MARRIAGE.

Stjudakt Uaktua.m, —April 15, at St. Stophen'a, Lincoln; by tho Uev. A. 11. \V. Toss will, Ruhort Edwin Stoddart, son of Win. Stoddart, Christchurch, to Emma Jane Rartram, daughter of W. W, Rartram, Lincoln.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Vrritas et Prævalebit. THURSDAY, MAY 20, 1886. THE ADDRESS IN REPLY.

Tin; debate upon the Addrcss-in- Keply calls for no special comment, its most remarkable features were clearly satisfactory—it was brief and good humored. The mover, Mr Hevan, had nothing to say, and, to employ a Hibermcism, he succeeded in saying it fairly well. Mr Taylor, the new member for Sydenham, was placed at a disadvantage in having to make his debut as a Parliamentary speaker under circumstances which would have taxed the savoir Jairc of an accomplished debater. U’e trust expeiience and intercourse with men holding more comprehensive views will induce this embryo statesman to extend ins obser vation beyond the coniines of the Addington workshops and the Canter bury railway system. Ihe leader ol the Opposition made a sound and temperate speech. He congratulated the Government upon having brought down a speech which expressed nothing, but thought the omission to refer to the representation question was not justifiable, and that the counuy would say that the Government had made a mistake in this matter. We

agree, so far, with Major Atkin son. The readjustment of the representation should not be postponed beyond the present session. Tne people in this part of the colony, who, U is generally believed, will suffer by the readjustment, have -no desire to exercise an unfair voice in the direc tion of public affairs, and, for all prac tical purposes, the results of the last census —the groundwork of the measure —will be available ,m the course of three or four weeks. Ihe Premier’s reply to the leader of the Opposition was singularly weak. ff, he said, Major Atkinson could not discover anything worse to find fault with than representation and roads, then the

country would admit there was not much to object to in the policy of the Government. We are not prepared to admit that “ representation and roads” are unimportant questions ; we are not disposed to discuss them just now j but the Premier’s professional instincts appeared to have led him to overlook the fact that Major Atkinson explicitly disclaimed any intention to debate the policy of the Government at that stage. The remainder of the debate was unimportant, and the adoption of the Address at an early hour in the evening was a very barren victory lor the Government.

In tho House of itopreseatativea last even ing, Mr O’Uallaghau drew tho attention ol

the Minister of Justice to the case of Gil christ, who recently received four months' im prisonment for killing a dog in a very brutal manner. The Wellington correspondent of the " Lyttelton Times ” referring to tho circumstance, says;—l have not heard Mr O’Gallaghun on the subject, but I presume his object is to draw attention rather to tho leniency of tho sentence imposed than to any thing else. I presume tins, because 1 pre sume that the Member for Lincoln is a sensible man.

Tho N.Z. Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, Limited, have received tho follow ing cable message from Loudon, dated May 17th, IbSO :—Wool Sales —Tho list closed on tho illh inst , the Aorangi’s wool being ex cluded. Since close of the previous sales there has been considerable business by private treaty, at lully former rates, and mostly on foreign account. Sales in this way comprised about 2500 bales.

Mails for Australian Colonies, United King dom, and Continent of Europe, da Mel bourne, close at Bluff, per Te Auau, at noon on Friday, 21st inst. This mail is due in Londonfon July 0. Professor Mice, .who appears able and willing to turn his hand to any reputable trade, profession, or avocation, is acting as agent for Klingenstein’s Patent Perfect tJafety Eire Extinguisher. The extinguish ing iluid was tried in Ashburton yesterday, and proved entirely successful. We under stand that another trial will be made opposite the Town Hall this evening. Persons requiring cheap and durable wearing apparel should turn their attention to a special announcement made by Messrs Dimant and Coe in this issue. At the Resident Magistrate Court this morning before Mr R. Alcorn J,P. a lad named Waste, the son of a small farmer at Pudding Hill was charged with the larceny of the key of the sluice gate controlling the supply at the head works of the county water race system, with having broken into the box containing the key and having diverted the water. The accused admitted the offences and was remanded until to-morrow morning.

The Wellington correspondent of the “ Press ” says :—An idea prevails that Ministers are very anxious to avoid, if possible, the extreme worry and rush of bringing in a new Representation Bill, and that if they are compelled to amend the existing distribution they will endeavor, if possible, to do go ty (wg tbreo gimp

PARLIAMENTARY.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. Wednesday, May 1!}. Tho Council met at 2.i!0 p.m. CARDINAL MOKAN’s VISIT. Mr Swanson presented a petition from 7H7 nsidents o£ New Zealand, complaining that pedal favors were shown to Cardinal Moran, ,nd honors heaped upon him by the Govcrn nont, on the occasion of that Prelate’s recent dsit to Auckland. ! Mr Buckley hoped tho petition contained lothing of an offensive character, either to die Council or to the holy Homan Empire. 3£ course the hon. member who presented it svas responsible for the wording of the docu ment, but he desired that tho hon. member should not be placed in a false position. Mr Swanson replied that he was not aware that tho petition contained anytning of an offensive character. Tho Council decided that the petition ] should be read. It complained that the Go vernment steamer had been despatched from Auckland to meet the steamer in which Cardinal Moran arrived at Auckland, that special favors were shown to him and special honors heaped upon him by tho Government; and that upwards of twenty policemen in uni form formed part of the procession. The petition expressed the hope that as there was no State church in the Colony, similar favors should not again be bestowed on any dignitary of any church visiting New Zealand. Mr Buckley considered that as ihe petition had been read tho names should also be read. Mr Swanson had no objection to this course being pursued. He believed the signa tures wore genuine. The motion for reading tho signatures was seconded by Colonel Brett but not being pressed | was not put, and the subject dropped. THE KOVAL .IOIIILEE. Mr Buckley gave notice to move on next day of sitting that a committee, consisting of tho Speaker, Major Baillio, Captain Eraser, Messrs Pollen, Beeves, Beynokls, Col. Brett, and tho mover be appointed to draw up a congratulatory address to her Majesty the n Queen on the occasion of her Majesty’s jubilee. NEW KILLS. Mr Buckley introduced tho following Bills, which were road a first time ; second readings being made orders for Eriday nest: —Defence Act, 188 G, and Police Act, IHSG. THE ADDRESS. The formal presentation of tho Addrcss-in- Bcply to the Governor then took place; and on resuming the Council adjourned to Eriday.

HOUSE CF REPRESENTATIVES. Wednesday, May 10. Tho House mot at 2 :!0 p.m, THE LATE Sill EUSKINE MAY. Tlio Speaker said he desired to express to the House his deep regret at tho death of Sir Thoa. Krskino May, tho 'well known Parlia mentary authority, the news of which had been received by that day’s cable. QUESTIONS Replying to Mr Macarthur as to whether the Oovernmcnt intend to introduce a Re presentation Rill this session, Mr Stout said ho hoped it would not bo necessary to introduce a Representation Rill altogether, but only to deal with those dis tricts where increase of population required it- , ,

Boplying to Mr O’Callaghan, who asked whether attention has boon drawn to a sentence pronounced in the Ashburton Besident Magistrate’s Court on one John Gilchrist of four months’ imprisonment with hard labor for cruelty to a dog, and whether such sentence is in the Minister’s opinion proportionate to the offence, Mr Tolo said ho was not in a position as yet to make any explanation on the matter not having received any information on it. X’KW HILLS. The following Bills were introduced Alienation of Lands Bill (Mr Stout); New Plymouth Becroation Bescrvos Bill (Major Atkinson); Native llosorve Crown Grants Empowering Bill (Mr Ballanoe) ; Native Laud Administration Bill (Mr Ballanoe); Bill to Amend and Consolidate the Laws llelating to the Native Land Court (Mr Ballanoe); City of JPuncdin Leasing Bill (Mr Stout) ; Bill to provide for the Limitation of Votes at the Election of Members of the House of Bopresontativcs (Sir G. Grey); Bill to Begu latc the Admission of Persons to practise in Courts of Law (Sir G. Grey.) THE NEW HEHUIDES Sir G. Grey moved his resolutions referring to the Now Hebrides question. Pie spoke on the whole question at great length, and said for a long period of years the inhabitants of New Zealand had endeavored to promote the happiness and and well-being of the Now Hebrides Islands, and he asked the House to adhere lo this benotioent manner of helping the islands. Ho also asked the House to say that whilst European nations were striv ing to get possession of these islands, the House should in no way sanction by its approval any attempt made to take posses sion of those countries, and will not consent to any foreign Power taking that that which they had no right themselves to take. He also asked them to consider that if they allowed the Now Hebrides to go, it was not at all certain that the French would dis continue the transportation to the Islands. Other Governments would come into power in France, and would refuse to be bound by previous Governments. He believed it the House took the action he advocated they would do justice to large numbers of people, and strike a chili in the hearts of those European statesmen who were endeavoring to do such great wrong. Mr Stout said he had no desire to approach the question in party spirit, and was surprised Sir George Grey had not consulted some other member, so as to get something like a unanimous decision. The bon. gentleman had neither consulted the Government nor the leader of the Opposition, and he con tended it was not a proper position for him to take up. He (Mr Stout) said the Govern ment had not been neglectful in the matter of the New Hebrides. On the contrary, they had been moving in it almost ever since they took ollice, and had repeatedly pressed on the Home Government the urgent necessity for Great Britain taking action on the New Hebrides question. He proposed that instead of the resolution being adopted the following bo substituted —“ That a Committee be ap pointed to consider the question of the action this colony should pursue in the New Hebrides question, the Committee to consist of Major Atkinson, Sir George Grey, Messrs Montgomery, Macandrew, Moss, liolleston, Beetham, Vogel, and the mover.” Mr Dowuie Stewart supported the resolu tions.

Major Atkinson hoped tho debate would not degenerate into a personal matter or party conflict, lie would like to see some plan adopod whereby the House could resolve itself into a secret session, whereby they could re ceive conlidential communications. He would like to see Sir G. Grey withdraw his resolu tions temporarily. Ho should vole against them with regret, because they embodied very much his own views, but he thought they should pass some short resolution till more information was obtained. He therefore hoped tho resolutions would be temporarily withdrawn. Mr Maoandrew hoped Sir G. Grey would see tho advisability of accepting Mr Stout’s amendment, as the best way of disposing of the question. Mr Montgomery suggested that they might pass a short resolution embodying Sir George Grey’s views, and then form a Committee to enquire into the whole matter. Mr Beetham suggested that Sir G. Grey’s resolutions should also be referred to a Select Committee. Mr Stout said he would accept that sugges tion. The debate was interrupted by the 5.30 adjournment. EVENING SITTING.

The House resumed at 7.150 p.m. Mr Hobbs wished to enter his protest against any giving way on the part of the Government with respect to the annexation of tiie New Hebrides.

Mr Eisher thought that, however Sir G. Grey might bo blamed for bringing this matter forward, he was entitled to great credit for the action he had taken in it.

Eventually Sir George Grey withdrew his resolutions, and Mr Stout withdrew his amendment, on the understanding that the latter would move to-morrow for a Committee to consider the whole question of the relations of New Zealand to the islands of the Pacific. THU LOST DEBRKTUBIiS. Sir J. Vogel m >ved the second reading of the Lost Debentures Bill, and briefly explained its provisions. The motion was agreed to. TJjg Bousg W 8.3 Q

POLITICAL

WELLINGTON, May 18

When the House met this afternoon there were 51 members in their seats, and three others afterwards put in an appearance. Among the papers laid on the table was a letter from Sir Penrose Julyan on Sir Julius Vogel’s claim, with memo by Sir J. Vogel upon it. Sir Geo. Grey, in the course of his speech on the Now Hebrides, said he had reason to know that the Victorian Government had I received a cable from their Agent-General, which by no means bore out the statement in the cable published yesterday that Eng land was averse to giving them up. I Leave was granted to Sir Julius Vogel, as I usual, to sit while addressing the House, { and the usual sessional committees were I appointed. j Messrs Sutter, Fergus, and Sir Goo. Grey I made protests against the practice of voting

;o the Chairmen of certain Committees

honorariums. Mr Sutter said such votes would meet with vigorous opposition from himself and the other members.

MIND-READING

By invitation of Professor Pice, a number of gentlemen met at the Com mercial Hotel last evening, for the pur pose of practically testing the Professor’s claims and ability as a mind reader. With the ex eption of a “Press" rep roaeutative. the company was composed of strangers to the exponent of the mys terious art ; there wore several profes sional gentlemen present, and, judging from the conversation which preceded the arrival of the Profi aior, a large majority of the audience was entirely sceptical as to the powersjof the ralnd-roader. The Pro fessor having entertained the company for some minutes with the relation of amusing anecdotes connected with his own eventful life, gave a brief icsuma of his experience as a thought reader. He disclaimed the po session of any supernatural power, but expressed .a belief that he was engaged in the develop ment of a science which would ulti mately prove of incalculable benefit to the human race. He requested one of tho audience to fix his httention upon some artic’o In tho room, and underto k to discover tho object thought of. This experiment was only partially successful, the Professor selecting a similar obj-ot only a few inches removed f-om the one thought of. The next experiment was completely success! J. A. gentleman selected a particular letter printed on a largo placard attached to the wa’l, and Pro feasor Rice discovered the object in a few moments. Several other successful trials followed, and one of the audience, who had previously emphasised his disbelief in the whole affair, offered to make a test, Ho selected a very difficult object, but tho Professor persevered and t lumphed As a medical gentleman present pointed out, tho two instances in which the Pro feasor failed to discover tho objects thought of were really more remarkable than his successes. In one case a wood cut, about tho size of a shilling piece, was ’ thought of. The Professor failed to locate the object, but called for pen and paper, and drew an almost exact repre sontation of tho cut as it appeared from where the gentleman making the test was seated. On closer examination, it was discovered that the cut bore a somewhat 1 different form to that conceived by tho 1 selector. In the other c tao the marble handle of the door was fixed upon, and after some hesitation, tho Professor ■ selected a marble sash ornament similar ■ in shape to I the handle. Tho Professor i then gavefau exhibition of his marvellous i Hindoo handkerchief trick, which is even more mysterious and as far beyond the ordinary comprehension as the unfathom able mind-reading. The gathering was closed withj the usual compliments, and ! 10 the astonishment of the company, tho genial E’.ofosaor, having disposed of the contents of a pint tumbler, leisurely swallowed tho vsael itself. It may have been another piece of legerdemain; if it were not, tho Professor will have serious trouble with his landlord and his d ! ges tion ; but to all appearance—and the mysterious man was closely watched— the glass followed the samo course as its contents Professor Rice will give a public performance at the Town Hall this evening, and his wonderful entertain ment, in which he will be assisted by Vladame Rice, should attract a crowded audience.

MR BRYCE AT WANGANUI.

PUBLIC RECKPITOS,

Wanganui, May 19

The public reception of Mr Brjce was 1 a great success. He was met at the Kal - 1 way station and welcomed by the Mayor, 1 Chairmen of the Wanganui and Waitotara I 0 *llOllO3, and members of the Public I B >diea Reception Committee. On the J platform, specially erected fur the purpose 1 the Mayor read an illuminated address 1 from the citizens an i settlers, in the I presence of a crowd estimate! to be about I 1500 people; and three cheers were giveu I for Mr Bryce. The latter thanked the J people moat warmly for their expressions J of genuine sympathy. He said be never 1 entertained a doubt of suoceia. It had | been predicted of him that he would return broken in fortune, broken in spirit, utterly disinclined for ever to re-enter public life. In one respect the prediction might have come true ; had the case gone against him he would assuredly have been broken in fortune, and he might have been depressed in spirit, but nithet Mr Rusden or any other living m»n could break his spirit, destroy his faith in his fellow settlors, or his determination to do the best ho could for the good of his country. He would rather be inclined to say, “Bind up my wounds, give me

another horse, and let me plunge into ihe conflict.” Amidst loud andcominual

cheering Mr Bryce stepped down from | the platform, and accompanied by the I Mayor entered a private carriage awaiting j him f om which the horse was immediately I unharnessed by a number of gentlemen I present, who quickly attached ropes, and I the two occupants were then drawn in triumph along the quay aud up the aven ue to the Rutland hotel, accompanied by the crowd. Along the route fl gs and banners were hung out everywhere, and streams of bunting stretched accrcss the ] avenue in the moat conspicuous places, while a large motto ‘•Welcome,” was erected in proximity to the fountain. The banquet to Mr Bryce in the Princes Theatre to-night was attended by about 150 people, and the gallery was crowded with ladies. Mr Bryce, on rising to resp jud to the toast of his health, proposed by.the Mayor, was received with deafening cheers. Letters and telegrams expressing regret at not being able to be present were read from the Hon. Mr Ballance and Messrs Samuel and J. G. Wilson, M ’sH.R. Mr Biuce, M.H. t<. for Kan gltikei iwas present, having come from Wellington on purpose; aud conveyed to the meeting and Mr B yce the con gratulations and well-wishes of his fellow members.

A NARROW ESCAPE.

[Per Press Association.]

WELLINGTON, May 18

Information has just leaked out that Parliament buildings had a narrow escape of destruction by tiro on Saturday night. At a few in nutes bo'ore se. en on that evening, the messenger on duty at the Speaker’s private apartments had occasion to enter tir Maurice O’Rourkes sitting room, when ho, discovered the wooden mantlepioce to be oa tire. Ho immedi ately called for assistance and had one of the hose reels, kept on the premises, run out and the fire extinguished before any senous amount of damage was done. Had tbo lire not been discovered at the moment it was, the probability is that the*svhole building would have been destroyed, including the valuable library, as within live minutes after that time it is usual, on Saturday nights, for the Speaker’s apart ments to be locked up. Considering the severity of the gale that was blowing, the terrible results that won d have followed are apparent, had the lire not been dis covered in its incipient stage, as the flames could easily have passed up the adjoining staircase and spread through the whole building. An examination has since been made and shows that the fire originated through defective workmanship, as only half an inch of plaster divided the wood work from the liame passing up the chimney. Boarding that the llames had not touched showed signs of having been charred by tiro on previous occasions.

SPORTING.

GERALDINE RACING CLUB,

The following are the acceptances and entries lor the Geraldine Autumn race meet ing.

. HANDICAP HURDLES. Master Agnes I Panic Moody I Secretary AUTUMN HANDICAP. Patrician I Jack Sweetbriar j GANG FORWARD HANDICAP. Cunard Victor The Lad Moody Marmion HURDLE HANDICAP. Master Agnes I Borderman Azitn ( Secretary RAILWAY STAKES. Patrician Rose and Gold Sweetbriar Madonna Jack Melville TALLY-HO HANDICAP. Cunard Victor The Lad Moody Berrington Marmion SELLING RACE. Brunette I Miss Lyle Conundrum j NOVEL FLAT RACE, Brunette I Miss Lyle Bagshot j NOVEL HURDLE RACE. Bagshot I Milo Sir William Panic

DEATH OF MR H. P. LANCE.

CHRISTCHURCH, May 19,

Mr H. P. Lance, brother of Mr J. D. Lance, M.11.K. for Cheviot, and a gentleman well known in sporting circles, died this evening after an illness of about a week’s duration.

INTERPROVINCIAL NEWS.

Auckland, May 19 I A verdict of £260 and cost! has b?en | awarded by a jury against the Auckland I Tramway Company in the case of Mrs I James Brew'n, wlio hurt her knee by trip- | ping into a trench on a line in course of I construction.

At a meeting of Justicea of the Peace of j Auckland re compulsory attendance of | Justices in rotation, a resolution was passed in favor of appointing a stipendiary magistrate. The estimated loss up to date by the boot sti ike to the contestants is £IO,OOO. The Ministers’ Association has passed a resolution endorsing the action of the Presbyterian Church on the New Hebrides question. Bishop Cowie is convening a meeting of Anglicans for to-morrow, with j a simitar object.

Dunedin, May 19,

An elderly man named Gordon, em ployed in carting in the Dowling street cutting, had his leg broken by a dray fall ing oa him. He was employed temom g atone from the aite of the recent blast. The Union Company has purchased the steamer Australian for the coast trade. Invbbcaeoill, May 18. The Bavelcck Hotel, Riverton, was burned this morning* No cause was assigned for the fire. The insurance on the house is £ ! 50. and on the furniture £175, both in the Union Office, A meeting of the Government Insurance I policy-holders la to be held on Friday I night to (secure united action in the I election of a Director, and to discuss pro- I possla to obtain an increased repreaen- I tation on the Directorate, or to hand the i Association back to the j A large number of unemployed wofk:- I men mot the Mayor to-day. It was I stated that fully sixty men are out of work. I One urged that work should he provided I at once, as several were on one meal a day, I and had to walk the streets at night unless I sheltered by charity. The Seaward line I would suit best as a place to work, as it I would avoid the necessity of the men I keeping up two lion es, It »#' resolved I that the Mayor urge on the Minister fo» I Public Works the need of providing am- I ployment for about sixty men near town, I or on the Seaward Bush railway. I Wellington, May 19. I Boisterous weather has again set in, I this time from a nor’-westerly direction. I In the Appeal Coart the cases of £ll v. j Harper, and National Bank v. Mee.havo I been partly argued and adjourned. I A Maori named Paora Matarawha fell ' I into the fire dnriog a fit at Hapawal, and I was seriously burnt, his life being des- I spoiled.

Hokitika., May 19.

At the Land Board meeting to-day three fresh mineral leases for working nickel de posits at Gorge river were granted. The rumor of gold finds in the Lands borough river, a branch of the Haast, are not yet confirmed.

THE HOME RULE BILL.

Prolonged Debate.

[kectbr’s telegrams—copyright] ( Received May 20, at noon.) London, May 19,

In the House of Commons last night, a motion was adopted agreeing to set apart four days per week for the discus sion ot the Government proposals for the security and autonomy of Ireland. Mr Gladstone speaking to the motion expressed a belief that the debate would occupy most of next week. Mr Labouchere suggested that the House should assent to the second reading of the Bill in order to affirm the principle of autonomy, on condition that the Government then promised to withSraw the Bill in its present form.

CONTINUED OPPOSITION.

The Maiquis of Hartington address ing a public meeting last night at Bradford, Yorkshire, denied he had in any way relaxed his hostility to the Home Rule Bill.

COMMERCIAL.

Values. (eeutbk’s telegrams—copyright.) (Received May 20, at noon.) London, May 18. Consols are higher ioi)4- Mar tells and Hennessy Brandies are quoted at 15s per gallon.

MELANCHOLY SUICIDE.

At 9.40 this morning the body of Mr John Gorton, who baa carried on the business of a batcher at Hampstead for some years, was found hanging by the neck from a beam in the lean-to attached to bis residence. The deceased took his breakfast at the usual hour this morning, and afterwards paid a small account. His health and spirits, both of which have been impaired since the death of his wife some six months ago, appeared as usual. The deceased was 65 years of age, and leaves a family of grown up children. An inquest will be held to-morrow.

CRICKET.

AUSTRALIA v. NOTTINGHAM.

[REUTER’S TELEGRAMS —COPVRIOHT^^* London, May 18,

Owing to the inclemency ot the weather the cricket match, Australians v Nottingham, stopped to-day, when the score of the visitors reached 50.

The Australian eleven were enter tained at a banquet last night by the Nottingham team.

Later. London, May 18.

The cricket match, Australia v. Notts, was commenced at Nottingham to-day. The weather was showery, and there was only a moderate attend ance in consequence. The wick»t was very heavy, owing to the continued rain for the last few days. The fol lowing are the names of team selected to represent the county :—W. Attwell, W. Barnes, W. Flowers, W. Gunn, W. Scotton, J. Selby, F. Shacklock, A. Shaw, M. Sherwin, A. Shrewsbury and W. Wright, The Australians went first to the wicket, and when stumps were drawn, had scored 50 for the loss of one wicket, Bonnor being not out for 28 ; Scott, not out, 13.

THE RUSH.

The Kimberley.

[Reuter’s telegrams copyright. - ] Melbourne, May 19. The steamer Dionysius Khandallah sailed to-day for Cambridge Gulf with a large uumber of passengers bocnd for the Kimbeley goldfields.

FATAL ACCIDENT.

[by telegraph.] Blenheim, To-day.

A young man named Thomas Scott met with a fatal accident whilst rabbit poisoning at A. P. Seymour’s Tylesfield station yesterday. A big boulder struck him on the side of a hill and he died from injuries directly after} wwdi. An iwjuest will he held fepday.

THE AbHBUKTOJN UUAKUIAN, THURSDAY, MAY 2Q, 1886.



Wanted a ploughman—Apply to D Williamson, East street. ' asdbukton guards. THE Company will PARADE at the DiULLSUED on MONDAY, 24th instant, at 10.45 a.m,, being Her Majesty’s Birthday. FUuL DRESS. This being a Government Parade every member must attend. By order. ASHBURTON COUNTY COUNCIL. NOTICE TO OCCUPIERS. ashburton-rakaia water SUPPLY, RACES will bo CLOSED for purposes of overhaul as follows : E Race and all branches for 4 days from 25th 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.



17\0R CASH.-White Sugar, 2ld ; \ White Crystal, 3d ; Sperm Candles; 5d ; -Lingfish, 4d ; best Lobsters, Gd ; Plaid Vestas, 5d per doz. ; Tea, Is per lb; Sago, 2id; Tapioca, 2kl; Cutting Salmon, 8d ; Venus Nailrod, 5s Gd ; Croats, 9d. J. McGregor, Tancred Street. WANTED Tenders for several miles of Fence Cutting. Tenders to be lodged with undersigned on first day of June next. For particulars apply to W. CiiIoNALL, m 17 Uluds - STORAGE at Tiuwald at lowest current Hates, apply, 4 (353 FRiEDLANDBR BROS. HAKATERE TOWN DISTRICT. FIRST ELECTIJN OF COMMIS SION ERS. ffIHE following Nominations have been j received: GEORGE WILLIAM ANDREWS BENJAMIN CARTER JOHN CALDICOTT PETER FAWCETT BARTHOLOMEW HUGHES FRANCIS TH>>MAS MaYO WILLIAM WINS BURY WHITE A POLL for the election of Five of the above will be held on SATURDAY, May 29th, commencing at 9 a.m. and closing at 6 p.m. CHAS. C, FOLKS, Returning Officer. rjTi O W N ALL, THURSDAY EVENING, MAY 20th. POSITIVELY ONE NIGHT ONLY. Prof. AfE. Rice, The World-renowned MIND-READER and PHYSIOGNOMIST, assisted by MADAME RICE, the Charming Contralto Singer. Positively for One Night only.



Two hours well spent. Ask your friends who have witnessed this Unparalleled Performance. Mind-reading genuine. Music superior. Mirth and tcienco. Also, new and Astounding Novelties, which have never been witnessed before in Ashburton. Hear Madame Rico in original Song, entitled “ West Coast Railway.” Wit and wisdom, science and fun. Prices —3a, 2a, and Is. m 19 NOTICE. MR F. BROOKK-SMim, 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 Sepia, Indigo, and Indian Ink Painting, Drawing, Bookkeeping, and Shorthand. All particulars and prospectusas to be obtained from Mr T. F. Farley Stationer. Paintings on view at the shops of Messrs Farley and Jones, M 10



JgLACK, BEaTTIE & COMPANY, Criterion House, 201, 203, 205, High street, OHRISTCHUHCH. We have the pleasure to advise our Customers and the residents generally io the Ashburton District that we have now received very large Shipments of NEWEST DRAPERY GOODS for the Present Season. The advantages which we possess in being able to buy in the Beat British Markets, and the thorough experience of our buyer, enables us to supply all Goods under OUR OaSH SYSTEM of business at lowest prices. We endeavour to give our Customers best value procurable, whatever I rices they may wish to purchase Goods at, and our Stock is so LARGE AND WELL-ASSORTED that the most varied wants can be sup plied. We append a list of our Depart ments, in each of which an immense Variety of most Novel and Fashionable Goods will bo found, 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 HOUCEHOLD FURNIHING DEPT. oeonial Manotactuee from various mils. Including BLANKETS, FLANNELS & TWEEDS OF ASHBURTON MANUFACTURE. Cash System and Cash Pkxces. BLACK, BEATTIE & CO. GENERAL DRAPERY WARE HOUSE, TAILORS. DRESSMAKERS, akd MILLINERS



Wanted. \\J ANTED Known— Greater reduction Y\ than ever at the Sale of Bank rupt Stock. Hayes and Co., Arcade. I it RANTED Known—The Gospel will Vy bo preached every Lord’s Day evening in the Arcade Chambers at (i. 30 p.m. (u.v.) Free tor all, No collection 5 097 WANTED KNOWN—Long looked for come at last. T. Doult, having commenced bacon curing, he is able to supply a real good Fork Sausage at GJ per lb at the Factory, Moore at, Ashburton. Figs cured in any quantity dried, smoked and delivered homo at One Penny per lb. P. Boult. PRESENTS ! Presents ! We are now giving Presents to the value of 4j in the £ to every purchaser of One Shilling and upwards on Drapery and Millinery, etc. For description of Presents see Window. Dressmaking on the premises. Perfect fit guaranteed.— ti. C. Segeks, Melford House. ITT”AN TED TO PURCHASE— VV 1.000 SACKS of beconds ot Wheat. Apply to FRIEDLANDER BROS. 2 284 Monthly advertiser, issued by Robert Elston, 'Theatrical Agent and Bill Poster ; terms —40 inch space 5a per mouth, centre spaces 10a ; for longer terms special arrangements can bo made ; advertisements should not be later than the 20ih ef each mouth. 700 WANTED Known—Worthoim Sow ing Machines can be had on Time Payments at the Now Zealand Clothing Factory’s Branch, East street, Ashburton. 2 276 A GRAND White Sugar, 3d per lb; Dried Apples, Od per lb; Figs, 8d per box; New Currants, 0J per lb ; New Nelson Jams, 6d per tin; Condensed Milk, 6J per tin; Sperm Canales, Od per lb ; Price’s English fiperms, 10d—At Jas. McGregor’s, Tancred street.



special Advertisements, MR J. U. BROOKS is now receiving Pupils for the Pianoforte, Organ, Vioiiu, Singing, etc. For particulars, apply to J. id, Brooks (Mr S. Wolf’s late residence), Wilis street, Ashhurton. 4 538 CANTERBURY MILLS, ASHBURTON. I WILL be a BUYER or UPWARDS or 800,000 Bushels MILLING WHEAT THIS SEASON. Also some Large Lines of OATS AND OTHER PRODUCE. CORNSAOKS, Full Size and Weight, at 5s 6d per dozen. C. W. TURNER, 340 PerD. H. BROWN. Australian m ; eroanTile UNION INSURANCE COMPANY. The only Company in Canterbury WHICH DID NOT RAISE RATES 33J PER cent on Country Risks. We aru now, as we have been for THE PAST THREE YEARS, ACCEPTING RISKii PER CENT. OFF TARIFF, W. B. MOSS, Agent lot Ashburton District. September 22, 1885, 9 015 N OTIC E. IT is requested that all ACCOUNTS owing “ The Ashburton Guardian Company, Limited,” up to 30th April, be Paid at once to Mr B. Hughes, whose receipt alone will bo a sufficient discharge.



CHAS. W, PURNELL, m 11 Chairman. ITIUR hALt:—T.S. 197 and part 19(5 F (adjoining Mr J. Ward’s) with eight zoomed house and etc- 1 am prepared to accept a very low price for this eligible property. T. BULLOCK mo the Ashburton Guards and Volun- X teers.—THE YOLUiNTEER BED BOOK, containing the whole o the Exercises In Battalion Drill, Squat. _~-/ill, Bayonet Drill, Infantry Drill, Etc, NOW IW. The above should be perused by all Volunteers and will be found useful to those intending to compote for Govern ment appointments. This book being difficult to procure all intending purchasers had better apply at once to T. F. FARLEY. School Committees will do well to con sider the many advantages to be derived from purchasing their prize books from me, as I 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 3,600 volumes. School requisites of every description kept in stock. Thomas F. Farley, - Bookseller, Stationer, Printer, and Newsagent, Saunders’ Buildings, East street, Ashburton, i BcwwU gbog; lowa Sail, Asbbaiton,



Victoria Mouse. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT. 'VT'OW SHOWING, a Splendid Assortment of the famous “ LION ” brand I\| (Victorian) GOODS, in Men’s Plain and Fancy Tweed Suits, Trousers, Trousers and Vests, Waterproof and Overcoats, Cord Riding Pants, Printed and White Moles, Buy’s Knickur and Beaconsliuld Sac Suits, etc., etc. These Goods, amounting In value to over £IOO, are Manufacturers’ Samples, cut and finished in the most perfect style. Purchase 1 ala heavy Discount., and are offered at a slight advance upon Mh-LBOUIINE WHOLESALE PRICKS. Our Stock of General Drapery, Boots, etc., is unsurpassed for Value, LIMANT AND COE, DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, & BOuT IMPORTERS, East and Tancred Streets, Ashburton. Victorian Steam Carriage Works. J. R. STEEL & SON OTIS 11 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 4-class article at prices to suit the times. Every t Iption of Carriages and Traps made, Painted and Repaired. Spring Traps from £2O. Whltochapelaifrom £25. Buggies from £3O. P.S.—Special attention paM to Repainting and Rotrimmiug. 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~Dranghta, 7s ; Hacks, 6s. 8 415



Special advertisements. !«¥ m mm r£j KOWN IRON WORKS ARMAGH STREET, Christchurch Portable Ranges Rum Wood and Coal —In Four Sizes. PAINTED CORRUGATED IRON IN ffour, Five, Six and Seven Feet Lengths. 40 per cent. Cheaper than Galvanised Iron, 10 1988 Changed Hands 1 BRANCH SHOP, TOWN HALL, Ashburton. THE ROOK & STATIONERY Business lately carried on by Messrs H. J. Wood and Co, of Christchurch, has been purchased by mo, and at a price con siderably below original cost; this will glve b my many patrons an opportunity of ob taining a number of requisites at GREATLY REDUCED PRICKS. STATIONERY. —Special care Is given to all orders. Promptitude guaranteed. MANUFACTURE of ACCOUNT ROOKS 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 lor 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 npon 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 Orders Received, ,jC. F. Farley, BOOKS E I.L 1C R, STATI ONB R, PRINTER A NEWSAGENT, Saunders’ Buildings and Town Hall, Ashburton. STOCK-TAKING, FEBRUARY 1, 1880, WE bog to draw out Ashbur ton and Country Custo mers’ attention to the fact that we have reduced the prices of many lines in our well known Stock, notably in MENS’, BOYS’ & YOUTHS’ Clothing, And feel confident that an early Inspection will well repay a islt to the NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY’S BRANCH, East Street, Ashburton,



)NTI NUATI ON OF THE UNFA HAL,LULKD CHEAP BALE Of Mosers Friedlaudor Bros’ Block of Drapery, Clothing, I AND Boots AMOUNTING TO ABOUT £sooq ANDREW OKU having purchased the above STOCK at a largo reduction from Cost Price, is still giving it away at Uulieard-of prices, His groat object being to turn it into cash, no matter at what sacrifice ' ANDREW ORR



THE“KI ÜBEKLEY IiUS 3,



Mr C. E Dealoy, of the firm of Alcock Bros, and 00., merchants, Palmerston and Derby, and who is stationed at the latter place, gives the following interesting par ticulars relative to tho Kimberley gold field. Writing on March 30th, Mr Deeley says:— “About eight men have made their way In from tho supposed goldfields. They report about forty men up there. They have come in to buy rations. It is going to be the biggest field in Australia, in our opinion. All men who are in have gold with them, bit they are keeping it dark, and have only brought in enough for their wants. I bought 84oz from two men yesterday, 220 z from another. We hear of another party who have 2400 z with them, one piece weighing 19.>z. T Is a beautiful sample of gold, quite as good as that from tho Palmer. What we have runs from soz to lez pieces, all water worn, except one parcel, which was evi dently got on the surface from a rough leader. All I am afraid is a rush with a lot of men with no money. This is the nearest port, and the best road is from here ; but the field la 300 miles inland at least, and poor men cannot get there. It never will bo a poor man's diggings— they must have horses.” In another letter Mr Deeley says the galea sometimes experienced there are terrific. They come on very suddenly, accompanied by loud thunder and rain, and it is almost impossible to hear any sound while they last. Alligators are numerous in the rivers, and snakes are frequently seen. Speaking of the goldfields again ho adds ; •‘There is going to be an awful rush, and [ hope tho papers will warn poor men that there will also bo a lot of misery. Recently In Derby as much as 15s was paid for fifty gallons of water,”



A DECEPTIVE PLANET,



If we may credit the astronomers Jupiter is once more behaving in a highly mysterious manner. So long as he confined himself to exhibiting one un sightly red spot upon his face, no one com plained very bitterly . It was generally hoped that in the course of time this much respected orb would see the error of his ways, and cease to assume the ap pearance of an inebriated planet. Sad to relate, however, he has gone from bad to worse, and is just now showing, side by side with the red spot complained of, a num ber of white ones, which give to his countenance an appearance truly sad to behold. No wonder that quiet, staid as tronomers, who, as the knows, are most averse to joking, stand aghast at such an exhibition ! For many years J upitor has held a deservedly high place in their estimation, and they had come to regard him as a globe of such regularity that he might be depended upon in any emergency . They long ago declared him “cool as a cucumber,” and wore half in clined to allot both atmosphere and in habitants to him, when he breaks out in this unexpected way. All theircalculations are consequently upset. He may be at boi ing heat for all we know— a deceptive planet who has attempted to look calm and cold, while all the time he ha? bom in a state of furious conflagration. This teaches astronomers to bo chary in future of giving a good character to any heavenly body. If Jupiter be so bad as this, what may bo expected of stars that have no te station to Josef



AUCTION OF LADIES,



An auction of unmarried ladies used to take place annually in Babylon. “In every district,** says the historian, they asaemoled on a certain day of every year, all the virgins of marriageable age.” The most beautiful were first put op, and the man who bid the largest sum of money gained possession of her. The second in personal appearance followed, and the bidders gratified themselves with hand some wives according to the depth of their purses. But alas ! it seems that there were in Babylon some ladies for which no money was likely to bo offered, j ! yet these also were disposed of—so provi dent were the Babylonians. “ When all t ie beautiful virgins,” says the historian, “ were sold r the crier ordered the most deformed to stand up ; and, after he had openly demanded who would marry her with a small sum, she was at length adjudged to the man who was satisfied with the least; and in this manner the money arising from the sale of a hand some woman served as a portion to those who were either of disagreeable looks, or that had any other imperfection.” This custom prevailed about 500 years before Ohriat.



The Ashburton hounds met at Digby s bridge yesterday afternoon. There was a very large attendance, and a very pleasant afternoon’s sport was enjoyed._ The following were the most prominent in the field;— Messrs Upton, Hewson, Corbitt, Bowyer, Hart, P. Winter, Scott, Hunt (3) Hesoltine, Allan, Bunting, Hayward, Merewether, Os borne, Jephson, Warner (2), Sawle, Kemp, and Px Leahy.