The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1891. TOO MUCH RACING.

An agitation has been for the last two years carried on by a section of horse-owners and the proprietors of certain racecourses near Christchurch with a view to obtain the control of that branch of racing called trotting. The members of the clubs and com panies which fostered trotting as a sport formed an Association, which framed laws for the sport and for regulating the amount of stakes and other matters, and this Association sought to obtain from the Colonial Secretary m the late Ministry re cognition, of their status as the ruling body over trotting racing. They also sought to obtain a modification of the understanding between the Racing Clubs and the Colonial Secretary under which a clause wasinserted m the Rules of Racing specifying the amounts of stakes which were to be given according to the number of meetings held by the individual racing clubs during each season. Captain Russell, however, was proof against the re presentations of the trotting men. He knew that prior to the Rules of Racing being introduced the state of affairs about Ohristchurch had become a grave scandal. Petty race-meetings took place every few days, and it was more than hinted that certain persons were not only the owners of the grounds where the meetings were held but controlled the running or trotting of the animals which competed. Captain Russell saw that only by compelling these race-promoters to give a certain amount of added money for each day's races could this state of affairs be remedied, and the result proved that he was right. Under the Trotting Association's regulations no less than sixteen trotting meetings m the year were projected m Christchurch alone, and as two of the " Clubs" also held two meetings a year each under the Rules of Racing, that made a possible total of twenty-four days' racing m the year, irrespective of the eight days' legitimate sport given on the Canterbury Jockey Club's course. Tradesmen complained bitterly of the interference with business which was caused by the frequent race meetings, and that the money which should have come to them went to swell the totali sator receipts, and Captain Russell's actioa was approved of by everybody outside of the small coterie of trotting men. The Trotting Association at last election made their demands a test question with candidates, and have succeeded m getting the present Colonial Secretary to accede to their requests. We are glad to say that, contrary to anticipations, the Associa tion has made a good beginning. A company which has laid out a race course m an enclosure formed osten sibly for coursing, desired affiliation to the Association with the view of hold ing trotting and pony race meetings, and their application was not enter tained, the proposal that it be granted not finding a seconder, and the opinion that there were already too many rneetingsbsinggenerally expressed. The existing Clubs can by giving stakes amounting to £200 a day hold their sixteen days' trotting and eight days' racing yearly, and this, it will be admitted, is more than enough for any community of the size of Christchurch. The Trotting Association must under stand that it is on its trial, and any abuse of the power which the Colonial Secretary has placed m its hands will, without doubt, lead to its authority being revoked.

LOCAL AND GENERAL

Tenders for leasing the Ashburton Race course for cropping purposes close to-morrow afternoon at four o'clock. A meeting of the Cabinet was held yesterday but only routine business was transacted. Mr Seddon leaves co-irorrow morning for Auckland to attend the meet ing of the Executive. The Wanaka at low watt^r c<m be boarded from the <shore, the men walking to her only knee deep in the water. The rise and tall of the tide is 12ft. The vessel is lying on the shingle bed off the main reef in a bight on the coast. At the Christchurch R.M. Court this morning three men were fined £5 each, and costs aggregating £5 6s, tor shooting or having ducks in their possession on the evening of March 31st, the shooting season not commencing till the following morning. What is apparently a cruel and senseless hoax has been committed by someone in connection with the Kakanui. A bottle has been picked up on the Otago Peninsula which, on being opened, was found to contain a cigarette card with the following inscrip tion :—" 3-1-91. Kakanui seen off Chatham Islands disabled. Crew supposed to be on island. Send assistance at once." The prolonged dry weather has caused the , wood work of the town-clock tower to warp i to such an extent as to effect the stoppage of I the clock. The necessary repairs are being attended to, and the opportunity is being taken by the borough engineer to enclose the works in the glass case provided fcr them. For a few days too much reliance must not lie placed in the time shewn by the clock, On Wednesday a shooting party of four who were driving down the Beach Road in a dog cart had a narrow escape from sudden and violent death. The driver loosened the rains while lighting his pip?, and the horse, a prize winner, stumbled and fell, breaking both shafts and his knee?, and throwing the occupants of the cart into the road. For tunately a shaking and a few brnsesi were the only damages done to the patsjngers — if we except the temporary loss of the hat of one of the party, which was carried away by the wind but was captured before it reached the ocean, The l( Ref«re£ '' says :—The liberality sho>vn by the Asliuucttm facing Club's | executive has reaped its reward, as evidenced !>v the lengthy list of nominations for the I CluVs Autumn Meeting published in another colimn. For nine races 126 entries have I been received, being an increase of thirty eight on last year's figures. In addition to the Riccarton stables, Yaldhurafc is repre sented by Moraine and C-'rronade j Dunedin by Trimolitc, Leeston by Red Cross, Nellie Grey, Royalty, and Bay King; Greymouth by Captain Cook, British Lion, and May boy ; and South Canterbury by Loo, Liberator, Little Arthur, and Quibble. The Scottish railway strike, a Home paper reports), has given rise to a curious ornitho logical phenomenon. During the last few days thousands of seagulls have been flying about the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens. Such swarm* of these birds have rarely been seen even at a nesting place. These birds are i profiting by the strike, it being an ill-wind j which blows good to no one. 'The explana- ! fcion is that one of the railway companies owning a piece of unoccupied land near the gardens have damped on the spot the many tons of Christinas pi-gse]its which weut.j wrong on then hands, in consequence of the : impossibility of dispatching the goods to j their destination. Accordingly all the half-, #tarycd gulls from lnchcolm and the Isle of J May are luxuriating upon high game and tojfgis intended for tlis souther^ stomach. I

A probably unique specimen of a white frog, having ruby eyes with golden rims, was exhibited by Mr Rowland Ward, F.Z.S., at the conversazione of the Linnsen Society. , _ Messrs W. H. Collins and Co., advertise 500 tons of first-classs coals for sale at a greatly reduced price, affording a good opportunity to consumers to lay m winter supplies. In Mr D. Morris' garden near Lyndhurst may be seen a second crop of apples—the Irish Peach. The first crop was gathered at the usual time ; the second lot are now about as big as walnuts and look thriving. We are requested to call attention to the important sale of land by Mr f. Bullock m the Arcade to-morrow. The land consists of the well-known Netherley Lodge block, divided into sections of convenient size. Lithograph plans are to be had from the auctioneer. Special note should be made of the fact that the hour fixed is earlier than usual, viz., 10.30 a.m. Some years ago a number of Australian wallabies were liberated by the late Mr Michael Studholme on the hills at the Waimate Gorge. These have multiplied exceedingly, and are now pretty numerous about the bush and along the hills as far as the Hunter Ranges, which having numerous bushy gullies affords a good breeding ground for them. In an article on the decadence of the Maoris, the "New Zealand Herald" says that the laud courts were more fatal than the wars. The meetings of the land courts necessitated great gatherings of hundreds of Maoris around some hotel at a distance from their settlements. There they lay huddled for months under some wretched apology for a tent, drinking themselves insensible when ever they could with poisoned alcohol, and dying rapidly with fever and consumption. The enquiries into the connection of the family of the Murphys with the Premier Per manent Building Society's affairs have up to the present resulted m their being declared by the Supreme Court to be indebted to the Society m a total sum of £279,648 33 10d. One of the incidents of the last day's sitting of the Court was the objection by the counsel of one of the Murphys to the term "liar" applied to vis client by the prosecuting counsel. Mr Justice Hodges remarked that counsel had of course the right of objecting, but the term seemed to him eminently ap propriate. The Native Minister m the reply to a depu tation of Maori chiefs who waited upon him at Auckland on Tuesday, said the days of a Maori sovereignty over a section of the people of this country were at an end. Tawhiao must clearly understand he could not see him as a Maori king, but simply as one of her Majesty's subjects who desired to ventilate his grievances. Mr Cadm&n refused to discuss Tawhiao's grievances through intermediaries. If Tawhiao de sired a settlement he must apply to him directly, and he would meet him and go into the matter thoroughly. In the "New Zealand Gazette " of April 2, appear "statements of affairs" of fcwenty four gold-mining companies conducting business m Auckland. All were registered siuce March, 1890, and most of them m September and October. All but four are returned as m active operation. The aggre gate subscribed capital of the twenty-four amounts to £281,847 10s, and the sums paid up to £1937 8s 9d. Calls have been made m eight of the companies. Two gentlemen are returned as legal managers for the lot, one having charge of the affairs of eighteen com panies, while the other looks after six. None of the companies haft as yet declared a dividend. Our Melbourne correspondent relates a story which is going the rounds, about a row m the Victorian Cabinet between Sir Frederick Sirgood and Mr Peacock. Sir Frederick, as every body knows, is Minister ot Defence, and when matters connected with this department are discussed m Cabinet, he bears himself with true military dignity. Mr Peacock, who is a bit of a humorist, can not dissociate Sargoocl of soft goods fame from Sargood of gun and sword, and, it is stated, he occasionally laughs afc his military colleague m Cabinet, and has gone so far as to twit him with the lines from " Pinafore ": ".Stick to your desk, and never go to sea, And you shall be ruler of the Qucon'o navee". Sir Frederick, I am informed, complained'of Mr Peacock's "unseemly" conduct to his colleagues the other day, and matters were lively m the Cabinet for ten minutes. Two new bodies created by Act? of Parlia ment for the better government of the City of Melbourne will provide well paid billets for several persons. The Metropolitan Board of Works, which will have control of water and sewerage principally, will pay its chairman £2000 per annum, and it is impro bable tfiat the thirty-nine members will work for nothing. In addition they will appoint an engineer and also an expert m drainage matters. The Metropolitan Fire Brigade Board proposes to spend a quarter of a million on fire extinguishing appliances ; will p<iy its chief officer £800 a year and per quisites, his deputy £250; employ 100 fire men permanently ; 200 as a sort of firebt igade militia, who will be paid a retaining fee and specially for services rendered. A similar Board has been created for the country brigades of Victoria. On what scale its emoluments will be framed has not yet been settled, but their secretary is to receive £300 a year. Over there the insurance com panies have to "dub up" for the support of the brigades—they are to pay one-third of the cost of the new service; the Government and municipalities providing the other two thirds. Most heads of households have no doubt voted the filling up of the census papers, with their rather involved directions, a nuisance, but it probably never occurred to them to view the matter m a more serious light, as irreligious or unpatriotic. Our forefathers, however, viewed the taking of a census m a very different way. It will be remembered that the first census taken of the Israelites is recorded as having provoked the wrath of the Almighty, as he had for bidden the numbering of the peop'e. On this precedent superstition seized to repre sr nfc all census taking as an impious act. When the first English csnsus was proposed a little less than 150 years ago, m 1753, a member of the House of Commons, Mr Mathew Ridley, whose lineal de scendant of the present generation still occupies a seat m that Chamber, opposed the proposal, which he declared he looked on as ominous, " fearing lest some public mh fortune or epidemical distemper should follow the numbering." Another member, Mr Thornton, who represented the City of York, still more strongly opposed the dread proposal, declaring he " did not believe there were any set of men, or indeed any individual of the human species, so pre sumptuous or so abandoned as to make «u# i a proposal—one totally subversive of the last remains of English liberty.jas a register of the people would acquaint our enemies abroad with our weakness." Times have changed since then, and men's opinions with them.—"Post.''

The Federal Convention

(pee press association.)

Sydney,, April 9. At the Convention to-day Sir S. W. Griffiths, m moving that the report on the draft Constitution Bill be adopted, congratulated the Convention on the work done, and felt certain when the people of the colonies carefully con sidered the measure it would meet with their approval. Sir H. Parkes said he had never m his most sanguine moments expected to reach such an important stage m so short a time. . He desired to offer his sincere congratulations to the delegates, not only for the result of their labors, but for the tact and forbearance dis played. The debate, he said, never at any time sank to vituperation, and the proceedings had been marked through out by an endeavor to reach the ends m view with as much harmony as possible. The work done was a great and valuable work, and he ventured to prophesy that the colonies would be quite satisfied with the labors of the Convention. Experience would show them that a compromise with regard to the powers of the Senate would be wise and just. He referred to the opposition disployed towards federation, which was bound to take place ; but they knew from the history of the past with what violent opposition any great work was assailed. It would be the uninformed and reckless who were ever ready to oppose what they did not understand. To those who accused them of giving away the liberties of the several colonies he would say their efforts had been vastly to extend them. They would have liberty and power extending over all the colonies. Special care would be taken to guard the land and territorial rights as they existed at the present moment. Looking at the future from the standpoint of this Convention the admirably drawn Bill prepared by Sir S. Griffiths would be a document to be remembered as long as the Australian- English language existed. The Con vention had breathed into the Bill the breath of immortal life. He supported the adoption of tiie report, and gave it every possible concurrence. After a number of members had ad dressed the Convention m a congratu latory strain, Sir G. Grey again protesting that no proper form of representation had been provided, the motion for the adoption of the Com mittee's report on the Draft Constitu tion Bill was carried, Sir G. Grey being the only dissentient. Sir S. Griffiths moved—" That pro vision be made for the several parlia ments to submit the Constitution to the people for approval, also that if the Constitution be adopted by three colo nies the Imperial Government be re quested to establish the Constitution." Sir J. C. Bray moved an amendment that the Bill be submitted to the several Parliaments for consideration instead of approval. Sir S. Griffiths opposed the amend ment, as the whole work of reconcilia tion and compromise would go for nought if each colony could make amendments to suit itself. The amendment was lost after an attempt had been made by Sir G. Gtey to obtain recognition of the one-man bne-vote principle. The motion was put and carried. Votes of thanks were accorded to Sir H. Parkes, Sir S. Griffiths, and Hon. J. B. Abbott. Sir H. Parkes then declared the Convention dissolved, and the assem blage broke up with cheers for the Queen.

St. Helena.

A Blue-Book issued from the Colonial Office depicts the island of St. Helena m mournful colors. The fame of the island was of course made by the residence there of the First Napoleon, and the stream of visitors who subsequently called contri buted something to its means of liveli hood ; but for twenty years St. Helena has been going to the dogs, and has now very nearly arrived there. It is (says the [ London correspondent of the Liverpool "Posb")the SuezCanalthathaskilledit,as it has ruined many other ports of call. A final blow was given when quite recently the Government decided to withdraw the garrison of Imperial troops. La^t year this order began to come into effect, and St. Helena is rapidly drifting into the position of a desert island. Its principal source of revenue has always been Customs duties. In the three years pre ceding 1869 these averaged close upon £16,000; ten years later they did not exceed f. 10,000 ; and m 1889, the last date to which figures have been made up, they are a trifle under £5000.

"DAVID."

For a lengthened perisd the choii of the Presbyterian Church have had m view the rep-oducfcion of G. F. Boot's cantata, " David, the Shepherd Boy," By a coinbinalion of untoward circum stances (among others the illness of the then organist) the performance had to be postponed from time to time, but on Thursday evening it was given m the | church. The postponement was not perhaps an unmixed evil, for by it longer time was given for practice, with the result that both soloists and chorus were well up to their work —m the case of the latter specially so, as the points were caught with exactness and promptness of attack, and the author's idea was fully expressed. The solo work was appor tioned as follows :—Mrs Crisp, soprano ; Mrs Flower, contralto ; Mr Millar, baritone: Mr Andrew Black, bass — Mibses Gates and Barratt, soprano and alto, and Mr Hugh Craighoad, bass, taking part iv the concerted music for single voices. It is, of course, super fluous to re-tell the story of David's all by Divine summons from tending Jesses flocks to become m the fullness of time King of Israel. Suffice it to say that the cantata opens with a pastoral chorus m celebration of the Feast of the New Moon. Ib is while Jesses household are holding this feast that Samuel comes and m a rythmical melody gives his blessing and calls out son after sou of Jesses family, finally choosing David, the shepherd boy, to be anointed King of I&rael. The music of Samuel's and Saul's parts was entrusted to Mr Black, and although perhaps we could have wished him m better voice m places, he did fair ( justice to his by np means light task. Perhaps his best efforts were the songs of Saul, when that King found himself forsaken by God, and his kingdom given to another. The part o( David was taken l by Mr H. G. Blower, anc| throughout the cantata the leading tenor has much to do. Specially worthy of notice was Mr Flower's singing of David's psalm, " The Lord my Shepherd is," to which .Root has set an admirable harp accompaniment, of which Mr Lane gave a commendable piano imitation. Jesses music was taken by : tye MUtyp m yis uajial careful stylf,

giving evidence of no little study of I the work he had undertaken. To' Mrs Crisp was apportioned the part '• of Abigail, perhaps the l«ast effective i of all the solo work m the cantvta, and bub lifctlo scope was afforded her of using to advantage her flexible and telling voice. Her song "O Carmtil Fair," a simple melody, not perhaps any j more meritorious as a musical composition than any of the children's Sunday School hymn tunes, was the best m hoy part, aud for her singing of it she received a round of applause. Mrs Flower was more fortunate, as the music set to Mich-u's part is far more tuneful, and well suited to Mrs Flower's sweet alto. Her " Fair Shepherd"—Michal's invocation fco the shepherd harpist—and her " 0 Shepherd of Ephraba," were highly appreciated and loudly applaud oil. In the concerned pieces for single voices Miss Nellie B.irratt'd rich alto voice was heard to advantage, as well as Mr Hugh Craig head's useful bass. Of the choruses, the best was the " Evening Hymn " chorale, and the chorus " When heroes return," but all were taken well by tho choir. A harp interlude is introduced after Michal's song uFair Shepherd," but beyond givi.ig the pianist an opportunity to dis play any skill he may have m manipu lating arpeggios is otherwise of little merit. Mr J. C. Lane, who Iris had no little work to do m getting the cantata up, was organist, and Mr Llewellyn Owen conductor—to the latter's perfect baton much of the accuracy m time bein?j due There was a large audience, the church crowded to the door, and many unable to find seats. At tho close of the cantata the Rev. A. M. Beattie moved a vote of thanks to the Choir and those who had helped them, after which the National Anthem was sung.

TELEGRAPHIC.

Home and Foreign.

[per pkess association.]

London, April 8. The police made a raid on the Agar Club, situated m the Strand, to-day, and a hundred of those on the premises were arrested for playing baccarat. Sir G. Baden Powell, m a paper on the Bill providing for the investment of trust funds m colonial stocks, says there are many signs that the colonies which are proceeding with utterly un remunerative works must accept a much lower price for their loans, many of which might be raised m the colonies, as they are m great need of local stocks. Sir Graham Berry, Agent-General of Victoria, has written to a newspaper denying the rumor that the banks have underwritten any portion of the Vic torian loan. The irritation of the brokers, who had solicited an inter view with Sir G. Berry on the subject, is much modified at the latter's an nouncement. The first mail of the monthly service between China and England by way of Canada has arrived here. London, April 9. The Empress Frederick and her j daughter Empress Margaret, who have I been on a visit to England, have sailed for Berlin. St. Peteksbukg, April 8. The Czar is incensed at the secret marriage of the Grand Duke Michael with the daughter of the Duke of Nassau, and as a mark of his displea sure has deprived the Grand Duke of all the military ranks held by him m the Russian Army. "Rome, April 8. A number of Italians ha.ye sub scribed for a bronze wreath for pre sentation to two man-of-warsmen m recognition of their heroic conduct m saving life when the s.s. Utopia, bound from Genoa to New York with a lai'ge numbsr of Italian emigrants on board, collided with H.M.S. Anson off Gib raltar last month and foundered. New York, April 9. A serious riot occurred at Chicago to-day m connection with the Mayoral election One person was killed and several others received serious in juries. Valparaiso, April 9. The troops stationed m the Northern part of Chili have joined the rebels.

AUSTRALIAN.

Sydnky. April 9. News has been received from the Islands that the barque Pusnacs, from Melbourne, was totally wrecked on Howland Island, one of the Gilbert group, while loading guano. The crew reached the shore m safety, and were rescued by the Auckland schooner Maik-s, which had to cruise about the island for ten days before the cast aways could be taken oft.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

Dunedin, April 9. A German named John Bogiti has died at Waikaia after a few hours illness. En quiries hare failed to discover any of his friends or relatives. A telegram has been received from the Minister of Public Works stating tha', the unemployed cannot be put on the Otago Central beyofid Middlemarch, but work will be given to batches of men on the Catlins line at schedule prices. A free public reading room, making the second in the city, was opened in Walker street this evening. The room was built at the back of the Mission Hall and suit ably furnished by a lady who desires to be anonymous. A supply of Koch's tuberculine has reached the medical staff through the Colonial Secretary. As there is a very suitable'case in the hospital for its trial, it has been resolved, after consultation, to use the lymph, the patient having con sented. The trial will take place on Tuesday, DuNKtiN, April 9. At the Supreme Court yesterday Mr Justice Williams reversed the decision of the Magistrate at Invercargill, who had dismissed the case brought against Cox head by the Acclimatisation Society for having certain game in his possession contrary to law. The case was remitted back for trial, with five guineas costs. Mr Justice Williams also reversed the decision given in the case brought by the Dunedin School Committee against a Mrs Fulton, which had been dismissed on the technical ground that the clerk of the School Committeo was described as secretary instead of clerk. This objection, his Honor considered, was untenable, and the respondent was saddled with costs. Judgment was also given in a some what intricate patent case. The question was whether persons having patent rights in the manufacture of barbed wire in the United States, and patent rights-in New Zealand also, and who had granted licenses for the use of .the invention in, the United States, could prevent such licensees from selling in the New Zealand market. His Honor eh tided that the particular licensors in this instance were not the patentees, and could not, there-: fqre, give the power of sale'Jin this colooy, *'

Marriage of Rev. Mr Bean.

(Kuniara Times," March 31.) The marriage of the Rev. W. S. Bean, curate of Holy Trinity Church, to Jane, elde.st daughter of the Hon. R. J. Seclilon, Minister of Mines, was solem nised at Holy Trinity Church, this morn iug. Long before 11 o'clock, the hour ap pointed for the ceremony, the church was crowded m all parts and numbers had to be contented with a view of the wed-. ding party as it passed on its way from the carriages- to ihe church door. The bridegroom, attended by Dr Myles, his best man, left the parsonage for the church at eleven o'clock to the minute, aud shortly after that hour a waggonette and pair arrived with the six bridesmaids, who took up their places m the Church porch and awaifced the bride. The next carriage brought Miss Seddon and her father, and as the bride passed over the carpeted yard to the porch leaning on her father's arm, she formed the centre of a very bright and pretty picture—all the brighter because the sun burst out at the moment m full blaze. Other carriages then arrived bringing a nuoiber of friends and wedding guests. As the wedding procession entered the sacred building the choir under Mr Langridge sang the well known bridal hymn, "'The voice that breathed o'er Eden. The Church was elaborately decorated with beautiful white flowers, and over the altar ran the inscrip tion m silver lettering, " God bless this union "—a very handsome piece of work. The marriage service was read by the Rev S. Blackburne, assisted by the Rev F. P. Fendall. On the completion of the ceremony the organist, Mrs W. H. Brown, played Mendelsohn's " Wedding March " m grand style, and the happy souple left the building overwhelmed with congratulations, good wijhes, and some hundredweights of rice. Break fast " was served at the residence of the Hon. R, J. Seddon, when a numerous gathering ot relations and friends, including Mr Gordon, Inspector of Mines, and Mr Hamer, private secretary, sat down to table. In the afternoon the happy couple left m a waggonette and pair for Jackson's, ou the Christchurch road which forms the first halting place on their road to Christchurch. The wedding passed off with great brilliancy. There were no hitches of any kind, while the sunny and hot morning and the bright and pretty dresses made the wedding m the opinion of everybody the prettiest seen m Kuniara. In the afternoon Mrs i Seddon was "at home " to a large num ber of friends who called to offer their congratulations. .;-•■■ ' THE DRESSES. The bride wore a lovely dress of ivory white surah silk, with broche" sleeves and collar. The train was composed of the same material, with lace and orange blossom trimmings. A long tulle veil and spray completed her costume. For jewel lery she wore a handsome gold arrow brooch, set with pearls, the present of the bridegroom, and carried m her hand an exquisite bouquet of white flowers. There were six bridesmaids. They were attired m dresses of striped cream nun veiling, with floral bonnets to mutch. Miss Phoebe and Miss Louise Seddon, wore light sage green sashes, and carried baskets of ferns and marguerites. Miss Mary Seddon, and Miss Cunliffe (cousin to the bride'J wore primrose colored sashes and carried baskets of pink lilies. Miss Alice Rugg and Miss Holmes wore helio ttope sashes, and carried basVets of helio fctope. All wore pretty gold brooches bearing their initials, the gift of the bridegroom. Mrs Seddon, the bride's mother, wore a handsome dress of green silk, with velvet trimmings and bonnet to match. Mrs Cunliffe, Mrs Rasmussen, and other ladies were also very tastefully dressed. The bride's three l'ttle brothers m their pretty sailor costumes, were also much admired. The following is a list of the wedding presents : —Afternoon and tea sets, hand kerchief satchel and half dozen em broidered lace handkerchiefs, frosted candlesticks and pair of vases, pair of vases, silver and glass pickle jar, biscuit barrel, cream jug, glass biscuit barrel, and wrap, Japanese tea set, Bible (large), silver and glass biscuit barrel, dinner set, yacht ornament, mirror photo frames and pair of ornaments, silver biscuit tray, case of silver, gold nugget, half-dozen servi ettes, jelly dioh, dessert poons (silver and gold) case, one dozen silver afternoon spoons, tortoise card case, cards, and plush bag, silk handkerchief, foot-stools, tea cosy, slippers (afternoon), drawing room ornament, gold ring, pair vases, glass dishes, serviette rings (half dozen, silver), drawing room ornaments, pin tray, fern stands, box silver fish knives, worked cushion (sofa), tea cosy- clock, toilet set, gold bangle set m diamonds and pearls, large silver fish knife and fork, beaded cushion and watch pockets, cheque, cheque, engraved serviette, toast rack, decanter stand, silver dishes, vases, mitch box, ..-cheque, cheque, cabinet, painted mirror, serviettes, silver dish, silver tray, book, knife and fork rests, set of dishes, and marmalade jar.

The Rising in India.

[per press association,J

Calcutta, April 8. It is now considered certain that Mr J. W. Quinton (Chief Commissioner oi Assam), Mr Grimwood (British Resi dent at Manipur), Colonel Skene, Lieutenant Simpson, Messrs Cossins and Melville have been massacred, owing to the instructions issued by Mr Quinton disclosing the hostility of the Marquis of Lansdowne, Viceroy of India, towards the usurper Jobraji. Calcutta, April 9. A report has reached here that Mr J. W. Quinton, Chief Commissioner of Assam, has been beheaded. (Received April 10, 1 p.m.) Calcutta, April 9 The Viceroy of India has received intelligence that Lieut. Grant is still besieged at Thornal. Three small columns are rapidly concentrating on Manipur, General Graham being m Rup:«ne command. Lieut. Presgrave'i detachment, which had started for Tainui, is reported to be safe. The enemy are preparing to fight ten miles from the capital. (Received April 10, 10.50 a.m.) It is reported that the British were repulsed at Tamu, and it is feared that Lieut, Grant has been killed.

THE MARKETS.

(per press association.)

!§ London, April 8. At the wool sales good greasy merinos and all crossbrfds realised prices fuliy equal to the best obtained at the February series. Quotations for good scoured were unchanged. Poor and faulty scoured wools show a decline of 5 per cent. Wheat is 6d dearer. The American visible supply is 397,000,000 bushels. The New. Zealand Farmers' Co-Opora , tive Association report having received the following; cable from their London office, dated Bth April:— The present value of New Zealand wheat per 49Glb, ex Mark Lane, is 425. The market has an upward tendency, this quotation is for last season's wheat. Canterbury mutton 4§d, lambs sgd. The market is affected by large supplies, j

(Received April 10, 1 p.m.; London, Apiil 9. No New Zealand hemp has been sold by auction but a fair quantity has been disposed of privately at late prices. Stocks have fallen ia London.

Ashburton Live Stock Market.

Mr D Thomas reports upon the I/iva Stock Market m the Ash button District fur the week ending April 8, as' follows, viz : — On Tuesday at the Ashburton yards another very heavy entiy of sheep was brought forward for the day's require ment" The bulk of the entry consisted of good Hues of crossbred lambs and turnip sheep, also several lines of good merino breeding ewes. There was a very large .attendance of farmers and others interested, and when the strata of the weather and the large catalogues are taken into consideration the clearance that was made and the values obtained must be considered as highly satisfactory, and a sure proof that if the rain were to come now a great many more sheep are yet required to satisfy the needs of the district; The totals yarded forthe day were 17,144 sheep, 109 rams, 22 head of cattle and 23 pigs—of which my entry consisted of 10,258 sheep, it rams, 12 head of cattle and 20 pigs, for the follow ing clients, viz,, Me*srs..T. Grigg, W. Lyttelton, J. Gardner, M. Brown, Hay Smith, Longbeach Estate, V. Cunningham J. Kinley, H. Moorhead, Jas Johnston, E. Hardwlcke, J. Wilaon, A. M. Clark, D. McKendry, R. Mulligan, John O'Shea, R. Hampton, W. H. Rule, J. G. Hight, D. Brick, W, Ford, W. J. Allan, D. Cameron, Jas Wikon, W. Dalgety, E. Herring, M. Mahoney, J. Murphy, 8. ISokes, M. Ballance, and others. In sheep my principal sales were 113 fat 4 tooth crossbreds 14s, 550 2-tooth first cross wethers Us lOd, 646 ditto first cross ewes 11s lOd, 181 crossbred 2-tooths 12s, 684 full-mouth crossbred ewes 10s 3d, 206 crossbred lambs 10a Bd, 210 crossbred 4 tooths mixed sexes 13s, 72 fat crossbred ewes 10s Id, 114 fat merino ewes 6s 6d to 6s 9d, 66 fat crossbreds 9* 3d, 28 fat merino ewes 4s sd, 28 crossbred 2-tooths 10s 7d, 36 merino ewes 2s Id, 14 woolly merino lambs 3s 6J, 89 crossbred fat ewes 10s, 90 crossbred fat ewes 12s, 171 cross bred lambs 8s 6d, 183 first cross lambs 6s 3d, 116 crossbred ewes 7s 6d, 66? failing mouth merino ewes 2s 2d, 171 2-tooth merino wethers (small) 3s Bd, 110 merino ewes 2s 6d, 353 2-tooth crossbreds 10s fid, 73 old crossbred ewes 4s Id, 276 cull merino ewes Is 7d, 449 merino ewes 5s 4d, 121 merino ewes 3s 7d, 100 crossbred ewes 6s 9d, 145 crossbred lambs 9s, 222 2 tooth mixed merinos 5s lOd, 150 merino ewes 2s 9d, 240 merino awes 3a, 31 cross bred lambs 6s lOd, 610 merino ewes 3s lOd, 89 mixed crossbreds 9s, 426 crossbred Umbs wkh a few broken mouth crossbred ewes amongst them 6s 2d, etc., etc. In rams, I sold all my entry as follows—for Longbeach, 2 English Leicesters at 2gs each, 9 English Leicester* at l^g each, 2 Lincoln-: at 2gs each, 7 ditto at 1\« each, and 4 j>t, lg each ; for other owners, 10 Shropsls:rc 2-tooths at |g each, 3 old rams %t 13s 6d each ; for Alford Estate 1 at Ifg, 1 at; I^, 2 at IJt, 2at lg, and 1 at 22s each. In catlie and pigs the prices were not worth quoting.

The New Orleans Incident.

(PJBR PRESS ASSOCIATION.

New York, April 8. It has been arranged to indict a few leaders of the lynching outrage at New Orleans on the capital charge. Washington, April 9. Baron de Fava, Italian Minister, leaves on Saturday.

Argentine Affairs.

[PER PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Buenos Ayres, April 8. The Government of the Argentine Republic has suspended payment of deposits m the National Provincial Banks until June next. Depositors have been offered bonds for the due payment of their deposits, and it is proposed to form both the Banks into State Banks. London, April 8. The Institute of Bankers have been discussing the action of the Argentine Government with reference to the National Provincial B nts. London, April 9. There has been a heavy collapse m Argentine securities, the average fall being £6. [Received, April 10,10.50 ».m.] The "Standard" tolftres th« Argentine Government is bankrupt.

SPORTING.

NORTH OTAGO J.C. AUTUMN MEETING.

(PJSK PBESS ASSO IATIOK.)

Oamabu, April 9. First day's results (continued): — North Otago Cup, of 100 soys; 1$ mile.—Blizzard, Bst 91b, 1; Wayland, 6st 71b, 2; Secrecy, Cat, 3. Blizzard simply waited on his horses till entering th© straight when he ran up to Wayland, who was leading, and heading him m the last few lengths, wen comfortably by half a length. Time, 2min 48&socs* Dividend, £1 ss. Maidek Plate, of 25 soys; 1J mile. —Dunmore, 1 ; Miss Mac, 2 ; Lyra, 3. Eight started. Won by three-quarters of a 1 rngth. Time, 2min ISsecs. Dividend, £6 ss. Three Mile Trot, of 35 soys.—Roany v 60see, 1; Bondville, 40sec, 2; Silver Prince, 3sec, 3. Tliirteen started. Roany led all the way, nevpr being troubled. Time, 9min 21secs. Dividend, £3175. Novix Race, of 30 soys ; six furlongs. —Emperor, 7st, 1; P«tch, Bst 101 b, 2; Miss Eva, Bst 2,b, 3, Won very easily. Dividend—£6 ss. Flying Handicap, of 50 soys; six furlongs.—Miss George, Bsb 21b, 1; Lady Bell, 7at 121 b, 2 ; Ehfield, 6st 91b, 3. Seveu started. Won by a neck. Time, lmin 18|sec. Dividend, £3 6s. District Race, of 25 soys; one mile.— Irene, Bst 121 b, 2 ; Miss Mack, 7sfc 41b, 2 ; Millstone, 6st 101 b, 3. Eight started. A good race. Time, lmin 49Jsec. Divi dend, £117s.

ELLESMERE RACES.

The Ellesmere Jockey Club's annual races on Thursday passed off success fully. There was a good attendance, and the totalisator investment* amounted to £1407. The following are the results :— Distiiict Hurdle Race (handicap) of 20 soys ; one mil© and a half.—The Idler, 9st, 1; Genny Mount, lOst, 2 j Colleen Bawn> lOst, 3. Won easily by ten leagths. Time, 3min 19sec. Dividend, £1 15s. Open Hurdle Race (handicap) of 25 soys ; two miles. —Inchkeith, 10»t, 1; | Royalty,, 9at 121 b, 2 ; Doric, 9st 71b, 3. : Four atarted. Won by a length and a i half. Time, 4min 3sec. Dividend, £112s. Maidkn Plate, of 15 soys ; one mile. The Idler, Bst 51b, 1; Adventuress, Bsfc 61b, 2 1 New Hope, Bst 12ib, 3. Won easily by two lengths.. Time, lrain 52sec. Dividend, £114s, F.LHiSMERfI Cup, of 30 *ov* ; one and a half mile. Ilarkaway, 7st 131 b, 1; Red Cross, 7sfc 91b, 2j lfcui^iora, 6st, 3j

ABHBURTOJV GUARDIAN FRIDAY, APBIL 10, 1891



It is an open question whether arson or perjury is the crime more prominent m the Melbourne Palace Hotel fires cases. When Oswald Twist, the boots of the hotel, was on trial recently m the Supreme Court, a servant girl named Minnie Neill swore that Mr Wilson, the hotel proprietor, had offered her £200 to give c&rtain evidence, and the jury added a strong rider to their verdict of Not guilty animadverting on Mr Wilson's conduct. Now Mr Wilson is proceeding against an individual named William Pilley for conspiring to obtain this evidence from the girl ''with th { (? object of injuring.the reputation of the said Mr Wilson. >' And Minnie Neill now comes forward tq declare that all her previous evidence was a tissue of falsehoods, to which she was induced to commit herself by Pilley. It is not long since this Pilley prosecuted his own son for making a false registration, and he was found guilty and fined £5. A good deal of feeling surrounded the case, the sympathy being entirely with the son, who, at the most, was only guilty of a venial sin. The allega tion against Pilley m the present case is that, being v. fellow boai'dgp of the idea struck him that he could procure pay. merit from Wilson for evidence against that youth; but Wilson not rising to the bait, he then conceived the idea of revenging himself by manufacturing evidence of the Minnie Neill kind against him. It is all very peculiar, and all the disclosures have yet thrown no light upon the question whq lighted any or a}l of tfhe m.any fires ju the



AUTUMN, 1891. LA TES T NO VEL TIES IN ALL DEPARTMENTS 3STO-W O2ST VIEW AT THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. T7WERYTHING new. New Shuts, JjJ New Underclotfiing, New Scarfri and Bows, New Hats, New Suits for Men, New Suits for Boys. Everything new and of the LATEST FASHIONS. New Tweeds and Coatings for Measure Suits to hand. Inspection Respectfully Solicittd. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. W H. WEBBER, Manager NOTICE. I HAVE much pleasure m informing the Public that I have disposed of my ..Tobacconist, and Fancy Goods Em porium, Hairdressing Saloon, and Billiard Room to Mr Harry Friedlander. While thanking Clients for their liberal support accorded to me, I beg to ask con tinuance of the same for"my successor. W. ZANDER. SPECIAL NOTICE. WITH reference to the above I respect fully notify the Public of Ashbur ton and its vicinity, that I have taken over the old established business formerly ' m the occupation of Mr Wilhelm Zander, and will henceforth carry it on under my direct supervision, and hope, by strict attention to the wants of my Customers, to meet with the continued patronage accorded to my predecessor. HARRY FRIEDLANDER, _J L 74 MONSTER UNITED TEMPERANCE DEMONSTRATION. /•\N MONDAY, 13th inst., a Proces \ ) sion headed by the Sydenham Banner, and accompanied by a Brass Band, will leave the Bridge at 2 p.m. for the Domain. 800 children are expected to take part m the march. Short speeches will be given m the Domain by ministers and others, and Tea will be served at 4.30, for which adults will be charged 6d, and children 3d. oREAT MEETING IJT THE ODD FELLOWS' HALL, at 7.30. MR KNO'iT will Lecture, and i he chil dren will sing on the stage some Temper ance Melodies. Admission to the Hull, adultoGd, children free, Donatiunsin provi sinus or casi thankfully received by Mr* Poanson, Tri ingle. Ail communications to bo audvfissud to A. CARSON, i 43 i?ci;. Psp?U9t?»tion CvmwjtUie,



*%V nitre** CASH Advertisements under this heading not exceeding SIXTEEN WORDS 1/-. Addresses may be Wtat this Office "OLACKSMITH wants employment; JLj Heven years' experienco. Good doorman, used to general work. Apply D. B. Wabnock, Lauriston. 4§85 A LiL Children are requested to bring I. ll_ mugs to the Demonstration on Monday. 4 81 rjlIN WALD Wesleyan Sunday School _1_ Anniversary Services net Sunday, 3 p.m. and 6.30 p.m. Preacher : Mit J. Knott. 4 80 "T l> ANTED Known.—Mas J. Bvaa- YY anan has opened as Fruiterer and Confectionai', next Messrs John Orr and Co., East Street. WANTKD Known—That Andrew Okk, is offering 80 Ladies Sealette Jackets, newest styles, at moderate prices. 4^53 WANTED Known.— Li you want good value for your money go to Melford House. Cheapest first-class Drapery m town.—H. C. Sbgers, Melford House. / POOLING and invigorating Ie« Crvain V^ as mad* by H. G. Flower, Con «ction*r, E&at Street. WANTED Known.—Mrs J. Buch anan, Fruiterer and Confectioner. Tea and coffee at all hours ; hot luncheon on Saturdays, 12 to 2. Next Messrs J. Orr and CoY, East Street. JUST opened » choice lot of Ladie 8 Plush Jackets, newest shapes. Als° a new lot of Ladies' Pelerines and Boas —H. C Seqbrs, Melford House. ! ANI'ED Known—That Andkbw Ore is appointed agent for the cele brated Standard Boots. Every pair guaranteed. 4*54 \A ' ANTjJCD Known —Some special VV lines m choice Dress Goods at very low prices showing at " The Corner." "ANTED Known —That Andrew Okr is offering at a treat reduction 250 pairs of best Kaiapoi and Roslyn Blankets, contracted for when wool was at its lowest price. 4§52 \l7 ANTED Known.— lY e are now VV opening all our new Winter Goods m Drapery, Millinery, Clothing, Boots, &c—H. C. Segers, Melford House. VT7"ANTED every man m the County VV to have a suit of the Ashburton Tweeds.—Robert Alcoiin, Ashburton Clothing Mart, Saunder's Buildings. j W' ANTED Known—The "Strong- i wear " Boot is the best for Mens 'jadies and Children.—W. H. Colliek. /"""I LASS, Earthenware, and China, \JT direct from the Manufacturers. Robert Alcorn, Tea Warehouse and Ashburton Clothing Mart, Saunders' Buildings. ITANDSOME Presents given away .JLJL m June. Now giving tickets to every purchaser of 5s and upwards of Drapery, Millinery, Clothing, Boots, etc. —H. O. Seoirs, Melford House. CHEAP "SALE of Surplus Stock will be continued for this month only. Bvoko, Stationery, Fancy Goods, Music, etc., at Wholesale Prices to effect a clear ance. Subscribers wanted for monthly parts of Leisure Hour, Quiver, Gar dener's Magazine, American -Agriculturiat, English Mechanic, and others-—L. F. Andrjbwes & Co.



Q i • j W •> w I H 7 ■> ° n a CQ f4 | gllJ i p zn CO rt ■ ' ' SB GG 1 HI o 1



Pnblio Notions — READ ~~V "THE MIRROR," A HIGH-CLASS Weekly Social, Political, | XV Literary, and Dramatic paper to be PUBLISHED EVERY FRIDAY, Price 3d, by the Centennial Printing and Publishing Company, Limited, Melbourne Place, Russell Street, Melbourne, MONEY JO LENI)T" TirONET to Lend at LOW RATES OF INTEREST, on Mortgage of FREE HOLD PROPERTY, m sums of £100 TOJBSOOO For further particulars apply to the Postmaster, Ashburton, or to J. C. PRUDHOE, District Afent. Government Insurancs Office. Christchurch.



CHRISrCHGROH DENTAL SURGERY, Corner of Oashel and High streets g M T E K-i AND C o. SURGEON DENTIST And at Dunedin and Westport CTTE have gained tht FIRST AWARD VV " the Dunedin Exhibition for Artificial Dentures and Mechanical Appli ances for the M«uth, and it is with the greatest confidence that we guarantee the Highest class work and perfect fit at the •test moderate cos A Single Artificial Tooth, 10s. Complete Set — Upper and Lower— temporary and permanent, £10 10s. Natural, Durable, Comfortable Artificial Teeth Replaced Temporarily al most immediately after the extraction of decayed teeth or stumps without extra { cc or charge. Arrangements can be made for part or monthly payments. ADMINISTERING NITROUS OXIDE 3AS several times daily for the past ten years, we fearlessly assert that extraction of teeth under its influence ia perfectly painless and positively safe] Fee for Administration, ss. Extraction, 2a 6d. Artificial Teeth and Dentures made by other dwitigte rtpaiitd or remodelled at unallcwt



W. W. Spencer A Co EXTENSION OF w. vr. «n»R?rt;Kii * co'« Great Clearing Sale. L«ing heavily overstocked, and m order to make room for a shipment of Goods which we have landing from Home In about a fortnight, we have made Greater Redactions than ever. All Wool, colonial flannel, 10|d, 4-ply fingering wool, all colors, Is lid; Calicos 2s 3d the doz; Dress Goods 4M; Washing Prints, 2id, 3§d, and 4|d ; Washing Muslin H2s lid the doz ; Towels, 3|d j each ; a very large Towel 9|d, 4 Q now 6£d ; very good Ticking, h) H 6d: double width Sheeting, H <J 7£d; heavy white Linen Twill gj 0 Sheeting, ll|d ; heavy cotton Shirting, 5Jd; Cretonnes, 4|d ; l Qj Men's woollen Sox, ll|d; Boys' p j Braces, 4d ; Men's Braces, 8d ; M Hj Men's Regatta Shirts, 2s lid ; ri Men's good Tweed Suits. 22a Q H6d ; Boys' Tweed Suits from l 4s lid ; Men's colored Moles S7s 6d, now 5s lid ; Boys' do. H _ 2a lid. BOOTS. BOOTS. J-J \+ Men's Bluchers, 6s 6d ; Men's Dj colonial made Shooters, 9s lid; Boys' stroHg Boots very cheap. Women's strong Elastics, 6s 9d; Girls' and Maids Xvi Elastic Sides and Button Boots 2s lid. 3s lid, &hd 4s 6d at W. W. BP£.\CXR * Con THE ARCADE N.B.—We have this day purchased a Traveller's Set of Samples at a discount of 50 per o©nt;. If you want a real bargain now is your chance. ~~ TfccTlLi-oside;