CHRISTMAS

The festive season has caa>ed the Qsaal flutter among tradesmen, who again ▼le with each other in displaying the moat tempting wares In their windows, best and cheapest,” of course, for C'sh, if obtainable. The display of goods com pares very favorably w.ti of pre vious years, but the seme remark caacnt be app'iod to the decorations, wh J are by no means equal to previous efforts, evergreens, without any floral relief, being the material used in almost every instance, for acknowledging the near approach c-f Santa ( laus.—Mr W. 0. Page’s shop was first visited by our representative—who found that “ Old Father Christum” was not forgotten. Mr Flower’s place of business showed a well-filled window of first-class condiments, the welcome, * A Merry Christmas," in split almonds on toffy claiming first attention. Mr H. O. Segera’ windows were capitally dressed, with a handsome doll In bridal costume as central figure. Messrs H. J. »' o '>o and Go’s display of Christmas cards and other suitable presents next claimed credit. Their mansgar, Mr Matheson, al ways does present a favorable display. Messrs H. Zander and Go’s grocery de partment wasliterallyor. named with every thing that will be required by housewives. Barrels of currants, raisons, &c. were shown in their windows with appropriate divices, “liquors of the best brands’ were arranged with tffeo 1 ', and the whole appearance of the shop caused us to quite beliavethe firm’s statement that they bad already done capital “biz.” —A pro xn’n nt feature In this window is the facsimile head of a London bulldog, with a remarkab’e history, holding in its month a large slice of cindied pee 1 ; In the next window of the same firm we noticed some taking Viennese furniture, of neat pattern. Returning to the grocery with Mr H. Zander some five year-old port was sampled to onr satisfac tion. The Ashburton Bread Company showed some finely-made Christmas cakes and some tempting small goods. Mr W. C. Davis, of Herbal Beer fame, had a profusely decoiated shop, filled with confectionery, fruit and condiments, the latter being artistically arranged. Some fine fresh strawberries from Mr Langley’s garden, sound eating appUrs, grown by Mr Mayo, aid black cherries fr M Orati were also on view. In re gard to the apples we use the word “ sound ” because the fruit sold by Mr Davis was grown last year being preserved by Mr Mayo in a successful way unknown to or rot practiced by most growers,—Mr H. M. Carson’s gtoercies and confec tionery looked well and Messrs Dimact and Coe drapery showed creditably dressed windows. Mr J. McGregor, grocer, had not troubled about deo r r - lions, but he exhibited h?s amply-applied shop in a new dress. Several desirabie improvements have been effected by Mr McGregor In the interior of his place of business, and the painter has carried ont bis agrees ent to make the interior pre sent a festive appearance. In Mr Andrew Orr’s drapery shop tome really first-class tweeds and tartans from the Ashburton Woollen Factory were noticeable. Messrs Orr and Alcorn had a goodlj-aizjd spruce In their window doing seivice as a Christ mas tree, on which had been placed articles to relieve the color. In their tecond window was to be seen an attractive display of electlc-platefl were, etc. —Mr J. Banger, confectioner, tind his shop prettily decorated with ever greens, and tbe contents of the shop it self were well arranged.—Mr D. McFar lane, gave a very bulky exhibition of the ingredients required by housewives of ex perience !n making Christmas puddings, all the goods being ticketed in plain figures at both shops.—Mr AV. Zander showed a cap ! tal assortment of fancy goods, seme large dolls being promi nent featnre of his exhibition.—Mr A. C. Prichard’s drapery establishment was covered in front with numerous aitlcles of light wearing apparel for summer nse.— Mr H. M. Jones, who advert'ses the advent of Santa Clans, had a very large stock of toys on view in hta window in Barnett street, and inside were to be seen hundreds of dolls of all sorts and sizes, to say nothing of very suitable fancy goods.—Mr A. W. Ran dell had a large snpply of confectionery, fruit and vegetables, which will no doubt dlssappear before to-morrow. Of the batchers Mr Lancaster had tbe best dis play. His shop was profusely decorated with evergreens, and some very nice joints of beef, pork and lamb lay on the counters. Mr Lancaster’s show of small goods and bacon was also worthy of attention.—ln Miss Hitchcock’s window, well supplied with birenits, lollies, etc., are noticed specimens of fancy needlework and feather-cleaning.—Mr Pattman, of the Somerset Hotel, was the only one of publicans who made anything like an attempt to do justice to the season. Both bars were prettily decorated with fancy work in colored paper, Ivy, etc,, and to look at the exterior of the hotel, a visitor would have expected to hear of the presence in the town of the Governor cr some other distinguished visitor. Messrs Hayes and Co and Mr W. Baylis had their windows full of Christmas cheer, and the first-named firm exhibited season drapery and m'llinery At the north end of the town, Mr Tasker, who went In for floral decoration, displayed s mo fine joints of beef, with small goods, poultry, etc. Mrs Manhire’s window gav© us a peep at some first-class needle work, of fancy type, which b j .s only to be seen to be admired. In Mrs M rris’s store there were some bams and bacon, apparently cured by a master of tbe trade, and a plentiful supply of Christmas and other cakes, bread, biscuits, &c. Alto gether the display of goods in the various shops was extremely creditable.

TO-DAY’S TELEGRAMS.

Burgle: y Auckland, December 24 This morning the p' emloaa of Messrs Men ale and Dey. lower Queen street, were discovered to have been entered during the night by 'alse keys and £6 In gold and silver stolen There la an doe to the perpetrators of the robbery. An Appreciated Gu id- Blenheim, December 24. Peake, gnard on the Picton-Blenheim Bailway was presented tc-day with a parse of £32 as a Christmas-box, In recognition of his efficiency and courtesy. The Hon Captain Baillie M.b.O. made the presentation at the railway platform The Cain Case- DuNßDiir, December 24. On TtTr Chapman’s application the trial of Hall has been fixed provisionally fcr January 24. It is stated a special jury will probably be applied for.

Another romantic elopement, the second within the last three months, has just occm re 1 in the neighbourhood of a village some twelve' milea from Warwick (says the Napier Tele graph). The young lady, who is well con nected and about So years of age, has long been the ruling spirit of the Dessenting Sunday School in the parish, and the happy swain, who is ten years her junior, was a member of the class. The fair one left home B short time since for an inland watering place and was joined at the next railway station by the favored one, whose occupation has latterly been that of a cowman on a local farm. For months past a belief has been current that the regard of the parties for each other was more tender than usually obtains between teacher and pupil, and the young cowman had occasionally boasted among his fellows that he intended to cross the water with a lady companion possessed of a thou sand poaodSf Nothing has been heard of them tlnoe.

TELEGRAPHIC NEWS.

BRITISH AND FOREIGN. [RENTER'S TELECH.AMS - COPYRIGHT.] THE OUTLOOK IN EUROPE. London, Die mber 22. There is a widespread impression that the relations between France and Germany are in an extremely critical condition. The reason, however, of this belief is not at present known. It is also believed that Belgium has foimed an alliance with Germany. The Austrian Government have ordered from America 400,000 repeat ing rifles, delivery to be made in March. Turkey is massing her troops in Macedonia. THE IRISH QUESTION. The Times asserts that the plan of the Irish campaign was drafted before the Chicago convention, where it was secretly discussed and approved. Mr J. Dillon, M.P., addressing a meeting of the Land Leaguers, said the plan of the campaign would be carried on in spite of the action taken by the Government, and it would end in destroying the power of the rack renters and evicters. Mr Norton has had an interview with Mr Parnell. He intends to pro pose at Belfast that a National Con vention shall be convoked in Melbourne or Sydney, similar to that which sits at Chicago, for the purpose of exciting sympathy with the Home Rule party.

AN ABSURD RUMOR. .Paris, December 23. A letter is published in to-day’s issue of Le Temps , from its Aden correspon dent, stating that agents employed by the British Government had incited the Somaulis to the massacre of the captain and crew of the French war vessel Penguin, on the 21st of Novem ber last. This was done, the letter alleges, in consequence of fear of French annexation. HEAVY FALL OF SNOW. Geneva. December 22, A snow block has occurred on the Swiss and Northern and Central German railways, in consequence of which the mails were delayed for tw r o days.

AUSTRALIAN.

[REUTER’S TELEGRAMS—COPYRIGHT ] (Received December 22nd, I p.m.) CENTENNIAL EXHIBITION. Melbourne. December ‘.4. Chief Justice Higginbotham has been appointed president of the Centennial Exhibition Commission. Mr Lavater accountant of the Railway Department will probably be appointed Secretary of the Commission. RAILWAY BOARD. The announcement of the appoint of Mr Green to the Railway Board is premature.

OUR PARIS LETTER

(i'ROU OUR PARIS CORRESPONDENT.)

Paris, October 16. The Chamber opened the day before yesterday. In the Chamber of Deputies it was decided to place the Prhmry Instruction Bill first on the order of the day for Monday next (18th Inst), though not without considerable wrangling, the Clericals urging that the House ought first of all to discuss the financial situa tion before venturing upon an outlay that would leave a considerable deficit to be covered In some happy-go-lucky man ner. The proceedings in the Senate were of a purely formal character.

A council of Ministers was held on the same day at the Elysee, under the Presi dency of M. Jules Gpjvy, only just re turned from his country seat at Mont- Sous-Yaudry. M. Sadi Cainot, Minister of Finance, gave an account of his interview with the Budget Oemmlttoo on the previous day, which had rejected the whole Bill of the Minister. At the request of the Minister of Was the President of the Republic signed several decrees piomotiog officers in the Army to the rank of General. M Gravy also signed tbe decree appointing tbe Commis sion of Control and Finance for the Universal Exhibition. It comprises 17 representatives of the State, 8 of the Municipal Connell, acd 18 of the Guarantee Association.

The petition to the Chamber to institute a tax on bachelors is no new thing. The French co ventton adopted it. H.o did the old Pepubiics. In Sparta the woman were allowed to drag bachei rs into the temple of Hercules and give them a sound tbrashi g. Plato condemned them to a fine. made them pay a round sum. Camillas went farther, and forced them to marry the widows of clt'zeca killed in defending the count'y. The petitioners say the tax ought to be doubly welcome, first, bee-use it will in crease the declining population by in ducing bachelors to marry; and, secondly, because it wilt help to make up the growing deficit In the Bndget. The first suggestion, however, would have more weight if it were not for the artificial restriction on families which is the chief cause of the decrease In the population. The King and Que»n of Greece have arrived in Paris, accompanied by tbair six children and are travelling under the name of Connt and Conntess d’ Acharnou. As by their incognito they are freed from the neoesriry of receiving or paying official vls’ts, tbey are able to enjoy them selves untrame’led, like ordinary tonrists. The first thing of all on their arrival, they went to ihe Hotel des Invalides, with the intention of seeing the tomb of Napoleon, but they arrived before the time at which the public are admitted, and tbey found the doors clrsed They walked along the boule vards, and entered the Musee Groin, with which they appeared greatly amused. Their Royal Highnesses arc now doing the Theatrt s conscientiously, and have not missed a single evening since their arrival

Speaking of opera, balls, and theatres, one of the most palpable evidences that the Paris winter season will soon be in full swing was afforded the other night by the animated appearance of the Hue St Honore at the hour announced for the opening of the Nourean Cirque The entrance to the Cirque was more thronged than in the palmy days of the Ball Valen tin on a fete night. Inside the spacious and commodious edifice the scene was gay in the extreme. The brilliantly lighted construction was thronged, and many of the toilettes were remarkably tasteful. The performance, divided for convenience into three sections, contained none of the swimming performances, which were so attractive last year. The programme was, however, well arranged, so as to afford an excellent variety, and the public interest never flagged from the entry of the clever clowns in the opening scene to the close.

CRICKET.

ENGLISHMEN v AU Ttl \LIANS. [uEUfEU’S TELEGRAMS —COPYRIGHT ] (Received December 24th, ar 1 p.m ) Melbourne, Deccmbe- 24 The EogH h crick ‘te-s commenced " match yert rd*y at Gee'otig against eighteen of th» twn .tier ict. Tin v'B 1 tors went fir t to the stake s aod at t h < ; close of the day had scored 297 runs fo; 8 wickets. Shrewsbury ecored 70 and Barnes 104

THE CANNIBALS OF NEW GUINEA.

Mr James Chalmers has spent eleven years of his life In the islands of the South Pacific and eight yea's la New Guinea. “I am not,” he has t-dd a contributor to the Paul Mall Gazette. “ I am not one of those who believe thst savages yearn for the Gospel. The goapal of the New Guinean is red beads, tobacco, tomahawks, and hoop iron. W -en I find myself among a stra ige tribe T puli out my pipe, have a smoke, and make friend- The savage is the most conservative being In the world. Yon ask him to plant a pumpkin, but he says, ‘No. Why shonld i ? My father did without pumpkins. So ean I.’ ” Mr Chalmers gives »n amusing account of some recent experiences among the cannibals. He paid a visit to a very prosperous race of these gentlemen at Bald Head Point, which is in the centre of the sago-producing count y. It is supposed that the custom of cannibalism was imported from some of the neighbor ing islands. The legend goes that some sixty years ago, after a certain battle, a chief, out of bravado, cut a portion out of another chief who was slain, threw it into a p ff, and ate it. When the burytng party came and asked for the dead body, he said scoffup)y, “I have eaten it.” This joke led to reprisal i, and the cn-b m spread to the mainland However that may be, “ long pig ” is a favorite dish in a state menu “I f-mnd ” «aM Mr Chalmers, ‘ these cannibals rf Ball Hoad Point the most agreeable fellows In 'h-> world Wo got on remarkably well,” “ Then you were not afraid r.f Vo'ng pnt Into the pot yourself V “ Not a bit of It. I went as far as to ask them whether they had any snch Intentions The ch ef, with a smile (not a hungry one), said th» they did not care for wi ite mtn. They had tried him, but he was not good Of course, they might prefer white man tc no man at all ; but, as a matter of fact, ‘ long pig’ orgies are few and far between They are like plant pudding at Christmas —very good once a year. These om nibals are realty a fine set of men ; both intellectually and physically, tunerlo to many of the coas'al tribes, Ttelr houses and temples arc very remarkable structures. I was allowed to visi ore of the temples, and a very remarkab'o place it was. It Is here that the satunalia of human flesh are conducted. When a number of bodies are t:kon, they are brought Into tbe temple one by ore. At the end of the temple is a dark rereis, and into this each body Is taken. After the obsequies, the body is dragged out In to the open, the head ia carefully ohoppe d off, and the body is cat np into pl< ce ■ and thrown into a pot for dinner. The flesh on the ssull ia then very carefully taken off until the skull is clean. The hideous trophy ia next handed over to a skilled artificer, who carves and paints it. It is then hnng up on a peg in the temple. It happened that these skulls had been taken down for their annual dusting, or I should not have been able to make such a close inspection of the Sculleries;"

THW ASHBURTON GUARDIAN,- FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 1886



Taka all in all. — Take all the Kidney and Liver Medicines, —Talte all the Blood purifier?, —Taka all the Jiheumatic remedies, —Take all the Dyspepsia and indigestion cures, —Take all the Ague, Fever, and bilious specifics, —Take all the Brain and Nerve force revivers, —Take all the Great health restorers. In short, take all the beet qnalitiea of all these and the— best —Qualities of all the best medicines In the world, and yon will find that— Hop Bitters have the best curative qnalitiea and powers of all— concentrated In them, And that they will core when any or all of these, singly or— combined. Fail!!!! k thorough trial will give positive proof of this. Hardened Liver. Five years sgo I broke down with kid ney and liver o 'mplaint and rheumatism. Since then I have been unable to be about at all. My liver became hard like wood ; my limbs were puffed up and filled with water! All the best physicians agreed that noth ing could cure me. I resolved to try Hop Bitters ; I have used seven bottles ; the hardness has all gone from my liver, the swelling from my and it has worked a miracle In my car j; otherwise I would have been now in my grave. J. W. Mokky, Buffalo, Oct. 1,1881. Poverty and Suffering. “I was dragged down with debt, poverty and Buffering for years, caused by a sick family and large bills for doctoring. 1 was completely discouraged, until one year ago, by the advice of my pastor, I com menced using Hop Bitters, and in one month we were all well, and none of us have seen a sick day since, and I want to say to all poor men, you can keep your families well a year with Hop Bitters for less than one doctor’s visit will cost. I know it.” A WoBKINOnjAN. Prosecute the Swindlers!! If when you call for American Hop Bitters (see green twig of Hops on the white label and Dr Soule's name blown in the bottie), the vendor hands out anything but American Hop Bitters refuse it and shun the vendor as you would a viper; and if he has taken your money for anything else indict him for the fraud and suehim for damages tor the swindle, and we will pay you liberally for the oonvio- Icn.



NEW ZEALAND RAILWAYS EASES—CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. CHEAP EXCURSION TICKETS TO DUNEDIN. INVERCARGILL, AND THE LAKES. T7IXCURSION TICKETS will be issued I’J as under from the 22nd December, 188 ), lo the 3rd January, 1887, inclusive, and will be available for return up to and including 17th January : From To To To Dunedin. Invercargill. Kingston. Ist 2nd Ist 2nd Ist 2nd Rakaia 33/- 22/- 55/- 38/6 66/- 44/- Ashburt’n 28/- 13/6 50/- 35/- 61/- 40/6 Special Night Trains, conveying pas sengers at the above fares, will leave Christchurch for Dunedin on the 24th and 27th December at 8 45 p.m. and Ashbur ton at 1055 pm., stopping at Rakaia if required. A Return Special Night Train will leave Dunedin on the 27th instant at 8.30 p m. The journey may be broken at any station tn route, and bo continued by any ordinary train. SATURDAY RETURN TICKETS from any Station to any Station will be issued froin the 22nd December* 1886, to 3rd January, 1887, inclusive, and will be available for retnra up to and including 17th January. 12 92 By order.



1 OUT. —Butcher's Order Book. Finder j rewarded by reluming it at once. R. Nourish, Havelock street. 12 13g Methven Sports fENTRIES for the HORSE RACES’ fPj HANDICAPS CLOSE av. 9 pm. on TUESDAY, the 28th instant, instead of on the 26th, as stated in the programme. J. Me WILLIAM, 12 135 Hon. Sec. TIN WALD TOWN BOARD.



\PPMCATIONS, with salary required, will be received until FRIDAY, Dec. 31st, for the office of Clerk and Surveyor to the Tinwald Town Board, Sealed tenders to JOSEPH CLARK, 12J107 Chairman, SLAUGHTERING LICENSE. "VrOTTCE is hereby given that I intend at the County Council meeting in January next to apply for a Slaughtering License fur large and small cattle for R.ti. 2695 and 26005. G. LOADER Chertsey, Nov. 30, 1886. 12°36 MRS MANHIRE, FA NC Y GOODS WAREHOUSE, Saunders’ Buildings, East street. 17AN0Y STATIONERY, Toys, and _ Christmas Presents in variety. Christmas Cards, Ac., Ac. Ladies’ and Children’s Pinafores and Aprons, Ac , Ac, 9624 i is Twenty Years' Practical Experience in London. A HARROW, Pianoforte Maker, 1 • 186, Caahei street, Ohristohuroh, win visit Ashburton on or about JANUAHY 18th, to Tune and Repair Pionatoi tea American Organs Har moniums, etc. Orders received by Means Wood and 00. Stationers and 'lusic-sellers. Ashburton, and Messrs Gates and Son. O. A. H. holds first-class Home and Colonial Testimonials. 12+126 WAKANUI ROAD DISTRICT. A MEETING of Ratepayers will bo held at the Wakanui Sohoolhouse on WEDNESDAY, December 29th, at 7 30 p.m , to determine whether the Road commencing at the southernmost corner of 8.8. 26460, and extending north westerly to the northernmost corner of Rural Section 22115, shall be stopped or otherwise. FOOKS & SON, 7 Surveyors, Ac.



WEEKLY PRESS. C CHRISTMAS FIFTY-SIX PAGES UMBER, ENGLISH STORIES. Six New Zealand Prize Stories. bight page PICTORIAL SUPPLEMENT. The Largest Paper ever Published in New Zealand. PRICE, WITH SUPPLEMENT, SIXPENCE. To be had of all Book sellers and News Agents. 12125



FAYARD AND BLAYN PAPER. SIXTY years of great success proclaim its superiority in the treatment of Violent Colds, Irritation of the Chest, Aching, Sprains, Sprains, Sores, Scalds, Corns, Bunions, Soft Corns, etc. This medicine, the property of which has been established more than half a century by thousands of cures, is of an invalu able use in many inflammatory diseases against which there are not many effi actons remedies, and is therefore justly considered by a great number of our most eminent physicians as the most active and least irritating agent in the above affections. In order to avoid counterfeiting, Messrs



Fayard and Blryn’s signature ha» to be required on erery roll of paper and on the box. Wholesale SO, Bne Saint-Merri, Pari* (France), and sold by all Chemists in the Colonies.



CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR. GIFTS. GIFTS. GIFTS. r pHE Undersigned baa JUST .LANDED, and opened op, a LARGE ASSORTMENT of CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR PRESENTS, Viz , Dolls of every description Toys in great variety Work Boxes F.'oral and Musical Albums Brackets and Ornaments Christmas, New Year, and Birthday Cards in great variety. CRICKETING AND LAWN TENNIS MATERIALS, &c„ &c. FISHING TACKLE, &0 Special reductions made to School Committees and buyers of large parcels. N.B —Large and New Stock of PIPES and TOBACCONIST WARES in great variety. WILHELM - ZANDER, TOBACCONIST & HAIRDRESSER EAST STREET ASHBURTON.



A. Harrison. Alfred Harrison, AUCTIONEER, STOCK AND ESTATE AGENT AND VALUATOR. SATURDAY SALE at 12 o’clock sharj. —Horses, Cattle, Pigs, Produce and Merchandise. Agent Norwich Union Fire Insurance Company FOR SAL xs— Moveable Hat on pair wheels ; tw bunks. Champion Wa Machine, 50s, Call anahing Seed Sower, by Haxton and Beatie cheap. Ploughs, Harrows, and other imple ments. Oheylesmore Club Tricycle, the boat kind made—cheap Piano, by Bord, nearly new. Cheap Spring Cart —Cheap 1 Ohaffoutter, by Bantall String Binder by Howard, good aa new, very cheap |



Meetings. MBTHVBN PUBLIC LIBRARY. Annual general meeting of Subscribers will be held in the Meihven Library on MONDAY, January 3rd, 1887. ai 8 p.m. GEORGE H. ALINGTON, 12J136 Hon. Secretary. TIN WALD TOWN HALL. \ CONCERT will bo held on THURSDAY, December 30th, in aid of St. Andrew’s Church, Tinwald. St Stephen's Choir will assist. U. ARTHUR GATES, Conductor. Admission: Is. N /TICE~ THE Rot, P. H CORNFORD (Presi dent of the N Z. Baptist Union, and late West Indian Missionary) will PREACH IN THE • DDFELLOWS’ HALL, ASHBUhTON, ON SUNDAY, 26th INSTANT. Morning ervice at 11 Evening Service at 6 30 J W. SAWLE, 12 137 Pastor. PRIMITIVE METHODI VP CHURCH, WILLS STREET. THE Annual CHRISTMAS TREE and sale of Useful Articles will be held on MONDAY, Djcember 27th. Com menoe at 1 p.m Admieaion —free. A Social Tea will be provided at 5 30. Admission—One Shilling. Public Meet, ing afterwards. 12 129 ANNIVERSARY SERVICES OF THE WILLOWBY WESLEYAN SUNDAY SCHOOL WILL be preached on DECEMBER 26th by the Rev, Mr THOMAS, of Temuka On the following MOND AY the Annual TEA will be held in the District School room. Tea on table at 5 o’clock ; and after MEETING will bo held, when Addresses will he given by Ministers and others. Music by the Choir. 12t128



AoHBGRToN CALEDONIAN SOCIETY. THE EIGHTH AANUAL GATHERING Will be held on BOXING DAY Monday, dkckmber 27, 1886, On the SOCIETY’S GROUNDS, North-West Bolt, A Brass Band will be in attendance. PROGRAMME OF SPORTS. 1. Quoits —no qaoit used to be heavier than 41bs—1st prize, £2 ; 2nd, £1 2 Open Handicap Hurdle Race, 440yds, six hurdles (men) —Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £1 3. Pipe Music (Pibrochs and Marches) —Mr R McOwen’s prize, and let prize, £2 ; 2nd £1 4, Running High jump (men)—lst prize, £1 ; 2nd, 10s, 5 100yds Flat Race (open)—Sheep Shearer’s prize, and Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd. £1 6. Running High Jump (Boys)—Messrs Hayes and Ce,’s prize, and Ist prize, 10s; 2nd, 5s 7. Scotch Reel (Highland Costume) Messrs D. McLean, M. Stitt, and J. W Mcßae’s prizes, and Ist prize, £2; 2nd, £1 8. Grand Handicap Flat Race, of 100yds, 220yds, and 440yds : 100yds heat to to be run after Scotch Reel —MrR.



Whittle’s prize, and first prize, £4 ; 2nd, £2 10s ; 3rd £1 9. Tossing the Caber —Major Steward’s prize, and Ist prize, £1 10s ; 2nd, 10s 10. Standing High Jump—lst prize, £1; 2nd,los 11. Pipe Music (Reels and Strathspeys) .—Mr R. McOwo'i’a prize, and Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £1 12 Grand Handicap—22oyds heat 13. -Sword Dance, or Ghillie Callum — Messrs D, McLean, M. Stitt, J W. Mcßae, and H. Zander and Co.’s prizes, and Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £1 14. Polo Vaulting —Mr W. Ander son’s prize, and Ist prize £1 . and 2nd, 25s 15. Bayonet Exercise (two teams or no competition), to be competed for by squads of not leas than 12 men—lst prize, £5 ; 2nd, £2 10s 16 Half-mile Handicap Flat Race (open) —Mr W. Zander’s prize, and Ist prize, £2 10a ; 2nd £l, 17. Running Long Jump—lst prize, £1 ; 2nd, 10s 18. Irish Jig—Mr Chas. Reid’s prize, and Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £1 19. Putting the Stone—lst prize, £110s; 2nd, l£s 20. Three legged Race, 200yds £1 ; 2; d, 10a 21. Grand Handicap, 440yds heat—H. J. Wood and Co.’s prize 22. Throwing the Hammer—lst prize. £1 10s ; 2nd, 15s 23. Sean’ Treutheip—Mr R. Frie dlander’s



LODGE STAR OF ASHBURTON, NO. 23, LO L, Sports NigMT Sports Night! annual Concert and Ball. TOWN HALL, BOXING DAY, MONDAY EVENING, December 27th. Blrhland and Irish D.noirg Voc«l Music by the best local talent. Instrumental Music by our best artistss. A genuinely enjoj able Evening’s Entertainment. Sentimental, Pa’hctio, and Com c Songs, agreeably mixed, with a fine dbplsy of Elegant Athletic* iem. Prices as usual. SAM. BROWN, 12 ,-27 Master. Auct'*Ho. ASHBURTON WOOL_S ALES MESSES MILES & CO. WILL hold their THIRD SALE of WOOL BY AUCTION at MR G. JAMESON’S STORES About the Middle of January Next J, T. FORD, Auctioneer. GEO. JAMESON, Agent, 12°95 Ashburton.



D. McFarlane, FAMILY GROCER AND Tea Dealer. Retail Premises: BURNETT ST. & EAST ST., ASHBURTON. 4 LL GOODS GUARANTEED FIRST QUALITY, And Sold at Lowest Prices in town for Cash, as following prices will proTO, PRICE LIST OF GROCERIES, &c., FOR DECEMBER;— New Season Tea, per bos, 10s 6d, 12s 6d, 16a Sd, 18s, Sis do 21b caddies, 6a each Best White Sugar, per lb, 2Jd, 3d Bsd New Xmas Fruit, per lb, Eiem-s, 7d Currants, fid Sultanas, 7d Valentias, 8d Muscatels, 2s English Peel Is Preserved Ginger, 9d Prunes. lOd IJlb hoses Figs. XOd each New Season’s Jams 6s 3d and 5s fid per do*. Marmalade, (id per tin Sago. 2Jd ; Tapioca, 2J3; Bice, 2id; Corn flour, fijd per lb Arrowroot, 8d per lb Dried Apples, 5d per lb Flour (best), 5s fid per 50 lb bag Oatmeal (Moir’s), 3a 3d per 251 b bag Salmon (best), 7s fid per do* Fresh Herrings, 5s 6d per do* Oysters, 5 a fid per do* Preserved Bloaters. 9d per tin Pickles— Colonial, 7d; English, fid pot bottle Brawn, 21b tins for Is 3d each Sheep’s Tongues. 21b tins for Is 9d each Fry’s Cocoa, Is 61b per lb Hudson’s Cocoa, 3s per lb Preserved Frnit, 21b tins. Is and Is fid each Coffee, Is fid, Is Bd, Is XOd per lb Essence of Lemon, fid per bottle Candles—Psrrafine, 8d; Sperms, 4id lb by box Soap, per bar, XJd, 2Jd, 3d, fid, Bd, lOd Kean’s Blue XOd per lb Blacking and Blacklead, 9d per do* Pear’s Soap, Is 31 per box Vinegar (English), 2s fid per gallon Hop Bitters, 3s per bottle Siegel’s H yrnp, 2a 9d per bottle Tobacco—Noilrod, 4a 9d, 6a, 6a fid per lb Twist, 5s Juno, 5s fid Bnby, fis Eno’s Frnit Salt, 2s 9d per bottle , Tricopberons, Is per bottle Knife Polish, 8d per tin Golden Syrnp. 21b tins, 9d each Essence Bennet ( 'roesa & Blackwell’s) Is bottle Patent Groats, 9d per tin Neave’s Food, lid per tin Akaroa Cheese, 7d par lb Kerosene, per tin, 7s, 8e fid, 10s fid dec., *O.



prize 24. Best Dressed Boy in Highland Cos tume (under 14 years)—Mr A. Harrison’s prize, and Ist prize, £1; 2nd, 10s 25. Highland Fling—Messrs 1). McLean, M Stitt, ai.d J. W. Mcßae’s prizes, and Ist prize, £2 : 2nd, £1 26. Handicap Mile Flat Race (open)—Mr W Pattman’s prize, and Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £1 10s 27. Handicap Consolation Race, 200yds— -Ist prize, £1 10s; 2nd, 15s 28. Obstacle Race—Mr J. Heseltine's prize, and Ist prize, £1 : 2nd, 10a Nominations for all Handicap Races must be in the Seer tary’s hands by 5 o’clock on 20th December. Acceptances can be lodged at any time up to time of starting. Nomination Fee on all Handi caps 24 per cent on Ist prize; entrance money* for all other events 5 per cent on first prize. j EXTRA AND SPECIAL PRIZES. The President, Mr Donald McLean, gives £5 5a for the winner of the most points in Highland Dancing Mr M Stitt gives a cup, value £5 6s, for j mo:*t points in Dancing ; to be won j twice by one competitor before be coming his property Mr W. Pattman gives a cup, value £2 2s, for Handicap Mile Flat Race Mr R. J- Whittle gives two guineas to the winner of the Grand Handicap Mr T. Toppin gives silver medal, value one guinea, to beat Highland Boy Dancer nnder 1G Mr J. W. Mcßae gives silver medrl, value one guinea, for most points in Highland Dancing Mrs J W* Mcßae gives silver medal, value one guinea, for best dressed Highlander To be judged by wives of members of the Caledonian



Society Mr W Patching gives oilskin coat, value one guinea, for Old Men’s Race Messrs H J. Wood and Co give writing desk, value £1 ss, to winner of 440yds Grand Handicap heat Mr R. McOwen gives silver medal, value one guinea, to winner of most points in Pipe Music Messrs Orr and Alcorn give prize, value one guinea, to Boys’ Race under 16 Major Steward gives silver medal, value one guinea, to Tossing the Caber Messrs Tucker and hestell give one guinea for Children’s Races Mr Charles Reid gives silver modal, value one truinea, for Irish Jij Mr W II Kneen gives one guinea for Chi W ten’s Races Mr R. Friedlander gives silver medal, value one guinea, to Sean’ Treutheip Sheep Shearers’ prize, value one guinea, to I( oyds Flat Race Messrs H. Zander and Co. give silver flask, value 15s, to Sword Dance Mr W Zander gives merschaum pipe, value 15s, to Half mile Race Mr Andrew Orr gives valuable ladies’ hat to Young Ladies’ Race Messrs Saaly Bros, give 10s 6d to Children’s Races Mr William Anderson gives gents’ whip, value 10s 6d, for Pole Vaulting Messrs Diraant and Coe give lady’s bag, Mr H. M Jones gives bat, value 10s 6d, to Boys’ Race under 14 Mr Marchaut Digby g ves 10s 6d for toys for Children’s Paces Mr J J ’eseltino gives pair of spurs, value 7s 6d, to Obstacle Hace Messrs Hayes and Oo give pair _of trousers, value 7» 6d, to Running High Jump (boys) Mr Alfred Harrison gives 7s 6d for Best Dressed Boy in Highland Costume Admission to Grounds, One Shilling. Children under 12, Sixpence. Members and Family free; Sports to commence at 11 o’clock promptly. J. 0. DUNCAN, 12*118 Secretary,



Business notices. wTa. WOOD’S IMPROVED HAEYESTER ■WITH IMPROVE D IRON FRAME. TWINE BINDER, & NEW BUNDLE CARRIER ATTACHMENT THE BEST HARVESTER AND BINDER IN THE WORLD. It has the folbwing important advantages, combined in no other Harvester, and many of them are exclusive with it. 1. Perfect balance of the entire machine. Try it m all. osltiona 2 Extraordinary ease of draught 'B, Unequalled perfection of the gearing— ec ncmy of power—great durability 4. No side draught and no neck weight b. Malleable ircn used wherever practicable, combining lightness and strength 6. Reels adjustable horizontally and verti cally, and with changeable speed 7. Angle iron finger-bar, strengthened with steel back plate 8. Steel-faced malleable iron guards bolted t the finger-bar 9. Trussed platform and gear frame, keeping the journals in line 10. (Simple and reliable raising and lowering device for both wbee's It. Adjustable grain fender at back of platform 12. Perfect tilting apparatus f.S JCtiVt; in saving lodged and tangled grain 18 Raised ma n frame, clearing obstructions and dead farrows 14. Lightest running binding mechanism ever made 16 Binder open at back, affording paessge ot the longest r e or wheat » 16. Vibrating butting board ot iron and wood durable, ard working tz perfection 17. Packer fi ge s, acting ui pairs, straighten ing the grain instead of tangling it 18. Reliable binder trip, seizing the bundles with precision 19. Stationary twine knife, catting but one string, and remaining sharp a long time 20. Twine holder which never loses the end ot the twine . i 21. Absolute certaintv of tying mechanism. not only when new, bat after long an. 22. Unequalled simplicity, perfection and dura bility of entire knotting apparatus 23. Knot tiad dose to bundle-- nneqnalled economy of twine 24 Fewer parts than anp other binder ever on the market 25. B ghe- t quality of materials, of meohnioa construction, and of fiiii-h



It has the only successful handle carrier known. The carrier is a valuable acquisition to the farmer, and ia adding to the a!ready nneqndled popularity of the Walter A. Wood hinder. Thousands hare been sold, and every purchaser ia • delighted with its operation. It saves labor, time and grain, and pays for itself in a few days. This company has been building binders for tfae genera' market for ten yean, and was first a thi branch of manufacture, and offers this improved and perfected machine, the result of its uneqalled experience and fact litles, as the most complete, most practical, and most satisfactory binder yet produced. V. PERRIMAN, AGENT FOR W. A. WOOD STEEL WHEEL BINDER. W- PATCHING, TENT, TARPAULIN, FLAG, AND HORSECLOTH MANUFACTURER. A LARGE STOCK ALWAYS ON HAND OF TENTS OP ALL SIZES CALICO, DUCK, TWILL, AND CANVAS. Manilla Hope, Plough Lines, Fishing Lines, Clothes and Garden Lines. IRON AND WOODEN BLOCKS, Special attention is called to the well assorted STOCK OP REAPER AND BINDER CANVASES, All made on the Premises. Battens and Canvas kept in stock, and repairs promptly executed. Tarpaalins from 6x8t024 x3O always in stock. Oilskin Clothing made on the Premises. MARQUEES from 12 x 24 to 25 x 65 ON HIRE. All Orders bt Letter or Telegram Promptly Attettoed to. W. PATCHING, 10861 EAST STREET, ASHBURTON.



MUSIC. MRS A. C. CLARIDGE is prepared to receire PUPILS for PIANOFORTE and ORGAN Terras on Application Cox street, Ashburton. 9668 ASHBURTON COUNTY COUNCIL. NOTICE is hereby given that the subjoined resolution was adopted by the Ashburton County Gounod at a Special Meeting of the C unci! held this day, and that the said resolution will be submitted for confirmation at a Special Meeting of the Council, which will be held on FRIDAY, the 14th day of January, 1887, at 4 o’c’ock in the afternoon. [Resolution.] “ Resolved —That this Council do make a Special Order adopting “ The Local Bodies Loans Act, 1886,” and that such Special Order be as follows, that is to say:— SPECIAL ORDER. In pursuance and exercise of the powers vested in it by “ The Local Bodies Loans Act, 1886, “The Counties Act, 1876,” and the several Acts amending the same, the County Council of the County of *■ shbnr ton doth hereby adopt the provisions of “The Local Bodies Loans Act, 1886.” Provided always that ihe operation of the said Act shall bo limited to a loan of £3500, which this Council proposes to borrow from the Government under the provisions of “ The Government Loans to Local Bodie* Act. 1886,” for the purpose of constructing a Tramway from the Mount Somers Bailway Station to the Mount Somers Coal Pit, near the mouth of the River Stour. Resolved further, that this Special Order shall take effect imme diately upon the making thereof." Dated this 13tb day of December, 1886 By order. F. MAINWARING, Clerk of the Council.



CENTRAL HOTEL. JW. McRAK having taken the above • Hotel, solicits a share of patronage from the people of Ashburton and sur rounding districts. Best Brands of Wine’s Spirits and Beers. Good Stabling—Feeds, Owe Shtlxjbo. Horses and Buggies to let on bice at prices to meet the times. For the convenience of travellers hansom cab will meet a>l trains. BLANCARD’S lODINE OF IRON PILLS. 4 PPROVED by the Academy of Mediciu. of Paris, are specially recommended by tire Medical Celebrities of the World for Scrofula (Tumors, King’s Evil, etc), the early stages of Consumption, Constitutional Weak uess, Poorness of Blood, and for etiznnlatirg and regulating its periodic course. Non. genuine unless signed “Blancatd, 40, me Bona parte. Paris.” Bold by Druggists and Chemists thronehont the Colonies. T. Bollock. \X7" ANTED to Purchase, for Gash ■ * McCormick Twine Binder; also Wire Binder, in good order. T. BULLOCK.



TO LET.—Honse of 5 Booms, Moor* street, presently occupied by Mr Yapp. Apply to T. BULLOCK, TO LET, at a lour rental, comfortable Cottage in Grey street, nicely situated, and lately in occupation of Mrs Coutts. Apply to T. BULLOCK. REAPING MACHINES for sale at low prices. _ McCormick Wire Binder Buckeye Binder, Harvest King, 3 Samuelson’s. T. BULLOCK TO. LET.—For 3or 5 years, with oi wit: out a purchasing clause, RS. 25349, containing 137 acres, situated new the Grange, at the back of the Racecourse. Apply to T. Bullock. TINWALD. TO LET.—Four roomed Cottage on Graham’s Boad, lately in the occo patioa of Mr P. Heron. Apply to T. BULLOCK. OAA ACRES Grass Land, fronting the Mitcham road, a Pont 2£ miles from tie Racecourse, being RS. 29934, To Let for 4 nunthr. Offers will be re* reived by the undersigned up to 25th November. T. BULLOCK. OATS. —A quantity for Sale ; good sample.



Ashburton A. & P. Association Show. ASHBURTON TO THE FRONT. SFBURTON MANUFACTURED TWEEDS, TARTANS BLANKETS, FLANNELS FINGERING WOOLS SHIRTINGS, DRESS TWEEDS COLORED FLANNELS NAVY SER3E3 CRICKETING FLANNELS, &o All the above Goods Lava been PURCHASED ANDREW ORR And will bo offered for sale immediately after the Christchurch Show (where they will be exhibited,). These Goods are admitted to be superior I o anything of the hind ever offered a Ashburton, both for style, finish, and quality. Orders for suits should be given at once to secure the best patterns. ANDREW ORR Grand Show OF BY



T. BULLOCK, FOR SALE, or TO LET.—Six-roomed H ouae fronting the Town Belt at, the property of Mr R. W. Clayton. As he is leaving for the North Island, this will be sold at a low price. It is well situated, being a hinh, dry, an -1 healthy position. If not told will be let at a low rental to a tood tenant Apply to T. BOLLOCK, SALE—Double Seated American r Waggon. 181 * T. BULLOCK. TO LET —At a low rental, VentMt Bakery, together with »hop and dwelling house. Apply to T. .enf Onn T' LET, a three-roomed Cottage a| Trevorton. Bent, 3s 6d per week. Apply to T. BULLOCK. ' I 0 L*-:T—2 Cottages in Grey Street, ’ kosn as Contis’ block; Bent atßt per week T BU; LOCK, tjlOR SALE — T wn seta of three leavec harrows, by “ Howard." T. BULLOCK. 1710 R SALE —Lot 25, fronting tUt ; North Town Belt. Price, £lk Liberal terms if required. Apply to T. BULLOCK TO PAINTERS. TO LET at a low rental. Shop an Dweliiaghotue in Moore sine* lately in occopetlon of Ur Lace*. BTJIi QOS,