MAIL NOTICES.

FRIDAY, December 23. Mails close for the following places as under, subject to the necessary alterations: For Northern Ports and Australian Colo nies, per Martroa, at 10.30 a.m. On Monday, .December 26, for Christmas Day, and on Tuesday, Dec 27, for Boxing Day, the Ashburton Post and Telegraph Office will be open from 9 till 10 a.m. and from 7 till 8 p.m. On Monday all mails will close at 6.30 a.m., and on Tuesday mails will be despatched as usual up to 10 a.m. There will bs no delivery by letter-carrier on Monday, and on Tuesday only one delivery, starting at 8 a.m.

ENGLISH MAILS.

aOMKWAUD—DIRECT MAILS. Ruapehu sailed jtfovember 24, due London January 4. lonic, sailed November 12, due London, December 23. OUTWARD—DIRECT MAILS. Tongariro, sailed November 14, d.ue December 30. OUTWARD—SAN FRANCISCO MAILS. Next mail leaves London December 24, due colony January 25. ' ■_

The Ashburton Guardian. MAGNA EST VERITAS ET PRÆVALEBIT. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1892. THE EVENING TRAIN.

Ashburton asked the Railway Com missioners for bread, and though it was not exactly a stone the petitioners were given, it was at anyrate very indiges tible bread. Ashburton requested that the stoppage of the evening train from Ohristchurch at Droinore should be done away with, and that the running of the traiu be accelerated to the speed which was in force before the altera tions in, the time-table were made, three or four years ago. The Com missioners have so far acceded to the request as to change the crossing place of the evening trains from Dromore to Chertsey—a change for the better cer tainly, but a very small one compared with a change to Rakaia. The con venience of the country settlers has been taken into account in changing to Chertsey instead of to Rakaia, but as we have pointed out, the country settlers this side of Rakaia very rarely use this traixi, and the complete change might have been made without causing the slightsst inconvenience to more than half a dozen of them in a year, and probably to none at all. The most disappointing part of the Commis sioners' decision is that the train is still left to travel at the present miserable crawl. We have already shown that the fixing of this rate of speed was a retrograde step on the part of the rail way authorities, but will again state the case, as it is an important matter to frequent travellers, and sbDuld not —and, we believe, will not—be lost sight of. Before the present time4able came into force the evening train left Christchurch at 4.15,. p.m., and arrived at Ashburton at 7.15 p.m —time of journey, three hours. The present train leaves Christchurch at 4.15 p.m. and arrives at Ash burton at 7.30 p.m.—time three hours and a quarter —and the proposed altera tion simply makes the train start and arrive 25 minutes later, the journey thus occupying the same ti:ue, More over, the former evening train stopped at all stations j the present does not stop at stations between Cbristohurch and Eurnham. Further, everybody who travels by the evening train knows that it is difficult to drive it slow enough to kenp to the time-table times, and drivers are forced to kill time dawdling at insignificant stations along the line. That the journey between Christchurch and Ashburton can be done easily in three hours is shown by the present morning train, which does it in two hours and three quarters; and the Ashburton people are not un reasonable when they ask that the speed of the evening train be apceler ated to what it was years ago. It was practicable then and cannot be either impossible or impracticable now. We trust that before the new time table is definitely adopted the Commissioners may be induced to concede this point. Representations to that end should be made to them without delay. j

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

I The harvest prospects in Jjl'orth Qtago are the beat fop »W»ny years, th* c recent rains hitv - «hafc ftf § t§ be given fpr The debenture* ~ "-" «uid 'Military land scrip under the ]Nay»» — A ** Settlers Act of last session are now r«» fcr issue, but so far no applications have been received for tliem. It is said (according to the "Timaru Herald") that the Rangitata river will be in first-class order for fishing at the end of this week, so that parties putting in, their holi days there should have fine sport". Captain Bone, of the New Zealand Ship" ping Company's s s Ruahine, has been ap pointed surveyer to the Canterbury branch of the New Zealand Marine Underwriters' Association, vice Captain Ticehurst, re signed. The Wellington manager of the New Zealand and River Plate Land and Mortgage Co-npany has received advice that the divi- ' dend recently declared was 2 per cent not 6 per cent, as received by cable,from London on Sunday night. It is the talk in Tiraarn (says the "Herald") that action is being taken in regard to certain pilferings from the Elgin shire, the extent of which we stated some some time ago was evidently con>iierable. The police, however, maintain a strict reticence on the subject. The Offensive Publication Act of last session comes into operation on January I. Persons exhibiting or distributing by sale or otherwise indecent pictures or literature are liable to fine or imprisonment. Advertise ments relating to certain diseases are declared illegal and subject to penalties. The banquet to the Hon W. 1\ Reeves, under the auspices of the Canterbury I Liberal Association, took place on j Monday evening at Christchurch. The j chair was occupied by Mr Charlea Louisson, and addresses were delivered by Hons VV. P. Reeves, W. Montgomery, Jenkinson, and W. C. Walker, Sir Robert Stout, Messrs Tanner, M.H.R., Sandford, M.H.R., and others. The popular floral cantata "Under the Palms " Sis to be given this evening in the Wesleyan Church, Baring Square, by a choiroorf r nearly 100 voices and a strong orchestra, llie solos are to be rendered by some of th« most popular amateurs in Aah- I burton. The floral and other decorations have received considerable attention, and the merits of the music together with the pleasing surroundings should ensure a full i house. | The first prosecution at Wellington under the Shops aud Shop Assistants Act, was heard on Tuesday, when Christenson, a 1 tobacconist, was charged with an infringe ment of section 3 of the Act, in failing t0 allow two pf hia assistants a half-holiday in the week beginning December 3. Defendant explained that the assistants had been away in the afternoon, but came back at six o'clock to enable him to go tea, and were not detained after his return. The Labor Depart ment only asked for h, nominal penalty, and defendant was fined 6,3 without costs. 1

The Miowcra from Sydney with 274 passengers arrived at Auckland to-day. There are 103 entries from all parts of the colony f6r the Lwn Tennis Championship meeting at Dunedin. The swimming races fixed by the Club for this evening were postpone owing to the majority of the competitors suffering from influenza. For the meeting' of members this I evening a good programme is in store. Dr i Leahy reads a paper on swimming, besides i musical items. There seems (says the " New Zealand Time") to be a growing change among the [ Kingites with regard to Hauhauism, and a kindlier feeling towards Christianity and to ihe missionaries of the Anglican and Wealeyan bodies who haye labored amongst them. The old hatred of the religion of their .conquerors is dying out among the Kingites, and as a result both of the above religious bodies are taking a renewed interest in the Maori missions, which for many years have been languishing. Bishop Cowie has issued a pastoral, calling the attention of his people to the subject, and exhorting the Europeans to take more interest in the welfare of their Maori brethern. As Mr Peter Drummond was about start" ing for home, on Tuesday evening, from Mr David Thomas' West street yards, his mare, harnessed to a light gig, suddenly took fright and got away from him, bolting across West street, through the Massey-Hams' machines, and across the railway lines, where one wheel parted company with the trap and the axle caught the new railway semaphore wire which was broken, this turned the trap over, losing the other wheel, and the horse continuing its career recrossed the railway and managed to free itself from the rest of the trap in front ci Messrs Fried lander Bros', stores. The gig and harness were a complete wreck, but the horse was recovered unhurt. The officers of the Stock Department ex plain that the prohibition of the importation of New Zealand stock to New South Watas refers to the re-gazetting of the existing regulations necessary from their expiring on the 31st inst. The prohibition will be revoked as soon as this colony can be de clared clean. The department have just received intiiration that the Inspectors examination of sheep in the Miran district in Auckland, province, haa been completed, and that he is able to report that the flocks are clean. Satisfactory accounts have been received from Marl borough, and it is anticipated that the report, which is expected from there in about ten days, will declare the last infected spot in the colony free ofdisease. The regula tions of the various colonies against New Zealand stock will then be revoked. The Caledonian Society's gathering in the Domain on Boxing Day promises to be ajvery attractive meeting. In additon to the usual athletic competitions, the bicycle events will this year be very interesting. The new " cash amateur" notion has made cycle events possible at such gatherings, and no less than thirty riders have entered, includ ing four of the cracks from Australia. One of them has also entered for the quoit play ing, but whether he is a crack in this or not will be proved after he has been left to the tender mercies of our own old hands, and the two "ringers "we have recently acquired in the Lanes, father and son, who have dis played more than ordinary skill at the quoits in several matches. There will, of course, be the usual contingent ot kilted men on the ground, and the President assures us M'ith a gleam of p'easure in his eye that quite a troop of young Highlandetß will take the field and compete in the costume and dancing events. Sir Richard Owen (X.C.8., M.D., D.C.L , F.R.S.) whose death is announced to-dayi was the most celebrated comparative anato mist of his day. He was born at Lancaster matriculated at Edinburgh, studied medi cine and surgtry, and tor a short time practised in London. Obtaining the ap pointment of assistant curator in the Hmuerian museum, he devoted his attention exclusively to the Btudy of comparative anatomy. He held many professorships and lectureships connected with his speciality, and wote a considerable number of books on related subjects, Professor Owen's name has been intimately associated with soience in New Zealand, because of his early recognition of the former existence of huge birds in, this country, from a fragment; of bone supplied tq him, and he published a large work on the extinct wingless birds of New Zealand. Professor Owen was all his life an industrous scientific worker ana writer, and was highly hououwd for his work not only in Great Britain, bufc on the Continent and in America.

CRICKET.

♦- NEW SOUTH WALES V. SOUTH AUSTRALIA,

BER PRESS ASSOCIATION

Adelaide, December 20. The 'second innings of the South Aus tralian eleven dosed for 330, Beedman with 73 being the highest scorer for the day. The New South Wales team has to make 206 to win.

OTAGO V. HAWKE'S BAY.

Napier, December 20 The weather was beautiful and the wicket splendid for the first day of the cricket match Otago v Hawke's Bay. The visitors were too strong' for the local men both in bowling and patting. Otago wpnt in first and put together J. 75, no', few than eight getting into double figures, Fisher arid Crawford with 23 each. When the stumps were drawn for the day Ifawke's Bay had Jogt five of th§ best wickets fpr 26. IJope --■<■ twi wjykets fgr two runs, Lawton and Fisher also proving ..

The Ah Ching Enquiry.

(PEE PKESS ASSOCIATION,)

Welungton, December 20 At the Ah Ching enquiry to-day, the t police who arrested Ah Chins? when he ■ became insane, gave evidence that he was . very violent, but was not injured in their handN. Frederick McLean, who had written to ( a newspaper same time ago, stating that he thought that deceased, had been ; injured by those who first secured him, ■ gave evidence that he bad changed his mind, and was now of opinion that the injuries must have been received after fc .c arrest, Dr Fell and Dr Martin, on whose certificate Ah Ching was committed, were of opinion that a man could break his ribs by throwing himself off the ledge in the room in which deceased was confined. Dr Martin said that in view of the violence of Ah Ching, he thought that there would have been danger in strapping up his ribs. He considered restraint justifiable in Ah Citing's case. As Dr Fooks had described deceased s ribs to be soft and diseased, there would have been little difficulty in breaking them. It was probable thac \h Ching, in the condition in which he was, would not feel any pain. The Commissioner intimated that he did not intend to recommend the authorities to recover penalties from the Chinese who had declined to give ■evidence. The inquiry was adjourned until to-morrow. Wellington, December 21. At the Ah Ching enquiry to-day, Edwards, the attendant who had been dismissed from the asylum for placing a strap round Ah Ching's neck (while the jacket was being put on) to prevent bis biting, gave evidence that while deceased was being placed in the strait jacket, one of the attendants knelt on his chest. Otherwise, he considered Ah Ching re ceived every attention. Francis Donnelly, who was an at- , fceindanb at the asylum on thi date of Ah ! Ching's admission, but had since retired of his own accord, flatly denied Edwards' . assertion that any of the attendants had < knelt on deceased's chest, and declared , that the patient had received fair treat- j ment. The enquiry has closed and the report will be forwarded to the Governor, , j

SCHOOL PRIZE DISTRIBUTION.

r * — TINWALD,

The annual prize giving and entertain ment in connection with Tinwald school took place in the Templar Hall on Tues day, December 13. The attendance was good, and the result financially was satis factory., In addition to the items ren dered by the children, songs were given by Mrs Biggs and the Misses Bonnington, Anderson, and Lowe. The Rev Mr Blake gave a short but very amusing I address, The piano used on the occasion was kindly lent by Mr Stone. Aftev the concert, a silver watch was presented to Miss Bishop by the children attending the school, as a mark of their esteem. Mr J. Gudsell, Chairman of the School Committee, made the presentation with a few suitable remarks on behalf of the school children, and Mr Culverhouse thanked the donors in Miss Bishop's name. • On December 16 the school children had a very pleasant excursion to the sea beach. In addition to the hire 4 vehicles, several conveyances were kindly lent for the occasion by residents in the district, noticeable among which was a large spring waggon lent by Mr Sawle. A start was made about nine o'clock, and the beach was reached about 10,30. The children wandered about the beach till luncheon, when they "did ample justice to the viands provided. Cricket, races, and games made the afternoon pss rapidly, and at about 5.30 preparations were made for the journey home. The day's outing was a great success, and all present seemed to have enjoyed them* selvep thoroughly.

The following is the Inspector's ieporfc on the annual examination :— (Examined November 22 and 23,1892.) Pass Subjects.

Staff and Distribution: Standards 3— 6, Mr George Culrerhouse, master; Standard 2, Mr John F. Lswia, M.P. 3 j standard 1 and P, Miss M. Bishop, mistress. Remarks.—The school continues' to be efficiently conducted. In the mistress's department Standard 1 has been very well prepared, and the infants show satisfac tory progress, Standard 2 and 3 make for the most part a very fur appearance. In Standard 2 a better response to oral questioning fespeci lly h geography) is desirable ', but; the subjects that deter mine the pass record are quite satisfac tory. The upper classes are substanti ally good. Uf their subjects the reading is good, writing is very good in copy books, but does not make an equally pleasing appearance in the written papers, a bolder, firmer style, and occa sionally more care being needed. Arith metic has been taught in a competent fashion in Standards 5 and 6, andis fair in Standard 4. Freehand drawing is good, *nd grammar, composition, and geography may be classed together as very fair, In spelling and dictation, 1 Standards 5 and 6 are unexceptionable, ( bufc the children of Standard 4 will require special care iri this respect. It is not a strong subject in the present Standard 4, and the children of Standard 3 M't especially weak in it;.—W. J. Anderson, In pector.

CHRISTMASTIDE.

THE SHOPS AND SHOP WJNDOWS.

In every Christian country where busi ness by sale and purchase is carried on, it is customary for merclvui^ of good.B more uactieulfirly jn request; a.t the season of " • •--- to make 3 special display of I Christnutto "~ in anticipftfciQp these goods at that season, *.. of the increased business they expect to do during Christmaslide. In Ashburton this is especially the case, and as every tradesman expects to do at least some extra business during the Christmas time, or rather just immediately before it, there is an extra preparation for the occasion. A. member of our staff made the round of the retail merchants this week with the object of ascertaining what was likely to be done, and what had actually been done in the way of preparation for the annual display which is made on Christmas Eve, so that he might be able to give a short notice of each shop with the view of indi cating to some extent at least, what may be expected to be seen on Christmas Eve, the great field night of buyers and sellers of Christmas fare, of presents of every kind for friends far arid near, and especi ally of things good to eat, which enter largely into the Briton's ideas of a merry Christmas. No true John Bull would feel that he had done honour to the festival in orthodox fashion if he failed to assist at dinner in which either the historical roast beef of Old England or the customary goose or other large poultry did not pre cede the equally indispensable pluni pud ding, to quarry through which and loyally honor is to entomb in one's stomach a body the gliost of which will haunt the diner's bed with many nightmares. But John Bull is very loyal to the traditions of his country and very, conservative in regard to her customs, so that, in spite of ail that hygienists may say in warning against the outrage of plum pudding upon the human stomach, John Bull honors the traditions of his English Christmas dinner and—plum pudding. Giving, therefore, the national dish the preference, the sellers of the ingredients to make it, re ceive first place in our reporter's notice— the grocers. 808 WIT AT.CJOBN. Mr Alcorn is chosen first, for the simple reason that the round of visits began at die top of the town, and his was the first grocery encountered. MrD. Macpherson, who is Mr Alcorn's commissary-general, was preparing to set his window in order and clothe it with the dried fruits neces sary for Christina 3 cookery. He had an abundant supply ot every kind of grape in dried form in the shape of raisins and currants, and Europe, Asia, America and I Australia had been laid under requisition ' to provide the many different kinds of

dried fruits he had to put before his ( clients. The air was heavy with the rich ■ odor of these, to which canded fruits added their, quota, with preserves of all the more substantial kino 1!. 1 he window specially devoted to the display of Christ mas fruits will be massive in its display of them, and every requisite of the pudding will .be shown, along with the necessary dessert fruits. Currants, new and fresh, Valencia and muscatel raisins,, preserved ginger, in jarß and loose, and preserved fruits in tins and pots, with spices of all descriptions, Barcelona nuts and the " delicate fruit of the tree that bloomcth in the winter " — the almond—with crystalised fruits in fancy boxes —all go to make up a respect able window. Mr Alcorn would not be the prominent Prohibitionist he is, nor I the consistent temperance reformer he tries to be, if he did not find room in this window for cases of R T. Booth's golden remedies—JSo 1 of which kills the un natural appetite for alcoholic liquor, and No 2 builds up the shattered system and restores the natural appetite for food to a condition that enables it to face even plum pudding without flinching. Perhaps a course of it. 11.I 1. Booth No 2 would not be a bad thing for grocers to rucommend to their customers before entering upon the annual festivity, seeing that it is claimed to be a great strengthener of the nerves, and to "go through the Christmas season properly one requires strong nerves and no liver. (STEPHENS BROS. Mr H. H. Stephens has long had a high reputation as a shopman. There is a style about the arrangement of his goods and his establishment generally which is peculiarly his own, and which is certainly pleasing to the onlooker, and never fails to attract the eye of the passer by. The window of his shop devoted to Christmas truits, sugars, etc., is quite a poem, so neatly is it arranged, and so well blended is the blaze of color he has in troduced. In may be said, in regard to window drebsing, that all the ornamenta tion in the world does not add to the quality of the goods a man sells, nor iiu prcve their value to the customer. Perhaps not, but there is no getting away from the fact that a neatly and attractively arranged place of business will go a long way further in inducing patronage than one wanting in these in any degree, and as Mr Stephens claims to supply only the best goods to be obtained in the market he does well in bringing his undeniable tastefulness in window dressing to his aid in recommending them to his patrons. JOHN ORR AND CO. There will not be any greatf*effort at display made in the somewhat small window of Messrs Orr and Co's large grocery establishment. The attention of Mr Orr's young men are to be devoted rather to utilising the inside walls and counters in the making of quite au exhi bition, not of Christmas fare alone, but of the many and varied lines of imported and colonially produced provisions which the establishment contains. The window, of course, will receive the usual Christmas treatment, but ie will be in the shop itself that the display will be, and that will be of the most solid character possible. From indications given it can be gathered that no effort will be spared to make the grocery department of the establishment a brilliant and busy scene, while the iron mongery department, under Mr Andrew Macpherson's management, will present its most attractive features to visitors on Christmas Eve. H. M. CARSON. Since Mr Carson's removal from the old shop in Coleman's East street buildings, now replaced by a series of new shops in brick and stone, he haa < ccupied one of Mr Coleman'a Tancred street shops, and the large open front of hi? establishment. is admirably fitted for making a good dis play . Mr Carson must be complimented on the tasteful dressing of his window as well as on the arrangement inside of an excellent and well selected 6tock of general grocery goods. He has our best Christmas wishes, and we trust that pros perity niay attend him in hii present shop, and follow him on his removal to his old site now occupied by a new build ing. HENRY ZANDER. . It is only a few weeks bince we noticed Mr Zander's Italian warehouse, and from what was said in that notice, it would readily be gathered thas the means of making a Christmas exhibition ought not to be wanting in the establishment. Nor are they j nor has the opportunity been neglected, Mr Zander's window will take a lot of *' rubbing out," as the saying is, for attractiveness, one feature of it being qjuite an artistic arrangement of samples of biscuits of different kinds, A picture frame of about a yard square, in oak and old gold, with a black background, has been made use of on which to mount a large number of different kinds of bis cuits —every kind on sale, in fact, is re presented—and there is run through these in letters composed of biscuits the title line "samples," and the usual Christmas salutation—"Wishing you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year." The " picture " is also neatly ornamented \a fancy lettering with a list of the delicacies on sale in the establishment— qhe penmanship of Mr Earl gander. Be, low and around is the outpouring of a perfect cornucopia of fruits, while bulky samplts of <'medical comforts" hold prominent place. Altogether * the , 2aodep window has every livelihood of ■* —«**mmm3 ( i bsing wen k»~ I ROBERT M'CALLUM. ' Mr McCallum, in Tancred street, is a quiet Scotchman, and is not given to de monstrativenesß ;but he is not to be behind on this occasion, and will be found toeing the line with his neighbors on Christmas Eve, with something worth seeing, THE FANCY GOODS SHOPS, It is to these that Santa Claus pays his first visit on his arrival in Ashburton, to lay in a stock of ail sorts of nee things for good boys arid girls. One of hisagentsis Mrs Adams, Saunders' Buildings. She has quite an overwhelming display of all sorts ot indispensables of Santa Clans, To attempt an enumeration of them would only end in failure, and would use up all our space, all our type, all our paper and ink, and leave nothing for anybody else. But we can find room for noting the f icr that she has done a big thing this year in toys, and Mr Adams," during his visit this year t<* the Old Country, has not failed to note and appropriate for the benefit of Santa Glaus, pe':s in Ashburton many novelties that might not otherwise have reached them so soon. This shop will be well worth a visit by parents of good children, who have deserved Santa Claus' notice. So also will the shop of the Misses Adams, Cqlera<*n'(? New B,uild ings, East street. The stpek of fancy goods held by Mrs Adani3 at Saunders' Buildings was far too large for proper exhibition in the limited space there, and this new shop has been taken, in which & better opportunity will be given for letting the light of day and the counten ance of buyers in upon the goods. It has been placed uxder the charge of the Misses Adams, and will be the first of the new shops opened, and Christmas I've , will be the opening date. H, M, Jones, in his pl?c3 between the Somerset Hotel and Craighead and Berry man's shop, keeps quits a Santa Claus ' warehouse, This establishment is always a fancy fair on Christmas Eve, and on this occasion there will be np le>9 tfyan ' ten of a staff employed in the work of i attending to the wants of buyers pf toys, dolls, Christmas oards and booklets, and hrk-a brae for presentation purpos. s, while the whole establishment will be brilliantly lighted from end to end. Mr Jones' stock of volumes for presentation is specially large, while a special lot of

[ glass and chinaware and electroplate has '^ been added since stock-taking. ; L. F. Anorbwps has been unf jrtunate. La Grippe visited his establishment before Santa Clave, and sent all his . issistants home, so that for the coming of . Old Father Christmas he has had to prepare all bj» himself. The Rood old saint will, however, find everything ready for him and in ship shape, with about as templing a display of pretty things laid out for his clients to select from as could have been provided had all hands been at work. Booklets, cards, the new figures in relief and in every pretty design, new gamefl, and nisk-nacks of every kind, with a fine assortment of presentation books and picture albums— •til of the newest and best, should make the book shop in Friedlander's Buildings vail worth a visit on Christmas Eve. James Bakfr, Havelock street, will also be lit up on Christmas Eve to show the good things the season his brought round, and he will not be behinl his fellows in either quantity, quality, or variety in his exhibition, while to his stock of fancy goods he adds an excellent assortment of noveltien in toys that will be a revelation tc our young people. THE DRAPERS. In these establishments there has been great activity in view of the festive sea* son, and all the establishments have been making special efforts, to be more than ordinarily attractive on the great business night of the festival. B, W. Alcokn's young ladies have been very busy, and splendid lots of good .things tempting to the fair have been opened out, so that the good ladies of Ashburton town and county may hare an opportunity of seeing and being conquered by the sweetest thing in headgear, a love of a dress, and all the little etceteras that go to make up theboetry of a woman's life. As it is Christmas time, the re porter is not allowed to say anything about paterfamitias in the matter. Andrew Orr is clearingout all he can to be ready to shift v/ith light ballast when the commencement of building operations and the introduction of the Crum family, with their attendant mortar splashes and brick duft,force him to seek other quarters. In consequence of the enforced removal he is running a bior sale at reduced prices; but the word prices brings us upon ground on which the reporter never trenches un less he himself is a buyer, and then it be cumes like his religion or his identity, a personal matter—apart from his profes sion. There will be a big display at Mr Ore's and his young, ladies will hare their hands full, but his list is too big for quoting details, and his establishment too large for description in this notice. It must be personally inspected by visitors, and he will make them all welcome. W. H.. Collier's term in the old corner shop of Coleman's buildings now near a close, and with the demolition of the old iron structure with its low roof and stuffy rooms, and the building on its site of handsome business premises in brick and stone, will be removed another landmark ' in the early history of tho borough. Stock-taking, removing, re-building, and internal alterations all tend to dis organise a tradesman's business, and Mr Collier if under this disadvantage at the present moment, but he has a fine display notwithstanding, and no doubt the only bachelor draper in the town will be well patronised on Chiiitmas Eve, We hope he will, and that ameng the troop M fair maidens who are sure to visit him, will come along one who twelve months hence, if we are all spared, will be able with him to receive our Christmas salutations. H. C. Segbrs' display is always large, as indeed ie must be, considering the ex tensive floor room of his double shop. and the admirable lighting of his pre mises make them doubly attractive Jus at present Mr Segers is reducing stock, and for the Christmas season is offering special attractions in the way of presents to purchasers. One of the specialties of the shop is one whole window devoted to hats of every description, and at every price, so. that no female head need go shore of a straw covering for the holidays with Segero' shop open. QJ . Neill and Co.'a, Moore Street— The new firm in Friedlander's corner shop announces quite a brilliant display for Christmas Eve, and as here, toe, a month's npecia! sale is going on, there should bw a big crowd to be seen on the great show night. Inthe Arcade shop Mr Harry Hardley has also a "genuine monster clearing sale " under way, but in addition to thu there will be a few •* plums "on view in millinery, the special handwork and relectionof Miss Turner, whe is president of this department of the firm's business, and her showroom is a fairyland into which any lady would delight to enter, but in which a man is as much out of his element as he well can be. The master printer here puts in a claim for some little consideration for his spaoe, and declines any further Christmas ' " copy " for this issue. Of course his mandate must be obeyed, but before saying "to be continued in our next." we must notice JEWITT, THE FI3HMOKQER, " Alive, aliva, Qh" is not his special cry for this occasion as his Btook just arrived and m route is frozen, and com prises mackerel and warrio—beautiful fish, nioeJy cleaned and ready for the cook, 1 fresh as when taken from the water, and still stiff wi h the ice. The fish are cleaned as soon as brought to shore, and , frozen after packing in the boxes, so that their freshnetw is assured. (To he continued.)

TELEGRAPHIC.

HOME AND FOREIGN. CIPEB FHBSS ABftOplAtlOlf.) THE MERCANTILE BANK. Lovoon, December 19. Mr F, Milledge, late manager of the Mercantile Bank of Australia, wjll sail for Melbourne on Friday if oabled for. Be believes that the bank would be at the end of its troubles within three years if everyone connected, with the . institution would make a strong effort, coupled with a revival of business. THE SANDERS FORGERIES. Scott Sanders, an ex-army surgeon, who pleaded guilty last sessions to a charge of forgery to the extent of £15,000, has been sentenced to six years' imprisonment. IRISH AFFAIRS. Messrs Dillon and Redmond have agreed, and, if their political parties approve, will devote i^I.OOQ of the funds in Paris to assist the evicted , tenants in Ireland, and distribute the > remaining £14,000 among prior claim' ants, including £5000 to Mr Parcell's widow. BI'ILDING SOCIETY FRAUDS. The Committee of the Liberator Building Society sufferers relief, fund ! are finding tho sum of £100,000 to I assist those who have lost tjiqney in the ! society. The distress is reported to be most pitiable. DESTRUCTIVE FIRE. A fire in Liverpool destroyed a cot- ; 1 ton warehouse. The damage is esti mated at £100,000.! THE CARDINAL,ATB. The " Chronicle's" Rome correspQn deufc states that owing to political reasons, Archbishop Walsh will not be '-- created a Cardinal, Archbishop Loque,

THE ASHBUBTON GtrAKDIAff : WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1893/



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1 ft

15 '3

I

i i

yrmon 13 6 13 2 12 0 11 2 9 6 8 2

Std. 7 • i 6 » 5 it 4 ii 3 • > 2 ii 1 P.

1 8 14 12 22 19 27 46

-

«

-

-

2 1

—

i

2

1 2 4 7 1 1

5 11 8 13 16 25

|

.—

Total

149

■5

I o\

16

78.

Children over eight years retained in P class, 7.

Percentage of passes—s2.3. Percentage of failures—l7:o.

Class Subjects.

Marks. (Oto 100)

Grammar History . , Geography Elementary Science, Object Les sons, etc. ...

55 55 45

55

Total

210

Percentage on class subjects—s2/5.

111. Additional Subjects.

[ Marks (Oto 20)

Repetition and Recitation,.. Drill and exercisa ... Singing Needlework (nominal) Subject matter, reading lessons

15 14 13 17 13 72"

• Additional marks



Fuß THE HOLIDAYS G. J. NBILL and CD's SPECIAL PRICKS FOR THIS MONTH. Ladies' Caslnnerette Hose, double knee, IOJd Ladies' Cashmere Hose, la , , New .Fashionable Dress floods, 3a lid a dozen Wonderful Value in Summer Drt?ss Tweed, 6|d i lw »uw. m 1» 4d Bluck Cashmerea and French Merinos, all prices Wonderful Valu^from la 4d to 5s 6d per yard All Wool Flannel, 7|'l per yard - Flannelettes at 3s 6d per draon Good Heavy Twilled at s£d , leather Shirting, Swansdown Back, at 7sa per yard Washing Prints, 3s lid per dozen A special line of White Muslin, 4£d Pongee Cloths and Delaines in most beautiful patterns CLOTHING. Men's Colonial Tweed 23s 6d Men's Serge Suits, 22* 6d Men's Tweed Trousers from 5a lid Boys' Tweed Suits in endless variety Men's Ribbed Cotton Pants, Is 6d Men's Colonial Knit Wool Socks, ll£d per pair Men's Regatta Shirts, 2s lid Men's Strong Braces, 9d per pair Boys' Strong Braces, 4d per pair. BOOTS. BOOTS. BOOTS. UNMISTAK.EABLE VALUE. Ladies' and Children's Tan Shoes, a specialty Brown Canvas Shoes, all sizes Men's Bluchers, 5s 3d fsi^S^«i WUfflpSho^p-^ Tf."'"**" 6d A rare line of Women's Sorong Leather Shoe*, worth 93, for 6s 93 Children* LVi Shw, browa Canvas Shoes, aid Patent Imther Slipper . AH irises at very low prices. G. J. NEILL and 00: FRIEDLANDER'S BUILDINGS, CORNBR OP EAST * MOOBB STOBETS. HARDLEY BROS. ELBCULU'tf AIU> USEFUL GOODI At Low Prices. EVERY ARTICLE OF OUR NEW STOCK WARRANTED. TN Calling Special Attention to the targe List of DR \PERY CLOTHING 1 and NOVELTIES in MILLINERY, described from time to time m our Columns, we wish to Impress ON ALL the following :— Ist -Every Article is Warranted to give SATISFACTION, and if ever a person receives anything that don't suit, they can return it to be exchanged, or they can have the money returned if they so desire. 2nd —All the Goods will be FIRST-CLASS of the Newest and Most Desir able Styles, and the Prices are Much Lower than such articles can elsewhere be obtained for. 3rd _We deal in NO SHODDY GOODS Whatever, and all who Order of TTS may be SURE that they will receive the BEST. 4th —We are Satisfied witb a Small Profit, and as "Our Business is of such Large* Proportions that through buying our Goods ofl the Manufacturers in immense Quantities for Cash, we are enabled to SELL our Goods for LEfeS MONEY than others, thus giving our Costumers the advantage, f^- Those who want GOODS should send to US and Save Money. Just Arrived-A Splendid Assortment of Men's and Boys' SUITS. SPECIALLY FOR CHRISTMAS WEEK. HARDLEY BEOS., ARCADE HOUSE, BURIVETT STKEET, ASHBU R T 0 N. s SALEK'S NEW JEWELLERY ESrABLISHMENT. THF MAGNIFICENT HIGH-OLABI STOCK IS NOW OPENED UP. S«?T?£ V*m to draw the attention of the Publ-c to the fact that having fitted up his Shop in first class etyle, he is showing a Stock which for vt ice and newest designs compares favorably with any in Chrisfcchurch. S?m now in a posit on to meet the requirements of the Ashburton District in ( every branch of the Jewe'Ury Trade, and is showing a Larger Stock than has ever bofore been seen in this District. . and umqlie g^^ specially suitable for vxtx* prwsrWin Wedding prbsbnts, birthday presents, and - XMASPRESKNi... SEmATIQN TESTIMONIALS. Gold and Silver Jewellery ot every description. , THT? WATCHMAKING AND JEWELLERY REPAIRING l±ia waiv, DEPARTMENT , « now complete in its arranzeraents, and add-tional assistance having been ] obtahL. customers may rely on luyiug their work done promptly and . satisfactorily \^_ ' S. SALEK, \ WATCHMAKER AND JEWELLER. ] Clothing Factory. FOB THE HOLIDAY SEASON. VT7E are now Showing the Lar^t ani Best Assorted Stock of MEN'S W MERCERY and HATS in Ashburton. n i n - ,a n»i*tr tin<r Hats , Gents' Ties in endless variety Gents Tennis and Crick ting Hats Handkerchiefs Gents' Tennis and Cricketing W««» rw«» TTatq thn Uttnb shatieq Gents' Tanoi. »nd Cricketing Sachet j Gent, Ha s the latest shapes BOOTS AND SHOES . SHOES AND BOGTo. „ «, ■ m,., Lacii s' Button and Lace Shoes ' Gents Tennis bnotS nu;i,i M n Tan Slk.*.« CLOTHIKG DKPAETMENT. If you wish to buy a handsome Christmas Present, get one of the Wertheim Sewing ir you w.an y Machines. See one in our window. HALLENSTEIN BROS. """""" ALEX HENDRY, Manager



The Best Tea IN TTIE WORLD llyglop's Cey2on. - NINI AN HtfSLOP, and CO., r Tea Importers, 1% Cashel street, Ch«;eichurr,h,



I COT-BKANB AND SO.C EUCALYPXE Ex ' tract is the only genuine in the market, and was a warded medala and diplomas at Sydney, Melbourne,and Adelaide, beating all competitors. For all affections of the Chest and Lungs., Consumption, Asthma, Coughs, Colde, Gravel, and Kidney Com plaints, it has no equal. Agents— Ashbujiton Pkco Coy*" "r



4^TlOl\Tgiri"aboufc 17, to attend to " Suigeiy.- = £JF._Doppiß : __ # _12_Ul TJVJR SALE—IS tons of first class hay- Jj Apply Butler's Hotel: 12 142 ANTED,-an experienced man to as sist in cutting and cleaning 20 acre^s of cocksfoot grass.-—Apply, W. W. Smmh, Hampstead. 12 143 RlVEN^rom Tinwald, Lamb' branded four places, horse shoe 1 Any person retaining same will be pro' secuted. 12 157 X~SWIMMING CLUB.-Monthly Meeting takes place this evening at Gates' Rooms, 8 p.m. Dr Leahy reads a paper on "Swimming." Other business— To fill vacancy on Committee, and elect Treasurer.—J. C. Lank, Hon. Sec. "ANTED KNOWN,—DoIIs/Ddls. We are now selling a lot at Wholesale Prices. Come and see our Beautiful Wax Doll for 4*d—H. C, Sbgers, Melford House. A DANCE will take place in the Orange Hall on Boxing Night, December 26. Admission—Gents, 2a 6d; Ladies, free. 12 156 WANTED, smart youth to milk cows and drive milk cart. A pply George Willbr3, Alford Forest Road.- 12 122 ANTED Known—lee Creams, Ice Creams, for the hot weather, always ready at H. G. Flower's, Confec tioner, East Street. _______ WANTED Known—New Flannelettes at extraordinary prices; 3s lid »nd 4s lid doa. Thirty per cent undei price.—W. H. Coluer. SOMERSET Meat Mart. The oldest, the largest, the best, and the cheap est. Small Goods a specialty. Full weights guaranteed. A trial solicited. —W. J. Siloock. 4t182 €%T ANTED Known.—High class dress » goods, latest patterns, now selling under wholesale prices. Special line of double width stuff 6d and la, less than half price.—H. C. Sjbgers, Melford House WANTED Known that S. Salek, Watchmaker and Jeweller, has removed to new shop near New Zealand Clothinc Factory, f 10 213 WANTED Known—Dr Scott's cele brated Electric Corsets can only be obtained in Ashburton at W. H, Collier's, "The Corner." WANTED Known—We are now giving away Beautiful Presents to every purchaser of 5s and upwards. Uome and see our bargains in Drapery, &c. —H. C. Segers, Melford House. WANTED Known.—Wonderful value in first cla3S drapery now on at Melford House, beautiful leather shirting 6|d. —H.C. Segers, Melford House. DON'T let the rain water destroy your buildings. Get Spouting fixed at 4d per foot and buy a tank, complete with tap, tested before leaving workshop, for 30s, at J. W. Hardley's. WANTED— Purchasers tor Bargains in Summer Dresses, Prints, and Delaines, Sunshades, &c. at S. W. Alcorn and Go's Sa,le. ANTED the Public to know that S. W. Alcorn and Co's Summer Sale is now on. Great Bargains in Millinery, Undemlothing etc. OFF~Bo7ks, '"stationery, O and Account Books, Fancy Good*, Music, Violins, Accordeous, etc, Fire Screens and Stove Ornaments, all at Reduced Piices.— u. F. Andrewes & Co. WHY not Bake your own Bread when you can geo 50Lbs of the tSest Roller Flour for live shillings cash or five shillings and sixpence booked at Robert alcorn'B, Sauudew' Buildings. 1131 /^HIirSTMAft ftuirs. Boys, three \J garment long Trouser Suits at los. Boys, Uolomal-made Knicker Suits from 10s. Men's nicely made Colonial Tweed Suits 30i. Colonial Tweed Suits to measure from 50s.—Ashburton Clothing Mart. Saunders' Buildings. Robert Alcorn. DON'T Forget the Borough Bye-Laws re Caw agg Lamps, and that Hardle . as large Stoclf on hand, also a large assortment of Tinware and Iron mongery, Scythes, Reaping Hook^i, Hay Knives, Forks, etc., of best quality, and »U at fewest possible prices, J. W. HARDLEy, East Street, Ashburton, I^-Ui foiniadfthtf •?• W, Hamlb^, l^- •-« m & oa§fitter, East Street, , \^\ amiJ^ o ■•■'•* tQWiIQt Pumps, has the largest Stock **. - - i fc gejjjng Pipes, and Fittings, and that he . i them cheaper than ever at prices hitherto unheard of in Ashburton. Now is the chance for a cheap Pump ; improved No. 4. Price, 16s. Larger sizes in proportion. A MERRY CHRISTMAS.- Splendid assortment nf Cards, Booklets, and Souvenirs for season 1892-3 New Games in great variety. Beautiful lot of Vases, Fancy Glassware, and Fairy Lamps, Boys' and Girls' Annuals, and •-tlier new Volumes. Prize Books at reduced prices. JNew Birthday Reward and Wedding Cards.—L. F. ANDREWS & CO., Stationers' Hall. VjEBUILOING Sale—Men's JSo. 3 J-* Vests Is. Men's be3t Colonial Tweed Trousers 7s lid, Men's best Colonial tweed Trousers and Vests 12^ 6d, Boys and Youth's Tweed Trousers 2s lid, Men's Leather Shirts 2s *?d, worth 4s 6d. The whole stock will be slaughtered as the premises are to be pulled down in February,—Andrew Orr. 11109 WANTED Known—Rebuilding Sale, Peal French Merinos, guaranteed, Is, Is 4d, and Is 6d, all colors. Printd 2s per dozen, Silk Lace 1* per rlozen, Double Width French Dress Goods Is (jd, former price 3s 6d, Lace Curtains 2s lid, Towels 3d each, lot Umbrellas Is 6i, Sunshades la 111 and 2s 6d, halt price. Muslin Embroideries 4cl, wo;tb Is.— Andrew Oku, 11 110 tITANTRD Known—That J. Moison VV keeps the best stock of Boots in Ashburton, for this reason that he pays j cash and is not under or bound to any one firm like many in the trade, which enables him to procure and supply the public with the Best Colonial and English makes ; and his well-known make needs no recommendad:n. Always on hand Best Sole Leather, used for repairs and done at once. —J. Moison, Impermeable Bootmaker, Town Hall, East Street, next Court House. Holloway's Pills.- Pure Blood. —When the blood is pure, its circulation calm and equable, and the nerves well strung, we are well. These pills possess a marvellous power in securing these essentials of health by purifying, regulating, and strengthening the fluids .and solids. Holloway's Pills can be confidently recommended to all persons suf fering from disordered digestion, or worried 1 by nervous fancies, or neuralgic pains. They correct acidity and heart-burn, dispel sick headache, quicken the action of the liver, and act as alteratives and gentle aperients. The weak and delicate may take them with ,out fear, Holloway's Piite are eminently serviceable to invalids of irritable constitu- ' tions, as they raise the action of every crgan' to its natural standard, and universally exercise a calming and sgdatjve influe?iee,