The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1888. CUERENT TOPICS.

We hope the members of the Educa tion Board will see their way to yield to the repeated request of the Borough School Committee — -backed up as it has been by a numerously-signed memorial of the householders — and abandon its inten tion of making a change m the head mastership. No doubt the recent inspector's report was not all that could be desired but there have been difficulties and drawbacks to contend with which might easily have brought about a some what unsatisfactory report, without the necessary implication of grave fault on the part of Mr Kneen. The Committee and the parents of the children attending the school — who ought to be the best judges— are well content with the work performed by that gentleman, and are confident that another year s experience will fully justify the stand they are now taking. Under these circumstances the Board should certainly give way and we hope that it will do so with a good grace.

As we were confident would be the case, the visit of Ministers to Central Otago has wonderfully changed their views as to its nature and capabilities and has convinced them ;-' of the ex pediency of completing railway co*tri mumcatiou between its fertile lands and the coast. It has also shown them, what we have frequently contended for, viz., that that communication ought to be afforded not only with the port of Port Chalmers bnt also with that of Oamaru. It is to be expected therefore that the Government Jwill next cession submit definite proposals for the com • pletion of the Otago Central Railway as far as Eweburn or possibly (and we hope this will be thejjease) as far as Clyde, as well as for the construction of a dray road from the Kyeburn Flat to the present terminus of the Windsor-Living stone branch railway at Tokorahi. The latter is indeed already promised, Ministers having undertaken to propose a vote of £6000 for the purpose — the balance (about an equal sum) to be provided by the Maniototo and Waitaki County Councils. The Councils named may easily aryange fco provide their quota by taking advantage of the " Government Loans to Local Bodies Act." Alto gether the outcome of Ministers' visit promises, we think, to be very satisfac tory.

Poor Rudolph Eadkal Acquitted with acclamation of the charge of arson upon which he surrendered to take his trial he is pounced upon on the charge of prison-breaking and sentenced to four months' hard labor. There is an ugly look fibout his being brought up on this charge without any intimation to his counsel, and vre are not surprised that the latter has declared his intention of looking into the matter further. Of course if it be true that Radjca really broke out of gaol, his being defended by counsel would not have availed him anything, but if it be true as he alleged, that he simply walked out by an open door, then though this may be construc tive prison-breaking m the eye of the law, it nevertheless does seem hard that it should be visited by go severe punish ment.

We reprinted the other day from the " Mail" an interesting article compiled from information contained m the letter of " Telemachus " to the " Melbourne Argus" on the subject of the great irrigation works going on at Mildura, Victoria. From the same authority we gather the following information tending to show that the prospects of those who are going m for fruit culture on the settlement formed by the Messrs Chaff ey are of a very promising character. Pointing to the experience of fruit growers m California, Telemachus says : — " Irrigated orchards yield there, if m apples, £10 a year ; m apricots, £20 ; m figs, £40 ; m peaches, £40 ; m raisin grapes, £50 ; m oranges, £120 ; and, marvellous estimate if accurate, m olives, £800," These are we presume the figures per acre, and if so, and the Mildura settlers can produce anything like the same results, then they have indeed a good enterprise m hand. Another item with regard to this interesting settlement will be read with pleasure by our teetotal, or as they call them now m England our " hydropotist" friends, vis,, that tl*e Messrs Chaffey will not now or at any future time permit the sale of fermented or spiritu ous liquors ; a clause to that effect is inserted m every deed of conveyance, fl They acknowledge (says Telemachus), that it may be hard on the man of moderation to find himself for a day or two deprived of his customary and .harm less comforts, but they know also from much ejcperience that with the introduc tion Oi r * n k m $*& ordinary way would come trouble anu without end, neglect of work, demorano* tloa of ftU sorts, and probably crime."

LOCAL AND GENERAL

A lunoheon will be provided m connection ' with the Christmas Tree and Sale of Work at the Primitive Methodist Ghuroh on Saturday at twelve o'alock, and tea at any hour during the afternoon, The gathering should be well patronised. Hezekiah Jones' milk trade has not been a success of late, one family, whose custom was most liberal, having decamped m the 1 night without payment. " But of course you \ watered tbe milk, and so didn't lose muoh," said Mra Sorewdriver, m a conciliatory way. " No," said Hezekiah ; " that's where it 'urta — that's where it galls. They wos new customers, and I had't started worterin'." Then he took himself to the pump-handle with inoreased vigour and sent out for some obalk.

The New Zealand Dairy Association at Auckland, owing to the rise m dairy produce, have notified to the farmers that they will give 2£d per gallon, with the skim milk returned free, for the remainder of the summer. This is an increase of a farthing per gallon upon the agreement m November. The Association's creameries are supplied with milk to the extent of one million pounds weight, which this month will be inoreaaed by 25 to 60 per oent. Exclusive of looal sales, 22 tons oftbutter were exported. Mrs Blade, of Hazelhurst, U.S., has insti tuted a divoroe suit whioh is a curiosity. She demands a divoroe on four grounds: 1. That, owing to her defeotive eyeßight, Bhe was not able to tell exactly what kind of a man Mr Slade was, and that she had dis covered sinoe her marriage that he had a ware on his nose. 2. That he snores m Bleep, so that she is kept awake. 3. That he has never kissed her sinoe they were married. ii That she wants to marry again. Her attorney is satisfied that he oan prove ever; allegation m the auit. The law against the use of profane language is terribly severe m Germany as may be inferred from a oase lately before the Imperial Court at Leipsio on appeal. A farmer was heard by two of his servants to swear at an ox, and was accused before the looal tri bunal, whioh inflicted a sentence of three month's imprisonment. This has now been confirmed by the Imperial Court, on the ground that the blasphemous language wae aotually heard by two servants and might hava been heard by anyone else who hap pened to be paßßing.

In a recent artiole on the poverty df our publio men m the «• Pall Mall Gazette," it is stated that Mr Gladstone is not as well off as he might have been had he devoted his energies to other than publio affairs. He resisted when m office a motion for increase of salary: He has taken no pension, though ho is entitled to one. When he left offioe. says one of his biographers, "the numerouß claims upon him are understood to have compelled the sale of his remarkable oolleotion of valuable china and articles of vertu. There was something dramatically suggestive m Mr Agnew's bid of £35,000 m a lump sum, for the Marlborough gems." "Here for the present," said the "Times" of June 29, 1875, "ends one of the moat remarkable sales of an art property whioh has evar ooourred m the annalß of auctions m this oountry." Mr Gladstone not only sold his house, but his library. Sir Arthur Guinness bought the formerjOLord Wolverton purchased the latter, to return it to Mr Gladstone* as a gift.

An American paper says Mrs Langtry will, m all probability, retire into private life after the fulfilment of the contraot already made for the coming season. 1 She went upon the ■tage to make money, and has made it. From reliable souroes it is learned that her wealth is not far from one million dollars. Her oommission to her late manager, Geo: Keogh, who iB now m Europe to look up and buy for her a new play, is insignifioant, it is said, only mso far as an investment. When she does begin her work it is probable that she will follow her usual custom of buying property m every town where she appears, that she believes to be a thriving plaoe. This is the seoret of her accumulation of wealth. Her real estate is valued at 800,000 dollars, and she has acquired it by her own shrewdness. In New York she holds Bixty or more first mortgages, and she also has considerable landed interests m Brooklyn, while m Cali fornia and numerous western towns her name appears upon the list of taxpayers and free. holders. In 1887 she bought ten aores of land m Salt Lake City for 5000 dollars; Last' season she refused 8000 dollars for the property. Her purchase of realty m California last year was 45,000 aoreg, for whioh she paid 80,000 dollars. Lately she refused ,2oo,ooo dollars for the same.

A very suooessful entertainment was given by the children attending the Tinwald School on December 11th m the Templa* Hall. Mr Gorrigan, Chairman of tbo Sohool Oortf. mitteo, filled the chair. A short adaptation of the story ol " Bed Biding Hood ". was aoted by the young people, the part p.f $ec| Biding Hood being well filled by May Lewis, while Charles Smith made a oapital wolf. The rest of the programme consisted of piano forte pieces, songs, recitations, and a dialogue entitled " Stealing the Sugar," m whioh the young thieveß were disturbed by the appear a^noe of '• bogey " through a trap floor ip the (»ble. A pianoforte dpet by Bertha Jep^ao n (six years of age) and Anjy Ol»rk (seven) was well rendered for euob young performers. The reoi. tations were generally well given, but "Ourfew must not ring to-night," by Annie Lewis, oalls for special mention. The action songs of the younger children Bhowed oareful train ing on the part of Miss Bishop, and were well appreciated by the audience. The Rev A. Blake, In a few appropriate words, oon gratulated the children on tha suooeßa of their efforts, and moved a vote of thanks to the teachers. A very pleasant evening's amuse ment was brought to a close bj singing " God save the Queen," The great American tillage orop is Indian corn or maize. The area oovered by maize last year, although reduced by drought, was 51 per cent, of that of all cereals together, and its product was 55 per cent. The maize orop would cover Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, \ with a slioe of lowa m addition. Its area is double that of wheat, and four times that of cotton. It is now grown m every State and territory m the Union, although sparingly m those of high altitude auoh as the Rooky Mountains region; The supply of maize is enlarged rather than diminished as popula tion increases. It waß 255 bushels m 1850, 26 6 bushels m 1860, 29-7 bushels m 1870, and 35 bushels per head m 18.30. The orop, large as it is, is exported only m BtnaU pro* portion, only 4 per oent. of the production of seventeen years having been sent out of the country, the home demand being 96 per cent. It is a orop of whioh railways carry but a small part, less than one-fifth, crossing State boundaries. Half is used for feeding stook, one-tenth for human food, and four-tenths for the food of working aqimals. For spiritp eoarcely one per cent, is qaed. TJie acreage of maize for the present year is iar the largest area ever grown.

The city of Reading, Pa., had a remarkable visitation of moths on the evening of August 1* Myriads of them invested the air, re sembling at a distance a snowstorm. They were first noticed flying around the eleotrio lights about eight o'olook, and gradually increased to such numbers as to obsoure the brilliancy of the lights. Passengers on the street oars, as they passed under the lamps, were covered with insects, and handkerohiefs, hats and fans were nlisd vigorously to keep them off. Fires were built under the lights, and heaps of moths were burned. Saloon men were compelled to oloso their front doors to keep out the pests, which were attracted to the bar rooms by tbe bright lights. The doors and windows of dwelling houses had also to be kept dosed to beep them out. Looal savants pronounced them cotton moths, and they evidently came from the south. They are said to precede a hot wave,' and a deoided rise m the tempera ture is predioted. At JSaston, Fa, butter flies by the thousands flew around the 64 eleotrio lights, lit on the carbons, and then dropped dead m the globes. When the men who renew the oarbons visited the lights they found on an average two quarts of dead butterflies on eaoh globe, a total of four bushels, besides the lot that had fallen on the ground during the night.

Keating'? Powder destroys bpth mot|i, fleas beetles, and all other insects, while quite harmless to domestic animals. In exterminat ing beetles^ the success of this powder is extraof* iUaiy ' It >§ perfectly plean m appli catSr'see the &x^ ?»* purchase js Keatings as imitations are noxious and Irl' effectual Sold Ja tins, 6d, is, and as 6d by all cheaaulg

As will be seen by advertisement m this issue our local solicitors' offioes will be olosed for the Ohrismas holidays from 24th to 29th December inclusive. All the banks m Ashburton will remain , closed for tha Christmas holidays on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday next, as per adver tisement m our oolumns. Aooeptanoes for the handicaps and Trot and entries for the Maideu Plate and Hack Raoe at the Ashburton Tradesmen's Racing Club's Meeting olose on Saturday evening at nine o'olook. By a mischance a letter of apology from Mr W. C. Walker only reached the Town Clerk this morning instead of yesterday. The letter stated Mr Walker's regret at Sling unavoidably prevented from attending at the Mayor's installation, and oonveying his best wishes to the Mayor and Oounoil. The Master of the Aahburton Home wishes to acknowledge, with thanks, the reoeipt of £Q from Rev. J. N. Buttle, taken as the oolleotion on the oooasion of the reoenfc leoture delivered by Mr D. H. Brown m the Wesleyan Ghuroh; The money will be devoted towards a Christmas dinner for the inmates. We have been shown a very finely got up lithographic portrait of the Primate of New Zealand, Bishop Harper. The portrait is a very strikjng and faithful likeness of the i venerable Bishop, and is issued as a supple ment to this week's issue of the "Weekly Press." ' The Crawford-Hunter party of Soottish Yooalists open m Ashburton on Saturday evening. Of the oompany's appearance m Timaru last night, the " Herald " says :— Altogether the evening's amusement was of a kind never before seen m Timaru. The company iB not numerous, but there is a refinement and artistic grace running through the entertainment whioh at once commands the attention and arouses great interest among the audience.

Another revolution m motive power is pro miae3. The " Scientific Amerioan " of a late date says :— •" Several newspapers have referred to a new invention by one William Timmins, which, if Bucoesaful, will revolu tionise motive power. The inventor is an unpretentious English meohanio residing at Pittsburg, Perm,, who olaims to have invented a inaohine by whioht united motive power oan be stored or used without the expenditure of fuel. The story goes that he has been engaged for years m perfecting the invention, and is now negotiating with the Governments of England, Russia and the United Stateß for the sale of the right to use his disoovery, whioh, if after examination it proves to be ' what it olaims, will revolutionise the motive power of the world. He olaims to be able to oreate a preasure of 20,0001 b per square inoh —more than sufficient to propel the largest ooean steamer afloat, or to move 80 laden freight oars m one train. The machine seems to be simply an air compressor of the simplest sort. It consists of one small oylinder (six horse- power), with a balance weight of 75ib, whioh runs the entire ap paratus ; another small oylinder 5 inches m diameter, with 7in stroke, compresses the air into a tank from whioh the power is utilised. Under the piston'plate the inventor has plaoed two layers of bars containing 11 different minerals, the magnetio influenoe of which is the seoret of the invention. The advantages, he olaims are durability, eoonomy, and simplicity. Experts have ex amined the machine and pronounce it a success. In submitting his design to the Governments named, Mr Timmins olaims that the pneumatio generator oan not only be applied to war vessels as a motor, Jbut oan be used as a defenoe against hostile attaoks by means of air chambers plaoed behind the armour plating'" The best medioine known is' SANDER and SONS' EUCALYPTI EXTRACT. Teat its eminent powerful effeots m coughs, oolda, influenza, eto. — the relief is instantaneous, Thousands give the most gratifying testimony. His Majesty the King of Italy, and medical syndicates all over the globe, are its patrons. Read the official reports that accompany eaoh bottle. We have no occasion to offer rewards m proof of the genuineness of our references. The offioial reports of medioal oliniCi and universities, the offioial oommunioation of the Consul-General for Italy at Melbourne; the diploma awarded International Exhibition, Amsterdam— all these are authentic docu ments, and, an such, not open to doubt. We add here epitome of one of the various cases

treated by Siegen, M.D., Professor, eta : Burning of the right hand through the ex-, plosion of a small oil stove. The epidermis on the Tolar and palmer side of the hand of the thirty-year-old patient was completely separated and lifted up as far as the joint of the hand. The likewise lifted nails were hanging loose, and half of the phalanx of the nail of the middle finger was coaled. The wounds thus contracted healed m three weeks under daily applications of Eucalyptio Extract dressing. The patient has retained the full use ol the hand.— (Advt.J 1

THE WEATHER IN AUSTRALIA

(per press association.) Sydn.ev, December 19. Heavy rain fell again to-day, and reports from the country districts are now hopeful, except m the western distriot. .

THE SIEGE OF SUAKIM.

(per press association.) London, December 18, There fs a growing feeling m favor of a British protectorate over eastern Soudan and it is contended that if this be eftected, the various tribes would gladly expel the adherents of the ivlahdi from the country. Several gentletnen well able to express an opinion on the subject declare that a chartered Trad ing Company would be the best and most speedy peacemaker m the Soudan. Suakim, December 18. A battle with Osman Digna's forces is imminent.

Several light skirmishes have taken place between the garrison troops and the rebels. London, December Is. In the House of Commons to-day Sir James Fergusson, m an apologetic speech on behalf of the Government, said he believed it to be hopeless to parley for the release of Bmin Bey and Stanley. The military estimates were conr sidered m the Commons to day. Mr John Morley moved a reduction m the Suakim vote. Mr Gladstone supported the amend, ment. Lord Randolph Churchill made a furious attack on the Government, and said he was prepared to move a vote of censure at an opportune time. The estimates eventually passed without reduction by a majority of I ninety. During the debate on the amend ment for a reduction m the military estimates, Sir Evelyn Baring, British Ambassador, was denounced as a tool of the military party. Suakim, December 19. Deserters from the ranks of Osman Digna report that the Arab trenches are m bad condition. They state great distress prevails among the rebels, and the latter have suffered heavy loss from shelling by the British gunboats.

(Keoelved Deoorabet 20, 12.45 p.m.) London, Deoember 19. fir J. Fergasson stated m the House of Commons that Government believe Oeman Digna's letter to be a ruse, because it was impossible to travel from Lado to I£hartojim iv the space of time m which it is asserted tUe news of the capture reached the Mahdi. It was an igqoble proposal to make that the English trpops should retire before the inflolen\i V&porings of the beße|§;eys of Suskim • i - ■I

INDS WESLEYAN CHURCH.

The anniversary tea meeting m connection with the Hinds Wesleyan Ohuroh was held m the public school. The following ladies provided and presided at the tables:— Mesdames Paget, Norrish, MoDowell, Bowles, and the Misses Kitohingman. At the bachelors' table the Misses Norrish and Paget presided. A most bountiful spread was provided, whioh did credit to the ladies. After tea was over, and the room prepared, the public meeting was commenced. The Bay J. N. Buttle presided, and stated the objeot of the meeting. Mr Bowles read a most enoouraging report of the work and finanoßs of the Ohuroh. Exoellent and telling addresses followed by the Rev Bootbroyd, Messrs J. W. Sawle and S. Chapman. During the evening selections of music were rendered by the ohoir m a creditable style, and seemed to be thoroughly enjoyed by the audience, who were frequent m their applause. After the usual votes of thanka to the ladiea and other friends who had assisted to make the anniversary tea meeting a suooess, the proceedings were brought to a close by singing the Dojcology and the Chairman pronouncing the Benediotion. After the meeting a donation was given by a gentleman who was present for the purchase of an organ for the use of the Ohuroht

ASHBURTON BOROUGH COUNCIL INSTALLATION OF MAYOR.

Following is the conclusion of our report. " j The Mayor proposed the toast of the "retiring Mayor." The toast was warmly received. The retiring Mayor thanked the Council for the kind manner In whioh they had received the toast. He had done bin best during the time he had been m office. He had not had the opportunity of doing a great deal, and perhapß If he had he might not have succeeded. He was satisfied with what he had done. He had always acted conscientiously, and had endeavoured, as well as he was able, to carry ont the wishes of the Council. There waa much a Mayor, In hla position as euoh, oould do, and muoh he could nndo, thus causing trouble. Rf he were of that disposition He waa thankfal to s«y that the Mayors of Ashhurton had not been of the latter kind. Theyhad considered the interests of theßarongh right through, and if they had not the town would not stand m such a good position as It did at the present time, and with only a shilling rate levied Lit them look at other towns; none of these could flatter them selves with having the advantages of light, water, health, and good pathways, with only a rate of one shilling. He felt gratified that on retiring from the position of Mayor, that the Council should express Bach satisfaction with him, as was shown by the manner m which they had reoelved the toast, -• Councillor Scott proposed the toast of "The ex-Mayors," coupled with the name of Mr K. Frledlander.

Mr R Frledlander did not know why the duty of responding to the toast should fall on his shoulders, because In looking round the room he saw both older and younger ex-Mayors than himself. He had very much pleas are m acknowledging the hearty way m whloh the toast had been aooepted, The Mayoral ohalr was not always a bed of rosoe, and he was pleased to hear the new Mayor say that he found it easy and comfortable. Daring his (Mr IVled knder'B) term of offioe &s Mayor, he alt e found it easy and comfortable, because he always had the support of the Oounoll, and as long as a Mayor worked well with the Council, be wonld find the office a pleasant one. However, circumstances might arise when there was a disagree ment, and he could not say that these disagreements were altogether bad things, because if matters went smoothly .from year's end to year's end bo ma persona outside wore apt to say that the Council was " * happy family," and worked as it suited them. He thanked them for the manner m whioh the toast had been received

Mr Ei. "Frledlander propoßed the toast of the " Boroagh Oouaoll." He was very muoh pleaded that, this toaßt had boat) placed la bis hands because he had had the pleasure of having a seat on the Council for Beveral years, and he knew that the gentlemen who comprised the body were always willing to devote their time and attention to the interests of the ratepayers. If gentlemen did tbat, with out receiving aoy remuneration It showed that It wet a work of love to them. The Mayor had made anme remarks aB to the administration of Charitable Aid for this district. Thfs was a matter ffhioh had cropped up on previous occasions, and the member for the district. Mr Walker, wra ontitled to credit for the endeavors which he had made to secure for ABhbur ton district the administration of its own Charitable Aid. He trusted the Council wonld not rest until it bad secured the separation of Ashburton from Christ ohuroh district. B[e also alluded to the works which the Council ha-3 carried out .without any Increase on the shilling rate. Strangers always remarked with surprise that each great Improvements should be carried out, with euoh a small rate. The toast was responded to by his Worahip the Mayor, who remarked that they were all proud of their town ; their ■treets ; their water works : and they would be proud of their Domain, when it passed Into their hands. What had been done m the past had been done well, and he trusted, and Indeed he felt sure, that the business of the Counoll would be done equally well m the future. Councillor. Williamson proposed the 11 Ashburton County Oounoll." In doing •o he referred to many gojd works that had been oarried out by the County Oounoll. When the Borough Oounoll had oooaßlon to approaoh the members of the County Oounoll they had alvrnya been met m a moat friendly and liberal spirit. The Borough bad mjoh to thank the Oounty Oonuoil for, and as an Instance of this he mentioned the presentation of the Iron pipes at the time the Borough had under consideration a high pressure water supply. The body referred to hacj carried out their own works m & most commendable manner, and bad deservedly earned tie reputation of being one of the foremost looal bodies of the oolony.

Or Frledlander responded. Be regretted that the Chairman of the County Oounoil waa not present, but In responding to the toast it gave him great pleasure to testify to the good work that had been done throughout the county. Quite reoently the Oounoil had Inaugurated a soheme of irrigation and at of a trial held at the Irrigation Farm yesterday, very great surprloe was expressed at the roaults that had been obtained m connection with the growth of the pasture., The other toaata proposed were " oar Rlembera," proposed by the Mayor, end . responded to by Or Frledlander ; " our ! Banker," proposed by Or Tucker and ■eoonded by the ex- Mayor (Me A. I Harrison) : the " offioera and employes of 1 the Cannot]," proposed by Or Se-ily *nd responded to by Mr 0. B. Fooko" (the Town Clerk); the "Solicitor to the Ooanoll and the Valuator," propoaed by the ex-Mayor and responded to by Mr E. Q. Orlop and Mr *V. Home ; the " Commercial, Agricultural and Paßtoral interests of Nevr Zealand," propoaod by the Mayor, and responded to by Mr D. H. Brown and Ors Williamson, Fried lander, and Tucker; "the Press" proposed by Or Williamson " and responded to by Mr E. J. Paul. *

His Worship the Mayor formally de olered a vioancy la the Oouaoll, and tho Retarnlng offioec waa loatruoted to take the neoeaaary proceedings to fill the vnoancy. '

LONGBEACH ROAD BOARD

The monthly meeting of the Longbeaoh Koad Board wan held on Friday. Present : Messrs J. Grlga; (Chairman), J . William?, J. Shearer, S. Holland, and A. Dawßon. CORRESPONDENCE. Letters were read-(l) From Mr J. ML Cambridge asking the Board to give him a testimonial for poisoned wheat. — Laffc m the hands of the Chairman; (2) From Mr J. Stalker for permission to deepen drain on Ford's roai to take flood water off nig land.— Granted. The work to be dono to the satisfaction of the Baard'a surveyors. (3) From the Ashbarton County Ooanoil {nfo-mlng the Board that the uiual aabaldy o li per 100 for small blrdB 1 eggs and he*da would be paid. (4) From the aame m repiy to the Board's letter re repairs, etc , to bridges on ! Terwee road. (5) From Me A. H. Palmer apply ng for the offloe of clerk and surveyor to tha Board. — The Clerk to reply that the effioa is not yet vaoant. (6) From Charitable Aid Board forwarding oopy of BalanoA-sheot, surveyor's report. Tbe Surveyor's report was read as follows :— 1. Boundary Road— On the 23rd ult we in speoted the western portion of this road from the Hinds to the Windermere road with the Chairman of the Board, and Mr Dobson, Chairman of the Coldstream Koad Board, when it was found the following works re. quired immediate attention : — (1) Access to be formed and levelled to the Hinds river bed from the end of the boundary road, and ap proaches made to ford.— (2) Benewing at a higher level a small bridge over stream near the Hinds.— (3) Partially re-deoking bridge over creek eastward otthe last.— (4) Raising and repairing bridge at the junotion of the Windermere road.— (s) Clearing ditch on the N.W. side of Boundary road about 30 chains westward from the Windermere road. The j approaches to the Hinds (No. 1) rendered necessary by the construction of the embank ment and protective works at the riverbed at the end of the road were entrusted by the Chairman to Mr Pawoett, the contractor for the protective works to oarry out. We have examined the work since completion, and oonsider the oharge made reasonable. For other works we advertised for tenders whioh will be laid before you to-day. We would, however, submit our opinion that it would be more advantageous for the Board to employ their own man for bridge repairs of this oharaoter, as some of the old stuff might be conveniently used up at the same time m patohing other bridges, etc 2. Chatmoss Road Drainage— We have also examined the proposed plan of drainage of the Chatmoss road near the boundary road, that is the forming of a ford m the Chatmoss road to convey the flood waters towards the western Hide of the road and then westerly along the boundary road to the first outlet flrossing, the last named road. The clearing of the boun dary road drain whioh is an integral portion of the plan and absolutely necessary, is, we understand, about to be done by Mr Williams, the owner of the adjacent land. When this is carried out, we believe it will give the relief I sought for by the owners of land on the eastern side of the Chatmoss road as the drain on th 6 boundary road east of the Ohatmosa would not then be blooked by the flood waters, and would be free to oarry the drainage now m a measure dammed back. It will, how ever, be neoessarv that the latter drain be properly oleared out,

3. Bridge, Grice'a oreek— With respeot to the advisability of placing a bridge m lieu of a ford on the oreek across the boundary road and running through Mr Stoddart's land, we are not prepared to give a decided opinion without taking a eat of levels; Ono thing, however, is necessary, which is the makiag of a better outlet through Mr Stoddart's by widening and clearing the oreek south easterly. The question then arises whether the ford oould be deepened sufficiently to pive perma nent relief to the land on the upper side of the road. In this oase, as well as m respeot of the oreek near Mr Frisby'a running through E.S. 15789 and reserve 930, it is a question as to whether the oonstruo tion of the ford may not have had the effect, m some measure at least, of raising the normal levels of the creeks on the upper or higher Bides of the respective roads. Tak ing this view of the matter, we should wish to obtain further data by taking systematic sets of levels thajt would enable us to form a more reliable opinion, and also to present a more comprehensive report on the whole question of drainagg m thig portion of the district. 4. Longbeiioh Boad and South Road—ln order to effeot the improvement required for the carrying off the storm water, etc, from the south road near its junotion with the Long beaoh road, we are of opinion that the plan suggested of removing the present oulvert and forming a ford m the south road and carrying the water m a drain to be constructed on the eastern side of the Langheach roa d, ia adyis. able* By makiqg a drain about 6ft wide and spreading the spoil therefrom evenly on the aide, whioh has been sooured out by flood ■water, and m some plaoes using the shingle on tha crown of the road, the ,road itself would be much improved. In addition, we advise that a catch-water drain, of say half the width be formed on the western Bide, and the drain already existing for some length of the road towards the creek, be deepened,— We estimate the coat at about £50 to £55,— 1n this case muoh relief would be obtained by widening and clearing the oreek running through U.S. 15789, and reserve 930, as it is m its present state quite insufficient to carry off the amount of drain age water it ought to, and the adjacent land is consequently water-logged and unfit for cultivation;

5. Ford's Road— Mr Hampton applied that the culvert across, this road, opposite BS. 7753, should be removed and a fora substi tuted. We hardly think that the desired end, that is of providing a better outlet for the water, will be obtained by this means, unless the outlet and waterway below the road be enlarged and olearod out. The culvert is large enough to oarry a good body of water, larger m faot, than the outlet can carry without overflow, and we would, therefore, recommend at all events, before going to the expense of the alteration, that the mouth of the drain below the oulvert should ha im proved by clearing and widening. 6. Flemington Bridges— We have examined the two bridges Rear the Cheese Faotory, and find that Borne of the timbers m both are shewing marka of decay. We oan hardly define the extent without removing some of the decking. The bridge over the oreek requires re-deoking, and the hand raila are bad ; the piles and plates and the outer stringers shew that rot has oommenoed, and the same re marks apply, though, perhaps, not quite to the same extent, to the bridge at the junotion of the Wheatstone and Ford's roads, the deoking is sounder than the other, but these are evident signs of deoay m some of the I lower timbers.

7. Culvert at Wheatafcone— We have asked for a price for clearing the culvert and drain that was applied lor by several ratepayers m the neighborhood, but shall not receive the estimate till to-morrow. 8. Terraoe Road—The contractor for mak. ing drain m this road informed us that ho was not prepared to go on with the work. As instructed by the Chairman wo have let the work to the next tenderer, J. Skilling, at 9a per ohain. 9. Drains at Waterton— We have been to the mill at Waterton, and have seen Mr Protheroe on the subject of widening the main drain near the mill from the lower road towards the beaoh, about 14 chains. This work would, no doubt, be advantageous as there appear evidences of considerable soour and overflow, and the estimated price is reasonable. Clause 2 — Resolved to have the work done as reoommended, Clause 3—Sur veyors to take levels and report farther. Clause 4— Resolved to oall for tenders for the work as reoommended. Clause 6 — The Surveyors were Instructed to have I the bridges repaired. OUuse 9— Mr Protheroe's offer to do the work to the satisfaction of the Board's Surveyors for £14 was aooepted. The remainder of the report was adopted. CUTTING, BIVBR TERRAOE. Mr Wilson Interviewed the Board re aooaaa to his section at tbe mouth of the Aahbarton river, and asked the Board to grant him an amount for the necessary work. It was reßolvea that as the Board had already given Mr Wilson £3 towards the work It did not ace its way oletr to grant any more. TENDERS. Tendera were opened for irorkH adver. tH e( *j Rod. $he following ware acQepted|;«.

Forming part of Terrace road, P. Clifford at 4a per chain j works on Boundary road W. J. Sjlcook, repairing bridges £11* clearing drain 2s per ohaln, delivering ihlngle 2s 3d per yard.

MBTAL.

Mr Dawaon applied for some metal from the Board's pits. — It was resolved that Mr Dftwion have the metal at 2d per yard, ROT3TINB After transacting a quantity of routine business and passing accounts the Board adjourned.

DESPERATE AFFRAY

CONFIOT BETWEEN WHITES AND NEGROES. (PER PRESS ASSOOIAWOH.) New York, December 18. Information has been received of a serious conflict between whites and negroes at Wahalak, a small town m Mississippi, The dispute arose over the attempted rescue of a negro who had been arrested, and m the straggle twelve whites and 100 negroes were wounded. The whites succeeded m driving their opponents into a swamp, but further fighting is expected to Uk« place.

New Yobk, December It. It appears that the conflict between the whites and the negroes at Wahalak has been much exaggerated, and the disturbance is not so serious &b it was at first represented.

SPORTING.

SOUTH RAKAIA BOXING DAY SPORTS.

The following are the acceptances for tbo Three mile Saddlb Trot :— Star of Honor Rakafo Maori Bonny Black Bess Tommy Irish Kate Polly J»*y Our Pony The following ara entered for the Hukdlb Race:— Mr H. Harrison's Marmlon » Mr DowHn^'a Bob Mr Raanell'a Lord Barlefgh MrKerr'sßoy Gain's Barney For the Farmers' Plate :— Mr Harrison's Marmlon Mr Olarldge'a Viper MrDixon'sNap Mr Patteraon'a Mookory Mr Kerr's Zsalot Foe Flying Stakes :— • Mr Clark's Lotto Mr Olaridge'a Viper Mr Dlxon'a Nap Mr Kerr'a Zealot Mr Storry'a Ngala Mr Alexander's Dark Days For the Ladies Pubsb :— Mlaa Wilkln'a Lord Bnrlelgh Mies Pamell'a Mookery Mra W. Kerr's Zealot Mlas Laing'a Ngala Miss Dowliog'a Bob :

CORRESPONDENCE.

We do not hold ourselves responsible for the opinions expressed by our correspondents. THE LICENSING LAW.

TO THE KDITOB. Sik.—l had painful evidence the other day of the need of each letten «■ 'that of tbeßev E A. Scott, whfoh appeared In yon*, oolumna two or three weeks ago. Vißltlng a person who has been laid helpless by olokness for the last two months, she Informed me that on a reosnt Sunday her husband came hoasa drank. SLT 111 ?* 1 ? 1 " 8 "**;?»'••" oompletef; upset. It Is very evident that the local pnb oans are breaking the law by snpply. lngllquor to known residents, and If the police do not ccc to the matter the pqblle will have to take it op themselves, cither by appointing Vigilance Oommitteeß or In aome other way. I« m aware that tha rwßon m aome districts why the polloe do not take action more frequently la that: when a case is brought forward the. Magistrates are very nnwllllng to convict. But when a oiear oaae of this kind ooeara It la sarely time that the matter waa brought before the Minister of Juitlee, Truatlng this subject will have th« attention it deserves, I ana, etc . J.Booxwbotd*

ADDINGTON LIVE STOCK MARKET

Ohristohukoh, December 19. The advent of Christmas and the faat of ths yards not being opened next week caused an immense entry of stook m all olasaea and the weather being fine, the attendance was maah larger than usual.

Fat CArrus.- There was the largest entry that has been seen m these yards for two years, comprising some grand quality of beet m both oxen and Iheifera. Despite the large entry the demand was good and pricea for any thing of prime quality were firm: Prime ox beef was sold at 18a to 19s per lOOlba all through, while anything speoially ohoioe was eagerly snapped up for butchers deoorationß, at even higher prioes. One or two of this class, realised up to 23s per lOOlbu, but these !£ aB a o n£ ke £ aa , P arel y advertifling pur chases. The best lota entered were 32 head of thoroughly good Christmas steer beef sent m aooording to oußtom by the well-known grazier, Mr John Ferguson. This line waa sold by Messrs Bennetts Bros, three-year-oia steers ranging from £7 7s 6d to £8 a head. Some older and heavier bullooks went no to 19a 6d per lOOlba. Twenty-nine heifers and fat oowt realised from I7s to 18s 63 per lOOlba aooording to quality, but they were a pretty even lot. * nF^F™ 18 *'"""? 1 * sale m notoommenae till 4.45 p.m. and the entry being a large one I great interest was taken m it. There was ? ne P S? « f , prin i? Hampshire Down flheen from Mr Max Fnedlander'a farm, which realised 2Jd per lb. The sale was brink. despite the large quantity m, the demand for good quality mutton being equal to any former sale this month and prioeß remained firm at last week's quotations for that class. Inferior quality was not m fator of the "bt *n W being Pl6nty Ot 80 ° a Stor*Oatj;ij6.— Considering thaUthere was sp large an entry of fat atookit was surprising that there should also be a larger entry of fltorea than usual. The result was m favor of buyers where sales had to be effected. A great many lines, were, however, passed m as the demand waß far from equal to the supply. *

LAMBs.-There was'Ja very large entry o! fat lambs of all classes. About 450 wero yarded and were all Bold at prioea ranging Pigs and Calves.— There'was a Bmall entry of veal and pork'and the Bale being ho late m the evening many butohers had left and the sale fell fiat. Prioes for good Borts wen lower than last week, the beef supply having evidently oaused a surfeit.

THE ASHBURION GUABDIAN, THURSDAY DECEMBEB 20, 1888



TO CORRESPONDENTS Attention to the following rules trill save tbo writers of correspondence n g'^od deal of tconblo:— We cannot under- take to return rejectod communications, No notloe can be taken of anonymous communications. Whatever is intended for Insertion to this journal must be authenticated by the name and address of the writer, not neoeßsarily for pabll- oatlon, bat as a guarantee of good faith. Letterß and other communications la- tended for Insertion m the newa column shoald be addressed to The Editor ; BDd bll business communications, In- cluding advertisements,* addressed to f The Ashburton Publishing 00. THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN. From and after the 30th November, 1836, the terms of Subßoripticm to this journal will be as followsi viz. ; — 17 PAID IN ADVANCE Per Quarter.. 6s 6d by post, 9s 6d Half-year 12s 6d, by post, 18s 6d Year .. 24s Od, by poßt, 37s Od IF BOOKED Per Quarter. . 7s 6d, by post, 10s 9d „ Half-year 15s Od, by post, 21b 6d „ year .. 30b Od, by post, 43s Od Birtn, Marriage, and Death Notices, if paid for at the ime of insertion' 2s 6d each (stamps may sent as payment) if booked, 4s eaoh. Announcements of Births, Deaths and Marriages sent for publication from the country distriots require to be verified by the signature of the oerson BenrHno the notice, ■



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Holloway's Ointmrnt and Pills.— Diseases of the Bowels,— A remedy, which has been tested and proved m a thousand different ways, capable of eradicating poison- ous taints from ulcers and healing them up, merits a trial of its capacity for extracting the internal corruptions from the bowels. On rubbing Holtoway's Ointment repeatedly on the abdomen, a rash appears, aniasit thickens the alvine irritability subsides. Acting as a derivative, the ointment draws to the surface releases the tender intestines from all acrid matters, and prevents -inflammation, dysentery J and piles, for which blistering was the old-^M fashioned, though successful treatment, no^H from its painfulness fallen into disuse, tU^H discovery of this Ointment having proclainjHHfl A remedy possessing equally derivative. J^^H| p«fcctfy pwol«ss, powers, fIHH



Xmas. Xmas. THE New Zealand Clothing Factory Gives notloe to their Numerous Cmtomera that It is not their intention to give away ALMANACKS, PICTURES, Or any other useless Artlole, bat it Is their intention and desire to pltce within the means of all their celebrated MEN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING, And they now give notice that they have THIS DAY made Substantial Reductions In all Departments dating the Xraas and New Year Holidays. 00 TO THB N.Z. CLOTHING FACTORY For Genuine Bargains In Uenta' and Boys Clothing, Regatta Shirt*, Scarfs, Ties, Hosiery, Hats, eto. The very latest designs to hand. TAILORING. Salts to measure, £2 16s. Trousers to measure, 17s 6u, horn the newest check d and stripes. Oaatomerb c » n rel y upon • good fit and exoellent TrotZZ**?** 1 ? In every garment we undertake. FOSTER COLONIAL INDUSTRY AND BUT FBOJC THB NKW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. W. H. WEBBER, Manager.



GivJfiAT bearing sale of Boots. —We havn never marked any so cheap before.— H. C. Skgebs, Melford House. WANTED Known.— Beautiful Milli n9ry. A choice assortment is now being shown ; also Sunshades, Silk Gloves, Laceß, Scarfs, &c, at Andrew Übb'b. A'body Kens ye BOXtMa NIGHT SHEEP BBEABS, 11 A'a, BB A'b, and BBAUZ'a; and genuine Turkey Stones. — 8.0838T Aioobn, Saunderß Buildings. ; *\ 1 / ORSTBD Tweeds.— A Boantifnl VV Assortment -of Worsted Tweeds as exhibited at the late Show. Specially made to order for Andrew Obr. WANTED More Known— That S. W; Alcobn and Co. is the cheapest House m Ashburton, Great variety of Dress materials; Prints and Fanoy Galafeaa to choose from. 31 159 ~TT FANTED everyone to know that yV J. c « Duncan is a Land Broker, licensed to prepare and register TransferS| Mortgages, Encatnbranoes, Leases, Regis- tration Abstraots, Powers of Attorney, App'^ationa to bring Land under the Act, and evef description of internments undor the I'«»d Traneifer Act.— J.O. DrjNOAN, Arcade, 10J103 WANTED KNOWN— Th£t I have appointed Mbs Adams sole ?e:ent n Ashburton for the Eclipße Dye Works', i Christchurch. Ladies dresses and gentle- men's clothes cleaned or dyed. Seal Skins, Gloves and Feathers, Silks, Damask Cnrtains, Tabie Covers, Sashes Cleaned oj Dyed, etc., end all kinds of animal skins dretseil am* made up to order. — A. J. Chapman, 161 Armagh street, Christ- ohurch 130



Wanted j WANTED Known.— Davis 1 Herbal k Beer, Hop Tonlo, Ginger Beir, and Gingerade is the bast for Picno Parties. 12 132 WANTED Known, -Davis 1 Toy and Fancy B ziar open every even- ing. Come and see tbe Novelties 12 133 ~ Germina. Palatable, Digestible, not Beating Al Grocers, Daft Wullie BOXING NIGHT TTTANIED Known — Mrs Mfroh, W Drspsmaker, has returned fojn Sydney, and ro-commenced business in* Baunders' Buildings, next Mr B> Alcorn's 10 78 TTT ANTED Known. — That Miss YV Edwabds, Tailoress, is prepared to make Boys' Clothing, uleo Cuffing, Strap- ping, repairs and alterations, &c —Miss JfDWAKDS, corner Moore street and Belt. . 11 105 MRS ADAMS has removed to Sana- ders' BuUdings, opposite Railway Station. Crewel Silks, Wools, and Fanoy Goods of every description kept m etook. Agent for Eollpae Dye Worka. Registry office for Servants. 10 92 Jock Mcßaw BOXING NIGHT "TTTANTED Known.— Andrew Orr is W giving a Great Bargain m Boots* Girls' School Boots, Women'a Boots, 6s 6d, Men's. SALE of Boots and Shoes. We have marked our large stock of Boots and > Shoes with the intention of clearing them this month. Come and save money. — H. O. Segebs, Melford House. FOR genuine Ashburton Tweed Suits ready 'made, or to measure, fit and i quality guaranteed, and at prices un- equalled, go to R. Alcobn, Ashburton Clothing Mart, Sounders' Buildings. \~\T ANTED Known— That Mrs Bill, V\ Monthly Nuree, has removed from Peter Street to Df Trevor's house, In Moore Street. 10t39 XMAS, Xmas.— Andkkw Obr is show- ing Novelties In all Departments * for Xmas Presents, Auld Freens BOXING NIGHT TTTANTED Known— That S. W. ' XX Alcorn and Co. are selling at Warehouse prloe, a eplend'd lot of Lidles 811k and Otehmere Mantles, and Satin and I Fancy Sunshades, bought a bargain. No ' yalaa like them In Ashbnrton. BEFORE baying Boots and Shoes, etc, call and inspect one Clearing prloea. Will be to your advantage.— H. O. Seobbs, Melford House, WANTED Known.— Support Local Industry. Buy ycur Suits Aeh- • burton Iweed from 30a ; made to measure (and choose your own Tailor) from £3 10a. Anprew Orr.



D. Thomas. I HAVE for sale— Traction Threshing Plant with New Combine, Clayton »sd Shnttleworth ; beßt m the Distriot ; all the latest improvements. I HAVE FOR SALE— Several very desirable Farms, including some of the cst Wakanni land. I HAVE FOR SALE— Forster Combine % Elevator cheap I HATE FOR SALE— Robey Combine Angle Iron Frame ; nearly new ; only threshed 48,000 Bushels. Price £100. "~D. THOMAS, Ashburton, X AM A CABH BUYER OF BYEGRASB IN ANY QUANTITY. D. THOMAS, AehburtOD. PERIODICAL SALES AT METHVEN. MT text fia'o of LIVE and DEAI STOCK for th* METHVEN DISTRICT W]LL BE HELD IN METHVEN On Thursday, 20th Decembe: 1888 Messrs HIBBS BEOS, have kindl; oooßented to receive Entries, Clients will oblige by making thei Entries as soon as possible, so that the; may be properly advertised. D. THOMAS, Ashburton. WooL Wool. Wool I AM prepared to make Liberal Cai Advanoes on the growing ollpi of Wool Plaoed mmy hands for sale or eblpme either m Aahbnrton, OhrUtchurch, or ac tther Market. Wool Paeki and every requisite on Sale at loweat prioet, If no Sale effeotedfno Commission c Charges made, Ffrit sale early m November. D, THOMAS, 10 112 Ashburton. D. Thomas, (Late of Matboh, Cox and Co.), A UOTIONEER, LAND, INSURANO £L. and ESTATE AGENT, VALUATOR, WOOL AND GKAIN BROKER, ASHBURTON. Loans negotiated, Weekly Sales of Live Stook, Tinwald an Ashbarton alternately Fortnightly Sales of Sheepskins, Fat 1 Hides, etc, on FRIDAYS Sales of Wool throughout the Season Grain Bought and Sold on Commission Clearing dales as per arrangement AGENT FOB— If atson and Co., Obrlstohuroh Meroantlle Finance Co.,Ohr!itohnrch Colonial Inveatme&t Company, Dunedln National Mortgage Co., Chrlstcburch Booth, Maodonald and Co., Chriatoharot Morton and White's Sheep Dip Baokey* Reaper and Binder London and Lancashire Insurance Cc» .Attaham'i Foot Rot Composition. 6 D, THOMAS, Ashbarton. LONDON AND LANCASHIRE FIBE INSURANCE COMPANY, I HAVE been appointed Agent for the above Company, and am now pr*6< Hired to take Kisks on Buildings, Stock Crops at current ratep. D. THOMAS, Aahburton