MAIL NOTICES.

SATURDAY, March 12. For South America, United Kingdom and Continent of Europe (specially ad dressed correspondence only), to connect with Kaikoura at Auckland, and also for northern ports of New Zealand, per Penguin, at O.tJO i>.m., parcel post parcels, 2 p.m. This mail is dtxe in London on April 29, 1892; that by 'Frisco, on March 23, is due ou April 27. ENGLISH MAILS. HOMEWARD—WRECT MAILS. Kaikoura, leaving March 19, due London April 28. Doric, leaving April 2, due London May 12. SAN* FRANCISCO MAILS Monowai, leaving on February 27, due London March 30. Alauieda, leaving on March 26, due London April 27- OUTWARD—DIRECT MAILS. Ruahine, due colony March 21. SAN KBASCISCO MAILS. Maripos'i, due colony March 23

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, MARCH 11, 1892. THE SYDNEY CHINESE SECRET SOCIETY.

The discovery that among the Chinese residents of Sydney there exists a powerful and clangorous secret society, resembling in almost every detail the Mafia, whioh a few months sigo was the cause of something approaching a reign of terror in New Orleans, has placed a powerful argu ment in the hands of those who are opposed to the admittance of the Chinese into the British Colonies. The society is shown to be organised for the equally nefarious purposes of extorting money by terrorism from the more wealthy or respectable Chinese \ and of protecting the professional j gamblers of their nationality from in-1 terference. In the prosecution of these ends the society has not stopped short of including assassination among its methods, several mysterious deaths by violence being now attributed to the Loon Lee Long Society (as it is called), while it is alleged that at a recent meeting of the Society a resolution was passed offering a substantial reward to any one who would bring about the death of a certain, highly respected Chinese resident named Goldtown, who had shewn a great deal of earnestness and energy in his efforts to repress the vice of gambling among his follow-country men. Mr Goldtown gave important evidence before the recent Parliamentary ' Commission on gambling, and acted as interpreter in a recent ease before the Sydney magistrates, which was followed by the riot which led to the discovery of the organisation. The case itself arose out of the workings of the society. It was alleged that one of its members, some months ago, lost a considerable sum of money, £230, to a countryman during a gambling bout. Not only did he refuse to pay his losings, but demanded twenty pounds from the winner, threatening that if he did not receive this sum he would have him locked up for attempting to assault his daughter. The winner then took legal proceedings against ins antagonist for attempting to extort money by threats, but the evidence was so conflicting that the case was dismissed. As soon as the prosecutor's witnesses lefit. he court they were set upon by the defendant's friends—the members of the society, as it after wards transpired—and iron bars, sticks, basket-poles, and road-metal were brought into play. Others joined in the fight, and the participants at the height of the battle numbered from 250 to 300. The police were com pletely outnumbered, but reinforce ments soon arrived and a number of the rioters were apprehended. They were in due time taken before tlie magistrate and fined, and it then came out that a secret society existed. It was not a pleasant discovery, but it was not altogether unexpected and the authorities are thus to some extent prepared to deal with it. The existence of such an organisation cannot be tolerated, and we may expect to hear before long of its having been totally suppressed, while the disclosure will no doubt lead to a stricter supervision being exercised over these dangerous Mongolians.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

A Wellington paper tells of a certain aristocratic lady who went to church the other Sunday and took her four-year-old boy for the first time. Upon hearing the organ he jumped up on his seat. "Sit clown," said his mother, lfl won't," he shouted, " I want to see the monkey." A rifle was accidentally discharged at the rifle range at Townsville (Queensland) the other day. The bullet shot a button off a I bystander's coat, and the button entered the body of a volunteer named Oswald Geddes, ' causing his death shortly after wards. This morning, before Messrs Alcoru and Harrison, J.P.'s, a first offender, who had been found drunk in Newman's right-of-way the previous night, was fined 5s without costs, or twenty-four hours' imprisonment.— A man named Robert Lyons, an inmate of the Old Men's Home, was committed to the lunatic asylum on the certificates of Drs Tweed and Trevor. The installation of Bro Cambridge, W.M., and investiture of Officers of the Somerset Lodge of Freemasons takes place this even ing- Being the first installation since the union of the Somerset and St John's lodges great inteiest is being taken in the occasion; the officers of the District Grand Lodge will uttend, and a large number of visitors are expected. Brethren are reminded that mourning for the late Brother the Duke of Clarence must be worn. The Hon Mr Seddon was waited upon on Wednesday by the Christchurch Volunteer Officers, who urged upon him reasons for holding an Easter encampment this year. In reply, Mr Seddon said that he had taken the opinion of the Volunteers in Ofcago through Colonel Webb, and had come to the conclusion that, in the interests of the Volunteers themselves, it would be better to wait until the new Com.mand&nt came out, and for the officers in the several districts to meet him and discuss matters, in Welling ton, and afterwards to arrange the best times and places for holding encampments. During the month of February the total number °of arrivals in the colony was 1384 and departures 1193, leaying a balance of 191 in favour of the colony. Of the arrivals 588 came from New South Wales and 403 from Victoria, the departures for these two colonies being 592 and 823 respectively. Tallin" the principal ports, 490 nei/sons lett ! via Auckland, 2(>3 from Wellington, 85 I from Dimedin, a>.d 519 from Bluff; while ot the new comers 502 landed at Auckland, IGS at Wellington, 106 at Lyttelton, and 412 at Bluff. The arrivals and departures of Chinese numbered sis mA fiv-c re spectively. A fashionable poison in great vogue at the Manhattan Club, in New York, is what is called an oyster cocktail. It is probable that nothing quite so injurious to the human liniii" has ever been devised. The founda tion is laid by putting seven small oysters in a tumbler, adding afterwards a little salt, three drops of-fiery Tobasto sauce, the same quantity of Mexican Chili pepper sauce, a spoonful of lemon juice, and etceteras *n the shape of horseradish and grcca pepcr .sauce, African pepper ketchup, black pepper and a liberal quantity of tomato sauce. When all the ingredients *i-g collected together m the tumbler the whole mixture is stirred about with! a spoon, the oysters being very slightly crushed. They are then lifted out awl eaten, j 'the co?ktail following as a beverage, I'hk Bust Remedy fob IndkjkßTH)N— goon's Camomile Pills are confidenty «se»ißHM»dod «» a aim Ple remedy, for [ndige.sti.oix, K'Uich is the cause of nearly all She diseases to which we are subjects Norton's Vu.hu, with jws.tj.ee called the ; Natural Strengthener of the ffunian Stomach," act as a powerful tonic and geufcte perienfc, are mild in their operation, and safe under naiy Sold ml bottles, at la lid, 2s H Us. b.yall medicine vendors throughout the yfwld*

A recent issue of the New South Wales Hansard, contains 301 pages, and is the largest parliamentary record of four nights J talk that has been pvi ..lished in that colony. A woman nainstl AHc? Clayton was com mitted for trial on Thursday at Christ- ; church, on a charge of assaulting Veogh, t.io n-.an who was found lyhm with his head cub at Avondalc a fortnight ago. He was un able to appear earlier. Mrs Walsh, of Wingen, New South Wales, and another lady were scared re cently by a number of tramps, who threa tened oil sorts oi thiugs. The intruders ( took fright wliem Mrs Walsh showed a revolver and tired several shots. A telegram recently received in Brisbane from Cliarleville stated that a carrier named Teates had four working bullocks mali ciously shot near Charlcvillc, because he purchased them from a non-union carrier. The police are investigating the matter. Messrs W. H. Collins and Co., adveri.:sn particulars of their large stock of building and house-furnishing materials. Particular attention is directed bo a large reduction in the prices of cooking ranges ; and in reference to building materials the adver -1 tisemenfc points out that they supply every thing necessary for the construction of a 1 house—'"'from the foundations to the last ■ touch of paint." I Palmerston North expects shortly to sur pass Wellington in size. At least this is the deduction which the Wellington "Post" draws from the following paragraph in the I "Manawatu Times," relating to the j accepted plans for the Telephone Exchange in Palmerston :—" The Exchange will be much larger than the Wellington one, in view of the rapid growth of the town, and being more conveniently arranged. " Tasmanian fruit-growers have made very systematic arrangements for the carriage of their produce to Eugland. Six ships of the P. and 0. Company are to take 100,000 cases, and five of the Orient Company's vessels 27,650 cases, during the present season. These company's also jointly chartered the s.s. Elderslie to carry about 38,000 cases, while two other vessels are to take 33,000 cases between them, bringing the grand total for the season to nearly 200,000 cases. The best medicine is Sander and Sons' Eucalpyti Extract. Test its eminent power ful effects in coughs, colds, influenza, etc. — the relief is instantaueous. Thousands give the most gratifying testimony. His Majesty the King of Italy and medical syndicates all over the world are its patrons. Read the official reports that accompany each bottle- We have no occasion to offer rewards in proof of the genuineness of our references. The official reports of medical clinics and univer sities, the official communications of the Consul General for Italy at Melbourne ; the diploma awarded by the International Exhibition, Amsterdam —all these are authentic docu ments, and, as such, not open to doubt. We add here epitome of one of the various cases treated at the clinic of Schultz, M.D. Pro fessor, etc.— " C. 8., 24 years old; conges tional abscess on the thigh. Incisions made in two places. Although Lister's dressing was applied, the secretion became, two days later, very copious, and had adopted a fcetid decomposed character. The temperature rose enormously. In consequence the dressing was removed and in its place were made during the day-time repeated irrigations with Eucalypti Extract. The offensive fieter 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 th;J% the latter treatment saved the patient's life. -- Advfc.) 3

The Rifle Association.

ANNUAL MEETING

[PER PltliSH A«rfOC'IATI.ON, I Weixinotox, March 11. Tho thirty-first annual meeting of tlio Now Zealand Rifle Association opened this afternoon, Mrs Ballance firing the first shot. The weather is dull with a fresh nor'westei* blowing across tho range. The total number of entries to han 1, so far, is 225, bub is expected to be increased to 240. The competitors gener ally speak well of tho range, and the cater ins; is, so far, an improvement upon that of the j>revious meeting. Only the long distance ranges of the first match will be completed to-day. A meeting cf the members of the As sociation was called this morning, when Major Homerville explained a slight mis take in the construction of the trench. A vote of thanks was carried to Major Somervillo for the explanation, and the meeting suggested that the range should be nanied "the iSomerville grange," in recognition of his many years' valuable services to the Association.

Shipwreck near Timaru

[per press association.]

VESSEL STILL AGROUND

{PER I'RESS ASSOCIATION.)

Twiauu, March 10

Apart from a brief gale last night the weather has fortunately been fine for operations at the Elginshire, there being only a moderate swell on. Any attempt to tow the vessel last night by the Mana was useless, bhe s.s. Herald arriving too late to catch the tide. This afternoon I the tugs Mana and Koputai were attached, bub the lines carried away. The Mana > returned to port for new lines, and another attempt will be made at to-night's tide. Nothing has been clone with the carsjo, but if the next trial fails the cargo will be transferred to surf boats. Tbo steamer is stated to be making water as fast as the pumps can^ clear it. The pumps are continually going. The best explanation of her position on the reef is that going along thy coast she struck on her bow, and the momentum ' carriol her stern round and lifted it two or three feet upon the reef. .She is not yet abandoned to tho Underwriters, Captain Miller still hoping to get her oil". Local experts are of opinion, however, that she cannot be got off. even if lighted, March 11. Two tugs pulled Hi. tho Elginshire for two hours at last night's tide, but made no impression. Tho lines were again i carried away by the chafe on the ship, but not tjU the tide had gone down. This morning fo«it" surf boasts were taken down to fetch" up the wool, which will take two days. The weather is fine with a moderate swell, Tho captajn, still holds for the owners. (Feceived March 11, noon,) Sydney, March 11. Tho meat on board the Elginshire is insured for £18,000 in London.

Wesleyan Conference.

[PJSK PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Wellington, March 9

The following- is the second Hit of stations for Canterbury :—Christchurcb, Durham, street;, Dewsoury, L. M. Jsitt, R. J. Murray ; Sydouhim, Buttle; St.. Albans, B*umher 'and D. J. Murray ; Lytteiton, Tinslcy ; Springston, Salter : Lseston, Par.sonson and Chapman ; Kaiapoi, Bond ; Woo'lend and Atnberley, Standage; Rwgiora, Connell ; Tiniani, Williams; Wauuate, Sm.xlley ; Temu.-ia, Uellow; Ashburton, lawry and Gray; Malvern (one wanted) ; Methvon, homo missionary. _ I The whole of the evening session was ' devoted to Home Mission matters. The report of the committee was read by Mr F. L. Prince. The Conference adopted a resolution with reference to the death of tlie Nov. Alexander Reid, secretary of this fund. The balance-sheet showed a total income of £2131 19s 9J, and a total expenditure of £2660 0, 6d. The rest of the session was devote I to the estimated i iucome for next year. Wkllinc.ton, March .10. At the Wa-sleyan Conference, the Pasto ral address was delivered Lhis morning. The chief points of interest in the address were the references to the position of the young people in the Church, and the great evils of the traffic in strong drink and gambling. The hope was expressed that the strong band of brotherhood which is growing in ouivmidst will prove the best solution of the labor and capital difficulty.

SPORTING.

DUN&DTN ANNIVERSARY MEETING, (per puess association,) Dunemn, March 9. Coinage was scratohod for the Anniver sary Handicap at 12.30 p.m. on Wednes day.

THE MARKETS

(PER I'll ESS ASSOCIATION.)

London, Mirch 9

The total quantity of wheat and flour afloat for the United Kingdom is 3,268,000 quarters, and for the Continent ; 1,200,000 quarters. l Money is declining continuously owing to plentiful supplies. Three months' bills are discounted, at 1$- per cent. The American visible wheat supply is estimated at 64,700,000 bushels. Silver is 3s ssd. The highest price realised for the ship ment of Cape grapes was 9d per lb. Pears brought excellent prices. The fruit was landed in fine condition, and was not at all damaged durinir the voyage. London, March 10. Colonial Stocks are stronger. The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, Limited, have received the following cable message dated London March 9 : — Wheat —Market inactive. New Zea i land wheat f.a.q. is worth c.i f. to arrive i 39* per 4801 bs, nominal value. New Zoa | land wheat, long-berried and average are i worth respectively 42s bd and 4.1s p*r 4961 bs. (Received March 11, noon.) Sydn'BY, March 11. Butter, dairy lid ; factory, 13d.

TO-DAY'S TELEGRAMS

(I'KK PIIKSS ASSOCIATION, STativ** Jvi»ml l*urel»a.»iv. Wjblunuton, March 11. The Government have purchased a few share., in the Waikopiro block,, Seventy Mile Bush, which they have been trying to acquire fur some time past- Tim Kast <:«a*t l% rutiv« F*ver, The outbreak of fever which decimated the natives of tlie East Coast last year has reappeared at Bay of Plenty, A telegram from the native schoolmaster at Omaio reports fourteen deaths and a large number of cases. Tho Hon Mr Reeves has ordered a supply of medicine to be sent to the masters of the neighbouring schools The master afc Omaio is fortu nately a man with some experience of medicine.

Imperial Politics.

IPEK PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

London, March 9. The "St. James' Gazette" states that the Tory lead3rs intend to intro duce fresh legislation with reference to labor questions, beginning with a strongly amended Employers Liability Bill, and to drop the Irish Local Government Bill. The election of a member to repre sent Belfast in the House of Commons took place to-day, when Mr Wolff, the { Conservative candidate, was returned by a majority of 2141 over Sir William Charley, who stood in the Liberal interests. [At the general election ft}r I)e Oobain, the Conservative candidate, was returned by a majority of 3626 votes over his opponent, Mr J. McCalmont, the Parnellitecandidate.] A BiU giving religious bodies power to purchase the freehold of their places of worship was read a second time in the House of Commons by a majority of 110. The Government were in the minority on the question, the division bping bungled by leadeis of the party.

Ashburton Cycling Club

GENERAL MEETING,

A well-attended ineetinsr of the Ash bucton Cycling Club was held in Pearson's Chambers last night, Captain Webber presiding. Correspondence ie records was read from the Alliance, and Mr C. E. Fooks wrote thanking the Club for his election as an honorary member. Four new members were elected, and otfieials ifor the race meeting were appointed. A committee was appointed to wait upon the Council with a view to having an hour set apart qh Sundays' for training on phe tracij. The Chairman dr-ew attention to the very creditable road record to Methven made by the Craighead brothers, and trusted other members would make an effort to reduce it. Mr Matson announced his intention of giving a prize of £2 2s towards foot racing at the meating. At a committee meeting held inimediatply after the general meet ing, the dratt programme was revised and Gqnsidjera'bjy amended. Mr Stephens presented $ special' prj.ze of £2 2s for the winner of-most points at the meeting, who must be a member of the Olub, The Committee offered a special prize of £'2 2s to the visitor gaining most points—the provincial championship not to couut for ■either of these two prizes. A cup is to be offered for most points in foot racing. Altogether £01 will represent; the. pri^e money to be competed for.

TELEGRAPHIC.

HOME AND FOREIGN.

PER PRESS ASSOCIATION.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONFERENCE. London, March 9.  At the Chamber of Commerce Con ference a resolution was passed urging that a reduction be made in the cable rates. At a dinner in connection with the annual m«eting of the Chamber of Commerce, Sir M. Hicks-Beach urged that the colonies bhouM bo allowed free markets in Great Britain. S''r E. C. N. Braddon, Agent-General for Tasmania, concurred in this senti ment, and complained that at present England coolly regarded Australia, whose only fault was attempting too much to benefit the inhabitants and promote the prosperity of the country. Sir M. Hicks-Beach said England would refuse to grant preference to colonial products unless the colonies reciprocated the concession. This statement was received with loud cheers. At the annual meeting a resolution was passed urging an extension of the postal order system to the colonies. The Chamber of Commerce advo cates the establishment of a labour bureau for England. THE DUKEDOM OF BRUNS WICK. The Duke of Cumberland has agreed to receive the interest on the Guelph fund on condition that his heir is recognised as the Duke of Brunswick. A LUNATIC M.P. Mr Atkinson, the member of the House of Commons who has made himself notorious lately by his violent language and behaviour both in and out of the House, is confined in a lunatic asylum at Nice. NAVAL CONSTRUCTION. Tiord George Hamilton stated in the House that the Naval Construction Estimates would be limited this ye.ir to the building of three men-of-war and ten torpedo boats. THE GERMAN COMMERCIAL TREATIES. The German commercial treaties apply to the British colonies under the most favoured nation clause. MRS OSBORNE SENTENCED. Mrs Osborne pleaded " Guilty " to the charge of perjury, and was sen tenced to nine months' hard labor. Mrs ffargreaves appealed to the Judge on behalf of her former friend for mercy. SNOWSTORMS. Snowstorms have been raging in England. FOUNDERING OF A STEAMER. The British steamer JViessina foun dered in the Gulf of Gascony, and twenty-five lives were lost. LONDON COUNTY COUNCIL. The Liberal Party in the London County Council have asked Lord Rose bcry to consent to be nominated for the chairmanship. Among the others nominated for the position are Sir John Lubbock, Rev. C. Fleming Williams, Mr Ben Tillet, and Mr Evan Spicer. EI.MSCOP \L APFOTNTMTCNT. The Right Rev Samuel E. Marsden, late Bishop of Bathurst, New South Wales, has been appointed Assistant Bishop of Gloucester, MRS GORDON BAILLIE. Mrs Gordon Baillie has been released from prison. THE MERCANTILE BANK. Mr Justice North has appointed two Provisional Liquidators for the Mer cantile Bank. THE VATICAN AND ENGLAND. In connection with the grouping of the Catholic dioceses of England into two provinces for ecclesiastical pur poses, the Vatican has decided to abandon the sometime sees of Canter bury and York. SUNDAY WORKING OF SHIPS. A Bill forbidding the working of ships in the Straits Settlement on Sunday, except for the landing o ¥ mails, has passed. It comes into operation in July. LABOR QUESTIONS. The Dockers' Union has resolved to oppose all pension schemes, on the ground that it is unjust to tax wages. The miners of Flintshire refuse to join the strike. The Durham miners will probably go on stiike in a fortnight.

THE LIQUOR TRAFFIC.

Ottawa, March 9. The Canadian Government has appointed a Royal Commission on the liquor traffic. THE CANADIAN ELECTIONS. Twelve elections have resulted in the return of fifty-four Conservatives and nineteen of M. Mercier's partisans. M. Mevcier himself was elected, but warrants have been issued for the arrest both of himself and other members of his Cabinet in connection with the recent scandals. M. Mercier will be expelled from tiie Legislature.

OUTBREAK OF INDIANS.

Washington, March 9. News from South America reports that an outbreak of Indians has occurred in Bolivia, They were assaulted by the troops and defeated with great .slaughter, one thousand being killed. THE SILVER- QUESTION. Senator B land's Silver Bill will prq bably pass bpth Houses.

CONFLICT OF RACES.

Nuw Yokk, March 9. Thirty negroes have been arrested at Memphis on a charge of murdering frur Marshals. Three of the band were subsequently lynched by the mob.

GERMAN EDUCATION.

I^Jjrijit, March 10. The Government'ape' arranging a compromise on tlio Education Bill. THE GRAND DUKE OF HESSE. The Grand Duke of: Hesse, whose serious illness is causing considerable anxiety, has recovered consciousness. RUSSIA AND GERMANY. Russia is massing troops on the German frontier.

A RISING IN ASSAM.

Calcutta, March 10. Rebels attacked' tin? British troops in Assam, but were repulsed in eight engag.ernents \v|th heavy loss. Tho ! British loss was teu sepy** killed and suuMbev woupded.

SOCIALISM IN FRANCE.

Paris, March 10. A Socialist has been elected Chair man of the Municipal Council. THE TRAGEDY AT NICE. Deacon, the American who shot the French attache whom he found in his wife's bedroom at Nice, has been re leased on bail.

TURKS AND CHRISTIANS.

OoN.STANTiNorr.K, March 10,

The Porte is showing considerable hostility to Christian agencies in Turkey.

THE ANARCHISTS.

Madrid, March 9,

The trial of a further batch of Xures Anarchists has begun at Cadiz. A riotous mob surrounded the Courthouse and created a disturbance during the hearing of the charges.

THE MALA VITA SOCIETY.

Home, March 9,

One hundred and thirty-eight mem bers of the infamous Mala Vita Society have been arrested in Otranto.

A FRONTIER DIFFICULTY.

Athens, March 9.

Montenegrins atacked an Albanian wedding procession on the frontier killing and wounding nineteen persons.

THE BEHRING SEA DISPUTE.

Washington. March 9. I The Behring Sea Treaty has been submitted to the Seriate, where it re ceived severe criticism, and was re ferred to a Committee. The Govern ment lias replied to Lord Salisbury, in sisting on the renewal of the modus vivendi. The United States Government look upon the demands of the British Go vernment with regard to the Behring Sea difficulty as excessive. Mirch 10. A Committeeof theSenatehas decided to approve of the Behring Sea Treaty, but to delay action pending the re newal of the modus vivendi. The Marquis of Salisbury refuses to agree to this, on the ground that there is no danger of any diminution in the number of seals.

AUSTRALIAN.

THE N.S.W. ESTIMATES.

Sydstey, March 10. The military estimates have been reduced by £50,000. DROUGHT AND RABBITS. The drought is assuming serious proportions in the west country, round Wilcannia. It is worse than the drought of 1888. On account of the devastation caused by rabbits, chaff is selling at £15 per ton.

VICTORIAN RAILWAYS.

Melbourne, March 10

The Railway Commissioners have notified to the Government a scheme to reduce the railway deficit. The details of the scheme are not published, but it is believed it consists in an increase of rates for passengers and goods, and an all round reduction in the salaries of officials,

RUST IN WHEAT.

Adelaide, March 10. Dr. Cobb, in the course of an ex- Imn'ivn ronorf- '■vlrVi !io ivad before the Rust in Wheat Conference, pre dicted that in from five to ten years the rust in wheat pest would be a tiling of the past. DESTRUCTIVE POTATO GRUB. The potato crops in the north west districts have been attacked by a grub, which in many instances destroyed the whole crop. THE INFLUENZA BACILLUS. Brisbane, March 10. Dr. Hirschfield, bacteriologist to the Hospital, has discovered the influenza bacillus in the blood of a patient. This is the first time the bacillus of influenza has been found in Australia.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

An old colonist, Thomas Poynton, who settled in New Zealand long before this country became a British colony, and lived at Hokhngawhen the Treaty of Wai tangi was signed, has died at his residence at Lake Takapuna, at the age of ninety years. Captain Marahon, of H.M.S. Tauranga, has, owing to the condition of his health, been relieved of the command of that vessel, and is to be invalided Home by the Kaikoura, which leaves for England on the 19th inst. The Tauranga left for Wellington to-day under the command of Lieutenant Allon. Wellington, March 10. Plans have been accepted for an opera house at Palmerston North, capable of seating 1300 people.. A meeting of shareholders and creditors of the Mokau Coal Company was held to ! night, The proceedings were of a parti ! culai'ly lively character. Some of the shareholders referred in very strong terms to the way in which the concern had been j mismanaged. Mr Hill, auditor of the Company, stated that no board meetings had ever been held, and he had never- had a proper set of books put before him. At the last meeting he \v>d given the deficit at £568, but since that, other accounts had come in, and increased the amount. One of the Waitara Directors stated if the mine had been properly managed, it would have been a splendid concern. The man Anderson has recovered con sciousness, but is too weak to give any account of the affair. At to-night's meeting of the Trades and Labor Council a communication was read from the kindred body in New South Wales with regard to the introduction of black labor into Queensland. The Council discussed the matter at great length, and passed the following resolution :—"That this Council learns with surprise and regret that it is the intention of the Queensland Government to introduce black labqr, and joins the New South Wales Trades and Labor Council in strongly protesting against such action on the part of the Queensland Government." Dunbdin, March 10. At a meeting of the Harbour Board to day it was resolved, in consequence cf the death of Sir John Coode, to withdraw from the firm the papers sent Home to get the opinion of Sir John.

Supreme Court.

(l KR J?KBBs ASSOCIATION.)

Dunedin, Match 10. The second trial in Thomas Ilealey's case (sheep stealing) was concluded to night. The jury retired at 6,40 p.m., and roturued a little after nine with a verdict of " Not guilty," and the accused was discharged.

Fatal Accident at Chertsey.

MR JAMES CHALMERS KILLED,

A. s'ld accident happened last night on the farm of Mr Stringfellow, Cher.sey, by which Mr James Chalmers, a promis in^ young man of twenty-seven years met his death. About half-past four in the afternoon, Mr Chalmers vhile feeding the combine of his brother's threshing plant, accidentally put his foot into the drum in stead of the feed box, find not being able to free himself the limb was torn off from a little below the hip, the stump being left with only a few shreds of tendons hanging to it. The belt How off the com bine, which of course stopped, and James Tieward, the man who was bagging, rushed up the ladder, and finding his mate caught by Hie lex in the drum, at once got a levsr and released him. Steward showed considerable presence of mind in the matter, as well as consider able skill in dealing with an accident of this nature. He procured a piece of rope, and with this and the handle of a hammer which he used to twist with, he made a very efficient tourniquet, and stopped any further loss of blood. At the inquest held in the afternoon to-day, Dr Trevor, paid the man who made this tourniquet a a high compliment on its efficacy in pre venting hemorrhage. The man at tended to so far, messengers were at once despatched to Rakaia, and telegrams sent to Ashburton, for medical aid, Meanwhile the man was lying on the top of the combine, and lad to remain there tillDr Cordner arrived from Rakaia, who dressed the wound, had the man at once taken down from the machine, put into a cart, and sent to the Ashburton Hospital, where he arrived about ten o'clock. Dr Trevor, with Drs Tweed and Leahy, attended to him at the Hospital, but he died about, half an hour after his arrival from the effects of the shock his system had received- An inquest was held at the Hospital to-day by Mr Harri son, 1.P., as coroner, and a jury of six, of whom Mr R. Bird was chosen foreman. 1 The evidence given bore out the facts above stated, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned."

1.0.0.F., M.U.

ANjSUAL DISTRICT MEETING

The ar.nu'il meeting of the Independent Order of Oddfellow?, Manchester Unity, Ash burl on district, was held in the Odd fellows' Hall on Wednesday afternoon* Prov. G.M., "W. T. Soal presided. Dele gates from the Ashburton, Rakaia, Wate-rton and Tinwald lodges attended. The Prov. GM. delivered an interest ing address on matters appertaining to the Order, and congratulated the district on its sound position. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the G.M. for his address. The meeting being declared open, the auditors' report and balance sheet were received aud adopted. Routine business having been disposed of the following officers were elected for the ensuing term :—Prov. G.M., J. Miles ; Dep. Prjv. G.M., J. Tucker; Prov. C.S., R. Minnis; Treasurer, C. Reid, P.P.G.M. ; Auditor, J. A. Clothier. The officers elcot were installed into their respective chairs by P.P.G.M.'s C. Reid and Tucker. The usual votes of thanks having been carried the meeting closed. hi the evening a Past Grand Lodge was helJ, and a number of brethren holding the necessary certificates received their respective degrees.

ROAD BOARD

LONGBEACH. The monthly meeting of the Longbeach Road Board was held at the Road Board Office, Longbeach, on Monday. Present —Messrs J. Bishop, J. Croy, E. Horsey, and A. Wilson. Mr Bishop was voted to the chair. Correspondence. "Thirds".—Frem the Commissioner of Crown Lands, asking the Board to in dicate the manner it is proposed to ex pend money accrued by "thirds" on R.S. 35754. It was resolved to expend the money, viz:—Us 4d, in improving water race. surveyor's report. Graham's Road.—We have inspected a culvort in Graham's Road reported to be in a bad condition, and found planks broken. It will be necessary to have this matter attended to immediately. Poplar road.—The maintenance m*n has been repairing a bridge on this road but only in a temporary manner, so as to J render it passable. We examined the timber in the bridge as well as another on the same road, and found them in a bad condition. It is a question as to whether they should be renovated or a ford made. Mawson's road.—A ford which has been filled in by the County Counoil has been shingled. Boundary Road, —We have measured the v/ork in Fitzgerald's contract, and made a further examination of the road. In this matter we would suggest a compromise. The maintenance man's diary lies on the table for your inspection. Resolved to take up the old culvert on Graham's Road and fill in with shingle. That fords be put in in lieu of bridge on Poplar Road, provided the Chairman approves. That if contractor Fitzgerald dGes not finish the work in a satisfactory manner within one month the \fovk be re-let at his expense. GRUBBING GORSE. The Clerks were instructed to furnish accounts against certain persons for whom the Board had reinstated the i moads adjoining their property, which had been left in a" rough state through grubbing gorse. KOAl) >!OAB,BH AUTS. It was decided to obtain five, copies of the Road Boards Act and Amendment Act for the use of the Board. GORSE GRUBBING ON EOAOS NEAR WHEATdTONE. This matter was left ever until next i meeting. UNPAID RATES. It was resolved that all outstanding rates not paid by March 31 be sued for without further notice. ACCOUNTS. After passing accounts the Board ad j ourned.

Grain and Produce.

The following is the Christchurch Corn Exchauge Report for the week ending Marc!) 12 :—Whkat— -Millers having sup plied their immediate wants, and a lot having been sent back to store, prices are a little lower. Bakley—Reports from the prim i >al growing districts confirm our previous views that good malting must be high. Oats — Tartars are still wanted, but if the demand for Brisbane is not supplied during the next fortnight these will take a back seat. Cocksfoot--Large quantities of discolored are offering, and few buyers ; the question is, what are we going to do with it. Bright heavy seed is very scaive and would com mand a fair price. Ryegrass—A little doing, but we &ee no chance of an advance, as the south is flooded with it. Quotations below are f.o.b. Packages extra :—Wheat, Hunter's, 3s sd; Pearl, 3s 7d ; Tuscan, 3s Bd, faulty, 2s 6d to 3s. Barley cannot quote. Oats, good feed, Is 6d to Is 7d ; milling, Is 8d; Tartars, Is 8d; Ryegrass, farmers 1, 2s to 2s 6d ; dressed, 3s 6d. Cocksfoot, discolored, 2d to 2|d j bright, 3d to 3fd. Beans, 2s lOil. Peas, 2s 6d; blue, 3s. Potatoes, kidney, 25s per ton country stations. Butter, 7d to 9d per lb. Cheese, 3^l to 4d pe_rlb.

Messrs R. Westenra, A. Saunders, and J. Joyce have been elected members of the North Canterbury Education Board. The two latter gentlemen have been re-elected, and the first mentioned is in place of Mr P. Westenra, who did not oflfcr himself for a seat on the Board. The Auckland police have made a raid upon a number of young men who were in the habit of assembling in the cricket ground on Sunday morning to train for the athletic sports. Two of them were arrested the other day and charged with wilful exposure. Sergeant-Major Pratt, according to the correspondent of the " Otago Daily Times " said in consequence of complaints that had been received two constables went to the Domain on Sunday morning. They saw a number of young men on the cricket ground practising at running. Defendants were in a semi-nude condition, and parties were rub bing them down. The bench considered the evidence was not sufficient to warrant the police going on further. It had not been proved that there was any wilful exposure. The Benoh thought it better that young men should, however, be warned, especially as this was a Christian community, that the Sabbath was for rest, and that they should not occupy the cricket ground or any other place for amusement. Inspector Broham, adds the correspondent, h\s determined not to let the matter drop, as Justices were on the Bench, but toget an authoritative decision by the Resident Magistrate. The police will attend at the cricket ground next Sunday. The Rorough Council of Palmerston North seems occasionally to conduct its business in a particularly harmonious and comfortable manner. A local paper of a recent date has the following :—" When the Council went into committee on the question of rights-of way, the chairman granted the members permission to smoke, and it is unnecessary to state that the Councillors eagerly seized the opportunity afforded them of enjoying a pipe. It had the effect of shortening the discussion, as for instance a Councillor in the midst of his remarks would be com pelled to stop short and take two or three pulls at his pipe in order to prevent it going oat. Atanyrate righta-of-way only occu pied about fifteen minutes, whereas under ordinary circumstances it would have taken fully an hour. We must not omit to men tion that the privilege waa also extended to representatives of the press. Any stranger looking into the Council and seeing the happy smile on the faces of our city fathers, as they blew huge clouds of smoke around the room, would instantly have come to the conclusion that the members of the Pal merston Borough Council are the happiest family on the face of the earth. " A strange commentary on the anxiety of women to possess the franchise is furnished by the city of Boston, the most cultured centre in the United States. The advocates of women's rights in that city are finding it difficult to explain the apathy which exists among the Boston women to make use of their right to vote for school commissioners. In the year 1888 20,252 women registered as voters, and 19,490 voted at the election. In 1889 only 10,051 voted, in 1890 the number had fallen to 7434, while in 1891 less than 6000 exercised the franchise. It seems that the women of Massachusetts labored hard for years to secure the rights to go to the polls, and yet in the course of three years the number who availed them selves of the new liberty fell from nearly 20,000 to 6000.

THE AMBtTftf ON QttAKDiAK: flfltDA?, MAflOfl Ij, isOil



Hum-Quay's !'iw^.—lndigestion. —How much thought has been bostOM'cd and what voluminous treatises have been M'ritten upon this universal and distressing disease, which is with certainty and safety dispelled with out fear of relapse by a course of this puri fying, soothing and tonic medicine ! It acts directly on the stomach, liver and bowels — then indirectly, though no less effectively, on the brain, nerves, vessels, and glands, in troducing such order throughout the entire system that harmony dwells between each organ and its functions. Dyspepsia need no longer be the biigbear of the public, since Hollo way's Pills arc fully competent to sub due the most chronic and distressing cases of impaired'digestion, and'to restore the miser able sufferer" t(j' health, strength, ami Sheerfqlmess,' ' I



, At a meeting of the Dunodin Amateur Athletic Club ou Wednesday evening, a resolution was carried ttyafc the Olub desires to convey its best wishes to the team pro ceeding to England, and regrets its inability to give adequate financial support, but will use its best endeavours to collect subscrip tions privately ; '£"> was voted by the Club. At Wellington £130 has been collected towards the expenses. The Earl of Kosse's famous American aloe, which, on completing the hundredth year of its existence last August, suddenly bloomed into flower and ih.sj to a height of 23ft, has now verified the traditions of its species by dying and leaving seedlings springing up at its base. The publication of this fact, however, has brought from several corres pondents to newspapers instances of ttie y|anthayiug'bloß3oi)ie4 before'being aceiitiUy JjJJ and jiqt ■ (I^4' afterwards, " '' ';'



MK ALFRED HARRISON SPECIAL ENTRY. ~~ SATURDAY, MABOH 12. QUANTITY Carpenter's Tools, Planes, Saws, Hammers, Chisels and Sun dries. Without Reserve. ALFRED HARRISON, 3 78 Auctioneer. Public Notices. * A SPECIAL General Meeting of the JIX. Ashburton Football Club will be held in Mr D. Thomas' Arcade Office, afc 8 p.m., TO-NIGHT, llth inst. PERCY H. COX, 3 54 Hon. Secretary, pro tern. CORWAR ESTATE. " "OLANS can be seen at our Office, and ull particulars obtained from FRIEDLANDER BR.OS. •&* ~A M SOMERSET LODGE, 1811 E.C. THE Installation of W.M. and Officers will take place at 7.30 THIS EVENING. Grand Lodge Officers will be present. Visiting Brethren cordially invited. Mourning Regalia. W. W. WHITE, 3 79 Secretary. FUNERAL NOTICE. THE friends of Mr Peter Chalmers, of Chertsey, are respectfully in formed that the funeral of his late brother James will move from the Ashburton Hospital TO-MORROW, SATURDAY, 12th inst., at 1 o'clock, for the Ashburton Cemetery. BAKER BROS., 3 81 Undertakers. LONGBEACH ROAD BOARD. ALL Outstanding Rates not paid on ' or before MARCH 31, WILL BE SUED FOR without further notice. By Order, C. E. FOOKS & SON, 3 72 Clerks to the Board. ASHBURTON DOMAIN BOARD. fTIENDERS are invited for Grazing JL the "Upper Paddock," about 21 acres, for twelve months. Conditions at the Town Olerk's Office, and Tenders to be delivered on or before noon, on MONDAY, the 14th insfc. ' ' CHVS. E. FOOKS, Town Clerk. March §, 189&- r" $59



"Keatikg's Powder'" destroys Bugs Fleas, Moths, Beetles, and all other insects whilst quite harmless to domestic animals. In exterminating Beetles the success of this powder is extraordinary. It is perfectly clean in application. See the article you Durchase is " Keating's," as imitations are oxious and ineffectual. Sold in Tins, 6d, Is and 2s 6d each, by all chemists. Ninian Hyslop and Co.'s "Imperial' Ceylon and Ir.diau Teas are direct from the Tea Plantation .—CAdv



The name of Captain Fox, the new commandant, appears on the list of passengers for Kew ggaUnd by the R.M.S'. Arcadia, which arrived at Albany to day. 44". -fcr £>inian Hyslop, and Go: s Imperial new seasons Pure Ceylon and India Teas. Special prio«« — (A,dv jNinian Hyslop and Co.'s "■ iir^ierai pure Oeylor- and Indian Teaa are th best in hem rket,— (Adv >



One off the landowners in the Tokomai riro district, whogc property js fairly well stocked with rabbits,'will »ot v"ow rabbi£- f ing on it except ho receives £JL per week for the right. Tins seems to indicate (says the "Bruce Herald") that rabbits cannot be, after all, so much of a nuisance. Don't be Deceived!— If you want the best Medicine the worla has ever pro Sliced, jb.ry Commune and Sons Eucalypti "Extract." Ityp all affections of the chest and lungs, cousuinptiou, # stlmia, coughs, colds, gravel, and kicluoy eom&liiints. For influenza it has no equal. Under the distinguished patronage of Earl Jersey, Qoygj-nor ,of New South Wales, Lord fiarringfcon', $r& the Emperor of Germany. i Awarded m,edalg at Syjfaey 1 Melbourne, Imi A4elai<!o, beating $11 eompetwoi^, and 8 the only pure Extract in the world. I See that the label b.e.%rs oyr trade mark '(tree of life and signature Ool&ftapg &}~fy Sons Cootamundra, New South Walstr) without this it is a fraud. Price, Is 6d aw 2p Cd, Wholesale Depot for New Zealand Lic^ejd street, Christchurch Sole Agents for Ashb^rton : Ihe AW, burton Drug Company.—Ai>v*



The world is ever moving on toward** perfection, bubseldom attains it, Constant mprovemenb is bemg made in every branch of industry, but in Baking Powders Perfection lias been cwighed in Warburbon's Can 11 Jk Beat.



ISotice to Correspondents 1 Correspondents are requested to forward their comniui i :ations in unsealed envelopes, °rinWrasS AT BOTH ENDS., a> required by the postal regulations. No w mis that are not intended for publication mist he written eirVr on the manuscript or on the cover of the letter. Letter rates of postage must be paid on advertisements.



N.Z.C.F. SPECIAL INDUCEMENTS ATtE OFFERED TO THE PUBLIC FOR ONE MONTH ~IN TLTEN'S AND T> O Y S CLOTHING, SHIRTS HATS RUGS SCARFS AND PORTMANTEAUX. WE INVITE INSPECTION, COMPARISON, AND PATRONAGE. NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory. •W. H WEBBER, Manager ;



Wanted. CASH Advertisements under chis heading not exceeding SIXTEEN ' WORDS 1/-. Addresses 'may he left ab this Office. ' ! -TT7 ILL JOHN RUSSELL WILSON, W of Pleasant Point, please return home. His wife is very ill. 380 HOICEST new season's Figs and Cartoon Table Dates in 31b Boxes, 2s each. —H. G. Flower, Confectioner, East street. WANTED, a Man that can Thatch Stacks. Apply to Chapman Bros., Willowby. 3 73 ANTED Known. - Come and see the Bargains now on at Melford House. H. C. Sbgbrs. W" ATRTKDKnown. -At"The Corner" now selling Ladies' French Shors. 5s lid. See them'.—W. H. Collier. \vrANTED Known.—lf you want VV plenty of first class Drapery, Boots and Clothing for cash, come to Melford House Sale.—H. 0. Sechsks. WANTED KNOWN, a special lot of Hearth Rugs at Is lid, 2s 6d and 2s lid ; worth about double. W. H. Collier. VVT^NTED Known.—! have a large W stock of Tin and Ironware Goods to select from. Register Grates, Stoves, Portable Boilers, Spouting and Ridging kept in stock.— J. W. Hardley, East street. - *l 2{)l ANTED Known.—Great Cash Sale now on at Melford House. Almost everything rpduced. —H. C. Segers. .. _ ALL Wool Colonial Tweed Suits to measure; fit and workmanship guaranteed; from 50s cash. Robert Alcorn, Ashburton Clothing Man, Sttunders' Buildings. __ TO Meet the Times.—l am supplying Galvanised Iron Tanks from 30s upwards, warranted for twenty years, Force pumps, deep well cylinders of all dessriptions. Inspection i,lvlt_."-77 J. W. Uaiwley, Eas street. 6.201 ANTED Known—That you will make no mistake for quality and variety in English and Colonial Boots, and his highly reputed make by calling ah J. Moison's. During coming holidays dis count for Cash. Repairs done at once. m staff of men always kept and best Material and workmanship guaranteed. x EW Supplies of Stationery, Account l^ Books, Music, Fancy Goods, New Games, Orders for Printing, Buok bindina, Picture Frames, promptly ex ecuted" Schools and offices supplied with pverv requisite. Magazines vid News pl^rs Spplied-L -P. ANDREWES & CO., Stationers' Hall. ———__—_—_j—i»——-—«»!»———— Pablic Notices. irXO^R~SH^TRIZES. XTITINNERS of Prizes at the recent *V Flower Show are notified that the Hon. Treasurer will be in attendance at the Arcade Chambers on MONDAY NEXT, 14th INST., from 12 noon to 1 p.m., and from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., for the purpose of paying prize money and handing over other P™**- All prizes NOT CLAIMED by the 28th instant will be deemed forfeited or donated to the Seciety. By order, "j. J. C. QUANE, <_4. Secretary.