MAIL NOTICE.

The Letter-box will be cleared for de spatch of correspondence from this office to the under-mentioned places, on and after Ist January, 1891, as follows :— For Christchurch and North, daily 6.30 a.m., 3.15 p.m., 6.20 p.m. ; and on Mon days, Wednesdays, and Fridays, at 10.30 | a.m. ; Chertsey and Rakaia, daily, 6.30 a.m., 3.15 p.m., 6.20 p.m. ; Methven, daily, 3.15 p.m. ; Dunsandel and Burn ham, daily, 3.15 p.m., 6.20 p.m. ; Selwyn, daily, 6.20 p.m. ; Dromore, daily, 6.30 a.m. ; Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, and Temuka, daily, 10.30 a.m. ; and on Tues days, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 3.15 p.m. ; Willowby and Eiffelton, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 10.30 a.m. ; Lismore, Tuesdays and Fridays, 10.30 a.m. ; Geraldine, daily, 10.30 a.m. ; Timaru, daily, 10.30 a.m., f£W p.m. ; and on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Satur-1 days, 3.15 p.m. ; Oaniaru, Dunedin, and ; South, daily, 12.30 .p.m. ; Greenstreet, and Ash burton Forks, Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, 6.30 a.m. ; Winch more, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Satur days, 6.30 a.m. ; Mount Somers, Springburn. and Alford Forest, daily, 4 p.m., Mayfteld, and Ruapuna, Mondays and Thursdays, 4 p.nl. ; Wheatstone, Ashton, Waterton, and Longbeach, daily, 4.30 p.m. ; Flemington, Mondays, Wed nesdays, and Fridays, 4.30 p.m. ; New land, Tuesdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. ; Elgin, Wakanui, Seaview, Seafield, and Kyle, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Satur days, 6.30 a.m. N.B. —Letters containing anything of value should be handed to the Postmaster to be registered. Letters containing coin, if posted un registered, will be compulsorily registered and charged double registration fee.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1890. AUSTRALASIAN PROGRESS.

We are indebted to a Taranaki contemporary for collating a number of very interesting statistics with re spect to the progress «made by the several colonies of Australasia, and of which we avail ourselves to enable our r«aders to .see at a glance how much has been accomplished, especially dur ing the past decade. On the 31st December, 1889, the estimated popula tion of the colonies severally was as follows:—• New South Wales 1,122,200 Victoria 1,118,028 New Zealand 620,279 Queensland 406,658 South Australia 324,484 Tasmania 151,472 West Australia 43,698 making the total for Australasia 3,786,819. It appears that during the 8f years that have elapsed since the 1881 census the Australasian colonies as a whole have increased their popu lation by about 1,040,000 as against not quite 820,000 during the previous ] 0 years, and less than 700,000 for the 10 years before that. In this period (i.e. since the census of 1881) the total population of New South Wales rose by 370,000, or about one-third ; that of Victoria by 250,000, or nearly a fourth ; that of Queensland by 190,000, or nearly a fifth; and that of New Zealand, by 130,000, or about an eighth, showing that during the period m question New Zealand's progress, as regards population, has been the least rapid of the four principal colonies. " The rate of increase is exceptionally high as compared with other countries, and it is estimated that the next census will show an Australasian population of close on 4,000,000. The Chinese contingent is set down at 47,433 for 1890. In connec tion with finance, the revenue of the Australasian colonies was for 1888 £27,500,000, of which over£lo,soo,ooo or nearly two-fifths, were raised by taxation, chiefly through the customs ; £5,000,000, or less than one-third, from railways; over £4,500,000 from Crown lands, and not quite £2,000,000 from post and telegraphs. The public j debt of Australasia down to 1888 is nearly £168,000,000. Queensland and New Zealand bear the heaviest debt, with over £63 per head. Soufch Aus tralia has over £60. The colonies stand well m the possession of a physically strong population judged by the proportion of the people capable of working and supporting others as compared with those who are m the dependent conditions of life. France is at the top of the list with 6530 persons m every 10,000 at the support ing ages, or 537 per 10,000 above Queensland, which heads the Aus tralian Colonies, and 929 per 10,000 above New Zealand, which is the lowest of the colonies. The United States follow Queensland, and then we have Victoria, England and Wales being next below, followed by West and South Australia. Ireland and Scotland are next m order, New South Wales and Tasmania following above New Zealand. Taking the soldier's age of 20 to 40, the 1881 census showed that the Australasian Colonies could have raised an army of over 450,000 men. One of the most re markable things m connection with these statistics is, that with such a small working and supporting popula tion New Zealand outstrips the other colonies m her productive power, ex porting more m proportion to her numbers than any of the other colck

LOCAL AND GENERAL

It is telegraphed from Lou lon that the J Clan-na-gael Society is organising a revival I of Fenian ism. . German Freetraders propose an Inter national Freetrade Conference, m the belief that protection is tottering m Germany. The second Ashburton wool sale for the current season ia fixed for Monday, January 19th, at two p.m. It ia said that the Hotel del Coronado of San Diego, California, is the largest m the world. The total floor area is 44,- acres. It is stilted that since the accession of Czar Alexander m 1881, 270,000 Jews have been expelled from Russia. The grand prize of 250,000 fin the recent j drawing of the Panama Canal bonds fell to M. Kuse'be Morigot, valet de chambre to M. Scmunuet Damougeot, Dijon. He was the holder of only one bond. Onr readers ars reminded that the opera of " Patience " will be reproduced, at popular prices, at the Oddfellows' Hall on Thursday evening, and at Rakaia on Friday evening. The party of Japanese who drew the first prize m one of the big swesps m Sydney on the Melbourne Cup gave a donation of £140 to the Quettah Memorial Church, and £100 to local institutions at Townsville. The first cricket match played by ladies m. New South Wales, has just come off at Sydney. The telegram says that " the pro bable intercolonial team defeated a second team by 200 runs on the first innings. Miss Deane played a fine innings of 195 for'the winners." The Lord High Chancellor of England, Lord Halsbury, was plaintiff m a civil action at the R M. Court, Napier, the defendant confessing the amount. His Lordship sued for the recovery of £20 for rent of a paddock at Clive. A number of horse flesh restaurants have just been started at Berlin, and they are doing a brisk trade. A good meal including vegetables, can be obtained for threepence, and it is rery difficult indeed, so says a correspondent, to distinguish the meat from beef, for which, no doubt, it is very often served. Messrs William Anderson, George William Andrews, Edward Cookson, and John Moore Tweed have been nominated for the vacancy on the Borough Council caused by Cr Hugo i Friedlander having been elected Mayor. The poll takes place on Thursday, January Bth, between the hours of nine a.m. and six p.m. The " Gazette " gives the following as the tenders accepted for the right of advertising on the New Zealand Railways—the amount we presume, representing the annual pay ments —viz Auckland section, A. Cleave and Co £87 10s; Napier section, M. Lascelles, £104 ; Wanganui section, Rand and Tingey, £100 17s; Wellington section, Truebridge and Reich, £66 5s ; Hurunni Bluff section, D. H. Hastings £706. Total annual pay ment £1064 12?. A couple of dwarfs termed " the American Midgets," are exhibiting m Wellington. " General Mite," whose real name is Francis Joseph Flynn, was born at Greene, a town m Chenango Co., State of New York, 26 years ago, and is accompanied on his travels by his parents, both of whom are of the ordinary stature. The General s height is only 26 inches, while he weighs 28lbs. His weight at birth was only 2lbs. His wife whose maiden name was Millie Edwards, is three years younger, and is a native of Cala mazo, Michigan. She is only 20 inches high and weighs 281bs. At her birth her weight was l|lb. Both husband and wife are plea sant looking, and each possesses a high degree of intelligence. The little people who are faultlessly attired—the General m. evening dress, and his wife m white satin—singsongs and dance very gracefully. The Messrs Friedlander Bros., the local agents for the Massey reaper, have forwarded us a circular recounting the following triumphs scored by this machine this season (1890) m Victorian field trials, viz. :—First and second at competition ' for grand champion challenge prize at Ballarat on December 3rd, and first at the annual field trial at the ss.me place on December 9th. Also first (with gold medal) at Tungamali, and first at Dookie, Kaniva, Ararat, Boort, Nathalia, Cobram, and Rupai^uip, at dates from October 28th to December 10th, 1890. Misfortunes never come singly, and Mr William Sutherland found the truth of this on Saturday last. On Christmas eve he had the misfortune to lose by fire about £140 worth of contractor's plant, and on Saturday morning while driving across the traffic bridge his. horse became restive at sight of an eight-horse waggon team, that was met about half way across, upset the trap, and threw Mr Sutherland out upon the bridge. He had a narrow escape from being first run over by the waggon wheels, and second by being trampled upon by his own horse, but fortunately he escaped both dangers unhurt. The horse escaped unhurt, but the trap was badly damaged. Last evening a very interesting ceremony was performed m the Orange Hall by the Rev J. G. W. Ellis, Past-Grand Master of the Middle Island. The ceremony was a triple one, inasmuch as it comprised the initiation of a considerable number of ladies into the Orange Institution, the institution of a Female Lodge of the Order, and the installation of the Lodge's officers. The new Lodge is called the "Orange Lily "Female Lodge, No. 5, and is officered as under :— President, Mrs W. C. Page; Deputy-Presi dent, Mrs W. H. Paget; Secretary, Miss Nelson; Treasurer, Miss Bennett; President of Committee, Miss Attwood; and a Com mittee of five. The Lodge is likely to be very popular among the ladies m the county who have male friends m the Order. The Rev Mr Ellis addressed the officers and members of the new Lodge, giving them full instruction as to the discharge of their duties, Bro W. Houston was appointed by the Grand Lodge as delegate from Lodge No. 23 to instruct the new Lodge m its workingand thanked the Rev Bro Ellis for his kindness m attending to institute the Lodge, which Bro Ellis suitably acknowledged, The last Tuesday of every month has been fixed afc present as the date of meeting, The bachelors of Longbeach held their annual social gathering, with great succes s on Boxing night, December 26, m a spacious room kindly given fop the occasion by J. Grigg Esq. Tea was provided at 6 o'clock, and cateved for by Mr Davis of Ashburton, with his usual ability, the tables being pre sided over by Mesdames Cobb, Sewll, (2) Rogers, and Glenis. After justice had been done to the numerous good things on the tables, the company who numbered about 200, repaired to the ball room, which was tastefully decorated with evergreens, and through the kindness of the Misses Grigg, who gave % Jarge quantity of the choice flowers, the room presented a most attractive appearance. About 8 o'clock dancing e»m menced, Mr Brooks.we need hardly say|with his usual ability, presiding at the piano, A goodly number of ladies were present attired very bewitchingly. The entertain ment was interspersed with songs etc., Miss Chalmers rendering "Tit for Tat" very nicely as also did the Misses Leggett the farourite ditty, "Katie's Letter." Mr Ba.ck ridge gave "Four Jolly Smiths" m good style, and Mr Duncan McQuinn favoured with pipe music and dances which were highly appreciated. Dancing was kept up till the small hours of the morning, when one and all departed for their respective homes, not forgetting to express the great pleasure they had had m being present at one of the most successful social gatherings ever held m the district. HOPE FOR THE DEAF $ Person cured of deafness and noises '. :1 m the Head of long standing, by a simple Remedy, will be glad to forward, a description of it free to anyone who applies, Jh& most tonishing cures have lately been, effected by the same remedy. Address: Nicholson, 175 William Street, Mcl bourne The Bkst Remedy for Indigestion— Norton's Camomile Pills are confidently, recommended as a simple remedy for Indigestion, which is the cause of nearly all bhe diseases to which we are subject. Norton's Pills, with justice called the 'Natural Strengthener of the Human Stomach," act as a powerful tonic and gentle aperient, are mild m their operation, and safe under any circumstances. Sold m bottles, at Is l£d, 2s 9d, 11s, by all medicine endcra throughout the world, *

OUR PRODUCE AT HOME.

What with droughts and noAvesters and persistently low prices, the pros pects of farmers as regards grain growing for export are not by any means of a rosy sort, and it is year by year increasingly evident that the solution of the problem " How to make farming pay " is to be sought for m a different direction. And happily it is just as evident that the quest need not be a vain one. Already sheep pay well, and can be made to pay better if only we go m for the irrigation of O'lr pasture lands, and with that accom plished there will come also a profitable export m dairy produce capable of expansion to enormous dimensions. As regards the export of frozen mutton, the conditions of success are now well understood, and the trade is already established on a firm basis, and as regards the manufacture for export of butter and cheese, and the conditions necessary to placing our dairy produce on the market m prime order, careful inquiry is being made with the absolute certainty of all difficulties being eventually overcome. We are glad to see that the Middle Island Dairying Association is about to take the practical step of sending Home an expert who will take charge of consignments and ascertain what are the causes which have hitherto m many instances led to butter and cheese shipped m good order reach ing the market m faulty condition and who will also no doubt make it his business to enquire how to deal with the produce when landed at Home so as to secure for it fair play. That there is need of a lynx-eyed vigilance m the latter respect there is abundant evidence to prove. Over and over again Aye have been told of what has | been going on m the meat trade—a bad name having been given to New Zealand mutton through inferior Scotch or English being sold under its name while reversely the genuine New Zealand meat has been sold as " best English or Scotch " to the enormous profit of the retailer and the loss oi the exporter. It is stated that " thousands of New Zealand carcases are sold daily m London, ye* you wont find one butcher m ten who admits the possession of New Zealand mutton." Writing to the Dunedin " Star " under date Gctobei 17, its London correspondent quotes the folloAving, as related by Mi Stephen Grant (of Grant and Foster] m point of what we state. " I weni (said Mr Grant) into my butcher's yes terday. He began boasting he onlj sold the very finest qualities of Scotch Welsh, Southdown, and Dartmooi mutton. His clients were the smart folk of Belgravia and South Kensing ton, and indifferent what they paid sc long as the meat was good. ' Mucl: New Zealand mutton V ' Never allow such a thing mmy shop.' ' Don't talk to me like that, man,' said Mr Grant sharply, ' I've cut my eye-teeth. Thert are four New Zealand carcases hang ing there. You should rub the brands off if you don't wish people to know. The crestfallen salesman thereupon ad mitted that he sold large quantities o1 New Zealand mutton to many of thf best families, who preferred it because it was sweeter and not so fat as the Scotch mutton. Of course he charged the top market price for the meat and encouragecj persons to buy it. If, how ever, they asked for New Zealand mutton, he ran it down and pretended he would not have such a thing m his shop. In this way retailers manage to make a gigantic profit out of youi mutton and yet keep down the whole sale price." To prevent the same thing happening with New Zealand butter and cheese is (says the " Star's': correspondent) the object of Mr Henry Reynolds, who is now on a mission to England m connection with the sale of dairy produce. "Mr Reynolds goes to Denmark next week and expects to have to exercise a good deal of tact and diplomacy to see all he wishes to. The Danish people are very jealous of New Zealand now. Their Government have impressed upon them that the colony looks like becoming a formidable rival presently, and that to give any wrinkles away is a tactical blunder. When Professor* Long went over re cently he found the factory doors slammed m his face, and could get m nowhere. Hi 3 more practical rival, Mr Watt, did not drive around m a carriage and pair giving his mission away, but slouched about with a knap sack like an ordinary tourist, and talked to the under-strappers, etc., learning all he wished." After his return from Denmark, Mr Reynolds " purposes to settle down m London for the colonial dairy produce season, and to (as far as possible) test and trace out the history of every consignment arriving. He did this the other day m the case of a few kegs from Auck land, and with the remarkable result that he found the butter being retailed as • prime Danish,' at a profit of from 25 to 30 per cent on the wholesale price. This, said Mr Reynolds to himself, 'won't do at all. We ex porters must have a slice of that 30 per cent.' " Just so, and the letting mof light on these transactions is the first necessary preliminary and it is well indeed that this is about to be done, for without it the experience of the New Zealand exporter m regard to the frozen meat trade would only be re peated m connection with the dairy produce export, m tens and hundreds of thousands of pounds going into the pockets oi greedy and unprincipled mer chants and retailers which ought legitimately to find their way into those of the producer and exporter.

The Waverley Tragedy.

[pee press association.] WANGANtri December 29. Further particulars connected with the Waverley tragedy show that Mr and Mrs Gallagher had been living amicably since the 24th of October at EUia's Hotel. None of the children saw their parents after the tragedy, Qallaghep wajs seen to run from one room to another, but nothing was recognised m his hand, On entering his own room he locked the door, and while help was being procured to burst it open a shot was heard which mortally wounded him. The gun was a double-barrelled fowling-piece, which he always carried, but unknown to the proprietor of the hotel,

The Phonograph.

(from our own correspondent,) Dunbdin, Deoamber, 29. Edison s phonograph, now being show

at the City Hall by Professor Archibald, M.A., has proved a sensational success, the audiences increasing nightly and hun dreds being trouble to gain admission- Thin marvellous talking machine will form one of the exhibits at the Science Congress, which opens m Christchurch on the 15th, Mr Gladstone's speech to Lord Carrington was loudly cheered, as the great statesman's voice was recognised by several promineub citizens last evening. Altogether this is the most marvellous and n'.vel entertainment yet heard m New Zealand.

COMMERCIAL.

Horse Market.

Mr T. Bullock reports for the week ending Saturday, December 27th, us follows:— Thirty-nine horses were offered at the day's sale. Biddings were more spirited than for some weeks past, and a large proportion of the better sorts offered changed hands at satisfactory prices. Twenty out of the day's entry were sold as follows :—Six;-year-old medium draughts, of rather a light stamp, at £16 10s, £17, £18 10s; four-year-olds, £16 10s and £18; aged, of a good stamp, £11 and £12 10s; others, £6.105, £6 10s, £9, I j and £10, according to description; light harness horses brought £3 15s, £4, £5 10s, up to £9; a pony, £1 5s ; of hacks only inferior sorts changed hands at £1 2s 6d to £4. Sundries—Grass stripper, £3; McCormick reaper and binder, £7 ; old drays, £4 and £5 15s; saddles, £2 7s 6d ; sundry harness, etc., at-about usual prices.

Addington Stock Market.

Chkistchurch, December 29. Though ten days will elapse before another market is held, there was a limited supply m all classes of stcck, and the sale was concluded m good time. Store Sheep.—The entry comprised only a few lines, but the quality of the stock was very prime, and excited keen competition. A draft of 800 four-tooth forward-conditioned crossbred wethers, and 200 maiden ewes, brought respectively 11s 6d and 10s 3d ; and a nice line of crossbred ewes, with ninety per cent of lambs, sold at 6s 7d, all counted. Fat Lambs.—About 400 were yarded, of > which one especially prime pen brought 13s 7d. The remainder of the lambs were sold to the trade and for freezing at from 8s 6d to 11s 3d. Fat Sheep.—Under 3000 were entered for sale, the quality being generally good, for which there was a fair demand. Prime crossbred wethers sold up to 14s 3d, and ewes to 12s 9d, while the general run of lighter sorts sold at from 9s to 13s 3d ; and some wethers and maiden ewes, m suitable lots for freezing, brought 12s 6d, 13s, and 13s 6d. Fat Cattle.—lßo head were yarded, ' of which the quality all round was very fair. Best bullocks sold up to £8 ss, and some nice cows brought £6 10s, the price for best quality ranging from 16s 6d to 18s per lOOlbs, and for inferior from 12s 6d upwards. Stoke Cattlk.—With the exception of thirty head of forward-conditioned steers, which sold at £4 5s and £4 16s, the entry of store cattle consisted only of odd lots, and there was a very small entry of dairy cows and springers. Pigs, very moderate entry, consist ing of porkers and a few stores.

SPORTING.

TINWALD RACES.

1 The following accep'fcnjes have been received : - Hurdle Race Handicap, of 20 soys. 1| mile. stflb sb lb Oymaro ... 10 9 Clifton ... 9 7 Marmion ... 10 7 Inchkeith... 9 4 Tinwald Gup, of 45 soys. Ik mile. st lb " sfc lb Breadalbane 9 0 Zealot ... 7 9 Liberator... 810 ! Corringa ... 7 3 Ben ... 8 7 Coinage ... 613 Don ... 8 0 Kilmarnock 6 7 Weltek Handicap, of 25 soys. One mile. st lb sfc lb Ben 9 12 Mailboy ... 8 10 Portadown... 812 Tit Willow 8 4 King of Ulster 811 j Coinage ... 8 4 Glenlora ... 810 | Cymaro ... 8 0 Flying Handicap, of 25 soys. f mile. st lb st lb Breadalbane 9 7 Clifton ... 7 7 Ben.., ... 9 0 Corringa ... 7 7 Doubtful .'.. 810 Tit Willow 7 0 Mailboy ... 8 3 Somonunu 7 0 Zealot ... 8 1 Lady Darling 7 0 Portadown 713 Nightingale 6 7 Glenlora ... 712 Kilmarnock 6 7 Handicap Time Trot, of 25 soys. Three miles. Joel. ... scr Cascade ... 40sec Minnie ... 15see On Strike 40sec Home Rule... 20sec Quail ... 45sec lolanthe ... 20sec Jess ... 45sec Biddy ... 30s«c Quicksilver 45sec Flnrrie ... 30sec Long Sal... 50sec Belle ... 35sec Joseph ... 50sec Victoria ... 35sec Sailor Boy 50sec Taipo ... 35sec Springfield 50sec Wakanui 35sec Nancy . 50sec Linda ... 35sec Maiden Plate, of 15 soys; Weight for age. One mile. Corringa The Ganger sSUgffl Collina Nancy Camla Rose of Cheviotljp Portadown Coinage :sfe Novel Race, of 20 soys. Six furlongs. Zest Camla Inchkeith Duchess of Albany Lady Darling Goldfinch Royalty Coinage's acceptance for the Tinwald Cup and Welter Handicap was omitted m this morning's paper.

TELEGRAPHIC.

HOME AND FOREIGN.

[per press association] Washington, December 28. It is believed that no less than 20 United States consuls m Canada are concerned m the customs frauds. They are supposed to have been effected by the sale of blank certifi cates which enabled goods to be im ported into the States at under their value. It is asserted that the Govern ment has been cheated to the extent of a million dollars and that the Con sular Agents are m league with the exporters. London, December 27 and 29. The Arawa has sailed for New Zea land, The Duke of Westminister has ar rived. Her frozen meat is m good condition. Bishop Moorhouse, of Manchester, is mentioned as a probable successor of the Archbishop of York. Cardinal Manning approves of the scheme put forward by Tom Mann, of municipal work and breadshops to relieve the unemployed. "The Times" says there is a possi bility of Frank Smith, who seceded from the Salvation Army owing to a quarrel with General Booth, starting a rival scheme to the General's colonisa tion proposal, Calcutta, December 29. i The Indian National Congress is now holding a successful session. i

AUSTRALIAN

Pbrth, December 29 The following is the personnel of the

new Ministry : Premier and Colonial Treasurer Mr John, Forrest; Colonial Secretary, Mr Georgu Sheaton; At torney General Mr Septimus Burt j Minister of Lands Mr W. E, Mar raion ; Minister of Public Works and Railways Mr H. W. Venn. Alba if v, December 29. Arrived—Cuzco, from Plymouth, passengers for New Zealand, Miss Oven den, Mrs Whitely and family, Mr Bavies. Melbouiinf, December 29. In the intercolonial cricket match Victoria defeated N.B.W. by 3G runs. Hob art. December 29. Three men, named Jones,' McDonald and Rennie, and two girls, Jones and McDonald, were drowned m Impression t Bay by the capsizing of a boat.

INTERPROVINCIAL

Auckland, December 29. A deputation appointed by the public waited upon the Hon Mr Mitchelson this > morning to ask him to urge the Govern ment to appoint a Commission to investi gate; the charges made against Dr Collins of the Auckland Hospital by probationer Arnabo. Mr Mitchelson promised to consult his colleagues, and give a reply to-morrow. At a special meeting of the Hospital Board held subsequently it was decided, by the casting vote of the chair man, and on the recommendation of the Board's solicitors, to abandon the enquiry themselves, and ask the Government to take the matter up. A man named John Jervois was brought from Waipiro by the steamer Australia with his whiskers burned svnd his face badly blistered. He has been received into the hospital, and states that his in juries were inflicted by larrikins. The weather since Saturday has been very boisterous, a northerly gale blowing. Last night a heavy thunderstorm passed over the city. It has been raining m torrents frequently. The weather has suddenly grown cold. Fears are enter tained for the safety of several cf the yachts which are out for a week or fort night's cruise. One yacht, named the Venice, left Maiiuransu yesterday morn ing, and has not yet "arrived. 1 Another, . with a search party, capsized, but it is re ported that her hands managed to reach an island m Hauraki Gulf. A storekeeper at Waikato, Win. Parker, is missing, and is supposed to have been lost m the Waikafco river. A boat m I which he was last seen has been found floating about. The Harihari block m the Eawera survey district of 4400 acres was ottered* for sale to-day, at the Crown Lands Office, at an upset rental of £27 10-*. After keen competition the property was knocked down to Mr D. Coutts for £66. Wellington, December 29. It is understood that the Minister of Lands has abandoned the intention of making Mr J. H. Baker, of Christchurch, and Mr Adams, of Dunedin, change places as Chief Surveyors and Com missioners of Crown Lands m their respective districts. Mr Baker will continue to hold the dual office m Christ church, and on Mr J. P. Maitland's retirement at the end of the year, the Otago Commissionership will be conferred on Mr Adams, m conjunction with the Chief Surveyorship, which he already holds. Active steps will be taken early m the year to open up for settlement the fine bush lands m the Catlin's River district. Westport, December 29. Tenders are invited m the local papers for constructing an extension of the West port coal staiths to a length of about 600 ft, including providing all the materials. It is probable that the cost will be between £10,000 and £.15,000. Dunedin, December 29. John Campbell, alias Christie, was charged on suspicion with being con cerned m the Rocklands station, robbery. He was remanded for a week. Invercargill, December 29 William Jackson, a boat-builder, was drowned m Lake Wanaka yesterday while bathing. His wife, mother, and brother reside at Port Chalmers. Mr Hatch's vessel. Gratitude, anived at New River this morning from Sydney. After discharging her cargo she will load for the Macquarries with coal, firewood, and stores. Had the Kakanui steamer not been sent down by the Government the Gratitude would have been despatched within three days. She will now pro bably await the Kakanui's return, as m the event of her bringing the party away, a fresh one must be senc, to aid m land. ing stores and raf cinq the penguin oil off.

IRISH AFFAIRS.

[per press association.]

London, December 29. It is expected that a conference of the two sections of the Irish party will be held m Paris on Wednesday. O'Donnell insists that the Supreme Council of the National League shall have control of the £40,000 deposited m Paris. The Protestant Home Rule Associa tion has passed a vote of confidence m Mr Parnell.

Missing Vessel Returned

[per press association.]

[ Auckland, December 30. Search parties were out till midnight but failed to discover the whereabouts of the missing crew of the Venice. At three o'clock this morning the yacht arrived safely m hxrbor having been m shelter since Sunday afternoon at Emu Bay, Motutapu. This place was out of their course but she ran down with a fair wind instead of keeping & lead right up to the harbor as she might hare don*.

TO-DAY'S TELEGRAMS

[PER PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Sti]»iia««i) BoatiNgr Fatality. Dunedin, December 90. An Arrowtown telegram says that there is every reason to believe that a fatal boat accident occurred at the head of Lake Wakatipu on Boxing Day. A boat, con taining Frederick, William, and Elizabeth Forsybh, Catherine and Margaret Gregg, and Joseph Oliver, left Kinloch to cross to Glenorchy where sports were being held, but never reached its destination, and it is now cortain that it must have ** capsized, and that all the occupants have been drowned. The police chartered a steamer, but no traces of the bodies were found.

THE ASHBUBTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, DECEMBjE 30, 1890



Holloway's Pills. -Changes of tempera ture and weather frequently upset persons who are most careful of their health, and particular m their diet. < These corrective, purifying, and gentle aperient pills are the best remedy for all defective action of the digesttveorgans. They augment the appetite, strengthen the stomach, correct biliousness, and carry off all that is noxious from the system. Holloway's Pills, are composed of rare balsams, unmixed with baser matter, and • n that account are peculiarly well adaptc d for the young, delicate, and aged. As th's priceless medicine hast gained fame m the nast, so will it preserve it m the future b : its renovating and invigorating qualities, and the impossibility of Us doing bariQf



NEW YEAR HOLIDAY." ''■THURSDAY Next, being New Year's * Day, the "Guardian" will not be published^



MR S. B. SEYMOUR, SURGEON-DENTIST OF OHRISTCHUROH, WILL VISIT AS HBURTON on dates to be announced, and may be consulted at MR. CAMBRIDGE'S, CHEMIST. 10 17 THE ASHBURTOX GUARDIAN. From and after the 30th November, 1886 the terms of Subscription to this journal will be as folknvs, viz:— IF PAID IK ADVANCE. Per Quarter ... 6s 6d, by post, 9s 6d „ Half-year... 12s Or], by post, 18s 6d  Year ... 24s Od, by post, 7s Od IP BOOKED. Per Quarter ... 7s 6d, by post, 10a 9d  Half-year... 15s Od, by post, 21s 6d  Year ... 30s Od, by post, 43s Od Birth, Marriage, and Death Notices, if paid for at the time of insertion, 2s 6d if booked, 4a each ,us may be sent a ayment.



Wanted WANTED— Raspberries and Black currants m any quantity for cash. Stephen Bros., Market House. 12 199 T7K)UND, on Christinas evening, white JJ straw hat. Apply Mail Office. 12 185 . ~A~~MERICAN Ice Cream ! American ; J_jL Ice Cream daily at H. G. Flower's, Confectioner. Ice kept m stock. ANTED Known -Ladies Stocking with Silk Toes and Heels m black and colors. Is 6d per pair.—W. H. Collier. ANTED Known.-For Dress Stuffs Prints, <&c, Trimmings, to i match, go to Melford House. Best value m town, Christmas presents now giving away.—H. C. Segers \ITANTED Known.—For Sheetings W Tablings, Calicoes, Quilts, Towels Table Napkins, Tray Cloths, D'Oyleys, &c, go to Melford House. Presents to every purchaser.—ll. C, Segers. PRESENTS.— We are now giving presents to every purchaser of Drapery, Clothing, Boots, and cheapest house m town. —H. C. Segers, Melford House. WANTED Known—The "Strong wear " Boot is the best for Men adies and Children.—W. H. Collier. WANTED every man m the County to have a suit of the Ashburton Tweeds.—Robert Alcorn, Ashburton Clothing Mart, Saunder's Buildings. ANTEITKnown — The Cheapest Shop to buy Tinware and Gal vanised Iron goods m Ashbarton, is at W. F. Ha.nnaford'B, Burnett Street. A arge stock kept on hand. Tin and Jror. waro goods made and repaired with des patch. OOTS, BOOTH. "Keep yom feet Dry and save Doctor's Bills, have a splendid Stock m now. Try my Double-soled Shooters. Every pair Guaranteed. Robert Alcobn, Ashbur [o« Clothin? Mart, Sauudera' iJuUdjnps, I



NEW YEAR GIFTS. NEW YEAR CARDS AND BOOKLETS. NEW ANNUAL VOLUMES and BOOKS for Prizes and Presentations. NEW FANCY GOODS, *c," &p __ L F- ANDREWES & Co. James Baker TIMBER MERCHANT, HAVELOCK STREET Opposite Harrison's Auction Mart, TTAS IN STOCK large Supplies of— Building Timber Stakes and Posts, Galvanised Corrugated Iron, Builders Ironmongery, Turnery. Furniture and Fancy Goods IN ENDLESS VARIETY. FURNITURE MADE TO ORDER IN ANY DESIGN AT SHORTEST NOTICE. Sole Agent m Ashburton for Clegg's Perambulators. (IIKISTM IS BARGAINS. A NDREW O RR HAS opened up a Splendid Show OF New Goods} IN ALL DEPARTMENTS. Beautiful Assortment OF FANCY GOODS, Suitable for Presents. LADIES', GENTS', and CHILDREN'S Boots and Shoes GREATLY REDUCED. ANDREW ORB. Spring and Summer, 1890, TRY THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY FOR Men's Colonial TWEED SUITS, Boys' and Youths' Colonel TWEED SUITS. HATS.—We keep the Largest and Best Selection Hats made to measure. SUITS MADE TO MEASURE. Best workmanship put m every garment, and a perfect fit guaranteed. Large Selection of Boys' Knicker Suits. Ties, Shirts, Collars, Braces, &c, m Latest Fashion t»nd Style. Best Value for Cash m District UEV/ ZKAIAfID CLOTHING FACTORY Agent for the Wonderful Wertheim Machines W. H WEBBER 1 Manager, THE HOUSE FOR CHEAP CHRIST MAS CHEER



uinnnpiniiQKT DON'T talk to me of Eau-de vie . T'would raise a Scotchman's dander, For nectar true o' Highland dew Just go to Henry Zander. He that wad shrink frae sic a drink Maun be a gowk or gander, Whisky for me, and let it be The brew o' Henry Zander. He'sauld "Kilmarnock's" famous brand An' " Power's," even grander, Eh ! but it's fine ! " Here's Amd Langsyne ! And "Here's tae Henry Zander " 12tH0 the miial mumi mm OF IBW ZEALAND (FIRE AND MARINE.) THE Business of this Company has ! been TRANSFERRED to the GOMMFRCIAL UNION ASSURANCE COMPANY, Limited, of London, by whom, through the various Branches and Agencies m New Zealand, all accounts owing to and by and all losses under the Colonial Insurance Company's policies will be settled m future. F. ALLEN, General Manager. Wellington, New Zealand, December 11th, 1890. THE COMM^^LILrUNiiON ASSUR ANCE COMPANY, (Limited) Established 1861. Incorporated under Act of Parliament, 7 and 8 Vie, Cap. 110. Head Office : 19 and 20 Cornhill, London Capital fully subscribed ... £2,500,000 Total Invested Funds ... 2,351,707 Total Annual Nett Income... 1,132,239 HEAD OFFICE for NEW ZEALAND : " Lambton Quay, Wellington. With Local Boards of Advice m Australia and New Zealand. General Manager for New Zealand : FRANK ALLEN, J P. Every description of Fire nd Marine Insurance effected at LOWEST CUttREOT BATES CUFF & GRAHAM, Managers for Canterbury, Christchurch. Agknts for Ashburtox : IFRIEDLANDER BROS 22 TIIWAll) RA« TO, ANNUAL MEETING. TO BE HELD on the RACECOURSE, TINWALD, on Thursday, January 1, 1891. President—Dr Tweed.' Vice-Presidknts— Messrs D. McLean, and C. M. Strachey. Judge—Mr M. Stit*-. Stewards—Messrs J. Begg, G. James, M. Scott, I). Thomas, M. Stitt, C. M. Stvachey, H. H. Wright, E. Gates, and Dr Tweed Clerk of the Course —Mr B. Hanks. Clerk of the Scales—Mr A. J. Kelly Starter —Mr D. Thomas. Treasurer—Mr M. Scott. Handicapper—Mr J, Cresswell. First Race toJStart at 12.30 p.m. (Approved by the Committee of the Canter bury Tockey Club.) 1. —Handicap Hurdle Race, ,of 20 soys ; nomination, 10s : acceptance, 10s. The second horse to receive 3 soys out of the stake Over six flights of hurdles about 3ft Gin high. One mile and a half 2.—Maiden Plate, of 15 soys; entrance, 15s. The second horse to receive 2 soys out of the stake. Weight for age. One mile. 3.—Tinwald Cup Handicap, of 45 soys; nomination, 1 soy: acceptance, 1 soy. The second horse to receive 5 soys and the third horse to receive 2 soys out of the stake. One mile and a half. 4. —Tinwald Handicap Tisie Trot, of 25 soys; nomination, 10s ; acceptance, 10s. The second horse to receive 5 hoys out. of the stake. Weight not less than lOst. About throe miles s.—Welter Hrndicai*, of 25 soys; nomina tion, 10s ; acceptance, 10s. The second horse to receive 5 soys out of the stake, One mile 8, —Novel Race, of 20 soys. Winner to become the property of the Club, and to be sold by auction. The amount re alised above 10 soys to be divided between the Club and the second horse. Entrance 10s, on night of general entry. Weight Bst. Any overweight to be declared. Six furlongs. —Flyino Handicap, of 25 soys; nomina tion, 10s : acceptance, 10s. The second horse to receive 5 soys out of the stake. The winner of Tinwald C«P or Welter Handicap to carry 71b penalty In the event of a horse winning both the fore going events such horse to carry lOlbs penalty. Six furlongs g\_Consolation Handicap, of 15 soys. The second horse*to receive 2 soys out of the stake. Nomination, 10s; to be made to the Secretary immediately after . the Flying Handicap is run ; acceptance free, to be notified within five minutes of the declaration of weights. Six fur longs. Hurry Scurry (if time permit) of 10 soys; entrance, 10s. For horses that have never won public money. Catch weights. Hulf a mile. RULES AND REGULATIONS. 1. The meeting will be held under the Rules of Racing. The Trotting race under the rules of the New Zealand Trotting Association. 2. No entry will be received except on thefconditionthat all claims, disputes, and objections arising out of the racing, shall Tbe decided by the Stewards, or whom they may appoinr. Their decision on all points connected with the carrying out of this programme to be final. 3. The roces are open to any horse, Ctmnonly resident m the district for Ist October, 1890, to the daoe of meeting and owned by a person who has resided m the district for the same period. 4. The district above mentioned is bounded on the north by the Selwyn River, and on the south by the Opihi river. 5. Five per cent will be deducted from the gross of all moneys payable m accord ance with this programme, for the ex penses of the court. 6. AH nomination and acceptance fee to «o to the funds of the Clnb. NOMINATIONS Nominations for Hurdle, Tinwald Cup, Trot, Welter, and Flying Handicaps, accom panied by fee, name, age, description, and performances of horse, and colours of rider, must be m writing and m the hands of the Secretary at Scott's Hotel, Tinwald, not later than 9 on SATURDAY, December the 3th, 1890 WEIGHTS. Weight vi ill b declared on or about December 27th ACCEPTANCES. Accept Handicaps, and Nomina ions for Maiden Plate and Novel Race must be m the hands of the Secretary, at Scott's Hotel, Tinwald, not later than 9 p.m on MONDAY Dec em bcr|th,^ Ks Hon S«



* -X I O \V Q H O WI N G JN O W JJHOWINO A FASHIONABLE LOT OF Spring & Summer Goods. THE LATEST FASHION, REASONABLE PRICES, GOOD FIT and WORKMANSHIP, ought to ensure a ready Bale for those Goods. C«m« Knrl.T, And mv«lil rJ?lie Itrisli at Xmn*. Our Customers may depend upon ~ur iromise that their orders will be finished ||p to time. H. & E. Crai&heatl, TANCRED STREET, ASHBURTON. D. McFarlane's East Street. The House for GOOD SUGARS for Preserving, D. McFARLANE'S East Street. The House for BLENDED TEAS of Al Quality, D. McFARLANE'S East Street. The House for CHINA and GLASS WARE, D. McFARLAN'S East Street. The House for BUTTER, CHEKhE, and BACON, D. McFARLANE'S East Street. The House for GOOD FLOUR, MEAL, and RICE, D McFARLANE'S Eas* Street. The House for all lines of | GROCERIES At Lowest Possible Rates. 13 McPABLAINE'S EAST STREET A&HBURTON. 10H68 Sharplin, Vincent & do. SAWMILLJSRS AND TIMBER MERCHANTS, SPBINGBUEN. HAVE erected large Sawmills at Alford Forest, and can now supply any amount of Building Material, also Bridge Timber and Planking to any size m Birch Timber, Gates, Hurdles^ &c, made to patterns as fdesired, Splitor Sawn Posts morticed by machinery. Prices will be found reasonable, and orders will be executed promptly. Timber em be delivered by. train, or at the Mills, or by rail from Springburn to any part of the district. he Mills are within 1$ miles of the Springburn Railway Station. FIREWOOD, SLABS, AND WASTE TIMBER Always on hand. Orders by post promptly attended t3B "VTOTWITHSTANDING continued re ports ot the success of other Machines, TMEERIM ALL STEEL TWINE BINDER, CONTISBES TO HOLD ITS OWN Having, during the last two Seasons, secured upwards of 60 PRIZES In the Australasian Colonies. The Machine a3 now offered is a marvel of SIMPLICITY, STRENGTH, and DURABILITY. Actual experience proving that THE DEERING Requires fewer extra parts than any Machine m the field. The Undersigned has now on hand a LARGE ASSORTMENT of duplicates (extras), and is therefore ready for emer gencies. Twines, Oils, Corn Sacks, &c. John G. Pestell WOOL STORES WEST STREET, ASHBURTON. 24th December, 1890. Massey-Toronto Light Binder. LIGHTEST IN DRAFT. SUREST TO TIE. f^l EASIEST TO MANAGE. SWIFTEST TO CUT. THE LONGEST LIVED.? MOST SCIENTIFICALLY MADE Stationary Axle AND Raise and Lcwfer Style 5, 6, and 7 FEIiT CUTS. Of][the latter only very few|o i hand. £2000 Wo VI of Extras m Stock, which wil be supplied to farmers at manufacturer's prices at any time BAY OR NIGHT, FRIELLANDER BIOS.