The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 1891. RETRENCHMENT.

The Ministry have given practical proof that before they attained to office they had more than a slight acquaint ance with the working of some of the departments of the public service. The departments m which they have already effected retrenchments are those of Defence (including Police) and Public Works, and the yearly saving effected is no less than .£23,700. It lias long been notorious that both the Public Works Department and the Defence Department proper were greatly over manned. The cessation of large ex penditure on railways, roads, and other works has diminished the duties of the Public Works Department to a very small quantity, and reductions m the staff should have been made long ago. In Defence out small "standing army' is ridiculously over-officered, as for instance where we find a force of twenty commanded by an officer at £'250 a year, with non-commis sioned om«jer,s to assist him. Regarding the P-jijJi.ce reductions they affect only £h# higher officers m the service, those pejbju'jad being with one Inspectors. The duties of th« remaining Inspectors are to be increased so as fco 4ivJ4e among them the districts of the retired officers, and so far as we can see the duties are not beyond the capacity of those wUq will now have to fulfil them, and the efiU&t&sy of the force will be mno way impaired, Jndeed the re ductions will nowhereinterfe#G with the proper conduct of public business, pro vided that those officers who are regained to £hp various departments affected are of jtfr.at (^egree of ability which the public are entitled £q? #nd m their servants, Of course it ?s table that wfee» $&<& sweeping reduc tions are mode some $£££g of hardship will be found, but we may fee s#rp tl^at the steps taken by the Ministry have not, been adopted until each case has been eo&s&dprecl, anc^tne circumstances between the ji&bj.ic and the officers affected duly weighed. The further , retrenchments which are promised will be a«W;«ited with interest, and mean* i time there £s ?e#son to be thankful that Ministers hav,e .courage to take; swh early steps to propertiottat^ fiie ex- j jaenses^ gpyernmeni tp the irevenu^S <j| the .colony.. j

Owing to press** 1* of sp&w,, we w* fio«^'; pelled to hold over a targe awotpt of read-j ing matter, j The valuation roll for the borougU o£' Timaru has been signed. There were few (tij^t'fltions, and none maintained. The total of d«t i®)} b £36,474, or £110 leas than last year. Th*w s^s no addition to the number of dwellings op etqiag^ during the year, bub (»ver»l ©Id ©»« wore repiiuirXbyuew.

LOCAL AND GENERAL

Country readers may be reminded o| the sale of Mr F. M. Rickmau's stud stock sheep at the Ashburton Yards next Wednesday. The date of the clearing sale by Mr D. Tliomas on account of Mr J. W. Maidens, at Lauristm, lias been altered to Friday next, March 20th. An engineer named John Banbury, committed suicide by cutting his throat while m a state of temporary insanity on Friday morning, at Dmiedin. Messrs Friedlander Brothers want prime and seconds wheat immediately to complete loading the ships Ruthvin at Timaru and Coriolanus at Lyttleton. Earl Dudley (we learn from an English paper) is going to give up store keeping, and marry a Princes?. If he had advertised more this necessity would nothavearisen.—"Feild ing Star." The Tara gracing farm bore (Rarcaldine, Queensland), was continued to a depth of 1973 feet, when operations ceased. The flow is estimated at between 300,000 and 400,C00 gallons, and the temperature is 130 degrees. . A grand carnival was held m Lauriston, | Tasmania, recently, m which the Chinese element figured prominently, m aid of the funds of the Lauriston City and Suburban Improvement Association. The gross receipts amounted *o £1100. The transactions m grain last season by Messrs Friedlander Brothers amounted to upwards of 250,000 sacks. The firm loaded twelve sailing vessels for the United King dom and the Continent, besides a large intercolonial, coastwise, and local trade. Mr W. H. Derry, vrho is m charge ot the Christchurch branch of the Australian Mucual Provident Society, has been elevated to the position of District Secretary. This points to the increased importance of the Christchurch business of the Society. Th« Chatham Islands difficulty has been settled by notice m the " Gazette" proclaim ing the Islands exempt from the operation of the Dog Tax. This is done under the section giving power to exclude any portion of the colony from the provisions of the Act. Complaints have reached us that the current numbers of the "Australasian " and other journals are not available for the general readers m the public Library. No doubt a hint to the librarian will ensure due attention to the matter. A somewhat unusual entry figures among the trademarks m this week's " Gazette. It is an, application by the Rev Father (3azier for the registration of the series .of trade marks for the celebrated liqueur manufac tured by the monks of the monastery ot La Chartreuse, near Vovion, m France. The Timaru Hospital Board have received notice of a bequest by the late Mr R. A. Barker of £2000, subject to a life interest m the income, with a letter expressing the wish that the money be devoted to the erection and maintenance of a special ward for the treatment of females suffering from septic diseases. : The Champion Cup given at the Swimming Club is now on view m the window of Mi- Brooke, chemist; it is an exquisite sample of the silversmith's art, and should certainly be highly prized by the winner, Mr E. Marsh, whose win was very popular. The cup is presented by the Captain of the Club, Mr Alfred Harrison. At Townsville, Queensland, several boys WlfrA bathing m Ross Creek, when one sank to wie oocioiu. A little boy, a son of Mr McQueen, without taking off his clothes, dived to the bottom, and found the un fortunate lad lying with his arms and legs extended apparently dead, McQueen brought his comrade to the surface, and after some time he Was brought td his senses. . The victory of Carbine on March 7, m the All-aged Stakes is the thirtieth occasion on which he has got home m front, and his recordnow Btands as follows :—At two years, first 5, second 0, third 0, unplaced 0; at three years, first 9, second 3, third 1, un placed 0; at four years, first 9, second 2, third 2, unplaced 1; at five years, first 7, second 0, third o,{unplaced 0; total first 30, second 5, third 3, unplaced 1. Carbine's winnings m stakes now amount to £27,843. A young lady has intimated to the Dunedin Uniyersity Council her desire to enter as a student of the medical school, and enquired if it was competent for her to attend the medical classes. Mr Cargill remarked that the Council had resolved some years ago to admit women to the medical school. Mr Stanford said, however, that at that time the question was referred to the professors and lecturers, who replied that there were very great practical difficulties m the way of admitting ladies to the medical course, inas much as there were certain subjects upon which it would be necessary to duplicate the lectures as they could not have girls and boys there at the same time. Dr Burns remarked that the difficulty would not be so great if there were twelve ladies instead of only one, and Mr Cargill admitted that it would be necessary to make special arrange ments before the young lady m question could be admitted. The Council arrived at no resolution on the matter, but it was understood that Professor Scott would be consulted.—" Otago Daily Times." . The will of Mr John Noble, varnish maker of Parkplace, Henley-on Thames, is a curious one. He leaves his wife £12,000 per annum, which is to be reduced to £1000 if she re marries. His eldest son is eventually to have Parkplace, with an income of £12,000, but only provided that he quarters the arms of Noble. This gentleman is to have an ! immediate allowance of £6000, hue it is to be reduced to £4000, per annum whenever he is not a member of the House of Commons. Whether Mr Noble's wife remarries or not, or whether his sou does or does not quarter the arms of Noble, are matters which must be indifferent to the worthy varnish maker now that he Has withdrawn from this planet. When, however, he fines his son £2000, if he does not manage to win his Parl* nentary election, it is questionable whether this stipulation ought to be allowed to stand, for it gives the son a direct pequniary advantage m winning, and it is, consequent!) m .the nature of * bribe. The best medicine is Sander and Son s Eucalpyti Extract. Test its eminent power ful effects m coughs, colds, influenza, etc.— the relief is instantaneous. Thousands give the most gratifying testimony. His Majesty the King of Italy and medical syndicates all over the world are its patrons. Road the official reports that accompany each bottle. We hare no occasion to offer rewards m proof of the genuineness of our references. Th« official reports of medical clinics and univer sities, the official communications of the Consul-General for Italy at Melbourne; the diploma awarded. International Exhibition, Amsterdam—all these are authentic docu ments, and, as such, not open to doubt. We add hen; epitome of one of the various cases treated at "the clinic of Schultz, M.D. Pro jfessor, etc.—"G. I?., 24 years old; conges |tj.onal al)scess qh tl),e thigh. Incisions made j;j two places. Altljough' Lispcr's dressing *y<j,S applied, th,e secretion became, ]bwp days )a,ter,' very copious, and had adopted a foetid, decomposed chai'aptop. The temperature pose | enormously. In consequence the dressing was removed and .m its place were made during the day-time repeated irrigations with Eucalypti Extract. The offensive faster dis appeared very soon, the fever abated within a, few days, and the patient recovered after the lapse'of several weeks. In this instance we must not lose sight of the fact that the latter treatment saved the patient's life." Advt.) 3 The Bkst Remkdy fob Indigestion— Sj'oiiton's Camomile Pills are confidently recommended &,s a ,simple remedy for Indigestion, which is the c^usp of nearly ajl the diseases ' j,q" whjcii we are subjects Pills, wj.tb justice called: the ' Jjatjjtal )Strei)gtiiener of the Human Stomach," act*ij.s '§■ nqYpf.'ff|i tqnip and gentle aperient, are mild jn their qpgratJQa;, and safo under any oireitmstaitctss, S,ojd m bottles, at Is Hd, 2s 9d, 113, by all medicine vendors throughout the wo Id HOLLOWAYS OIXTMEXT AND PILLS. - — Golds, Coughs, Shortness of Breath.—These maladiea pe^ujre early and unremitting attention, for if wglc^Jed they often end m asthma, bronchitis, or CGUSUjftptjoii. The ointment''well"rubbed upon the chest and l>a.ck, penetratiiig jthe skin, is absorbed and parried tiivectly to the' lungs, whence it; expels all'impurities. All the blood'in the' bo"dy is perpetually passing .through the Jungs, and .there all noxious particles tend-! ing <# ttjisease caii ne Quickly, .thoroughly, and penman entjir neutralised, rendered harnr |fess;,or oj.e&ett"frouf .£jfo&sygtjjiji, Holloway's ; i Ojntnjcn^ ans Pills perfectly aceflnjfjlj&j. W> : is , niuiftyajwy,; a#d through' fllie }ft^M fins I cleansed, ithe iisuejjee of tlies.e \v</nd,erf,i'iJ medicaments peaches (<h<? j.'umo"t,est parf' 9? the human' \fflly t aud'Uitys c^a djseasoui i »ctiou, whether illtaggft $ ?$?*"»»!

A MODEL LANDOWNER.

Just at this time when the subject of providing small holdings for agricul tural laborers is being prominently brought forward m the speeches of the Minister for Lands, and m the editorial and correspondence columns of tine newspapers of the Colony, a reference to what has been done m the Old Country m this direction by the late Lord Tollemache will not be mal apropos, the more especially that the name of Tollemache is well-known m Canterbury. In making that reference, we avail our selves of some interesting particulars furnished by " Agricola" m an article contributed to a recent issue of the " New Zealand Herald," from which we collate the following:—Lord Tolls mache, who died m December last at the ripe age of 85, was the hereditary owner of extensive estates, aggregating some 30,000 acres, m the counties of Cheshire and Suffolk. Not being a believer m large farms, he broke up his lands into small holdings, the maximum size being 200 acres. Ho took a pride m rendering his tenants comfortable, building or re-constructirig 'some fifty to sixty farmhouses aba cost of £148,000. In his dealings with his tenantry he earned the name of " the model landlord/ and as, a natural consequence his farms were invariably let to good tenants. But ib was as a pioneer In establishing the allotment system for' farm laborers that the name of Lord Tollemache came most ; prominently to the front. " ' Three acres arid a cow,'—a phrase which has become historic—owes its origin to the ! fact that the noble lord set apart allot ments, erected cottages, and furnished cows to laborers on his estates. It is reported that there are no less than 250 of these cottagers on the Peckfor ton estate, the majority of whom are most comfortably circumstanced. They utilise a portion of the land lor a garden, aud a portion for grazing ai\d tillage, and they supplement their wages on adjacent farms by celling the produce from the cows. By this kindly and thoughtful means Lord Tollemache effectually solved the labor difficulty on the Peckforton estate. The farmers rarely or never lost a laborer occupying one of Lord Tollemache's't picturesque and comfortable cottages. In provid ing these cottages, and m building the farm-houses already-mentioned, our ' model landowner' spent something like £280,00.0. Commenting upon the very great advantages of the ' three acres and a cow 'system, so successfully inaugurated by Lord Tollemache, one paper says:—'This was an immense boon to the laborers, as it enabled their, wives to add, m a marked degree, to the family income, though attending to the cows, pigs, and poultry. As a general rule, the wives of'the laborers are exceedingly anxious to add as far as they .can to the family income ; but, on account of their family cares, they are quite un able to go out to the fields and work the same hours as the ordinary laborers. But the management of an allotment, conveniently situated beside their cot tages provided them with a remunera tive piece of work which they could do quite well m their spare time, when the cares of their family had been attended to. As the family grew up they also assisted their parents m the work of the allotment, and m that way there was reared a class of laborers who had been trained from the very first to the careful and economical management of land and stock. In many parts of the country, and parti cularly m the dairy districts m the south west of Scotland, the difficulty of obtaining laborers and dairymaids trained to the economical management of land and stock is one of the most pressing wants of the time; and the system so beneficently carried out by Lord Tollemache not only added to the income and comforts of the laborers, but also made provision for supplying this want so keenly felt by many farmers. . . . Qf this 'model land owner ' it may be said that he was one of the best and most practical agricul turists m England; and Mr Gladstone and others frequently directed atten tion to the skill and wisdom shown m managing his two large estates. He was truly a model m this respect, and as one paper remarks, ' The noble example he has set m the discharge of the great trust confided to his hands is i one that may well be followed by hundreds of other landlords throughout | the country.'" To which it may be added that as like causes necessarily produce like effects, so the adoption m ISew Zealand of the principle of the three-acres-and-a-cow system, modi fying it, to suit our circumstances, by substituting ten or twenty for three acres, and two, four, or half-a-dozen cows for one, will go far to solve the problem of how to do away with the cry of the "unemployed," and to render thousands of working men and their families happy and comfortable.

THE PRESBYTERY.

ASHBURTON BUSINESS. At the meeting of the (Jhristehurch Presbytery on Wedneseay the Rev A. M. Ijeattie reported to the Presbytery that the Aslfburfco'n CQiigre^dtjqn jiad fqund it necesr I s;ary to reduce the minister's stipend for the j time being from £300 to £250, but there was j little doubt that ere long it could beiestored to the old figure. Mr A. Orr suggested that the Presbytery should send a deputation to enquire as to what might be done. The Revs Dr Eltnslic. Gordon Webster, R. Erwin, M'Kenzie, and Riddle were appointed a Committee to enquire and report. The Rev W. Finlayson's resignation of the Methven-Rangitata charge was read. A deputation waited upon the Presbytery to urge that the resignation be not accepted, and a letter to the same effect was received from Springbitni; " After ft''long flisqussion, ni j;he course of whiph tlip Bey Me Finlayson qtiited the reasons which had led ln'm. t'q resign, it was resqlved—:'sTh.at the Rev Mr Pinlayson's resignation bo, accepted, and that the eon* gregation be urged to make up the minister's salary m full to March 31st."

Board of Education.

At the Board of Education on Thursday the Chairman reported the result of the election of tfcrgs njembers. Altogether 120 CommitfcouM bad voted m tinie, and five had sent m their papers'top late. T.he result of the 'voting was" fid 'under 1:--W. Montgomery, 1,01 ; E. G: Wright, 88; T". Hanson, 72 ; E. R. Good, "40 ; W. C. Walker, -40-; and J. T.; Smith', 27. The Board confirmed the ejection of M(>shi:u >/)[oi}i;gitU|6ry, Vjfa'jgljt, Hilt} A' ijtjC^, t)v. stlie iiljijlfeitiun o,r the Hair {wtead .School Conimft'tee,"i't 'Was 1 resolved to defray tho'post of i>ut£in^ up |Jig bell,'

The TSiffelton Committee forwarded a 1 plan of the proposed school site, and I suggested that, as there waa a bvick yard netir the spot, it would be advisable to call for alternative tenders for the school m wood and brick. The suggestion was approved. As to the site, it was resolved to r.efer to the Lon-beach Road Board for their concurrence, Upon the recommendation o£ the Wakanui Schoul Committee, it was resolved to dafer the erection of the new, school till after the annual meeting of householders. A letter was received from Mr R. X- Parkerson, enquiring on behalf of the refcidenfcsof Ealingv when the school would be proceeded with. The householders were asked to f ecofflmend A suitable Site The question as to the site of the Alford Forest new side school was considered. llt was resolved to adhere to the site decided on, and to invite tenders for the building. Miss E. Rutherford was appointed mistress at Springburn, and it was decided to advertise for pupil teachers for the Rakaia School. The South Rakaia School Committee Applied for the immediate introduction of a system of ventilation into the school. The Clerk of Works: was instructed to make an examination of the school and its surroundings, and report to the Buildings Committee. The Board threw out a motion by Mr Meredith to reduce the Inspectors' salaries and appoint a clerical assistant, and carried an amendment, by Mr Wright, which provided for clerical assistance to Inspectors where necessary. A further motion was carried instructing the Inspectors to so arrange their examina tions as to have all completed before the commencement of the midsummer 01 harvest holidays. A report was adopted defining the meaning of a householder, and containing some useful hints to School Committees. It was agreed to advertise the report, and forward slips of the advertisement tc School Commit teesi,

SPORTING.

C.J.C. AUTUMN MEETING. fPBU VR&HH ASSOICATION.] Chkistchuhch, March 13. . The"followingnominations, acceptances, arid further payments for the Autumn meeting of the C.J.C. were received to^: night :— NOMINATIONS. Christchuroh Hurdles, of 100 so vs. Two miles.—Preston, Iroquois, Ixion, Erin-go-bragh, Irish King, Ivanhoe, Little Arthur, Romulus. Temblkton Stakes, of 100 soys. Six furlongs.—Adieu, Nellie Grey, Dormeur, Red Cross, Carronadq, Ruby, Von Tempsky, Prime Warden, Lady So^kbufn, Whim, Mariner, Mis« George, Palliser, Drugon, Crown Jo>vel, Lord Aston j; Inez, Drift. Epsom Weltbr Handicap, of 100 sbvs. One and a half mile.—Rangiora. Coinage, Silver Grey, Burlesque, Crown Jewel, Catamount, Riniu, Marinor, Culnine, Rosebud, Lady Zetland, (liarkaway. ! RtrssLEY Stakes, of 100 soys. Five furlongs. —Conjuror, Ranee Nnna/Tassie, May, Triton, Ilium, Tom Field, Union Flag.- ■ . ■■ ■ , . ;■ ■;■ ' ;T;"; Pjb'ekswick Hurdlb Race, of 75 soys. Once round nud a distance.—Preston, Ivanhoe, Tres Sec, Tired, Tornado, Isidore, Ixion, Little Arthur, Erin-go bragh, Romulus. Autumn Nursery Stakes, of 100 soys. Fire furlongs.—Conjuror, Clanrauald, Ilium, Yataghan, Union Flag, Triton, Melinite, Tassie, May. Sockuuen Handicap, of 100 soys. i One and ji quarter mile— Hangiora, Red Cross, Moraine Rosebud,. Lord Aston, Lady Zetland, Mariner, Palliser, Whim, Crown Jewel, Prime Warden, Inez, Hark away. AnzxiNOTON Plate, of 75 soys. Six fur-' iou<(s. —Nellie Grey, Drift, Catamount, Peerswick, Carronade, Whim, Rimu, Uragon, Lady Sock burn, Union Flag, Tom Field. ACCEPTANCES. Great Autumn Handicap, of 500 soys. i One and a half mile.—Freedom, 9st ; Occident, B.st 51b ; Breadalbanc, 7sfc 101 b; Blizzard, 7sfc 91b ; Cruchfield, 7«b 71b ; Moraine, 7st 51b; Hazel, 6st 101 b; Palliser, 6st 101 b ; Mariner, 6st 51b. FURTHER PAYMENTS. Ciiampa<jne Stakes, of 350 so.va. Six furlongs.—Cajolery, Melinite, Florrie, Clanranald, Union Flag; flinders^ CHALIiBNGE STAKES, of 300 POVS. Six furlongs.—Florrie, Union Fla<j, Clan ranald, Diadeai, Triton, Flinders, Meli nite, Cajolery, Conjuror. All Mr Gollan's nominations and accep tances for the C.J.C. Autumn Meeting were received too late to be included. The entries closed at four o'clock, aiid his telegram left Hastings at 7.10-p.m. Mr Gollan's entries and acceptances for the Autumn Meeting arrived after the advertised time for closing, and conse quently could not be accepted. Seeing that Tirailleur was intendod for the Great Autumn Handicap, it can be under stood how disappointing his absence will be to race-goers.

The Federal Convention.

[per press association, I Sydney, March 13. Sir Henry Parkes began his reply this morning by ottering his .congratu lations to the delegates on the sense of public duty which had characterised their speeches. He was sorry to hear the tone of reserve maintained by the Western Australia delegates, and re minded them the larger colonies would have to make sacrifices as well as the small ones. No colony for instance was so well able to do without federa tion as his own, which had a much higher degree of private wealth than any other colony. The time had come when a larger form of Government was needed to work out the destiny which the progress and enterprise of the colo nies demanded. Take defence, it was true they were not exposed to the form of war their forefathers had to suffer, but there were always plenty of wolves to find a lamb who muddied the water He referred to China as a power they had to guard against. Napoleon had said the Chinese once masters of Euro* pean arts would conquer the world, and he believed they were awakening to a knowledge of th« power their im mense population gave, them. Ife w,^ not ppo'pa're'd) to accept a transcript of the American constitution, The Senate they wanted was a dignified Upper Chamber with a touch of con servatism. He admitted the smaller colonies deserved special consideration, but disagreed with the proposal to give both Houses power over money bills, and with the suggestion that every colony should be represented on the Ministry. The man at the head of the Government should be absolutely free to select his Ministers. He could notssee his way to make an anomalous 1 consti tution merely 'to suit Western Austra lia, and if she could, not see her way to join -Without making sacrifices, $at she CQuld! Rtjt. f^et, ■hftr/Va.y clear to give, sho must wait her chance to- come '*n to the federation. Speaking generally, he Uie'wisest course.' $m to WW* ft* " i ' qetywte toU

I would be quickly to agree on the vital provisions of a bill as to the construc tion of Parliament, the executive and the relation of the smaller States. That once done the measure could be framed m twenty-four hours. He concluded by asking them to show a spirit of forbearance and compromise to enable them to bring about their object as soon as possible. Mr Abbott was appointed Chairman of Committee, and on the motion of Sir H.-iParkes, the Convention went into Committee. In 'Committee, clause 1, preserving their rights and'privileges to the indi vidual colonies, was carried. Sir Geo. j Grey attacked the system of nominee chambers, and was supported by' Sir J. G. Bray and others. It was decided to take clause 3, handing over the -Ctistoiris to the Federal Government, before No. 2. Mr Deakin having moved to add excise to Customs, the Committee adjourned. Much amusement was created at the Convention yesterday on the receipt of a telegram from the people of iWarrnain bool urging the claims of that town to be selected the capital of the Federa tion. There was nothing very striking m yesterdays debates bej'ond the figures quoted by Mr McMillan. The debate shows that all the delegates except Messrs Munro and Doakin are vir tually unanimous on the question of states rights. . The " Sydney Morning Herald" commenting on the attitude of New Zealand says it is useless for that colony to dream of avoiding federation and securing free commercial inter course with Australia. Federation and reciprocity must go together. The " Herald " urges New Zealand to join, and,, points out that it will be a vain hope to suppose the federal tariff will contain any " favored nation " clause. London, March 12. "The Times" doubts whether Aus tralia will,assist Imperial Federation. The discussion at Sydney shows more agreement ftjid less positive differences than were expected, and the prospects of working a compromise are hopeful. The " Standard," after highly laud ing Lord Carrington's remarks, <. says that the Federation Convention is being watched with the keenest iuterest by the British CroAvn, Parliament and arid people, who will abide; by the result,: believing no decision will be adopted m the least militating againtt the rnaintdhaftce of Australia as an integral portion of the Empir«.

The School Book Question.

[risk '*ress association,]

Hokitika, March 12. At the Education Board meeting cir culars-from tlie Minister re uniform school books and the " Auckland Herald " com ments, were considered, and the following resolutions agreed to :—" That this Board cannot regard the letter submitted to the Education Department from the Trades and Labor Council, Otago, as, an im portant movement of. the public niind with respect to' the administration of the education system of the colony, for the following reasons :—-(1) That the Trades and Labor Council of Otago is an organi sation comparatively unknown, and there fore any opinion expressed by that body on a vital question of education policy m the colony cannot be accepted as either authoritative, impartial, or conclusive ; (2) That there is no evidence m support of the allegations contained m their letter, yi«., ' Thatattemptsare being made to intro duce the "Southern Cross" readers into public schools, against the wishes' o* a veiy large majority, pf parents,' or ' that the working classes have it any wav ex pressed themselves so on the subject"; (3) That uniformity of school and text books m State schools' is not desirable, nor is it expedient fpr the Government to undertake the compiling arid publication of such books m direct opposition to private enterprise; aud, moreover, m view of the excellent series and choice of school books obtainable m thecolony at a nominal cost; (4) That twelve years' experience of the working of the Education Act proves that ample provision exists for the protec tion of the best interests ot the public through the many Boards of Education and School Committees throughout the colony (all of a representative character,) who have fulfilled the highest expectations of the State m dealing wirh theimportantquestion of education ; (5) That this Board regards with disfavour any ill-advised and vicioua interference on the part of any sell-con stituted organisation with the present system of education, which is a blessing to the people and an honor to the State, and consideis that Parliament alone is the proper arbiter m dealing with abuses, if any exist." "That the disparaging re flections contained m the article of the "Auckland Herald" of 7th February on the educational system of the colony do not apply to the Westland educational district, and this Board is of opinion that generally it is a libel on the colony, and furthers considers that undue prominence and importance have been given by the Department to theS'iews of an unknown and irresponsible writer." Wellington, March 13. The following is the test of the circular which was sent out by the Education" De partment to the various boards of the colony:— "Sir, —I have the honor, by direction of the Minister of Education, to send you a copy of a letter he has received from the Trades and Labor Council of Otago. The Minister thinks your Board in,ay like to be informed of any important move of the public mind with respect to the adminis-< tratipu qf the edu.catian. system of the golony, I am, therefore, instructed to ask you to kindly bring this letter under the notice of your Board.—l am, &c, E. Gibbs, for Secretary " "Trades and Labour Council of Otago, Dunedin, 6th February, 1891.—Sir, -By direction of the Otago Trades and Labor Council, I have to draw your attention to the fact that, against the wishes of a very large majority of the parents, attempts are being made to introduce the 'Southern ! Cross readers' into our schools. I need ' not tell you the lights m which the working classes upon this matter. I am. aJUo instructed, £o a,sk if you. can see yaur- way to give fsffect to the.following resolution which was passed at a meeting of this Council m May last:—'That m the opinion of this Council there should be uniformity of school and text books in* our State schools, and that this would best be brought about by the Government preparing and publishing the same style i of, books, snch preparation to be done m the colony.' This resolution was for warded to your predecessors. Hoping you will see your way tq g\\s attention to these matters,—l haVe, &cl, "R. Slater, Seorefcary. To the Bon, the Minister of Education," ' . .

Wesleyan Conference.

(P£fl PM533 A^'QCIATJjO^.) Auckland, March. At the Wesseya,n, Conference, this, xn,om :ng, the opiuioin of SSfr $, * VYhita>kei\ jega^Uxjj ife ]$vi inters' term, of appoint ttei\t was. r.eatV He states that the uxfcensiou from three years to

I five years would be ultra virs», though he admitted I here might be sufficient reasons to ar;fc on a resolution of tho General Con ference granting permission for such a step, especially hs. he did not see that any mischief or inconvenience would arise if that were done. Eventually it was re solved to bring permissive legislation into operation as soon as that could bo legally done. The Superintendent of Durham Street circuit, Mr F. Harris, was appointed treasurer of the contingent fund. The Conference to-night adopted the final draft of stations. Those for Canter bury are as follows : —Christchurch, (Durham Street), W. Morley, L. M. Tsitt, and RV J. Murray; Sydenham, •I. N. Buttle ; St. Albans, H. Bnumbor and D. .1. Murray ;'Lyttelton, H. Tinsley; Springston, S. J. Garlick ; Leeston, W. J. Parsonson and J. G. Chapman; Kaiapoi, G. Bond; VVoodend, C. H. btandage; Rangiora, W. B. Marten; Timaru, W. J; Williams } Waimate, J. S. Smalle'y ; Temuka, C. Griffin ; Ashbur ton, S. La wry and J. H. Gray.

TELEGRAPHIC.

HOME AND FOREIGN.

(PEB PKJBSS ASSOCIATION.) London, March 11. i Lord Salisbury has consented to arbitrate the Behring Sea fisheries dispute, reserving, however, the claim based on Russia's unrecognised ukase of ninety years ago. Earl Stanhope, Secretary ! for War, m reply to a, question m the House of Commons, said that when' economy permitted it he always gave the prefer ence to the use of home grown meat m the army. ' t By an explosion m Dixon's iron-, works, Glasgow, six msniwdre killed. The South Eastern counties suffered severely from the blizzard. The snow fall was general throughout England, and remarkably heavy. In some parts the snow drifts were twenty feet deep. The '*flying Dutchman" was snow bound at Tiverton, m Devon, and many mail trains iii various parts were com pletely embedded m the snow drifts. The blizzard is still raging. Twenty lives have been lost, and various casualties reported. Several people have been frozen to death The Liberal 'leaders are incensed at Sir Charles ,Dilke's candidature for the Forest of Dean seat. ; : ■ London, March 12. Mr J. Burns thinks that workmen m the colonies ought to be represented on the Labor Commission, as it would be useful to know which colonies would ask the Leislature to confirm the eight hours' system which the Unions had secured . but could not maintain. Lord Chief Justice Coleridge has in formed Mr Justice Stephen of the accusations of . eccentricity brought against him, suggesting that he should call m medical advice and either resign or.take a prolonged rest. ' ■ Sir J. P. Hennessy has given notice that it is desirable to appoint a oolonial Council of advice, and Lord Knutsford has given a-similar notice with respect to India. The Councils are to consist of Agents-General, cxl Governors, and other men of experience. Messrs Jas. Wilson and Sons, of Bradford, have failed; liabilities £130,000, chiefly secured. German firms are enquiring if wol ■frtvn (tungstate of iron) is procurable m Australia, and offer to take a large quantity. • Sir M. Hicks-Beach m the course of a speech said Mr Parriell, although disowned by Mr Gladstone and the priests, was stil 1 the popular leader. Government oppose the Channel Tunnel Bill. -.„..■ Atlantic steamers are being built to run between New York a,nd Milford Haven m five days. Bekun, March 12. The Reichstag rejected the proposal to admit women to the liberal pro fessions. The Reichstag hap agreed to force German interests m Africa. Belgrade, March 12. Queen Natalie has been dissuaded from publishing Milan's diary. Valpakaiso< March 12. The rebel leaders have made over tures for peace. . \ Ottawa, March 12. The Canadian Parliament opens on April 27th;; ...•,. Rome, March 12. Prince Napoleon is siightly im proved. ! Vienna, March 12. It is reported that Baron Hirsch has bought land iri the Argentine Republic, oii which he intends to settle a hundred thousand expatriated Je>s. Paris, March 11. The Chamber of Deputies has passed the Sugar Bounties Sill.

AUSTRALIAN.

Sydney, March 13. A heavy storm is raging with a terrific easterly sea along the coast, j Anxiety is felt for the safety of several steamers. The steamer Alberta which \vas recently wrecked was completely lifted over the rocks by a great sea and disappeared, The Duke* of Manchester has arrived here, he has come out for the benefit of his health. v . Buisbase, March 12, . The stormy weather is certain to continue. A gale almost amounting to a cyclone, is blowing between New South Wales and Norfolk Island, and will probably extend as far as *Auq& land. ■ ■ HOB4RT,. March 13, It is currently rumored that, the Tasiuanian Steam Navigation Com j>any is abo,u.t to sejl out or amalgamate with; the I/nion Company."' The chairman of Directors and manager proceeded to New Zealand to buy the Rotomahaua.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

Wkllington, Marcj\ 13k, ■ Admiral Scott has conse^n^cfi tfo allow au experienced office^. U> conduct the enqniry.tinto the. Bay explosion. The cSb]ft s.teamer Recorder is expected; to bft »avaiiiible for repairing the broken oablo about Monday. The r^j^rtment are making every effort tQWieet the emer gency, but tho loss*, o$ cable is a serious inconvenience w\& much^lelay, especially to cab^Q messages, is caused-by the break-. O^maru, Mwch)3L The annual ram and w^ fair i,i> [con ljeclfcion with, tjh,Q Kfoyth ()tago A^ri^ul ttu-aj ai\s J^^toral Asspcjiatiion was held b(x4vy. Theye \ya% agqoij attendance of buyers, and cpixiipe'# ; U\U was spirited. Tho b,ulk of exhibits were Border Leicesters, for which the average price obtained was from four to six guineas. Lincolns wer<j iii poof demand ; and of these there, w.*s& also a large entrf, * I

\ . DoNKDiN, March 12. A meeting'of iei>i|>er;uice workers to night appointed if committee to select five prohibition candidates for the licensing election. iNvencAßGiLt, March 13. The County Kngineer has reported that the bridge through which a traction engine fell lately, killing a man, Wiis built 17 years aso to carry five tons, and that the engine, weighed 10 tons. The Council has been threatened with an action. , Guvornineut has. asked the County Council to permit them the use of tho traffic* bridge across'the Mataura for rail way purpose* m the event of thn comple tion of the iSwitzerr line;''*T which eight miles uf.formation have been made. The members for the tidings iutei«sted op poser! permission being given, but other Councillors favored further consideration of the request on thu ground that the completion of the railway would be a great boon to the settlors who 'hud given high prices for land on the strength of the line being made.

POLITICAL NOTES.

[per press association.] Invercabgill, March 13. The-SoutblatttcTOouttfcx Council to-day interviewed the Minister of Lauds on several matters, the most important being the position 6f Counties now that the gold duty is abolished. In the case of this county it was stated that while they formerly got £400 to £500 a year from the gold duty they now found that the rates derived frum mining, properties would not pay the cost of valuing these. It was suggested that all counties should be placed on the same footing. Mr McKenzie said they could rest assured he would look after the interest of the agri cultural counties, and any fresh scheme introduced. Auckland, March 13. The Liberal Association have decided to appeal to the Governments not to allow the Village Settlement Act to remain a dead letter any longer. Satisfaction was expressed by the Association at the re trenchment proposal of Government. Nklson, March 13. A deputation from the City Council waited last night, on the Hon. Mr Seddon who arrived m the evening by the steamer Penguin, relative to certain local require ments, one being the diversion of the present; railway line to Belgrove, whereby heavy working expenses would be saved, and tho public greatly convenience! Mr Seddon. said this, was more a matter for the -consideration of the Railway Commis sioners, and he thought they would pro motes the public interest if they were to mix more with the popple, and to ascertain their requirements. It was oh this prin ciple the Ministers were acting m travel ling about the country.

THE MARKETS.

[per press association.] (Reecived March 14, noon.) London, March 12. Wheat. —New Zealand longberried, 41s 9d, firm. Kew Zealand wheat on passage sellers, 39s 3d, buyers, ,38s 9d. South Australian wheat 435, firm; Victoria, do 42s< firm. ' Mutton is unchanged. Beef, fore quarters, 3gd ; hind quarters, 4§d. Hemj), Wellington, fair quality. £2$ ! 10s. ' ' - ■';

Ashburton Stock Market.

Messrs? Miles and Co. (per G&o. Jameson) report on the sale held at the Ashburtou County Saleyards on Tuesday, March 10th. Another" large entry of sheep, comprising 11,426. There was a large attendance, with buyers fcom North and South among them. Almost every line changed hands at satisfac tory prices, the* competition being mainly attributable to the abundance of Winter feed ,now m prospect, and as we go on everything, tends to show that sheep are scarce and am becoming more and more difficul%to obtain..' Our entry for this sale comprised 4T5© sheep, which we sold as follows :-«Three: hundred and three fat crossbreds, 15* Id; 36S two-tooths; 10s 9d; 1000 crossbred ewes,, 10s Id ; 432 merino ewes, 3s 6d; 70 lambs,. 7s lOd; SCK) twoand^our^oth, 13s Id; 440 lambs, 10s; 258 merino ewes, 4s 6dj 158 ditto, 2s 3d; 184 two-tooths* 10s Id ; 45 merino wethers, 8s 9d ; 34 fat lambs, 12s, 3d j 40 lambs, 5s lOd; 400 crossbred wethe^ 12s Bd. During the week we have sold by private treaty 1300 two^tooth cros^bwda \s 57 fat crossbred ewes; 95 fat lambs at 10s 6d -156 ditto at 8s «d; 160 ditto at 9»6d; 2* ditto at 8s ; 100 merino wethej* at. 9s; and a line o 700 stock crossbred pwesat 11s &1.

Corn Exchange.

Ihe following is the report of the Christ church Corn Exchange fop the week ending March 13th:—The weather has been ex ceedingly favorable for the ingathering of the balance of the grain crops, whioh may now be considered secured, although m, some instances not without damage. A much firmer tone m wheat, owing to the steady advance m the European market* and shortage m New South Wales is noticeable, and local millers are ajuxious to purchase at an increase on oujr feat quota tions. Sydney advices indicate that New South Wales, will require heavy'supplies from outside sources, a»d this, together with the hardening tendency m the Home ) markets, must U encouraging to growers | who have not, sold. Operations during the , week ha,v* tan chiefly confined to millers, ! especially m the Rangiora market, where keen competition was exhibited. There is ample tonnage for growers who wish to ship, > but the feeling generally is to hold for a month or two. The oat; crop is both poor m quality and yield. Heavy milling is wanted, but pricea preclude manufacturers of oatmeal competing with our southern friend*. Bakley.—Prime malting meets with a- fair enquiry, but second quality and off samples are quite neglected. Grass Sked is offering freely, and prices nets weaker. The potato crop is one of the largest, ever, known as regards avwuge, ami the yield of lidneys, . above anticipations. Several parcels have been placed for shipment a fortnight hence at 27a (3d to 28a 6d per ton ac country stations. In Derwents forward sales have been made for delivery off the forks at 25s to 27s (id.. Quotations as. follows; Wheat, ruacaii, a* 8d; Pearl, 3s 6d ; Hunter's, 3s m i whole chick, 3s. Oats, milling, Is 8d »" short feed, la 6d to Is 7d; inferior, Is 4d, \^ Is sd, Barley, prime malting up to ga ♦ second quality, 2s 6d to 2s lOdj fer-d ] 8 8 i tolslOd. Peas, 2s Gd to 3s. Ryegrasj! 5* to 5s 6d; farmers' line 3, 3s (jj| to 4s'6d Cocksfoot, town machined, &J. «i. OWftMi » lines, 4A to 4Jd. Dairy sVodMce.-B«S (fadtory) 7cl to 8d ; tanmes,* pottine (Jd to 6id; cheese (loaf) %i medium si^j 3M to 4d. Ihe above f«oea are those paiS to fanners fotcMnNsy f.o.b. Lyttelton. Sacks

The San Francisco Mail.

[jfiJfl ?BBS» ASSOCIATION.] | ' Avcklakd, March 13. Amved-11.3(> «,!»., Monewai, from san Francisco and Honolulu. Passen gers -Hon. McLean, Messrs T. TuutoB v !»' 5" ?ni^ ey ' Hl Ml He«th; P. Wallace-* i,J\. U. Bowler, and five steerage and sixty m imtfe for Sydney. The vessel kft San [ * rancisco oa the 7th February. On Mon day, the 9th, when 662 miles out, it was discovered that the ttorast shaft was fractured, *nd she returned under easy steam to &m Francisco. The brokei\ shaft was v^i*Qed with a new one. ajjtf. tlie Mqi^iii' left San Francisco agaiu, on, tho Sptli. JVbru.ny. Head winds md>, Vwl >'i«;ius wore mofc with for the fiwst par*, of tlie vi>yagft > l>ut the trip froiu Hj^uolulut was vorytifle

THtt ASHBURTON GUARDIAN. SATURDAY, MAEGH 14, 189]



WttnreuL CASH Adv«mse*n«it« under this heading not exceeding SIXTEEN WORDS 1/-. Addresses may be j left at this Offi>« THW Tender of Messrs Barnes «fc Smith has been accented for house at Methven.-R. Bird- t 3 98 WANTED, for Hnmpstead School, a Pupil Teacher. Apply beforo 4 p.m. on Tuesday to Chairman School Committee, Box 61, P. 0., Ashburfcon. ' 3 96 WANTED Known.— Mrs .f. I*uch anan has opened as Fruiterer and Confectioner, next Messrs John Orr and Co., East Street. rriRY the Great Drapery Sale now on JL at^ H. C. Segkrs. I IT ANTED Known.—Mi:s J. Buch- V V anan, Fruiterer and Confectioner. Tea and coffee at all hours ; hot luncheon on Saturdays, 12 to 2. Next Messrs.!. Orr and Go's, E;iat Street. "PRESENTS.— AH holders of Tickets JL will oblige by bringing them mas aoon as possible.—H. C. Segkks, Mclford House. /POOLING and invigorating Ico Cream \y an made by H. G. Flower, Con fectionw, East Street. ___, WANTED Known —Some special lihes m choice Dress Goods at very low prices showing at v The Corner." ANTED Known—The "Strong wear" Boot is the best for'Mens '■jndies 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. BEGERS' Clearing Sale m all Depart ments now on. One trial solicited. - Melford House. GLASS, Earthenware, and China, direct from the Manufacturers.— Robert Alcorn, Tea Warehouse and Ashburton Clothing Mart, (founders' Buildings. WANTED Known — The Cheapest Shop to buy Tinware and Gal vanised Iron goods m Ashbarton, is at W, F. Haknaf9Rl»'.s, Burnett {street. A arge stock kept on hand. Tin and Iror. ware goods made and repaired with des patch . "VJOW ON —At Stationers' HaU^ ,1-* Great Sale of Surplus Stock of Books, Stationery, Fancy Goods'* Music, etc. Great reductions for cash, for one m<»nth only. Hundreds of books at less than English price. At L. F. Andkewes <fe Co.'b, Stationers Hall. TENDER S. fI^ENDERS wanted for clearing about J_ a hundred acres of swamp land at VVindermere. Tenders to be sent m to the undersianed by the 21st Mnrch. 3*97 ' H. H. WRIGHT. . . : "» IN BANKRUPTCY. * In the District Court of Ashburton (being a local Court of Bankruptcy) holden at Ashburton. In tho matter of " The Bankruptcy Act, 1883," and the Acts amending tho Siime, and of the bankruptcy of John Doran Gobbe, of Ash burton, painter. "VTOTTCE is hereby given that John J_N DobanGobbe, of Aburtcm, painter, has this day been adjudicated a bankrupt, and that the first meeting of Creditors will be held m the District Courthnu.se, Ashburton, on SATURDAY, March 21st, 1891, flt 10 o'clock m the forenoon. Dated this 14th day of March, 1891. J. C. BELL, Deputy-Official Assignee. R. M. CUTHBKRTSON, Solicitor. f> 3+99



jpuDiio Notices, | 1 ASHBURTOX CEUCiCET CLUB. ", A CONCERT, m aul of khe funds of the Club, will he held at, St. Stephen's Schoolroom on WEDNESDAY, Bth April. Full particulars m future ndTorfci.se inent. , 3 52 fpENDERS are invited for building a I Stable at Mount Somera, for Mr J. Hood. Plans and specifications at my office. Tenders close on FRIDAY, 20th insfc., at nuon. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. R. BIRD, 3+74 Architect. THE Usual Mweting of the Ashburton Political Association, will be held m » h« ffotnge Hall (back room), on SATUR DAY, March 14th. MrLeggett will read •n essay on Social Subjects. 3£90 HAMFSTFiAD TOWN DISTRICT. CASUAL ELECTION. fTIHE following persons having been JL duly nominated for the vacancy on the Hampstead Town Board, namely, ELLIOT!', JAMES. McRAE, WILLIAM. SMITH, WILLIAM WALTER. And only ONE being required, a Poll will be taken for the election of ONE of the said persons nil a Commissioner on the Hampstead Town Board, at the Board's Office, Hampstead, on FRIDAY, March JSO, 1891, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. J. C. BELL, Returning Officer. Hampstead, March 11, 1891. 3 72 ANNIVERSAKY SERVICES m connection with the ASHBURTON BAPTIST CHURCH. A PUBLIC TEA MEETING will be held at the ODDFELLOWS' HALL, ASHBURTON ON GOOD FRIDAY, 27th MARCH, 1891. Tea on Table at 5.30 p.m. At the conclusion of the Tea, Rev. Arthur Dewdney and other gentlemen will deliver addresses. Admission to TEA, Is 6d ; Children, 9d. The Rev. Arthur Dkwdnky, of Lin coln Road, will preach the Anniversary Sermons on EASTER SUNDAY,. 29th March, 1891, m the Oddfellows' Hall. J. W. SAWLE. 3*93 Pastor. MONEY TO LEND. -jITONEY 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 Agent. Government Insurance Office. Christchurch. •fIIMTSETH A NGdT 'ftZIH CHRISfCHGRCH DENTAL SURGERY. Corner of Cashel and High ntroets q •vtyer's and no. SURGEON DENTIST And at Dunedin \\\\ Westport {TTE have gained ihi FIRST AWARD W ** the Dunedin Exhibition for Artificial Dentures and Mechanical Appli *nces for the Mouth, and it is with the j greatest confidence that v*e guarantee the highest class work and perfect lit at the most moderate cos[ A Single Artificial Tooth, 10s. Comple Set r-Upper and Lower temporary and permanent, £10 10s. Jf ATUBAL, DUIUBLK, COMFORTABLE Artificial Teeth Replaced Temporarily al most immediately after the extraction «f decayed teeth or stumps without extra eeor charge. Arrangements can be made for part or monthly payments. ADMINISTERING NITROUS OXIDE 3AS several times daily for th« past ten years, we fearlessly assert that extraction of teeth under its influence is perfectly jwinless and positively safe} Fee for Administration, ss. Extraction, 2s 6d. Artificial Teeth and Dentures made by •ther dentists repaired or remodelled at •mall cowC ________ /"IENTLEMEN requiring the very \JT latest fashion m FLEXIBLE HATS (all colors) will find a choice atock at the New Zealand Clothing Factory. WHITE anil Fancy Scarfs, White and Striped Vests. Tennis Shins, llttttoned and lacer) fronts, all colors, at the Inbw Zbaland Clothing Factory. SUMMER Merino and Gauze Merino Undershirts, with long or short sle«v«H, at the New Zbalani* Clothing Factory. WASHING Derby Ties 6d eucli, six for 2s 6d. Increasincr demand for H>e«e at the New Zkaland Clothing Factouy. BOYS' School Suits, well fitting,; durable, nod moderate m price at fke New Zealand Clothing Factory. AGENTS for the Wonderful New! , High Arm " Wfirtlwim ' Sewing ! Machines. Latest improvement*, new uppliances, noiseless motion, increased advatitagej^ ___ ALL who have used tfoj " Werfcheim ' New High Arm sewiwg jnachiin, proclaim it fco be the most perfect •ewiii« machine yet produced. Inspectic^ uvitad. •JEW ZEALAND CLOTHING Jj^ FACTORY, the leading Hat, C*p, and Clothing Manufacturer*, ;east «trf!Et, A«erA rs6ot' the Wonderful Wertheim SS««,'ing Machine W. H. WSBBER,