DIARY.

Moonlight Evenings.

The Moon at 3 days old Bhinea till about 8 o'olook. Tbe Moon at 6 days old shines till about bait-past 10 o'olook. Tbe Moon at 8 days old shines till nearly 1 o'clock m tho morning. The Moon at 12 days old shines from sundown till about 4 m the morning. The Moon at 15 days old is fall, and sbinoa all night. The Moon at 18 days old rises about 9 p.m. and sbincs till morning Tbe Moon at 21 days old rises about 11 a.m. and shines till morning. Tbo Moon at 24 days old rises about 2 a.m. and shines till morning. Tbe Moon at 27 days old rises about 4 a.m. and shines till sunrise.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1887. THE MIDLAND RAILWAY.

The news that the amended Midland Railway contract is deemed satisfactory by the Company, that ihe works will now be prosecuted most vigorously and a commencement made at ihe Springfield end without delay, will, we feel sure, prove most welcome to the settlers generally, and mora especially to those of the provincial districts more directly interested m the construction of the line. It will be gratifying to them to know* tint ihe railway upon which ihey have set their hearts and fcr which they have toiled and struggled ard made sarcificts for many long years is at last assured. V\ c know there are some who, influenced by various motives, have opposed the line persistently, but these are a very small minority. There can be no doubt that the Select Committee appointed to consider the matter arrived at a wise decision m recommending the Government to pass an amended contract, and we give the Government every credit for having so zealously and cordially given effect to that recom mendation. Whether the railway will achieve all the great things predicted of it, of course remains to be seen, but we think there can be no question that by opening up a market (or agricultural produce, it will greatly benefit the farmers of Canterbury and the other districts through which the line will pass. This, however, will be a work of time, but this will afford them oppor tunity for making all due preparation for turning their attention to, what we believe to be, a far more profitable sys tem of utilising their land th. n growing wheat— dairying. There is always a good demand on the West Coast for first-class articles of dairy produce, and these invariably command high prices. There is, however, one immediate benefit which may reasonably be ex pected. The location of some hun dreds of men at Springfield canno', we think, fail to have an influence on the business ard trade of the various centres of population. We know that the business men ot Cbristchurch were very much disappointed when they learned that the Company had decided not to commence operations at both ends simultaneously, for this very reason. We trust that they will soon have what they have long wished for and we congTa\u\a\e \hem and vhe settlers generally en improved pros pects. 'J hese come very opportuniely at jiycus Chrjstmastide.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

At the 11. M. Court this morning, before Mr T. Bullock, J.P., five first offenders for drunkenneH3 were each fined 5s and costs, with the usual alternative A good 3eal of comment boa been caused m Brisbane on a case where a Dr O'Doherty standa ohargod with visiting a woman at the point of death while m an intoiioatod oon. dition. It is alleged that unblushing efforts were made by one of the magistrates on the bench to white-wash the aooused. The matter I baa been brought under the notioe of tho Colonial Seeietary. Sour stomach, aiok headache, and dizziness, £n?erloaq Co,'b gop Bitten curoi with » few

There waß another largo attendance at tho Otldlellowe' Hall laßt evening to witness tho seoond performanco of the Lynoh Family Bellringers. The programme, whioh wao an entire ohange from that of the previous night, was gone through to the evident satisfaction of the audience. Messrs Cromo and Oyßten contributed two piano ducts. Mr Griffin, who was m hotter voioo than on the previous evening, Bang 4< The Scout," " Lovo's Old Sweot Song," and "Never Deßpair," with lasto and feeling. Mr Parlatti wai aa sue oessful ob over with his comio songs, for all of whioh he had to respond to redomands. The Bellringers played a number of selections on the Bolls, " Homo, Sweet Home " being undoubtedly the gem of the evening. Mr W* W. Lynoh played a soleotion on the hong klongs (Javaneso piano), a peculiar looking instrument, but with a very good tone. The Lynoh Brothers contributed a Chinese song and danoe, and Messrs W. Lynoh and Parlatto an Irißb oharaoter duot. The per formance oonoludol with a farco, entitled " The Judge's Substitute," whioh kept the audience m oontinuous laughter for about twenty minutes. The Company loft by the express this morning for tbe South.

We understand that Miss Carrie Swain and her dramatic Company, who at present intend appealing for two nights m Timaru, contemplate relinquishing one of these nights m order to play m Ashburton should sufficient inducement be offered. A considerable amount of support has already been promised and as the Company is very highlya poken of, having playod to crowded houses throughout Australia, there is little doubt they will eooure a large attendance should they come here Mr E ston, tho lessee of the Oddfellows' Hall is at proßont negotiating with Mr Stuart, tbe manager of the Company ; and if they appea r here it is likely January 14 will be tbo date fixed upon, and the piece chosen for the occasion, " The Tomboy." : Tho Master of the Ashburton Home desirei to acknowledge with thanks the rocoipt of a quantity of sausages and joint beef from Mr James Tasker, and pipes and tobacoo from Mr W. Zander, for the Christmas treat for the inmates.

The annual treat m oonneotion with the Hampstead School took place on the 23rd inst, at Mr Lamb's farm, a paddook having been kindly lent for the purposes of tho treat. At eleven o'olook the children mustered at the Bohool and were soon safoly on board the waggons attaohed to Mr 11, Meaolam's trao tion engine, whioh that gentleman had placed with his usual generosity at the disposal of tho Committee. Mr H. Hunt was also present with his largo waggon and two horses, After taking a trip through the Borough the children were conveyed to the field and before the sports commenced were regalefcwith buns and ginperbeer. Owing to tho very liberal support given by the public tho Committee were enabled to give every child a prize, which meant a great deal, there being 280 obildren attending tbe eohool. Keen oom. petition took plaoe for these prizes, whioh occupied the time till tins meal of tho day, on tho preparation of whioh Mcsdamos Lamb, Q. W. Andrews, Miss Lamb, and others, had been very hard at work. Sports wore onoo more the order of the day till 6 o'clook whon> before tbe homeward journey was commenced, tbe Chairman called for oheers for Mr Lamb Mr Meaolam, Mr Hunt and tho sohool teacher Whioh were responded to with enthusiasm. Hearty cheers were then gtveu for the School Committee, and the children reached home about seven o'clook after having spent a most enjoyable day.

The "Asiatic Quarterly" states that the quantity of territory acquired by England m Upper Bunnah measures 188,000 squaro miles —an area of one and hilt times the me of Great Britain and Ireland. The population is estimated at 2,000,000 ; but Mr A. K. Colquhon, the writer of the artiole, boliovoa Upper and Lower Barman can com* fort ably acoomodate 80,000,000 more m Addition to the present 7,000,000 m tho two provinces. He further Bays : —" By tho acquisition of this new territory wo have gained a gate to China for tho use of the Mother Country and India, and, if we choose, can now oonneot, by railway, India and China the two most populous Empires m the world. The three Chinese provinces nearest to Burmab, rich land-looked markets, contain about 100,000,000 inhabitants, or a greater population than France, Germany, Holland, Belgium, and Denmark combined. We have now an opportunity of reaching Southern and Western China and commercially cement* ing our relations with the other poaoeful powerß of Asia. Some sheep |that hare never been shorn were mustered for the recent Bhearing at Ledcourt Station, Viotoria. They have been apparently forced out of the reoeseea of the Grampians by last summer's fires, and bad joined tho flocks on the plains. The fleeces were of remarkable length and weight. One from a ewe weighed 521bs, and a sample of the staple was 15 inotaeß m length without any break.

A sad fatal aooident occurred to two State school teachers m Viotoria named William Beilby and Joshua H. Vaughan. Whilst fish ing along the coast at a plaoe known as the* Crags, a rocky and dangerous plaoo, a wave washed over tho ledge on wbioh they worn standing, knocking Boilby into the sea Vaughan, who was standing cloce by and wa a goocUewimmer, bravely jumped into the sen to save his friend, but immediately sank, and never afterwards reappoared. Beilby drifted out abou f ten yards, and sank m a patch of kelp. There was a considerable swell on at tbo time, rendering assistance from the re r mainder of the excursion party impossible. Both were young men and married. On the same day two children, tho Bon and daughter of Mr John Brown, were drowned near Hamilton. Tbe boy went into a dam for the purpose of bathing, and got out of bis depth- His sister, a obild seven years old, went to his assistance, the result being that both children were drowned.

SOUTH RAKAIA ANNUAL SPORTS AND RACES.

Tbo annual sports and races were he'd on Boxing Day on the PubUo Dopaain. The grounds have considerably Improved In appoarance alnce last year, the treoa being no if well established and affording some htt'e aholter. Round the lagoon, Id the centre of the n serve, willows ,have been planted and aro dotog well. Tho ooarso has beon re formed and was m (alt order, though somewhat duaty. The whole of the Domain was not available this year, the Board hiving let some thirty acres for a crop of oats which ore looking reooa kibly well. Tho weather was very unpleasant ; a howling nor- wester which was blowing the whole day causing muoh inconvenience. la spite of this there was a large attendance whbh may be onsiderei Tory satisfactory. The ladies of the district tamed up m full foroe In fall holiday attire. There was a fair master of visitor* from Ohriotohurch, Aabbarton and the surrounding townships. A large number of friends from Ashburtoa promised to pay as a visit bat ware nnablo to do bo through the action of the Bail way authorities m knocking off the eleven o'o'ook train, and running an excursion train to Ohristoharch, but refasiug up to the last moment to book passengers to Rakaia. This is railway insuagemont to some purpose. Surely it would have paid the Government hotter to have booked to EUkftia thao to have driven people away. The Burnham Industrial School Brass bind, m charge of Mr F. Graye, was on the ground, and greatly added to lh.j day's pleasure, The boys played well and although the wind somewhat interfered with the effect, they fally deserved the praise they reoaived. Mr Miilor of the South Rakaia Hotel, had charge of tho publican's booth, and Mr Shellook, with several fair assistants, satisfied the crav ings, of the hungry at the refreshment ■tall. There were several Ramos and other amusements of the usual natn.ro on the gronodf and the officials worked hard to make the meeting a success. A want of punctuality m starting the horao races greatly Interfered with getting through i he athletic events on the programme aod it ii to be hopod that anothor year the Btawards will insist on a start being made at the, advertised hour, leaving tho strAgglers to make the best of their own falling* The crowd vras • most orderly one, not a man the worse for l'quo> being seep on the ground. The only occasion on which the police had to inter fere, was m a case of a mau who would insist, m spite of warning, m playing an illegal game; for this ho was arrested and the next morning had to pay ior hie fun by doing 43 hours. In the evening there was a ball held m the Town Hill, at

whioh there was a crowded house, and all seemed to eDJiy therasslvos till day light to musio provided by Mr Oartls. Tho following are the rosults of tho various events :— HORSE'RaOES. Hurdle Rage, of 10 soys ; over six flights of hurdleo, 3ft 6in high, and two brush jumps ; second horse 2 so vs. Two miles. Mr H. Flarrlson's b g Marralon, 12st 71b (G. Harrison) 1 Mr J. Wilson's gr g Cicero. 12 it 71b (T. Warn) 2 Mr Patterson's gr g Nor 1 - Wester, 12at 71b (Ohattetlen) 3 Nap, Tupto and M»b also ran. The race was a well contested one throughout, about a length between first ani aecond, and the third close up. The win was a popular oho. Sadolr Trot, (handicap behind soratoh) of 10 soys ; second 2 aovs. Three miles Mr G. Herron'a blk g Pilot, 100 yds (J. Storry) 1 Mr Russell's b g Spark, scratch (W. Dixoc) 2 Mr Shellook'd b m Judy, 50/ds (Bay Smith) 3 Polly, Topsy, The Digger, Maggie, Kite, Whipper-in and KUo also ran. It was quite evident from the start that Pilot had the best of it and oould win as he liked. A protest was entered against Spark taking ssoond prizs on the gronna that over the distance had been run, and that when the proper distance vntp finished Polly had second place. The. protest will be considered on Thursday evening next. Ladies' Pursk, of 10 soys; second hone, 2 sovi. J^mlle. Mrs Alexander's oh g Doubtful, 12st 71b (Kearney) 1 Mrs Osborae's br m Zealot, 12st (Osborne) 2 Mrs Harrison's b g Matmion, l«t 7>b (A. J, Reid) 3 Miss Lafng'a b m Ngali, also ran. A splendid moo throughout between j Doubtful and Zaalot, only a short neck separating them at the finish, with Mar mlon close up. Handicap Harness Taox (distance behind ■oratoh), of 7 aava ; second horse to save his stake. Two miles. Mr Herron's blk g Pilot, 50 yds (J. Storry) 1 Mr Beattle's m m Jessie, icratoh

(Owner) 2 Mr Hood's br m Polly, 125 yds I (Owner) 3 Only three oompeted, and it was vary clear from the start that Pilot could win as he liked. Father's Plate, of 10 soys ; ono and a half miles. Second horse 2 soys. Mr Osborne's brn m Zealot, 12at (O finer) 1 Mr Alexander's oh g Doubtful. J2«t 71b (Kearney) 2 Mr Harrison's b r Mwmlon, 12st 71b (G. Harrison) 3 Angelica, Ngala and May, also ran. Ngalo made the running at a very smart pace but had to give w*y when half the distance was run, Doubtful and Zealot taking her plaoe and making a oloie fiaieh. Hurrt f cubrt ; a sweepstake of 10* each horse, with 1 soy added, Onoe round the oourse (60 chains). Oitoh weight*. Mr Mount's b ra Audrey, (Price) 1 Pltohford, The Orphan, N an o y, Loyalty, Molly Bawn, Kith'een, Brlerleaf, Nap, Miss Kflo and Whipper-in also ran. Offing to the bojaterous weather it was Impossible to get oil the tilting at the ring ocn:est.

ATHLETIC SPORTS.

Men'o lOOyde handicap; prfzos, £2 and £1-P DoUn, Byds; 1 ; W. J Welsh, 4yds, 2. Ten oompeted. Sohoolb' y's (under 15) 200 yds handl oap ; crlz^B, 15b, 10j and 5i — W. Stur> gens, 1 ; J. Crawford, 2 ; J. Coffee, 3. Twelve competed. Men's 4 Oyds handlonp; prizes, £2 and £I—J.1 — J. T. Mangln, aeratob, 1; A, Bender eon, 10/ds, 2; N. Price, scratch, 3, Ten oomputed. Single Women's Race, 200 yds handicap; prizes, £1 and 10a — Miss Mangln, 1 ; Miss Bnrgeas, 2 Seven competed, Boy's Running High Jump (under 14); pr?z3B, 10a and 5s — M. MoAnulty, 3ft lOiin, 1 ; J, Bruco, 3ft 8!n, 2. Eight competed. Men's Mile Race, handicap: prig is, £2 10« and £I— T. Radford, 200 yds, \; H. Brlmloombe, 2Coyds, 2; J. Warner, scratch, 3. This was a very hollow affilr as, through a miaun J jrflUudintr, the fiat and second got 209 yds start. Sight o mpeted. Girl'a Raoe (under 14), 100 yds handl. cap; prfzap, 15j, 10j ana sj— M, Daly, 1; L. tianty, 2; L. D.»ly, 3 Eleven competed

Putting tho Stone (lGlbe); prizes, £1 ani 10* — T. Shannon, 33ft lOin, 1; J. Hood, 33ft 81n. 2, Four competed, Bti're Ra3o, 30yda; pr'zja, £2 and £1 —0. Walker, 1 ; J. Waroer, 2. Five atartod for this race, bat only three made afioUb. Consolation Rico, 150 yds ; pilzas, £1 •nd 10* —A, Benderaoa, \\ W, J, Weleb, 3 Flvo ?ocip«4ed f

SPORTING

MOUNT SOMKR3 RAD33.

The f d'owing are the reßu'.t3 of tbe horae races at the Mount Somera Sports on Monday lftß^. Hurdles. Mr J . Oorbett's Nero ... (Owner) 1 Mr Pttt'a Squib (Owner) 2 Mr W. T. Smith* Wild Roee (Death) 3 Mild of Athena ant 1 S'oale also ran. In the Maiden, Mr Smlth'aForoater beat threa others. The Trot w<s won by Mr P»tton'a Nelly. Mount Somers Cup, Mr Pitt's Sqnlb (O*ner) 1 Mr Cbrbett'o Nero ... ... (Owner) 2 : L >tto aod Miss Aoxy also ran. The Welt9C Handicap was won by Mr W. T. Smith's Foreeter. Thd Hurry Scurry was won by Mr Smith's Polly, Consolation. Mr Cbrbett'a Slssle 1 Mr Smith's Wild Koue 2 Lotto aleo ran.

Chrisiohukoh, December 27. The Heathoote races wece fairly at tended. Hbathooib J.O. Handicap, of 40 soys ; about 1 mile. ■ Mr H. Horef "jrd's Leon, 6it ... ... 1 Mr G. Blgtfofs Patrloian, 7at 101 b ... 2 Mr P. Butlet'a Repose, 7at 3 Time— 2mia 4^<seo. Dividends (each) — £2 10* 6d Time HAKNBas Trot, of 40 nova ; about 3 miles. Mr R. Sutherland's Bab Gawn, 50sec 1 Mr D Orange's Maid of Monster, scr 2 Mr H. Mcßratney'a Shamrock, 20ieo 3 Time — 9min 37iieo. Dividends— inside £14 8i t outside iTI7 9j 61,

INTERPROVINCIAL NEWS

Wellington December 27. The Hnn Mr Ballance, who has been aerlounJy ill, ia now recovering. The opening of the Industrial Fxhibi tloa at Palmeraton North yesterday was very Ruooesafal, about 1500 persona balng present. The Marquis and Marchioness of Drogheda wero passengers for the South today. iNVBROARGILii, December 27. A mill, known aa McKeozle and RofTa, Boa ward Bush, was burnt on- Saturday night. The mill was owned by tbe Denied In Iron and Wood ware Company, and insnranoos, if any, are effected m that oity. Bluff, December 27. Tbe Htrbor Board have been Id olobg Committee all day on an application for appointment to the pilot staff, strong opposition on tho part of some members being shown to the restriction of a«e to under forty, several men on tbe staff who have nothing agatnßt them being a few yoara over that ago. A xn&mbor of tbe B )ard m a candidate for one of the posi tions. Captain Tyson, the Hacbormwtor, Is not a candidate. Be was appointed throe years ago, at £400, aid the Boar 3 have now reduced the salary to £250 and house. He returns to England at c >n slderable sacrifioa, as he had built a home at tho port and brought out a family only recently.

A CHAPTER OF ACCIDENTS

Auckland, December 27. Further particulars respecting the boat in; accident, which resulted m the dr wniog of H. P. Bankhact, J. ° Arm strong, H. Hammond, and R. J. Debney, show that they set nut m the yacht Truant from St George's Qiay at 7 a.m. yesterday, intending to go to Matakana. Tfie yacht belonged to young Hammond, and the others left the handling of the veaeel to the owner. Strong winds were blowing all day yesterday, and the sea was consequently very hoavy. and About cloven o'clook, when tho vessel wai off Galla Point, and In Raogitoto Channel, she waa strnck by a sadden squall, and Instantly oopifzed and sank. The oo oupanta of the yacht at onoe struok oat for the shore, bnt only Richard BaDkhart and O. Ji Hftrker succeeded In reaching land, the other four above named being drowned. Mr H, P. Bankbart, one of the unfortunate young men drowned In the aooldent, was an artist of great ability, who had studied foe some time at the Royal Academy, London, and at the South Remington School of Art. He arrived In May Uit from England with the other members of tho family) and was making arrangements to comraenoo art education m the olty. Messrs J. Armstrong and H. M. Hammond were wall known m athletic clroles, and Mr R. J. Debney was an enthusiastic follower of act. A eefttoh for the bodies has bvaa commenced.

A woman named Mary Barke wan drowned on Saturday night at Woodblll by falling Into a creek. The woman with • man named Hamera was seen by a neighbor polling Dp the stream. He states that they were drunk, and that he offered to pull the boat across the stream, bat they refused. The body of tho woman win afterwards found la the stream. A farmer named Wo, Rontley was found dead In his stable at Pukekohe, at 3pm yesterday. New Plymouth, Deoember 27. A man named Jeremiah Hunter was killed at Stratford on Saturday, whon bush felling, » tree striking him on the groin. Napier, December 28. A man named Murdoch Bruoe, em ployed on a lighter at port, wbb missed last night. He was lust seen at 70 o'olock leaving the Rtti'way Hotel the worse for liquor. His hat was found on board tbe lighter. The body wa» recovered this morning m the inner harbor Wellington, Deoember 23. Tfo man Morgan reported yesterdiy as missing has tamed np again. He stated he had been t) Ohrlatohntoh, Qeorge Adams, who yesterday met with en aooident by falling over a chff, died at 8 o'olock this morning. Hokitika, December 27. N. Riwlings, road overseer, Chriat ohnroh road, was injured while clearing away a landslip near Reeky Point. Both leg* were broken, and tho unfortunate man was Injured internally. Ha died whilst being carried to the Kumara Hos pital, * Oamuhj, Deoomber 27. A single mnn named John Prlngle, aged twenty-six, died suddenly at Otepopo, on Sunday ulght. A man named Johnston, m the employ of Mr Reid, of Klderalie, was found lying undsr a dray. He had been driving; His back was broken, the dray having ;?one ovor him. He died this morning m the Hospital. Imveroabqui,, Deoember 27. A boy eight years, eon of T. Crawley, ex Mayor South Invorcargill, was ohoked y&terday by an India rubber toy, known as a tqueaker. It slipped over tbe throat, and the small balloon, being li fl*ted by the returning breath from the lungs, filled Up the windpipe and suffocated the lad.

Houjoway's Oinxkent and Pills.— A fre quent oauso-of gou.fc aud rheumatism is the inflammatory state of the blood, attended with bad digestion and general debility. A few does of the Filla taken m time are an effective preventive against gout and rheuma tism. Anyone who has an artaok of either should use Holloway's Ointment also, the powerful action of whiob, oombined with the operation of the Pilja, must infallibly effeofc a sure. Theso Pills act directly on the blood, which they purify and improve. Having once Bubduod the severity of these diseases, je/so verance with the Ointment, after f ornc n, ting the affeoted joints with warm brine, will speedily relax all Biiffqesß and prevent Unj yerpj&ncn. ceaUftOtioa,

THE EUROPEAN SITUATION

FbCTKB'B I'ELtfdUAKS— -OoPYBIOnT] LbNbow. Deoember 27- Lord Randolph Churchill has for warded a disclaimer contradicting the report which had been recently circu lated, that his mission to Russia is of a political chaiacter. St. PBTfiRSBtTKG, Deoembor 26 General Schweinitz, German Ambas sador, has taken a peaceful message from the Czar to Prince Bismarck. The Russian press generally, m commenting upon the visit of Lord Randolph Churchill, express the belief that the cordial recepti >n his Lordship has been accorded m St Petersburg will favorably influence relations between England and Russia.

TELEGRAPHIC NEWS.

BRITISH AND FOREIGN.

reutbr'b tblegrj ms—gopy. bight ]

RIOTS IN RUSSIA.

St. Petersburg, December 26. After often-repressed protests against the vexatious rules imposed upon them, the students at St. Petersburg Uni versity appealed to the citizens for support m resisting the troops. Grave disorders have also occurred m connec lion with the Military Academy, the Michael College, and School of Forestry, all of which have been closed by the authorities. Numerous arrests have been made, and all the universi ties throughout the country, with the exception of that of Kieff, have been closed for similar reasons. Later. Fresh disorders occurred m this city, and the students of the University have appealed to his Maj s'y the Czar against the rules imposed upon them. The Minister for Education has tendered his resignation m consequence of the appeal.

THE NEW HEBRIDES.

Paris, Deoember 25.' Paris newspapers state that there is reason to believe no orders have yet been issued for the evacuation of the New Hebrides by France. Paris, Dooember 27. The "Tournal des Ddbats, m an article referring to the New Hebrides, states that though no orders have yet been given, the evacuation of the islands by France is imminent.

THE CROWN PRINCE.

Bkblin, December 26. Advices from San Remo state that Sir Morell Mackenzie has returned to that place and made a critical examina tion of his Imperial Highness the Crown Prince. Dr Mackenzie expressed himself greatly pleased with the im provement m the health of the patient and now reports that only a slight swelling remains. Referring to the nature of the ailment, Sir Morell Mackenzie states that time alone can determine the character of the disease.

AN AGREEMENT.

London, December 24. A treaty has been concluded between the Amatongan King and the British Government whereby the former agrees not to cede Amatonga to any other power. [A portion of this telegram was mutilated m transmission.] The Aaiatongans are a powerful tribe, whose territory is adjacent to Zululand, Transvaal, and Delagoa Bay,

ITALY AND ABYSSINIA.

London, December 25

News has been received from Mas sowah that Mr Portal, First Secretary to the British Diplomatic Agency at Cairo who was charged by the Imperial Government to act as one of the mediators between the Abyssinians and the Italians, has returned to Massowab. Mr Poital reports that the natives ac corded him a friendly reception, but could not be prevailed upon to sue for peace, Ras Aloula, the Abyssinian general, having interposed hindrances so Mr Portal's mission.

WELSH LAND LEAGUE.

London, December 26.

A manifesto has been issued by the newly-formed Welsh Land League, which is modelled upon similar lines to the Irish League.

MR GLADSTONE

London, December 27. Mr Gladstone left for Northern Italy yesterday.

TROUBLE IN THE SANDWICH ISLANDS.

King David Kalakaua of the Sand wich Islands has vetoed the Bill abolishing the Governors of the islands. The natives are siding with the King, and it is feared that a revolution will take place.

AUSTRALIAN.

[BEUTER'B TE&EGRAMS -COrYIUQHT.]

Beoelved Deoember 28, 12 25 p.m )

THE MARAROA.

Melbodrnk, Dacember 28 The Union s.s. Mararoa passed Wilson's promontory this morning bound for this port.

A NARROW ESCAPE.

The Theatre Royal narrowly escaped destruction by fire yesterday afternoon. A fire broke out m the workshops below the theatre and was only extin guished just when the flames were spreading to the adjoining buildings.

MELBOURNE EXHIBITION.

Up to the present time over a quarter of a million feet of space have been applied (or at the forthcoming Centennial Exhibition.

OBITUARY.

The death is announced of Sir Robert Dalrymple Ross, Speaker of the South Australian Assembly.

(Received December 28, 12.50 p.m.) NEW GUINEA EXPLORATION. Sydney, Deoember 28. Bevan, leader of the expedition formed at Sydney for exploring New Guinea has returned to Thursday Island. He reports the result ot their labors as a, brilliant geographical success. The expedition explored the river systems running into the Gulf of Papua over an area of iooo miles of new territory, but were compelled to return owing to half the men of the party being down with fever. Personally,! Bevati is desirous of recommencing tjie exploration if the necessary funds are provided,, the last expedition having

ANNEXATION BY THE FRENCH.

ArcKLANn, December 28.

The s.s, Richmond from the Islands brings advices th»fc the Frenoh have annexed R<itatia. Six chief*, with 800 men, refunod to submit and the warship Scorpion bombarded tha rebel town and landed a party of men to destroy the villages and property. The French also issued a proclamation that the natlvea will be firad upon if they do not submit by a certain date.

A MISSING CUTTER

Auckland, December 28. A cutter, with 21 pereono on board, aailod for a pleasure trip on Monday. She has nob returned nor has she been heard of. The relatives of those ou board are alarmed and ace urging the authorities to make oearoh. A sAaii Bailing boat, with three lada on board, is a'so unacooaated for sinoe Monday morning. Lit b. • The missing cotter and party are re* ported safe last night at Drunken Bay. it waa intended to be baok on Mon 3ay>; night but she was prevented by obntrary > wind. Tho water police have gone down m the Customs launch to-day.

CORRESPONDENCE.

ffc do not hold ourselves responsible for ilit opinion* expressed by out correspondents* ' : jj

A QUERY.

TO THK BDXXOB.

Sir,— Kindly inform me how the bets g) m tha Quoits Match at the O*ledonlan Sports on Monday, I baoked one playet, batitaeema that the wind was 00 strong that, the players decided to divide the atakei "when the last three were matohed to play off." As the publio are anxloai to know how bets go on n division of lUkef, please reply to-night. I am, etc, One Intibestbd, Aihburton, 27 ch December. [Bats go with the stakes or prizes, and by arrangement Taylor was awarded first prize and Gilmonr neoond. — Ed, GK]

TO-DAY'S TELEGRAMS.

Fire. .*/.. Auckland, Deoembsr2B.^ " A fire at Makau on Saturday UsC des troyed a house and out buildings belooglag to Frank Kavannagh* Insurancea, £2CO la the New Zealaad and £75 In tha" South British. Tha Warehipa at Auckland. Ab^ut 60() meu from the Nelson; Diatnoad and Rapid landed with Arms to day and went through marcotiTret on the Takapuna raoeoouras. French Men-of-war. Two French «m«st>lpa are expected to, arrive hera In a few daya. m ' '- v Insurances. . • ; ' The Insurances on the three oottsgef' burned down yesterday were £425, all m. South British, also £150 on fnrnttore In the aarae offioe. , - , T , ? The Malls. < '• 7. -3 The Secretary of the General Poet Offioa ; ftdvlsei that the Alamida with EnglUh : -. mills of 30th Noveaiber left 'Frisco for . Auckland on the 17th lnat one day late. Tho s.B. Mariposa with oolonial mails of sth lost arrived at 'Frleoo from Auokland on 24th lost one day m advance of oou tr&ct time. Shipping 1 Dvmedin, December 28. Arrived — Salado, Jrom MaurlUos. Shp briogs 11,132 bags of aagar for Dnnedin ftud 9,870 bags for Lyttelton,

AUCTIONEERS' REPORTS.

Mr Peter Williams (for Frledlaudsr Bros.) reports for the week ending Tuea> day, 2ad December, 1887 : — On Saturday, the 2 Unit, we held out weekly sale of horsed at our Bast Street. Horae Btzaar. There was a small entry , . with a good atteodanoe of farmer*, «fee, The demand reported last week was main tained and with tho harvest approaohlng will Inorease. Several had to go away without being supplied. We sold good draught geiding £25 ; Medium mares and geldings, £13 lOi to £16; medium draughts being In best demand. Poultry.— Turkeys, 3s 3d to lOi eaoh. Pboduoe. — Derwents, 4s per bag ; fowls wheat, 2« 6i per bushel; peas, 2t 91 per bushel ; fhur, 18s 6d per bag ; oats, It 9d per bushel ; oatmeal, 2s 9d per bag ; tea, 12s 61 per box ; oheese, 3d . per lb. ;, FuKMTtrm. — Piano (by JoiephcUln* £35 ; sundry furniture at satfafaotorj rates At the Aohburton Yards on Tuesday, the 27th Inst, the entry consisted ot about 4040 sheep and 20 head cattle. Owing to Tuesday being a holiday, tho attendance of buyers was very small, consequently the prices were not ib gocd m last week, most of the fat pens being turned out unsold, and several large pens of store sheep had to serve the same fate. Fat croasbrod owes, 53 S3, 7« lid ; do 4 tooth, Ss 3i ; do wethers r ßj ; Hoggets, 4s 61, 4j 81, 5j 7d, 6i 31 ; oroiabred 4-tiooth wethers, 7a 2d, 7« 9 JI, 7s lOi ; 2 and 4 tooth crossbred, mixed sexes, 7s Id ; merino ewes aod lambs, 4i 8d ; etossbred ewes and lambs, 3i each. Fat cattle.—- Ojwb, £4 to £5 ; yearling steers, 17s 6d ; 2-j ear old heifers, 303 to 40s. We sold prlvatel> during the week 313 crossbred wethers at 8s 63.

Mr J 0. Danoan reports for his weekly ■ale held on Saturday 24th Inst, m ' follow* : — • Pias.— High prices lately rollng wow y folly maintained with plenty, of bnyeri. - SHp», 16a. Poultry— Duok*, 3» to 3s 61 per pair ; fowls, Is 6d to 2j 3d ; geese, 8i to 9a. Produce — Potatoei, decwenta, goo& old potatoes are now scarce and fetch 4s  per sack; early, l£d per lb; oats, lsScl to, Is 9i per bmhel, market easier; oaten oheaf obaff, 2s and 2s 3d par b»g ; br»o» 4s 3d per bag; sharps, 7* per bag; tea, 14s per box; cheese, 3d to 41 per lb. Sundries— Now mangle, £4 10a; second hand do, £2 ; new saddle, £3, and ■andrlea at satisfactory prices. . .

ThQ "Wairarapa Star" remarks: — Tha question whether sohool prizes are beneficial to the " young idea " was exemplified m I Masterton the other day when two lads wera overheard m the following conversation :— " Jack 80-and-so he's the biggest dunce m our class and he's got a good prize ! " " Oh," said the other, " but you know his father is a member of the Sohool Committee. I wish | my father was." News from Samoa -flays that Apia is still* ocoupied with armed forces by the German?. It appears that at the Conference held ak Washington re Samoan affairs Germany asked for mandatory powers for live years. England was m favor of this proposal, whioh was soj strenuously opposed by Amerioa that the Conference broke up without any result. Keating's Powder destroys both moths, fleas beetles, and all other inseots, while quite harmless to domestic animals. In extermi nating beetles, the success of thie powder is' extraordinary. It is perfectly clean m appli cation. See the article you purohas Koating'a, as imitations arc noxious mm? neSeotual. Sold n tinß, 6d» Is. and 9b o'd aaoh, by all chemists. Wells' Haw Balsam.— lf grey retires to original aolor. An elegant dresßii^t softens and beautifies. No oil or greau. A Tonio Reatoiaive. Stops hair joming ox iliwgtbwi, oleangea, heile^alp. $

SHE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1887.



Moon's Sun Sun Moon Moon ago nt RJpcs. Set*. Ri.cs fete, noondny v m. a.m. 24 Saturday ... 4.20 7.38 1.32 0.67 0 25 Sunday .. 4.20 7.89 2.30 1.22 10 26 Monday .. 4.21 7.3!) :.S9 1.48 11 27 Tuesday .. 4.22 7.39 4.28 2.16 12 28 Wednesday.. 4.22 7.40 627 2.49 13 29 Thureday .. 4.23 7.40 o.2tt 3.20 14 30 Friday.. .. 4.24 7.41 7.21 4.9 15



Wanted. j Melford House Sale.— H. o. ' Segers. WANTED on a Station situation by Married Couple, no encurobrunce. Man as general hand — can milk, kill, &o Wife good cook and laundress Apply Mbs Randall Anhburton. 12*148 -TTTANTBD Known.— That HAVES VV and CO. have a splendid lot of White Embroidery Robes at 14s, worth 21s. WANTED Known.— For Bale, Blue Gum, Stringy Bark, Peppermint Gum, Red Gum, and Silver Wattle Tree Seejg, locally grown, and saved this Season ; also Turnip Soeds, just arrived, ex s.B. Rimutak-i. —J. Scaly and Co., Beadsmen, E*gt Street. ' Ilt6l Severs' Great Sale.— Melford House. ___ WANTED OABH — Moir'a Oatmeal 251b8,2s 6i ; Sporm Candles, 6d ; Coffee »od Milk, Is t>er tin; Coco* and Milk, 1* p?r tin ; Vestas, 5d per doz •, Cornflour, 41 per 1b ; tin Fruita, la ; Grncko r y, Ironmongery, eta. — At Jamxs McGrboob's, Tancrod Street, opposite Arood©^ ______«»»_ J WANTED KNOWN — Oleographs Scenery, and" Catholic Bubjocia Cathollo Oarda, good variety m Scraps Novelties m Penwipere, Crewel Woola and Bilkß, Knitting Cotton, Colored Crotchet Ootton, Transfers, Tinsol Balls, Ac, &0., at Jiiw Manhiub's Finoy Repository, Saundars' Buildings. WANTED Known— To the liadien of Ashburton and enrronnding dla^rlcto, th»t »n experienced monthly NurßO is destroas of engagement. Gnod references can be given. Address — Mrs Hill. Peter Street. Aahbortno. 11 18 Sale at Melford House.— H. O. Segers. "TTTaNTED Known— Wells sank, with VV pnmp and pipe found »nd fixed, from £2 10* apwirdi All kinds of pumps, Rtnges snd house-smith work fixed or repaired. Chimneys swept and ranger oleßt>ed,3s. Registers 1b 6d each Alt orders punctually attended to. Note address, B. Dudley, Moore street, A»h- bartoo, U 22



Tho best medicine is Sander and Sons' Eucalypti Extraat. Test its eminent power- ful effect b m coughs, colds, influenza, etc — the relief is instantaneous. Thousands give the most gratifying testimony. His Majesty the King of Italy and medioal syndicates all over the globe are its patrons. Head the official reports that accompany eaoh bottle. We have no oooasion to offer rewards m proof of tho genuineness of our references. The official reports of medioal clinics md univer- sities, tho pfjiojeial communication of the Oonaul. General for Italy at Melbourne : the diploma awarded International Exhibition, Amsterdam— all theso are authentic doou. ments, and, as suoh, not open to doubt. We ndd here epitome of one of the various oases treated at the olinio of Sohultz, M.D.. Pro- fossor. etc.—" 0.8., 21 years old ; coDges- tional abscess on tho thigh. Inoicions is made m two places. Although Lister's dressing was applied, the seoretion became, two days later, very copious, and bad adopted a foetid, decomposed character. The temperature rose enormously. In consequence the dressing was remoucd, and on its place were made | during the day-time repeated irrigations with Eucalypti Extract. The offensive footer dis- appeared very soon, tho fever abated within ! a few days, and the patient recovered after I the lapse of several weeks. In this instanaa ' we must not lose eight of the fact that the i lattor treatment Bayed, tbt patient's. Hfg.'W ;<;4dTt.) t? a



J.G.-RESTELL&CO., (LATS TUCKER & BESTELL), Timber and Coal Merchants, WEST STREET, HAVE made fresh arrangements for supplies of all classes of TIMBER Requisite for Bail ding Purposes of Asbburion. Regular Deliveries from Southland, con- sisfnff of — Red and White Pines, And from Thames, Harelock, and other Northern Ports of Best Dressed Floorings and linings, The Quality of the Milling being such aa w 11 give entire satisfaction. A Carjto of ASSORTED TIMBER, RED AND WHITJ*. PINES and MATAT, just received ex " Alert." * A LARGE ASSORTMENT OP KAUHI, FLOOKIKG LINING. SHELVINGS, MOULDINGS, SKIRTINGS, ARCHITRAVES. Kept under cover and m gco 1 order, dry ard eeanoned. TOTAIU and BLACK PINE of all HK3B-the veiy b.'et- coinit'g from tie lerawcr.* taw Mills. Jus! taken Mo >-tcck ij " Langntone" — GALVANISED IRON, Orb Brand, SHEET LEAD, ZINC, CEMENT. Fencing Wirf, (I avbed and p'aiii), Boiled It iw Oil and Cue<ur OH, Red and . W hi c Lea<J. NEWCASTLE, WESTPOIIT AND MOUNT SOMEKS COAL Always m s'ook and delirered at any Rail fray Station at lowest possible quotation*. Town O*d*bs Fbopivb ?iiou?r Atms'iion. AGENTS FOR Northern Fire Asautance Co. Colonial Mutual life Association Mr B. F. Wrigbt's Mount F^mcrs coal J. G. BESTELL & CO.



JOHN ORR & CO.'S GREAT CHEAP SALE —OF— SUMMER STOCK, DRAPERY, m CLOTHING, MILLTNERY, MANTLES, &c. 1 Commences on WEDNESDAY, December 28th. ASTONISHING BARGAINS IN EVERY DEPARTMENT. NOTE !— The Great Sale for the Season is at John Orr and Co.'s



TRY KIEKPATRICR'S JAM. CAUTION. —I VTONB is 'genuine unless our name is jji stamped on earh tio, and h; 8 our Roistered -Trade .Mai-, " Lora Nelson, en the label. TRY KIBKPATBICK'SJ TOMATO SAUCE. THRmOst jfeticiouß flaror'ng'for Cold Meats, Chops Steaks, Eonpe Gravies &c &c. Wool Season, 1887-88. WE are prepared" to make IIBERAL CASH AbVANCKS egalDßt La^ge or SM\LL Otip of Wool, whether in- tended for Sale In . 4SHBUBTON OR ELSE- WHERE. We have made moat latlsf actory a- range aaents for BBIPPING OLIEBTS 1 WOOL, If price* realised m Ashbnrton are cot considered satisfactory. It (a cur Intention to hold PERIODICAL WOOL SALES Ihtoaghoat theße»son, Of which dae notice will be given, and •B<mr GHAIS sTOKE, whico w»o con- atrocted with doe rot?Md to LIGHT, will be EMPTY, ire shall have an opportunity of displaying the Wool to the very best advsnUpe, which should be a diitderataa* te the Seller/ Charges exactly the same as OLrlstoharcb; Farmeri, consult your beat Interests, and Sell lie »lly, thereby saving Railway Frdigh.. WOOLPACKsTaNI; TWINE OF TIT BE*T QUAUTY SUPPLIED. 11. MAPQJT & CO. j



F.tLYon SGHOENEBERG, FRENCH POLISHER, CABINETMAKER, UPHOLSTERER, AND UNDERTAKER, HAS opened Id Premises (next W a Patching) East street, *nd hopes to receive a fair Bhare of pnWtc Biippor t. bebi prepared to MAKE FURNITURE «oy doeißD to order at OHRISTCHUKOH RATES. Pianos and Furniture re- pollahod at very low rates. X; McOallum FAMILY GROCER AND TEA DEALER, FOWLEE'S BUILDINGS, TANORFD BTRFE<\ HAS tow m Stock a Large aDd Very Soperor lot of Goods for the Christnwß Tra^e. Aleo,— NEW FRUITS. SEW FRUITS. Aleo,— Just onpacked. a lot of U«ef v Crockery, cheap and well-assorted. Note the Address: — R. McCallum, GROCER, &c. TANORED STREET. ' W. H, Paget.j BLAOKBMITH, HORSK-SHOER, &W HEEL WRIGHT, AND GENERai, SMITH, Bubnb r Stbb't, nest " Mall " Office. BEGS to announce that he ha« taken over the Coach Bollding and Wheel* aright Branch, lately carried on by H. Peat, and will continue all branches of the above boelnes* as before. All kind* of Buggies, Drays, or Carts made and re- paired. Agricultural Implements repaired promptly. Horses Shod with nklll and care. ., at w! h. paget.



ALBEET ROBEETS GAS FOR SALE,— Clovers,— RED, WHITE, OOWGRASS, ALSYKE, and TREFOIL. RYEGRASS, COCKSFOOT, and RAPE. | Golden Tares, Cape Barley, fBSD FEAB, SBED OATb (various I inds),ORIj SHED BEANS PLOUGB,SHABEB COOPER'S SEEEP DIP, Acker vledfd to b« THE LEST W THE MARKET