The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prævalebit. MONDAY, MAY 17, 1886. THE SYDENHAM ELECTION.

At the polling in connection with the Sydenham election an awkward circum stance occurred, out of which some very untoward things are likely to come. One of these is a probable petition to unseat the candidate who has been de clared elected, and another is, of course, a fresh election. As our readers are doubtless aware, the harriers in the (lolling booth were thrown down by the crush of electors shortly before live o’clock. The .Returning Officer, Mr 0. L. Lee, a gentleman with a very lengthened experience in the manage ment of polls, decided under the circum stances to allow the vote-taking to go on, and as a consequence of this decision, all who were in the booth at six o’clock were allowed to record their

votes. This was in direct contravention of clause 17 of the Regulation of Elections Act, which says :—“ The poll shall bo taken by ballot ; it shall com mence at nine o’clock in the forenoon of the day appointed, and shall close at six o’clock in the afternoon of the same day ” It must he noticed that in this clause it is the poll—the actual record ing of the votes —that must close or cease, and it has no reference whatever to the closing up of tho polling booth. Of course, a wise Returning Ollicer will so arrange his booth that no more electors will be within its boundaries as closing time draws near than can be attended to within the statutory hours, aud as he is invested with all tho powers of a Resident Magistrate during tliose hours, ho is supposed to be ncrtectly «i»oo »uiinl and aided, to preserve order and fulfil all the condi tions of tho Acts bearing on election procedure. Clause 71 gives the Return ing Officer the following powers .

“ When the proceeding’s for taking any poll at an election are interrupted or obstructed at any place by riot, open violence, or otherwise, the Returning Officer shall not for such cause finally close the poll, but shall adjourn the taking ... of the poll to the following day ; and if necessary from day to day, until the poll can be taken without obstruction, when the Returning Officer shall again proceed with taking of the poll. Provided that the poll shall not be kept open more than nine hours on the whole.” Unfortunately, Mr Leo, in great good nature, did not care to adjourn the poll, but kept on taking the votes of all who were in the booth, lie felt that the throwing down of the barriers had hindered voting in the afternoon, that many electors who had come in ample time would have been deprived ot their privilege had he strictly observed the law in the matter, and had he adjourned the poll till the following day much inconvenience would have resulted. Mr Lee confesses that a contravention of the statute occurred, but feels the fact was justifiable under the circumstances. No such feeling, we are afraid, will obtain with the sup porters of the defeated candidates, and though as yet it has„not been decided in whose interest an objection will he taken to Mr Taylor’s return, still it is pretty certain that the election will be pro tested, and if the petition is sustained, and it cannot well be otherwise, the whole election contest will have to he fought over agaiu. In connection with the all air the “ Lyttelton Times ” of this morning has as the following

A petition against the return of Mr R. M. Taylor for Sydenham, was sent to Wellington on Saturday. The ground of objection is, that votes were taken by the Returning- Officer after (3 p.m., the hour appointed for closing of the poll. This action, it is stated, has been taken by some of the electors privately, and not by cither of the defeated candidates.

A telegram has been received by the Govern ment from the Agent-General, intimating that the seal of the new Company formed for the construction of the New Zealand Midland Railway, has been affixed to the instrument by which the contract is assigned to the Company by the orignal Syndicate; also, that the Directors of the Company have paid the prescribed deposit of £SOOO to the Agent-General. This is regarded as virtually clinching the matter, and the news have been received with great satisfaction. A shocking occurrence took place at Dun edin on Saturday night. Mrs Stokes, wife of a laborer, had put her live children to bed ; the eldest, Edward, aged 11, and the second youngest, Jane, slept in her own room ; and she loft a lamp, burning on the chest of drawers there. The other two—Albert, 0, and Amy C.J —were in the next bedroom j while a baby was in a cradle in the kitchen. Mrs Stokes was in the kitchen, waiting the return of her husband from town, when she heard an explosion ; and on looking found her bedroom in a blaze. She called out to the oldest boy, who caught up his little sister sleeping with him, and they made their escape; but Mrs Stokes, instead of snatching the baby from the cradle, ran out for as sistance, The boy, Albert, managed to escape ; but his sister, Amy, who was in the same room, became confused, and appears to have gone into the room where the tire started. All attempts to reach the two children when the alarm was given, proved unavailing; and their bodies were afterwards) dipcoysred very ppcl; charred*

Tho average yield c f o, t h r the counties of [Southland and Wal'aee fur this year is 27 bushels, lit bushels lower than last year, and much less than the past live years. Wheat was 21 bushels, and barloy tho same. The Wellington correspondent of an exchange says:—lt is understood that Mr Bryce will be forma’'y requested to under take tho duties of Leader of the Opposi'ion. The ‘ Bruce Herald ’ says that, in connec-

tion with tho school election at Waihola, tho Courts will be invited to define what constitutes a householder.

A very loquacious lady, calling one day to consult her physician, talked on and on with such volubility that the latter could not got a word in edgewise. Growing impatient he at length told her to put out her tongue, which she did. lie then said; “Now please keep it there 1 ill you have heard what I have got to say to you.” An important meeting of the Committee of tho Ashburton County Hunt Ciub will bo hold at tho Commercial Hotel to-morrow evening. There is a shoemaker at Onohunga named

M‘Gaw who boars a striking resemblance to the Governor. When His Excellency foil off the wharf the other day, one of tho sailors who went to the rescue exclaimed, as ho drew the dripping representative of Her Majesty to the surface : “ By George 1 it it isn’t old M'Gaw

being trying to drown himself.” At a meeting of tho Auckland Tobacco Co., the report showed a loss on the working of the company of £5209. It was resolved to wind it up.

Mr Haytcr, the Victorian Government Statist, estimates that on 31st March the population of the colony of Victoria reached 1,000,75(1; this being the first Australian colony to exceed one million in population. The “ Times ” writing from St. Petersburg under date March 19, says : thincss of Bt. Petersburg could be given than the item of statistics just published, to the effect that during the month of January last no fewer than 2,70-1 persons died (1,030 males and 1,100 females), while the births for the same period amounted to 1,311 boys and 1,280 girls only—2,ooo altogether—or 101 less than the deaths. Anything like this enormous increase of deaths over births is, 1 believe, never experienced in any other European town, even in tho worst of conditions a,nd seasons, and it fully justilies tho increasing concern felt here as to the necessity for sanitary reform, not only in the capital, but throughout the country.”

At the 11. M, Court this morning, before his Worship the Mayor, James Scott, charged with the larceny of certain goods, valued at £3 18s, from tho refreshment booth at the racecourse, was remanded until to-morrow At tho adjourned meeting of tho members of tho Australian Mutual Provident Society at Sydney there was considerable discussion relative to tho action of the Board of Directors in regard to tho establishment of a branch of lho Society London, and resulted in the pas sing of a resolution by which the directors are requested to reconsider their intention of opening a branch office or ollices in London or elsewhere beyond the limits of tho colonics of Australasia. Tho directors are also re quested by the resolution not to take any final steps relative to the establishment of a branch in London without the sanction of a special general mooting. It was mentioned inciden tally that without fresh legislation it \yould not bo legal for the Company to do business in England. The Chairman (Mi J. 1L Goodlel) intimated that the question of the establishment of a branch in London would bo submitted to the members of the Society throughout the Australasian colonies. “ Givis,” in tho “ Otago Witness,” tells tho following good story : —ln a certain country district the spirit of Christian brotherhood permits the Catholic priest and the Presby terian minister Co be fast friends—greatly to the dissatisfaction of the latter’s parishioners, who, nevertheless, had not ventured to re monstrate. A few Sundays back, however, tho minister, with some of_ his elders, was standing at the manse gate after service when the priest came along in his buggy. The minister signalled him to stop', and walked into the road for a chat. When he returned, the senior elder thought it his duty to “lift up his testimony.” What fellowship could there be between a minister of tho gospel and that “Popish mummer?'’ “Wo earnin’ think,” said the older, “ what ye have to say till him, or what he has to =ay till vou.” “ well, M’Tavish, - ’ replied tho minister, “as to that, I’U toll you what 1 said to Bather Donovan and what he said to me. I said to him ‘ How are ye, old boy ?’ and lie answered * Birst-ratc, my sou,’ Then I said ‘l’ll swap collections with you,’ and ho auswoiod, 1 No. fear, coekoy I—l1 —1 know your Hock,’ and he drove on. That’s all, gentle men ; good-day.”—and tho minister loft his elders to worry out tho signilioanco of tho con versation at their leisure. On May 12th tho monthly meeting of the Mount Somers School Committee was hold. The master’s report showed an average daily attendance of 37 pupils out of 42, which was considered very good, taking into account the bad weather lately experienced. Notice was given to tho master that Mr L. B. Wood is going to examine the school on May 20th.

MOUNT HUTT ROAD BOARD.

The first meeting of the newly-eloctod Mount Hutt Board was held at the Head Board ofiiio, Methven, on Friday. Present —Messrs J. Jackson, J. Holmes, W. McMillan, D. Cameron (Springfield), and G, H. Alinglon. ELECTION. The Clerk took the chair, and read a letter from the Returning Officer, stating that the above gentlemen had been duly 1 elected members of the Board. CUAIBMAN. Mr J. Jackson was re-elected Chairman, and on taking the chair thanked the members for the honor they had con ferred upon him, and expressed the pleasure he experienced to find tfiat his past efforts met with their approval.

WARDS. Tho Chairman called the attention of the Board to a recommendation made at tho annual meeting of ratepayers that the district should bo divided into wards, each ward to return its own member. The Overseer was Instructed to prepare a statement showing the rateable value of the proposed wards, the amount avail able for expenditure in each ward, and an estimate-of tho probable expenditure during thejourrent year. COURIY ROADS. The Overseer was instructed to ascer tain if there were any County or Government roads in tho district within the meaning of tho Counties Act and the Public Works Act, ISS2. overseer’s report.

The Overseer's report was road. The report gave a detailed account of the condition of the different raads in the district, and stated that several of the roads were so much cut up by the late wet weather that they wore almost impassable. STORM WATER. Resolved to remind the County Oounci that the storm water channel near Morris’ had not been fenced as promised by lette of August Hth, 1885. UNFAIR RATES,

The Overseer was instructed to lake proceedings without further notice against all ratepayers who had not paid their rates j MEETINGS. It was resolved that tho Hoard should meet in future on tho second Thursday in each month, at 2 p.m. TENDERS. Six tenders were received for tho forma tion of portions of tho Chortsoy and Ollyatt’s roads, and those of James Nee, b ing tho lowest tender for both contracts, wore accepted.

NOTICE OF MOTION. Mr McMillan gave notice that he would move at the next meeting that the district be divided into five wards. RATES The Overseer reported that Ijlo4 Cs lid had been received from rates since last meeting. PAYMENTS, Accounts amounting to LBG 15s were passed for payment, and after transacting the usual routine business the Board ( wJjoonwfl*

SPORTING.

ASHBURTON R, AC lAG CLUB AUTUMN MEUi’.rMG.

President— E, G. Wright. Vico Pusaideut—W. G. Walker. Judge— M. Stitt. .Stewards —W. JS Denshire, G. 0. Funks, Li. Friedlander, B. Fried lander, John Grigg, G. G. Hawdon, T. Lor hi, W. G. Ross. Treasurer—C G. Funkr Starter—T. Leahy. Clerk of the Scales—M. Friedlander. Clerk of the Course—A. Uuwaon Haudicappers The Handicapping Committee of the Club.

Second Day; The stewards o£ the Ashburton Racing Club mot again this morning, and, although the weather was still unpropitious, they deter mined to proceed with the second day’s pro gramme of the autumn meeting. The course and enclosures wore in a very soft condition, but the sun shone out at intervals, and on the whole the weather was much more agreeable than on the lirst day. The attendance, as might have boon expected, was very small, and the business done by the totalisator and by the booth holders was of a very limited character. The fohowing are the results ; County Hukuoi: Rack, of 25 sovs ; over six flights of hurdles, about 3ft Gin high. One mile and a half.

Mr A. Ironsides’ b g Sultan, by Knottingly, aged, lOst 81b, including lib over weight .. .. .. (T. Cotton) 1 Mr J. Wilkinson's.b g Marmion, Gys, lOst 71h .. .. .. (J. Smith) 2 Mr L. Markoy’s ch g Dan O’Brien, aged, ‘.lst (W. Mitchell) 3 Mr J. G. N. Grigg’s ch g Mail Boy, aged, list 131 b.. .. (Mazengarb) 0 Bordorman and Gunpowder were scratched. The field was despatched to an excellent start, and Dan O’Brien led over the first

hurdle, closely attended by Sultan. At the railway turn. Mail Boy went to the front, but ran off at the first hurdle and left Sultan in command. At the back of the course Sultan increased his load, and Marmion passed Dan O’Brien. This order was maintained to the

finish, all the horses jumping in excellent form, and Sultan won hard hold by ten lengths. Time—2min lljaeo. Totalisator— -41 —2s—£l5 —£1 11s.

Giiand Stand Handicap, of 50 sovs, the second horse to receive 10 sovs from the stake. Seven furlongs. Mr H. D. Bradley’s b m Athol Daisy, by Tatazoa —Buswing, Cyrs, 6st 13lb (Webster) 1 Messrs M. and C. Hobbs’ b g Jack, sys, Sst 81b .. .. .. (Brown) 2 Mr A. Hathorn’s b m Take Mias, oyrs, flat 121 b.. .. .. (J. Johns) 3 Mr G. lluthorford’s oh h Master Agnes, syrs, Sst . (Price) 0 Mr M. Sherwin’s b g Quibble, oyrs, 7st 131 b (McDonald) 0 Mr M Sherwin’s b g Meteor, aged, 7st 121 b, including 81b overweight .. (Stratford) 0 Mr H. D. Bradley’s b tn Bose and Gold, lyrs, list 31b .. .. (Myers) 0

After a long delay at the post the held was despatched to a straggling start, of which Meteor and Athol Daisy had much the best, and Take Miss and Quibble the worst. At tho half mile post Take Miss commenced to improve her position very rapidly, and Jack on the inside also made a forward movement. At tins home (urn Meteor fell back beaten, and Athol Daisy went on with the running two lengihs in advance of Jack, Inside the rails Jack and Take Miss were under the whip, but could never get on terms with Athol Daisy, who won easily by two lengths. Time luiin 47sec. Totalisator—l7B—22—£7 Is. Hauvest Handicap, of 30 sovs. One and a quarter miles. Mr M. Shorwin’a b g Quibble, by St. George—Maria Theresa, syra, Oat 51b (Stratford) 1 Mr J. Napier’s b g Wee Roddie, 6yra, 7st 121 b (Bradley) 2 Messrs M. and C. Hobbs’ b g Melville, 3/is 7st 101 b (including 31b overweight), (Brown) 3 Mr S. 11. Lemon’s b g Oliver Cromwell, 3yrs (Webster) 0 Timo—2min 23soc, Totalisator—l2l—23 —£4 14s.

CRICKET.

Til K AITSTUALIAN KLiIVEN V. LOliD bIIKEFIELD'S TEAM.

LONDON, May 14. The match Australian eleven versus Lord Sheffield's team was continued at Sheffield Dark to-day. The attendance was again, very large, although the weather was showery during the day. The recent rain spoiled the wicket, and it was much cut up during the day’s play. The homo team wont to the wickets for their first innings, and succeeded in making seven more than their opponents, viz., 105, before all wore disposed of. The Australian bowling in this innings was very good Garrett taking six wickets for two runs, white Spofforth took two wickets for live, and Palmer one wickot for three runs. The Australian team who had scored 98 in the first innings, went in for their second innings, making 70 before they were put out, Bounor making the top scuio, 23, during a splendid Innings in which ho never gave a chance Barnes and Ulyett were the most destructive bowlers on the English side, the former taking seven wickets for three runs, while the latter took three wickeds for two. The English team then went to the wickets for the second time, and when the stumps were drawn had placed 46 to their credit for the loss of two wickets. The following are the scores:—

LOUD SHEFFIELD S TEAM.

First Innings,

The principal scorers wera ;—W. G. Grace c, 18 ; W. Barnes, c and b, 22 ; W. Scottou, c, 20. Total for the first Innings, 105.

Second Innings. Scotton, Ibw ... ... ... 7 Shrewsbury, not out... ... 9 Dllyott, c and b ... ... 21 Sundries ... ... ... 0 Total for two wickets ... 4G AUSTRALIAN ELEVEN. Second Innings. Jonos, b 10 Bonnor, c ... ... ... 23 Scott, Ibw ... ... ... 0 Gitfen, b ... ... ... 0 Palmer, c ... ... ... 17 Blackham, b ... ... ... 0 Garrett, c ... ... ... 1 Bruce, ... ... 2 Jarvis, c ... ... 8 Evans, c... ... ... ••• 4 Spoll'orth, not out ... .. 1 Sundries ... ... ... 1 Total 70

The visitors’ fielding was rather weak. On the close of to day’s play the scores stood Australians : Grand total, 168 ; English total, 151, with eight wickets to fall. The match will bo continued to morrow.

At the request of Mr Bosisto, of Vic toria, and Sir Saul Samuel the Prince of Wales will visit the Oval on the occa sion of the cricket match, Australians versus Surrey, next week. The cricket match was resumed at Sheffield Park to-day. The Englishmen continued their second innings, Shrews bury and Bates, the not-out men of the previous evening, managed to put together the number of runs required to win, Shrewsbury carrying out his bat for 15, while Bates had 12 to hla credit. The English team thus won the match with eight wickets to spare. The scores were as follows :

AUSTRALIAN ELEVEN. First innings 08 Second innings 70 Total ... 168 LORD SHKPPIELD’S TEAM. First innings 10® Second innings 61

Total 160 The Prince of Wales has signified hia intention of being present at the match Australians versus Surrey, which com mences on the 20th Inst, at geuniogton Qf»l f

NEW HEBRIDES.

French Proposals.

British Consent Refused

[itEUIEUS TELEOKAMS—OOPYUIOHT.]

London, May 14.

In the House of Commons to day Mr Osborne Morgan, Under Secretary for the Colonies, stated in reply to a question by Mr Howard Vincent, that France offered to cease the deportation of convicts to the Pacific if she were allowed to occupy the New Hebrides. Mr Morgan added that Her Majesty’s Government had agreed to give the matter consideration, provided that the matter took the form of a Protectorate, and that the freedom of religion and trade were guaranteed, the cession of Rapa to Great Britain also to be one of the conditions implied. Mr Morgan also stated that the Government had con sulted the various colonial authorities t n the matter.

In the House of Lords last night the Earl of Rosebery, Secretary of Stale for Foreign Affairs, stated that he had in formed M. Waddington, the French Ambassador in London, that it was

improbable the Biitish colonies would consent to the cession of the New Hebrides. Lord Rosebery added that although M. Waddington had been notified the British Government had not sent a formal reply to France, because the negotiations with the colonies were not yet completed. May 16.

It is announced that the Government have finally resolved not to allow the annexation of the New Hebrides by

France.

THE EXHIBITION.

Commissioners’ Banquet.

(reoter’s telegrams—copyright. ) London, 'day 16

The Executive Commissioners of the Indian and Colonial Exhibition were entertained at a banquet _by the Fishmongers Company last night. The Duke of Cambridge was among the guests who spoke. He expressed the opinion that the feeling t of unity between the Mother Country and her colonies was never more strongly marked than at the present time. His Royal High nessalso announced himselfan advocate of the federation of the Empire.

FLOODS.

Serious Damage.

(rf.uter’s TELEGRAMS— copyright.) London May Ifi

Heavy rains have fallen in the Mid land counties. Large tracts of country are flooded, and serious damage is being occasioned in many districts.

THE IRISH QUESTION

Conservative Views.

(ukctek’s tblf.gk.4M3—copyright.) London, May 14

A meeting of Liberals and Radicals took place to-day, when Loid Harting ton and Mr Chamberlian both urged the Government to withdraw the Home Rule Bill.

May 1G

A meeting of Conservatives was held here last night to consider the Irish proposals of the Government. Lord Salisbury, addressing the meeting, stated his belief that it was impossible to place confidence in the Irish people. He fadvocated a policy of continuous coercion as the only mentis of restoring order in Ireland.

COMMERCIAL.

London Markets.

[Reuter's telegrams—copyright] London, May 14 New Zealand securities—Five per cent. 10.40 loan, ros; Four and a-half per cent. 5.30 loan, ; four percent, inscribed stock, 10s.

Colonial breadstuffs and tallow are unchanged. New Zealand mutton is worth $d per lb. The total quantity of wheat afloat for the United Kingdom is 1,800,000 quarters, being 10,000 quarters more than reported last Thursday.

LATE CABLE NEWS.

(Per s.s. Bingarooma, at the Bluff)

[BY telegraph.]

[“Age” Specials ]

LONDON, May?

Sir Andrew Clarke, Acting Agent- General for Victoria, has, in obedience to instructions from the Government of that Colony, lodged a strong protest with the Colonial Office against the proposed ces sion of the New Hebrides to France, In his protest Sir A. Clarke expresses sur prise at the action of the Colonial Office in continuing to advocate the acceptance by the colonies of the compromise offered by France that convict transportation to the Pacific Islands shall cease in view of the steady and strong opposition of the colonies to the proposal. Sir A. Clarke I dda that the answer sent by the Presi dent of the Australian Federal Council expressing decided antagonism to the annexation of the islands by the French s final. It is stated in well-informed circles that amongst the recipients of the Birthday honours In the present year will be Mr James Moßain, President of the Legis lative Council of Victoria, who, It is expected, will be knighted.

May 8,

A rumour is current that General Wolaeley and Lord Bereaford hare de termined, in the event of Mr Gladstone’s scheme being adopted by the Parliament, to resign their commissions in tha Army and Navy respectively, In order to assist the Orangemen to oppose the introduction of Homo Rule into Ireland. The blockade of the Greek porta, of which notice was given the Greek Premier by the Charges d’Affairs of five of the Great Powers on tha Bth instant, has now been enforced. A pro'est has been made by Greece against the blockade, on the ground that it entails injury to commerce.

May 11

Mr James Mason, of Fiji, who is at present in England, has opened a fund for the relief of the distress occasioned by the recent hurricane, which devasted the Fiji Islands. The Russian Government have inti mated their concurrence with the action of tha Combined Powers in blockading Greek porta, in order to enforce com pliance with the demand that the Grecian forces should be disbanded. The Anglo-Spanish Convention will come into operation on the Ist July, and will continue in force until the year 1892. Residents of the old province of Cataloniaf In the north-east of Spain, hays stsongly oppQße4 tbs OpoTsntioo.

THE FLOODS.

The rain which commenced to fall on Thursday afternoon continued with vigor throughout Friday and Saturday, and until late yesterday evening. Large bodies of water accumulated in all the low-lying parts of the district. At Waterloo a great many houses were surrounded, and one settler had to remove hia family At Flemington, Tinwald, Winslow and Hinds the country was also Hooded, but not to such an extent. Within the borough a quantity of water was lying about, and in some places must have entered tiie houses. On Saturday afternoon a portion of the earthwork of the new drain which is being made on the East Belt col lapsed, and a large body of water which ac cumulated in consequence made matters un pleasant for residents in the vicinity. The Ashburton and Hinds Rivera were flooded to some extent.

Christchurch suffered very severely from the heavy rain, all the districts in the vicinity of the Avon and Heathcote being inundated. Large numbers of people had to leave their homes in boats, and it is said that in the Ashbourne district, on the Ferry road, fully 200 persons were thus removed. A great many of the residents of the Cathedral City had to spend Saturday night on chairs, tables, boxes, and other points ol vantage. Soon after daylight most of these unfortunate citizens ware rescued from their uncomfortable positions by neighbors with boats and vehicles.

But perhaps the most painful, as well as perilous, experience was that of a resident on the banks of the Heathcote at Woolston,

named Cord. The “ Press” learns that he was living by himself, and as the water rose higher and higher he was compelled to get on to the roof Jof ‘his house, where he remained exposed to the wind and rain for several hours. He was ultimately taken off by a man, who swam his horse to the spot. The rescued man was so much exhausted, that it was some time before he could be brought round. He was put into a hot bath, however, and is now doing as well as could be considering the exposure he had undergone. The loss in horses cattle and poultry is said to be very large.

[by telegraph.] Wellington, To-day.

The Te Anau arrived from Napier after 35 hours passage. She experienced a heavy gale and terriiio sea.

The rain has ceased, but it is still blowing hard from the south. The Botorua came in early this morning. The Te Anau from Napier has not been signalled yet. Feilding, To-day. "'A sharp shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday morning about 4 o’clock. The heavy rain has caused floods in the Makino and Oruoua rivers. The approaches to the Awahuri bridge at Feilding end are now wash ing away, and traffic is stopped. Woodville, Today.

Heavy and continuous rains have fallen in this district during the past 24 hours. The Manawatu river at the gorge ferry and bridge has risen nearly 30 feet above the usual ave rage height, and is still rising. The wires and posts at the gorge ferry have been carried away, and no communication even by boat is possible. Traffic has been suspended, and the mails delayed in consequence.

AUSTRALIAN SUMMARY.

[Per Press Association.]

[Per s.s. Manapouri at the Bluff] Melbourne, May 12.

The Commissioners of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Victoria brought its annual session to a close on Friday last. The assembled ministers and elders ex pressed their approval of the action taken by the Heathen Missions Committee in protest ing against the proposed annexation of the New Hebrides by France. A large meeting was held at the Oddfellows’ Hall, Warnambool, to express sympathy with the Home Kule proposals of Mr Gladstone, and resolutions to that effect were carried by a large majority,

Perth, May 11. By the steamer Otway, which arrived from Derby on Sunday last, news comes to baafL.. that a 20oz nugget has been found by a than named Slattery. Up to the date of the Otway’s departure 2000 oz had reached Derby from the Kimberley goldfields.

CENSUS RETURNS.

[PEB IBSBS ASSOCIATION. 1

BLENHEIM, May 17.

The census of the Marlborough provincial district electorate shows an increase from 4494 to 6936. The Picton electorate bai has decreased from 3709 to 3529.

AQUATIC.

Beach’s Arrival.

[rBDTKK’s TBLBOKAMH COPYRIGHT. 1 London, May 15.

Mr William Beach, the New South Wales oarsman, has arrived from Aus tralia.

KIMBERLEY.

Oold-Seekers.

[REUTER’S TELEGRAMS —COPYBtGHT.] Melbourne, May 16

Several passengers per the Waihora from New Zealand are bound for the Kimberley goldfields by the steamer Garabier.

SERVED HER RIGHT.

It is related of a noble dame in London that on appearing at a ball recently attired in a dress which was made up of hundreds of canary birds’ wings, she was shunned by the gentlemen, and made the object of the pitiless stares of the ladies, and that she was finally forced to retreat in confusion and anger.

THE QUEEN OF IRELAND.

The Edinburgh Daily Review publishes be following letter from Dr McLauchlan to Mr Gladstone, with a formal reply in acknowledgment:—l have been led in the course of my life, to study ancient Celtic history, and have found that our gracious sovereign the Queen is by right of birth and succession the sovereign of the native Irish race. She represents the ancient royal family of Ireland, as much as of England and Scotland, This may be of interest to yon in making arrange* ments for conducting the future Govern ment of Ireland, and dealing with a people so influenced by sentiment as the Irish are. Dermot MacKelver was the archrigh or supreme King in the time that St. Cclumba was forced to flee from Ireland for Shortly after that time a branch of the Northern royal family crossed to Scotland • and founded the kingdom of Dabriada, which they occupied. At last they united with the Piota, and Her Majesty represents both branches of the Irish royal race. The union with England united the crcwn, and the Queen thus comes to repre sent the three royal families of Ireland, Scotland, and England. She la as much Queen of Ireland as of England and Scot land, I think you should know this, and 1 communicate these facts in case they may be of use to you. Excuse the liberty I take and believe me, yours faithfully, Thomas Mcllauohlah,

Tllifi AGHISUKTON CPU AIiDIAN, MONDAY, MAY 17, DHti,



WANTED TO LET, HOUSE of tivo rooms, Burnett street. —Mitohbu* AND ''UKNEE. mti E FLEMINGTON PRESBY- J- TERIAN TEA MEETING, which was put oil owing to bad weather, will be held on _ THURSDAY EVENING, 20xu INST Tea at Six o’clock. Selections by Choir, and several speakers will address the mooting. f NOTICE. IN THE ESTATE OF THE LATE WM. BLANC. ALL CLAIMS against the above Estate must be sent into mo on or before the 25th MAY, 1886, otherwise they will not be recognised. ALL ACCOUNTS DUE to the Estate must bo paid on or before 251 h May, 1886 ‘ EMILY BLAND.



Wanted. 1 JTT'ANTKI* Known —Greater reduction \\ than ever at the Hale of Bank rupt Stock.—Haves ano Co., Arcade. WANTED Kuowu—The Gospel will be preached every Lord’s Day evening in the Arcade Chambers at 6.80 p.m. (d.v.) Free tor all, Wo collection, 5 CH7 WANTED KNOWN—Long loukcu for come at last. T. Iloult, having commenced bacon curing, ho is able to supply a real good Fork Sausage at 6.1 per lb at the Factory, Moore st, Ashburton, Pigs cured in any quantity dried, smoked and delivered homo at One Fenny per lb. T. Uoult. PUESKNTS ! Presents! _Wo are now giving Presents to the value of 4» In the £ to every purchaser of One Shilling and upwards ou Drapery and Millinery, etc. For description of Presents see Window. Dressmaking on the premises. Perfect fit guaranteed,— H. O. Segkus, Melford House. vttanted TO PURCHASB VV 1,000 SACKS of beconds oi: Wheat. Apply to FRIEDLANDER BROS. 2 284



For CASH. -White Sugar, 2;d White Crystal, 3d ; Sperm Candles 5d • Liugfish, 4d ; best Lobsters, bd ,• plaid Vestas, 5d per doz. ; Tea, Is per lb. Sago, 2Ad; Tapioca, 2id; Cutting Salmon, 8d; Venus Nailrod, os (3d ; Groats, Jd. J. McGregor, Tancred Street. fOLDSTREAM ROAD BOARD .bxtraordinary VACANCY. KIN pursuance of “ The Road Boards it 18&2,” and amendments thereto, ana the Regulation of Local Elections Act, to,” 1 hereby give notice that at etion of TWO persons to fill ttn incios caused by the non-election of a * number of members to const! cue Coldstream Road Board at the al Election, will bo held on MON- May 31st, 1886. Nomination of kates must be made in the form set i the second Schedule ol the last med Act, addressed to the Return leer, and delivered at the Board s 1 Longlands, before noon on kDAY, May 22nd. * atiou^M^ t 0 k® had on a PP‘ i- TlO. FOOKS, Returning Officer. 1866. 12 ITON COUNTY COUNCIL, .SOMERS, SPIUNGBURN, AND TIN WALD lACES.



I will bo SHUT OFF for iR DA') S from 18th May, lime occupiers are requested (overhaul Water Races. t order. /ILLIAM BAXTER, County Engineer. frees Trees has FOR SALE all Inda of FOREST TREES, friaca, Maritime, and i of thousands; other plants, etc, on sale, or otherwise shall Ition. sf early strawberry kRTER, R S E E Y,. aurton. f to inform bis |ng the building reside dt Ecorner ot E. D°‘“- Jessages at Mb Neate 'hemiflt, where he will attend Dail rom 12 noon to 1 p m. * NOTICE. 1/TR F. BROOKK-SMITH, A.S.A., VI will give Lessons in Drawing and tooting, both Oil and Water Colors ’upils received at the Studio, or waited a at their own houses. Evening Classes will also be formed for lition in Sepia, ludigo, and Indian Ink 8 uting. Drawing, Bookkeeping, and horihand. All particulars and prospectuses to be stained from Mr T. F. Farley, Stationer. Paintings on view at the shops of [eaars Farley and Jones, M



B LACK, BEaTTIE & COMPANY, Criterion Mouse, 201, 203, 205, High street, CHEISTCHU &CH. We have the pleasure to advise onr Customers and the residents generally in the Ashburton District that we have now received vary large Shipments of NEWEST DRAPERY GOODS for the Present Season. The advantages which we possess iu being able to bay in the Best British Markets, and the thorough experience of cur buyer, of business AT LOWEST PRICES. We endeavour to give our Customers best value procurable, whatever Prices 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 moat Novel and Fashionable Goods wiU|je found.



Monthly advertiser, issued by Robert Elston, Theatrical Agent and Bill Poster ; terms—4o inch space 5a per month, centre spaces 10s ; for longer terms special arrangements can be made ; advertisements should not be later than the 26th ef each month. ANTED Known—Wortheim Sow- V T ing Machines can bo had on Time Payments at the New Zealand Clothing Factory’s Branch, East street, Ashburton. A GRAND White Sugar, 3d per lb; Dried Apples, 6d per lb; Figs, 8d per box; New Currants, 6d per lb ; New Nelson Jams, 6d per tin; Condensed Milk, Cd per tin ; Sperm Candies, Od per lb ; Price’s English Aibmus, lOd—At Jas cGkegqr’s, street. ' special Advertisements. MR J. H. B HOOKS is now receiving Pupils for the Pianoforte, Organ, Violin, Singing, etc. For particulars, apply to J. H. Brooks (Mr S. Wolf’s late residence), Wills street, Ashourtou. 4 538



mO the Ashburton Guards and Volun- X tears.—THE VOLUNTEER RED BOOK, containing the whole «, i the Exercises in Battalion Drill, Squau —ril 1, Bayonet Drill, Infantry Drill, Etc, NOW lIS. 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. 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 3,500 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 Hall, Ashburton.



DRESS department hosiery department mantle department millinery department DRbSS department hosiery department mantle department dressmaking department millinery~d~epartment CLOTHING DEPARTMENT UNDERCLOTHING DEPARTMENT TAILORING DEPARTMENT HOUOEHOLD FURNIHING DEPT. OLONIAL Manufacture from various mils. Including BLANKETS, FLANNELS & TWEEDS or ASHBURTON MANUFACTURE. Cash System and Cask Prices. BLACK. BEATTIE & CO. GENERAL DRAPERY WARE HOUSE, tailors, dressmakers, milliners



Special advexfcisements. jOff H IRON WORKS ARMAGH STREET, Ohrlatchnrch. Portable Ranges Burn Wood and Coal—ln Four Sizes. PAINTED CORRUGATED IRON IN Four, Five, Six and Seven Foot Lengths. 10 per cent. Cheaper than Galvanised Iron. 10 1988 Changed Hands! BRANCH SHOP, TOWN HALL, Ashburton. THE BOOK & STATIONERY uai ness lately carried aon purchased by mo, derably below original coat; this will give iy mrny patrons an opportunity of ob nning a number of requisites at GREATLY REDUCED PRICES,



STATIONERY. —Special caro Is pi von to all orders. XVanputudo guaranteed. MANUFACTURE of ACCOUNT ROOKS [laving made arrangements with a first class firm for the execution of all Com missions as described above, clients may roly 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 cussions. . —— PRIM TING. This branch is being fostered, and every attention paid to accuracy, neatness, and promptitude in the execution of all orders, all work receiving personal suporintond -On°DELIVERY OF NEWSPAPERS. their Customers may rely upon receiving Morning and Evening Papers safely de livered at their doors, and not upon the front lawn. The same romara applies to Homo Papers, Journals, and Periodicals ; also, purchasers may have their larcels delivered promptly. Wholesale Lines Always in Stock. Brown Paper, Grocer’s Bags, Tea Papers, Twine, aud'i'radesmen’sgouoral requisites. Bookbinding Okdeus Received. £. F. Farley, BOOKSELLER, STATIONER, PRINTER & NEWSAGENT, Saunders’ Buildings and Town Hall, Ashburton. STOCK-TAKING, FEBRUARY 1, 1880. WE beg to draw our Ashbur ton and Country Custo mers’ attention to the fact that wo 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 iait to the NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY’S BRANCH, East Street, Ashburton.



CANTERBURY MILLS, ASHBURTON, I WILL be a BUYER of UPWARDS OF 300,000 Bushels MILLING WHEAT THIS SEASON. Also some Largo Linos of OATS AND OTHER PRODUCE. CORNSACKS, Full Size and W eight, at 5a 6d per dozen. C. W. TURNER, 340 Per D. 11. BROWN. USTKALIAN M]E ROA "N TTTTE UNION INSURANCE COMPANY. The only Company in Canterbury WHICH DID NOT RAISE RATES 33£ PER cent on Country Risks. We arc now, as we have been for THE PAST THREE YEARS, ACCEPTING RISKS PER CENT. OFF TARIFF. W, B. MOSS, Agent rot Ashburton District. September 22. 1885- ° 010 N O T I C E. IT is requested that all ACCOUNTS owing “ The Ashburton Ouarihan Company, Limited,” up to 30th April, be Paid at once to Me B. Hughes, whose receipt alone will be a sufficient discharge, OHAS. W. PURNELL, m 11 Chairman. JACK SALH.—T.S. 197 and part 190 I* (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



Victorian Steam Carnage Works. J. R. STEEL & SON WISH to intimate to the Public of Ashburton and surrounding districts that, having obtained STEAM POWER and other Machinery roquiaito for the carrying on their work efficiently, are now in a position to meet the demands of the public with a article at prices to suit the times. Every 4e,.'.f?lption of Carriages and Traps made, Painted and Repaired. Spring Traps from £2O. Whitechapels from £25. Buggies from £3O. P.S.—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, 7a ; Hacks, 6s. 8 415 Victoria House. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT.



"VTOW SHOWING, a Splendid Assortment of the famous “ LION ” brand (Victorian) GOODS, in Men’s Plain and Fancy Tweed Suits, Trousers, Trousers and Vec,ts, Waterproof and Overcoats, Cord Hiding Pants, Printed and White Moles, Boy’s Knicker and Beaconsfield Sac Suits, etc., etc. These Goods, amounting In value to over £4OO, are Manufacturers’ Samples, cut and finished in the most perfect stylo. Purchased at a heavy Discount, and are offered at a slight advance upon MEL BOD RISE WHOLESALE PRICKS. Our Stock of General Drapery, Bools, etc., Is unsurpassed for Value. DBIANT AND COE, iURAPBRS, CLOTHIERS, & BOOT IMPORTERS, East aud Taacred Streets, Ashburton, <



0 AM TIM U AT 1 O M OF TU E UNPARALLELED CHEAP SALE Of Mosora Friodlnnder Drew’ atock of Drapery, Clothing, AND



Boots AMOUNTING TO ABOUT £sooq ANDREW ORR having purchased the above STOCK at a largo reduction from Cost Price, is still giving it away at Unheard-of prices, His great object being into cash, no matter at ANDREW to turn it what sacritice



“ Truth ” in sutaming up the Bryoe-Easdea ' action says ;—“ It is a question who comes worst out of the affair —the colonial Governor, who privatly writes libels of one of his own Ministers the Bishop, who tells one story in public and another in private, both gross ex aggerations ; of the historian, who endeavours to find authentic authority for these libels, fails to do so, but nevertheless repeats them, with additions and omissions, which make them far Worst), and then, when he is connvicted untroth, roftwei to withdraw or spplpgw l? them."