomas F. Farley, Bookseller, Stationer, Printer, and Newsagent, Saunders’ Buildings, East street, Ashburton. Branch Shop; Town Sail, Ashburton.



DRESS DEPARTMENT HOSIERY DEPARTMENT MANTLE DEPARTMENT DRESSMAKING DEPARTMENT MILLINERY DEPARTMENT DReSS DEPARTMENT HOSIERY DEPARTMENT MANTLE DERARTMENT DRESSMAKING^DEPARTMENT MILLINERY DEPARTMENT CLOTHING DEPARTMENT UNDERCLOTHING DEPARTMENT TAILORING DEPARTMENT HOUOKHOLD FURNIHING DEPT. oeonial Manufacture from various mils. Including BLANKETS, FLANNELS & TWEEDS OF ashblrton manufacture. Cash System and Cash Prices. BLACK, BEATTIE & CO. GENERAL DRAPERY WARE HOUSE, TAILORS, DRESSMAKERS, and MILLINERS



Victoria Rouse* SPECIAL A NNO UNCEMEN T. ■vrOW SHOWING, a Splendid Assortment of the famous “ LION ’’ brand (Victorian) GOODS, in Men’s Plain and Fancy Tweed Suite, Trousers, Trousers and Vests, Waterproof and Overcoats, Cord Hiding Pants, Printed and White Moles, Boy’s Knickor and Beaconsfiold Sac Suits, etc., etc. These Goods, amounting in value to over £4OO, are Manufacturers’ Samples, cut and finished in the most perfect stylo. Purchase! at a heavy Discount, and ate offered at a slight advance u, on MELBOURNE WHOLESALE PRICKS. Our Stock of Genera! Drapers', Boots, etc., is unsurpassed for Value, DEVIANT AND COE, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, & BOOT IMPORTERS, East and Taucred Streets, Ashburton. Victorian Steam Carriage Works. J. R. STEEL & SON VI7ISH to intimate to the Public of Ashburton and surrounding districts that, W having obtained STEAM POWER and other Machinery requisite for the carrying on their work efficiently, are now In a position to meet the demands of the public with a fir *.-class article at prices to suit the times. Every f *ptJon of Carriages and Traps made, Painted and Repaired. Spring Traps from £2O. W hltochapols from £25. Buggies from £3O. I>,—Special attention paid to Repainting and Retrimming. VICTORIAN STEAM IRON WORKS AND GENERAL SHOEING FORGE. J. R. S. & SON, while thanking the public for their past liberal support In this department, beg to intimate that, having procured first-class Machinery, they are now in a position to undertake all kinds of Engineering work. Special attention is given to Turning, Boring and the Repairing of all kinds of Machinery, Including Combines, Engines, Reaper and Binders and every description of Agricultural Implements. ESTIMATES given for Contractors and Builders Ironwork, HORSES CAREFULLY HOD—Draughts, 7s ; Hacks, Os. 8 415



Special advertisements. mtm W-i }• I' J 'f . ~ vsai ROWK ISOH WUK K S ARMAGH STREET, Christchurch. Portable Eanges Burn Wood and Goal—ln Four Sizes. PAINTED CORRUGATED IRON IN Four, Five, Six and Seven Feet Lengths. 40 per cent. Cheaper than Galvanised j Iron. 10 1988 | Changed Hands! I BRANCH SHOP, TOWN HALL, Ashburton. I THE BOOK A STATIONERY Business lately carried on by Messrs H, J. Wood end Co, of Christchurch, has been purchased by mo, and at a price con siderably below original cost; this will give my many patrons an opportunity of ob taining a number of requisites at GREATLY REDUCED PRICES. STATIONERY.—SpeciaI care is given to all orders. Promptitude guaranteed. MANUFACTURE of ACCOUNT BOOKS Having made arrangements with a first class firm for the execution of all Com missions as described above, clients may rely upon receiving PROMPT ATTENTION, first class work being made a specialty. LITERATURE. Any book not in stock will be procured without delay. Orders taken for all news papers British and Foreign included), Public Committees receiving liberal con cessions. . —— PRINTING.



This branch is being fostered, and every attention paid to accuracy, neatness, and promptitude in the execution of all orders, all work receiving personal superintend ence. DELIVERY OF NEWSPAPERS. Customers may roly upon receiving their Morning and Evening Papers safely de livered at their doors, and not upon the front lawn. The same remark applies to Home Papers, Journals, and Periodicals ; also, purchasers may have their Parcels delivered promptly. Wholesale Lines Always in Stock. Brown Paper, Grocer’s Bags, Tea Papers, Twine, and Tradesmen’s general requisites. Bookbinding Okders Received. P. Farley, BOOKSELLER, STATIONER, PRINTER A NEWSAGENT, Saunders’ Buildings and Town Hall, Ashbdrton. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. The new goods for the WINTER SEASON ARE NOW OPENED OUT. The Stock is TUB LARGEST & BEST SELECTED IN THE TOWN, And the variety of Style and Patterns in Men’s. Youths’, and Boys’Clothing leaves nothing to be desired. Thousands of Men’s and Boys’ Suits, newest styles. Trousers and Trousers and Vests manufactured of New Zealand Tweeds. Every garment warranted shrunk Overcoats, Waterproof Coats and Leggings in great variety Hats, compris’ng every now stylo worn Children’s Jersey Suits, Children’s Men of-War Suits Gentlemen’s Hosiery, Scarves; Oxford, Regatta and White Shirts Rugs, Portmanteaus, and Travelling Bags'. The celebrated WERTHEIM SEWING MACHINE. Time Payments. N.Z. CLOTHING FACTORY, East Street.



c ONTINUATION O F T HE UNPARALLELED CUEAP SALE m re Of Mosers Friodlander Bros’ stock of Drapery, Clothing, AN □ | Boots AMOUNTING TO ABOUT £soo(> a ii b c r 1 1 i i ANDREW ORK having purchased the „bi>ve STOCK at a large reduction from Coal Price, is still giving it away at Unheard-of prices, His great object being to turn it into cash, no matter at what sacrifice a y ? ANDREW ORR



At tho annual meeting of the Canterbury Jockey Club yesterday a resolution expressing condolence with the relatives of tho late Mr H. P. Lance was adopted. The treasurer's report showed that during the year LI 082 had been expended in the permanent improvement of the racecourse. LBSJO in added money, and L 2602 in sweepstakes. A Scotch concert in the aid of the funds of the Scottish Volunteer Company was given in the Oddfellows’ Hall, Christchurch, last night. There was a very large attendance, and the “ Twa oors ‘ mang oor ain fowk ” was entirely successful. Contributions by Mrs Hodge, late of Ashburton, and Mr McLean Dunn were received with special appreciat ion. There was only a small attendance at the Town Hall last night at the hour lixed for the commencement of Profesror llice’s entertainment. After some minutes delay the Professor came before the curtain and announced that in consequence of the non arrival of Madame Eioe, he would bo com pelled to postpone the performance. The audience then dispersed, the money paid for admission being refunded at tho door. The well-known racehorse Mata was shot on Monday last. A meeting was held in Christchurch last night of men desirous of proceeding to tho Kimberley goldfields' and about HO agreed tq cji})} together m order to wake up a par tj, ,