MAIL NOTICES.

Manapouri, at Port Uhalmer), at I^.s*" PFJJ'Northeni Ports and Australian Colo nipper Waihariat 1030 R.m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, MARCH 14, 1893. FLOODS AND FLOODS.

The period of storms and floods which is now passing over Australasia is the severest of which there is any record. The double flood in Queensland, the disastrqus flooding of the principal coal mining and richest agricultural districts of New South Wales, and the immense damage dnoe in the colony, form the most direful tale of calamity that h»s ever been heard in the history of the colonies. Indeed, taken altogether, the extent of the destruction and loss brings up a comparison with the American Johnstone floods. In con nection with the cries of distress that reach us from all the flooded districts the question arises whether the whole efforts of the benevolent should be directed to the relief of the Queensland sufferers alone. Few among our colo nists can stand a second claim upon their benevolence, on behalf of the New South Wales sufterers, still less another appeal for assistance for our fellow colonists in Wellington and Taranaki. It might be well before any more money or goods are forwarded to Queensland to ascertain whether there are not other sufferers who are more in need of relief, and, seeing that the Queensland fund has redehed £40,000, take the opinion of contributors on the question of diverting part of the fund to other quarters, should their citcumstances re quire it.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

The Australian Cricket team and teams for competition at the military Tournament have sailed for England. Four ricks of wheat at Mr George Tait's tarm, Mayfield, were burnt between Sunday night and Monday morning. They were insured in the Phoenix office, and were to have been threshed out on Monday. Questioned regarding his intentions at next general election (says the Wellington "Press") Mr George Fisher, M.H.R., said that he was suffering from ill-health, and undecided which electorate, if any, he would contest." We remind farmers and stock dealers that the next sale at the Hinds saleyards will take place on Thursday next, 16th instant, when some good lives of lambs will be offered, and some crossbred ewes from Cold stream will, amongst otkers, be offered. A meeting of the Board of Governors of the Ashburton High School was held on Monday, when the report of. the committee on th« reorganisation of the school was received Pressure on our space obliges us to hold over full report. A good election story comes from Ciren oester. Colonel Cheater Master, the popular Unionist candidate, was defending himself from the Gladstonian charge that he id in favour of flogging in the army. In the course of his s^t eh he related that he had been flogged irequently at school, and was onc«3 fl >gged severely Jor telling the truth. " And it cured you ! ' shrieked a brilliant Radical. The final rehearsal foi the Convent concert takes place this evening at eight o'clock at the School of Music, when all taking part in the conceit are requested to attend; the programme of the concert appears in our advertising columns. The quality of the entertainment should com mand as large an audience on Friday even ing as the promoters have ever had—it is an impossibility that it can be larger than at many of the concerts of past Sc Patrick's days. Sone of our Methven friends feel hurt at the reference made in our columns last week to the reputation of Methven in the *' long ago," fancying that the article is calculated to injure the reputation of the township of to-day. We can "hardly see why they should think so, as a re-perusal of the paragraph will Bhow that the permanent residents of Methven were not referred to, but the men who came there in "in the season "—either for shearing or harvesting. The people of Mfithven and it» immediate vicinity are quite as law-abiding as are the people of Ashburton, and it would be quite as unjust to make Ashburton out to be a disreputable place because 130 or so drunks were arrested in tvo months in harvest, as to hold Methven responsible for the doings there of visitors of the Bame class. The paragraph referred to Methven of pre police times. Mount Earnslaw has again been scaled, this time by Mr Heroert Jones, F.R.G.S., Australian traveller, and Mr Charles Edmond Clive, a naturalist from England, under the guidance of Harry Birley. The Rev W. S. Green twice made the attempt but could not get above 5000 feet. In 1889 Birley cut his way up alone, a feat which Messrs Jones and Oiive consider has never been exceeded. Last year the Ross brothers and Birley made the ascent. Messrs Jones and Clive had a trying experience on the Birley glacier, and in descending late in the evening new step 3 had to be cut in the flint-like ice. Snow came on, and the party were obliged to spend the night under a rock. They speak.in strong terms of the skill and daring of Birley, and say that the view from the top is indescribably grand. Further particulars to hand respecting the rick-burning at Mr G. W. Leadley's show that the stack fired was one of a group of seven, the produce of a forty-siic acre pad dock of Tuscan wheat: the stack burnt was the centre one of the group The straw laid as a train for the fire had burnt within a few inches of the next stack and then died out. The stack just opposite the one burnt had the stubble burnt for three parts round it, and how it escaped total destruction is a marvel. Mr Leadley wishes us to give public expression of his thanks for the prompt and valuable assistance rendered by the neighbors round, to Messrs Rose, sen. and jun., John Harrison, Sturgeon, jun., James Cochrane, jun. ; and to. Mr W. Perks, who j promptly brought over his machine water cart and extinguished the remains of the fire; also to the local police, and Messrs Corbett and Knott who first gave the infor mation about the fire in Ashburtop. The action of Primmer v Stewart came n n in Chambers before His Honor Mr Jastice < Denniston about a fortnight ago in the form I of a summons by the plaintiff calling on the defendant to show cause why Supreme Court costs should not be allowed to him. At the taxation of the costs Mr Caygill, under instructions from Mr Cuthbertson, the defendant's solicitor, raised the objec tion under Rule 524, Supreme Court code, that the plaintiff having recovered less than £50 should have obtained a certificate h'Oii} tfo» Judge tnat the acfci°u waa a' proper one tp bring in the Supreme Court before he was entitled to costs in that court, and that having failed t$ dp this the plaintiff could only recover costs on. the District Court scale. This objection was upheld by the Registrar, whereupon the plaintiff's solicitor, Mr Wildhig, brought the matter before ths Judge in the above form. After argument His Honor reserved his decision, and y.esjterday Mr Cujthbertsoa recaivgd ft» infrjmation that his contention had been uphel4, TMs of course mean's a /cry considerable reduptinjn ip thp amount of costs the defendant will have £o pay,,

The annual meeting of Ashburton Poultry Pig«on and Canary Society was held in the Arcade Chambers last evening. There was a fair attendance, and after some discussion on the successful result of the Society's work last season, the election of officers was pro ceeded with, As several new members are expected to join, some of whom would be valuable officials, it was decided not to close the lists of vice-presidents and com m ttse for a ftw days. For the po i ion of patron'and president, Mr E. G. Wright, M.H.R., and Mr Hugo Friedlander were unamimously re-elected, subject to theic acceptance. Mr E. M. Tasker was re elected Secretary, and was" instructed to communicate with ottter societies and with fanciers, with a view to ascertain the most convenient date for the next show, and to call a meeting of the Committee at an ear.} date to report. Mr Hetton, the representative of Wiae'a Caoterltury di ectory for 1893 is now in Ashburton, collecting information and names of "all the residents in the district. The publishers have established permanent offices in Ohristchurch, and are printing the dictionary there, thus keeping the money in the district The work will contain a list of all the Canterbury towns giving named and occupation of the residents, also an alphabetical dictionary of the whole, and a Trades Dictionary ot all the province, including farmers, sheep owners, fruit growers, butter factories, municipal and official information. The work is being issued at a very low price, l(h 6d, and the business community will doubtless avail themselves of the excellent advertising medium which it affords. It is to be issued early in July. A special feature in this year's dictionary will be a list of athletic, cycling, swimming and other clubs, with the names of secretaries.

SPORTING.

WANGANUI AUTUMN MEETING.

[FEE PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Wanganui, March 13. The principal races resulted as follows : -Harrison Memorial Stakes —Eve 1, Krina 2, Monte Carlo 3 ; time, lmin 19 Rec ; dividend, £5195, Second Handicap Hurdles. —Empire 1, Gondolier 2. Dis turbance 3 ; time, 3min 50 3-sth sec; dividend £4. Wanganui Stakes.—lm pulse 1, Revolution 2, Musket 3 ; time, lmin 43aeo; dividend, £2. Nursery Handicap.—Eve 1, Noyade 2, Banner 3 ; time, lmin 5 3-sth sec ; dividend, £2 Ba. Autumn Handicap.—Lottie 1, Krina2, Tit 3 ; dividend, £2 6a.

Ariel Bicycle Club.

BY IX lON. The first race meeting of the Ariel Bicycle Club will be held to-morrow at the domain, the first event starting at two o'clock, and the Grand Invitation scratch race at half-past three. The utmost energy has been shown by the Committee and members of the Club in preparing for the meeting, and the arrange ments are unusually complete. The con dition of the track ha 3 been improved by the rain and will be in fir&t class older for the day. Word has been received by the Secretary that McCombe, Duff and Young, the Australians, and visitors from Christcburch, Oamaru and other places will compete, so that a .great day's sport is assured. A smoke concert will take place in the evening. The following are mentioned as probable winners : -Maiden —H Thompson ; 150 yds foot race—B. Todd ; \ mile bicycle—E. .1. Lilly; 1 mile bicycle—A. Joss ; Grand Invitation Scratch Race—Boyd 1, McCombe 2 ; 2 mile loadstbr—T. Clarkson; 250 yds foot race—C. Henry ; 3 mita bicycle— W. S. McCombe ; I mile Club bicycle— J. Burns. Half the proceeds will be devoted to the Queensland floods relief fund.

THE NORTH ISLAND FLOODS.

PKR PKBSS A'SOCIATIOJ*.

Welunoton, March 13. The weather is still threatening, but there is very little fresh to record in connection with the floods. As the servants are away from Government House, Lord Glasgow offered their quarters to those rendered homeless, but provision had already been made for the sufferers. The damage to the retaining wall at Thorndon esplanade is estimated at £2000, for which the City Council ia responsible. The Hutt correspondent of the " Even ing Press" in wiring about the floods says:—"ln the minds of many old settlers the flood has been the worst known for twenty-two years*, and con sidering that since July last the river has been inundating paddocks and houses all along the main road and western side, there is no anticipating where the river will make its next breach to complete the destruction of all the properties within half a mile of the nmn road unless, as I said in my letter to you last .1 uly, imme diate steps are taken to stop the further progress of the river over its banks. Then in a ypar or two no portion of the Hutt will be worth 10a an acre. To see beautiful gardens, noble gum, poplar, and oak trees destroyed over an area of some ! miles would, I am sure, cause much sympathy to be felt for the settlers of the one a lovely and much-sought-after Hutt Valley ; now it is all chaos." A. fund started for the relief of the local sufferers by the floods was opened this afternoon and £50 was collected.

COUNTY COUNCIL.

THE WAKANUIORE UK

A special meeting of the Ashburton County Council, lo consider the Wakauui Creek question, was held yesterday. Present—Hon. W, C. Walker (chairman), Messrs B. S. Colter, E- G. Wrigh% H. Fredlander, D. Cameron, W. Mo^lillan } and John Grigg. The minutes of the special rneotii g held by the Council were read and dis cussed. Mr Wright said the Council had en deavoured bo arrange matters in the Wakanui Creek matter, and a number of setrloru had made objections, which ap peared to him ta make it necessary to start de novo, and act in accordance with their powers under the Water Supply Act 1891; otherwise they would find it impossible to cany out tha work to the satisfaction of che settlers most concerned. | Mr G. W. Leadley interviewed the Council as representing the farmers of Wakanui, and handed in a petition, which he read, signed by ten landholders on the Wakanui cieek as follows : — Wakanui, March 6, 1893. The Chairman Ashburton Couuty Council. Sib,—We, the undersigned ratepayers, owners and occupiers of land intersected by the Wakanui creek, beg respectfully to sub mit the following proposals in regard to the creek :•— I.—We will hand over the creek with the necessary easements and rights of entry as embodied in the first clause of the Council's memorandum lately submitted to us, subject to the amendment agreed on by us as to the non-interference with existing fences, etc., as per resolution passed at meeting held »t Wakanui on February 24. 2.-—ln regard to rates chargeable in re spect of th« creek, we beg to submit the following alternative proposals— («)—ln consideration of our paying one fourth coat of bringing the creek under the " Water Supply Act, 1891," we uk to be exempt from rates in respect of the creek until such timers our quota of contributions, if reckoned as an annual rate, shall be ex hausted, Or (b)— :We suggest that an account be opened to be called the Wakanui creek account, and all moneys received from any source for pri vileges in regard to the creek (such as the annual contribution from the Ashburton Borough and the Wakanui and Canterbury Flour Mills, etc.) be credited to this ac count, and all expenses of maintenance, etc., be charged against it. Should a deficiency arise in any year we agree to allow ourselves to be rated in such an amount as shall dis charge the debt as against the creek. In submitting these proposals we beg to remind i the Council that the Wakanui Creek is us«d as a source of supply, either solely or supplementary for about one hundred miles of water races, and we think it unfair that we, the few settlers along the line of the creek should be saddled with the full cost of keeping up a water supply for these races We are etc.—Georg. V. Lvadley, Thomas Trevurza, Joseph Choak, David Butterick, I. M. Thompson, Edwin Thomas, Donald Williamson (as executor in the estate of the late B. Williamson), George Lamb, Samuel Burnard, Nicholas Fitzgerald. Mr Leadley explained that several owners declined to offer any terms to the Council. Messrs Corbett, Wilson and Brown had nob signed the petition, nor would they do so. Mr Grigg asked what the effect would be if the Council turned off the water ; how wculd the settlers feel 1 Mr Leadley said they would consider it a great hardship. \ A desultory conversation took place on the position of the farmers who bought land from the original proprietor. Mr H. Friedlander abked why the Wakanui landholders wanted exemption from water rafces ? Mr Leadley explained thafc the settlers would wish tneir ideas carried cut as ex. piaiued in the petition. He stated they considered the creek a main race and exempt from taxation, a* other main races were. The amount of revenue derived from privileges -in connection with* the creek, such as contributions from the Borough Council, mill owners and others, would more than suffice to reimburse tht Council their outlay. Further that up wards of one hundred miles of water racas; were supplied from the creek, and the petitioners thought it unfair they shou'd be charged with the cost of keeping up the whole of the supply. , [Messrs J. Choak, T. Wilson, J. Miils, and J. Cochrane, owners on the creek, arrived and were allowed to sit during the discussion. J Mr Wright explained that, from the tone of the petition and the want of unanimity displayed by those interested, it would be necessary for the Council to make a fresh start and constitute the Wakanui creek district a new water supply district, and the whole of the resi dents wculd be under the Act and pay rates for the wattr. The district would, of course, consist of the creek landowners and those on the races fed from the creek. Mr Frieilander pointed.out that the Hampstead Town District would be included in the proposed new water district, which would necessitate a special petition from that Board. The Council thought they could take the water through for use lower down. Mr Leadley did not think the settlers wished to put any .objections in the way of the Council. Mr Wright pointed out that some of them were positively objecting. Mr Leadley said it was only a question of finance, and if neoessary the Council could take over any objector's land under the Public Works Act Mr Thomas Wilson wished to know what the widih of the creek was proposed to be. The Chairman explained that the Council would in all cases try to reduce the width of the creek and save the land. Mr Wilson brought up the fact of the, necessity of the pro k b"ing sometimos let out at the sea-be-ujj. itherwise the water dammed back aud took/a way his land. Mr Leadley explained the position with regard to Mr Wilson's loss of land, Mr Choak wished to know if some settlers agreed to the Council's proposals and some not, what would the Council do ? The chairman explained, they must be unanimous in the matter. Mr John Cochrane stated that in 1862 the creek ran right through Wakanui, and afterwards in dry seasons the creek failed, but there was always some water in holes in the creek. A general discussion on the old water supply took place, and the Council thought that Mr \fils,on would be exempt fj?om water charges under the proposed new arrangement. Mr Leadley explained the position with regard to Mr Nicholas Fitzgerald's land, Mr James Mills wished his position defined with regard to his land, which he had bought at a high price with water frontage. Mr Wright and Mr Coster explained the proposed action with reference to a permanent water supply for all interested. Mr Grigg put the whole position before the deputation, and explained that all the trouble about the Wakanui creek had come from outside the Council, 17110 were simply trying to give justice to all. Mr Mills. Mr Choak and Mir Wilson stated their views arid asked various questions Which were replied to by the Chairman and some otljer members of tlie Council. Mr Cochrane asked several questions fn pefereripe. to the creek clearing and easgmentg, Vhioh were "di§cus3ed and, explained. Mr Friedlander asked tfce deputation if they would agree to pay water rates if ihe other arrangements were completed. Mr Leadley thought about two years exemption from rates would clear the Hotter, Setbep, wftHlW tfce petition mi

haniedin afresh document, whichhestatei should b^ a final one, and result in a settlement of the long vexed questioa. If the Council could not see their way to remit the water charges to all, they must sulimit and allow the Council to control the matter. The petition wf^ as follows: — Wakanui, March 8, U9S. The Chairman Ashburton County Council. ■ Sib, —We, the undersigned ratepayers interested in the Wakanui Creek question, I beg to uotify thfi Council that we arf f prepared to hand over the creek to the orn trol of the Council on the tfirme submitted to us in the Council's printed memorandum lately circulated amongst us, and to give all necessary facilities for the acquisition of the creek by the Council as set forth in th.it memorandum.—Charles Braddell, G. W Leadley, Thomas Wilson, John Cochrane, Thomas Trevurza, D. Butterick, Edwin Thomas, Joseph Choak, J. Bonifant, Donald Williamson, George Lamb, Samuel Burnard, N. Fitzgerald. The Council then discussed the corres pondence with the Canterbury mill owners, and decided to ell their attention to the fact of the offer made by the»r soli citors of the land with the caretaker's cottage ; also that the Council could not agree to a limitation of the term for the water contract, which must be perpetual as the agreement with the settlers would also be perpetual. Mr Wright proposed, and Mr McMillan seconded, that an advertisement be issued stating that if all the settlers did not before next meeting of Council in April agree to the proposed terms, the Council would declare the district a water supply district under the Act, which would involve the ratepayers In greater expense. This would show the public who were preventing the settlement of this water difficulty.—Carried. Mr Grigg moved, ia accordance with notice—That the resolution, with refer ence to certain sums of money proposed, to be expended on the Wakanui creek should be n.ade a charge on the general funds, be not adopted. Mr Wright seconded pro forma,. He could not agree with the terms of the motion as some of the races there had not cost so much as those in other pares of the county. Mr Friedlander could not agree with the motion, and under the circumstances asked Afr Grigg to withdraw the motion. The motion was lost, only Mr Grigg voting for it. The report of the Wskanui Water Supply Committee as a whole was adopted. Correspondence on the Westerfield mill water supply was taken in Committee. The Hinds Saleyards Company asked ! for permission to take water for sheep ] dip purposes, and it was granted. I The Springburn Sheep Dip Company j asked for a lease of a portion of pound reserve for a dip. The matter was referred *o the Mount s?omer« Road Board. The Geraldine County Council wrote re Rangitata river cheep bridge, agreeing to pay their share of the cost of same. It was resolved, on the motion of Mr Wright, seconded by Mr Grigg, that the railway authorities be requested to carry out the work as soon as possible, The Council then adjourned.

THE METHVEN SHOOTING CASE.

James Nee, proprietor of the Methven hotel, appeared on remand yesterday, before Messrs Edward Chapman and William Morgan, Justices of the Peace, charged with having, on March 1, at Methven, •• unlawfully, maliciously, and feloniously" shot ''at Arthur Dobbs. by drawing a, trigger, and discharg ing a certain loaded revolver, with intent to do grievous bjdily harm to Arthur Dobbs," tha same being an in dictable offe.ice. Sergeant Moiler con ducted the prosecution, and Mr W. H»ban, of Ohristchurch, appeared for the defence, and pleaded nut guilt}. There wan anothsr charge against accused of having firearms in his possession while drunk. It was agreed to take ths evidence in the more serious charge first, and as the evidence would be the same in each case, to decide the minor charge on the evidence of the major. A plan of the billiard room of the Canterbury Potel, in which the affair happened, was submitted. It showed the doorway from the paasage as being in the middle of the eastern wall. The seats occupied by Dobbs and Nee were just in side this doer, Nee's bring on the left of Dobbs'. From the doorway to the point in the north wall where the bullet lodged waa nine feet, and to the corner of the room from the doorway seven feet, and thence to the bu let mark six feec. The bullet passed between one nun playing at at the table, and another sitting on the bench against the north wall; Andrew Turner, barman in the employ of the accused, sail he knew Arthur Dobbs, who waa a resident in Methven. Dobbs was iii Nee's hotel o.i March 1, in company with Juhu Steware and Nee himself. Nee shouted for them, and they only had one drink each, and remained in the hotel about ten minutes. Nee and Dobbs went away together. They were quite sociable in their conversation. Witness, when they were in the passage told Dobbs there was some one outside who wanted to see him. His reason for this was that he was afraid Nee would open up an old grievance he had with Dobbs about a billiard game. Nee was perfectly sober. ; At this point Sergeant Moiler asked liberty to treat the witness as hostile, as the evidence he was now giving was hardly in accordance with what he had said lo the police, but the bench declined. Examined resumed—Dobbs went out side with Nee, and witness saw them again half an hour afterwards—about nine—in the hall of fJU>wse's hotel. William Toppin and others were there too. Was told that Nee and Dobbs were there, and went over to take Nee away. Nee was sober, but terribly excited. Took him home. There was nothing handed to witness there. Witness and Stewart took IN cc home between them, each holding an arm. Ne« went to bed as soon as he came home. The reason for witness and Stewart taking Nee's arms was that somebody in the crowd said to witness that 3See had had a fit. By Mr Hoban—When Dobbs and Sjbewart came into the house, they all appeared to be/on very good terras, and had a drink together. During the day Nee said he was going to the camp where he had a contract, tp shoqt some rabbits, and would take a revolver. This would ba about eleven o'clock. He was detained and did not go. Saw nothing of the shooting at Rowse s. Nee was excited at Rowse'a, and did not appear willing to go home. It was to get him away that witness took hold of him, and also in consequence of hearing about the fit. By Sergeant Moiler -It was not too much liquor that detained Nee, and he drank nothing bub sherry all the day. Arthur Dobbs, bootmaker, residing at Methven—At about half-past eight on the evening of March I, met Nee near Hibbs' store. Stewart 'and Sullivan were with witness. Nee asked witness if he would have a drink, and they all went to Nee's hotel and had a drjnk. Nee wis quite softer, and nptexqited at all. After the drink Nee asked witness to have a game at bjlljardg. Refused to play, und iiee called him aside in the passage, and began to talk about. * game of bijliarcls he and witness hid had some time before. Nee asked witness what he was to do in the matter. [Witness here gave an account of this game, which had been arranged for £1 a-side, and. Nee. h.%4 fcq

forfeit for not. coming to time, witness getting the stakes]. Nee wanted either to play the game or have the money re funded. A little later Nee came back to the billiard room and said he would have it out with witness if he did not play or give him back the £1. At this time Rowse and a traveller were playing billiards. Nee went; out to the passage, but shortly after came back and Bat down alongside of witness on the bench just inside the do:*r, on witness' Jeft. He resumed reference to the billiard game. Saw » revolver in NceV hand, with the trigger or which he was playing. The revolver went off, the shot going past witness in front. A mm named Larkin had come into the roooi by this time. By tKe Bench—Had no idea that Nee meant ai^j violence to him when he spoke of takii l ... out: of Dim. The bullet lodged in the wail to the right of witness. Sergeant Moller asked what certain threats on the part of Nee to Dobbs meant, but the witness said he had no knowledge of these. All the, threats made were billiard threats, and referred wholly to " satifaction " in the match of billiards. Had no idea of any other meaning they had. Did not think the shot was fired at witness, or intended for hioa. When the shot was fired witness , put down Ned's hand and threw him ' down, and Stewart, Toppin, and Blake, came in and took hold of Nee and re moved the revolver. Nee was very much excited, and some one took him away. Witness was told to leave the house and left,. By Mr Hoban—Had always been the best of friends with Nee. Nee could not have had time to go home from Bowse's, load revolvers, and come back again. John Stewart, Methven, was with Dobbs on March 1, about half-past eight in the evening, and went with him and Nee into the latcer's hotel and had a drink. Again saw Nee in Rowse's hotel half an hour after—in the passage. Nee was there alone. He asked witness to go and have a drink. Nee was perfectly sober. Nee was taking from his pocket something that had stuck in the lining. Nee asked witness to draw it out, and he did so. It was a revolver and witness put it in his own pocket. Could not - identify the revolver, about which no remarks passed, md the weapon was given by witness to Mrs Nee half sm hour afterwards. Left Nee for a time, but again saw him after lying in the door of the billiard room, with Dobta holding him. Took a re volver from Nee's hand then. The one produced is the same. Put it in his own pocket then, and had not at that time given the first one up. Nee was vety , much excited. Went outside, and when witness next saw Nee he was outside on the road, but sober. Gave the weapons up to Mrs Nee. While in the passage heatd a «hot fired, and it was the report that , attracted witness to the billiard room. Had been a resident of Methven for > eighteen months and never heard any i thing against Nee. By Mr Hoban—They were all friendly • enough when they went to Nec's—the i best of friendship. Nee used no threats r of violence to anyone in witness' hearing all the time he was with him. William Toppin, saddler, Methven, went through the passage of Rouse's Hotel about nine o'clock on the evening of March 1, and saw Nee in the billiard , room as he passed it. There were others there besides Nee, who was saying some thing about £1. He was sober. Came back to the billiard room when the bhot j was fired, and saw Nee down with Dobbs holding him. Helped to take the revolver 1 from Nee. Could not identify the re j volver, nor of his own knowledge could he cay who took the revolver away. Nee was excited but sober. James Campbell Patterson, commercial traveller, said he was on business in Methven on March 1. In the evening, about ten minutes to niue, was having a game of billiards in Rowse's hotel with the landlord. Dobbs came in followed by Nee. Immediately afterwards Nee &aid to Dobbs " What about my £1 ? You have had it si* months now." Witness said " What's the row about ?" and Dobbs said it was over a game of billiards. Witness said " Did you beat him 1" and both answered " no." Asked '* Did you close"bn it then'? It was hardly tair not bo give him a show for it." Nee said he was two minutes behind time, and Dobbs said he was an hour and a quarter. Wit ness then said " You were quite right to collar it," and continued his game. While playing heard Nee threaten to tear the guts out of Dobbs before breakfast. They were quiet after that. Nee asked Dobbs to have a drink with him, and Dobbs said " No, I can pay for my drink. Nee turned round and asked witness and Rowse to have a drink, and the three of them went to the bar to have a drink. When they came back to the billiard room, Nee again asked Dobbs to have a drink, but Dobbs refused. Witness then said " Go and hava a drink with him, and he will go home." Dobbs still refused, and Nee left the billiard room, and an old gentleman known as "Jimmy the soldier" came and sat at the top of the room facing the table, while Dobbs sat near the door. Nee returned and sat beside him. Witness took the chalk from the mantel piece, and went round to the top of the table, chalking his cue and standing over Dobbs and Nee, with "Jimmy the soldier " just behind witness. Asked Dobbs when ho would have break fast in the morning, and he (witness) would come round and see the fun—the fight between Dobbs and Nee. Turned to walk to the mantel piece when a shot was fired. Called out " Grab it! " mean ing the revolver—and came round from the bottom of the table to lend a hand. Got into ths passage, and some one called him back. Kept calling out "Keep the muzzle down." The revolver was then taken from Nee and everybody clewed, leaving Nee on the floor, Mrs Rowse at the bar door, and witness leaning against the billiard room door. When Nee got up he staggered. Picked a watch and chain off the floor, and told Nee to put them in his pocket, thinking they were his. Also asked him to go to the other house and have a drink. He declined to take the watch, and remained in the house. - Took Nee by the arm to remove him from the house, and he said '■ I'll hit you." Caught him round the waist and put him out at the door. Some ore mshed in, and Neb returned to the house. Could not say whether Nee was drunk or sober, but before the shot was lire*! thought he wanted a quarrel. 'After the shot was fired accused was like a mad man." Saw Nee fumbling with sb.rapthing on his legs, but saw no revolver till after the shot, By Mr Hoban—Had no idea that Nee had firearms with him, and expected that there was to ba a fight with fists, fancying that Nee was a harvester who had come in from work and was clearing up an old grievance with Eobbs. Mr Hoban called attention to the re volver from which the shot was fired, which was of peculiar construction, and somewhat imperfect; it could be fired with but a slight touch of the comb of the cock, , Constable Morgan, stationed at Meth ven, cam'u to the hotel after the firing. Kea was excited, and iftay have, 1 beeti drunk. The last 'witness was holding him when witness rushed in and secured him. Held him and removed him from the hofel, and let him go home with two men lad no conversation with Nee then, but in the morning saw him^ and Nee said he Jiad the revolvers with him beccuse he had purposed going to the camp, in the paddock near which there was a small quantity of corn left uncut, among which hares were vary numerous, and he could ait and pot them with * revolver from,

THE ABHBURTON aCfAliI)iA» : TUESDAy, MAKCJS U, 1893.



W anted. ti^'TToreiTAriel Bports"fo^MoßßOW 3J ArtßitNoo». Come and see the Champions and Lady Cyclists. Funand enjoyment. - Tl7 ANTED for the country, good W Cook. Also General Servant. Good wages to competent Apsy a? St. Stephen's Pannage, AKrton^ __jg? Convertible Cycle, mauMe for I J Lady or Gentleman. Firat class " Star " Machine now on view. Cycle requisites supplied.—H. M' Jo^l TifANTED, Ladies and Gentlemen to W s«e the Grand Display in the windows at "The Corner" Saturday— W. H. Cqtmkb.^ ESC NickefWatches in the market, we those at 22* 6d and 255. Specially made for S. Sausx, Jeweller. Guarantee with each watch. , 1 JIANOFORTK and Organ Show ± Eoomi«; Best cash value obtain able. Extended terms ; reduced sca'e ; ChrUtchurch prices,—H. M. Jom«s- WANTED Known—lee Creams, Ice Creams, for the hot weather, always ready »t H. G, Flowbr's, Confec tioner, East Street. SOMKR-JET Meat M«fc. The oldest the largest, tin boat,'and tho cheap «,t. Small »^»da a specialty. Ful Weights guaranteed. A trial —W. J. Siloook. _____ilHf riNTBD Known-9|d Glove*l for 4^d j 7Jd Embroidery for 4£d ; 13 8 6d Summer Dresses for 8s 9d.-- MITCHBLT. & TURMBR. A »* WANTED Known—•• The Corner "is showing a magnificent New stuck of Drapery and Clotting. — W. H. Coujer. . ANTED-Purchaseru tor Bargains n Summer Dresses, Prints, and Delaines, Sunshades, &c. at S. W. Aloork and Co's Sale. j_ «f THERE do you get your Ironmon- W gery? At Hakplfy's of course, where we g«t the best value in Sheet Lead, Nails, Locks, Hinges, Ploush Chains, Bope, Wire Knetting, Gorse Knives, Spades And Forks, Lamps, Fender an*' Fire Irons, and anything you require. HB Misses Aiuams' new Refreshment Booms now open. Tea, Coffee, Cocoa, Lemon Squash, Soda and Milk and all the new summer drinks ready at all times. Coleman's Buildings, East Street. WANTED everyone to come and Eec the beautiful presents we are giving away for evtry 5a and upwards apent —H. C. Seobrs, Melford House. TIIST Opened. — A Bplendid asaort- O ment of Ladies' and Childrrans * 'abets »'d uUors.—H. 0. Segbkb, elford l-iou«e. ' > HB Goud Samaritan, tor the imme diate relief of pain —Light's Cash Store. „_ 2 33 \l UMISOPATHIC Modicines, price I~L 1«- Sol« agent for district. Light's Cash Store. 2j4 IclfcliKS, Ordinary and Safety Cycles, Star Hauiber Roadster, R acerß _-Star Diamond Frame, Star Cross Frame (Adams, Curtiea and Go's Ma chines.) Cash or Terms. Christchurch Prices.^H. M.,lombs. 284 BANG ! Bang ! Bang ! Guns ! Guns i Guns ! by the best makers and fitted whh all the latest improvements. Pu#dwr, Shot, Caps, Cartridges, Wads, and Cases at J. VV. Hakdlkys, East Streat. Guns repaired. WANTED Known—Andrew Oir has Removed £0 tho Old Town Hall for one month, during the re-baildinjr of his premises. Drapery, Clothing, and Boots greatly reduced.—Andrew Orr. 2§104 WHY not Bake your own ttread when you can trao 501bs of the Best Roller Flour for five shillings cash or five shillings and sixpence booked at Robert aloorn s. Saunders' Buildin«s. 11 31 I~SHE Missing VVord Is. Books on Sheep and Dairy Farming, The Horse, The Dog, Poultry, Gardening, Athletics and Training. Back Numbers of Graphic, The Queen, Sporting and Dramatic News aud other illustrated papers at half pric«, at L. F. Ancrewes & Co., Stationers' Hall. CHE IP Fruit—Plums for jam Having bought Mf Mayo'a orchard, I can Bell Fruit cheaper than any one in town. Orders omy be left at East Street Shop. Mr3.lameh. 2§61 I IHEAP Firew<><,<! -Short Dry Gum *, i Firewood, ao 263 par cord ; branches 3s per load at Miyo'a, Trevor ton. Apply, Mrs James, Fruit Shop. WANTED the Public to know that S. W. Aloorn and Cob Summer Sale if now on. Great Bargains in Millinery, Underclothing etc. : "¥TTANTED Known.—Come and see *» our dress lines at i|d and 6d, leather shirting 6£d, three-quarter cloaks 12s 6d.—H. C. Segers, Mslford House. \~7~ HO i* your Plumber ? Why, J. W. V*- Haßdusy, who is a Manufacturer of Fpouting, Ridging, Steel Gutters, Baths Sinks, Tanks, etc., and who has on hand the lar^e.t stock of Pumps and Pipe in town. ' WANTKD Known— Robert Shields, Charles Street., opposite Woollen Factory, h*« commenced Dyeing and Cleaning L-niien' *md Muh's Garments. Blankets and WouHhii Goods. Secured. Moderate charges. Parcels etc , left at Mrs Adams', Saundi-rs' Buildings, will be attended to. 3 41 /^IHRISTLVrA^ ~: a. liuys, time V^y garment long '''nmser Suits at lop. Boys, Colonial-ma le Kmci'er Suits from 10s- Men's nicely made Oolonial Tweed Suits 30s. Colon al Tvned Suits to measure from 50s..—A«Ubitrton Clotl ing Hart, Saunders' Iluiidii^s. Ro> brt Alcorn TTolloway's Oivtment and Pill . — Some occupations tend to the development of certain diseases, and those who toil aa miners are peculiarly liable to rheumatism, lumbago, and other allied cnmp'aints. In the gold-fields and copper mines Holloway's remedies have been largely patronised by the workers to their Very great ad van I a«e, aud they caabe confidently recaanneiided &■•> invaluable remedies for invsaru congestion, spasms, and crampa in the bowels, aud ail those conditions of the Inngg »nd liver to which those who work I'lidergronnd or in impure atmosphere are ao peculiarly liabl •. For cuts, bruises, sprains, and stiff joiuts, the action of Holloway'* Ointment is eminent y healing and soothing, and a supply should §)wayi be ftt h*u4 i« owte of u^U,



GLOTHNG FACTORY. NEW GOODS. NEW GOODS. FOR WINTER, 1893. New Overcoats in Men's, Youths', and Boys'. New Waterproof Coats, Mew s, Youths', and Ladies'. Made to measure. One hundred patterns to choose from. Hats. Hats. Hats. The Largest and Best Assorted Stock we have ever had. BOOTS. BOOTS. BOOTS —NEW GOODS ARRIVED— Prices that will astonish the people of Ashburton. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY AND WATERPROOF MANUFACTURERS. ALEXT" HENDRY, Manager. money. jQfiCinn of Trusfc Moneys to lend upon Freehold secuti ties, in sums of not less than £1000 Apply to Me C. W. PUJRNELL, Solicitor, 2 38 Montgomery's Buildings. BOTFLY. mHE WELL "KNOWN PAGE'S J- HORSE OIL has been tested by experts, and found to be the best remedy for the Bot Fly. One abplication a week raises a scurf, and the fly cannot penetrate the skin THE HORSE^S FRIEND. XDAGE'S No, 1 Horse Oils. Sure cure J7 for sprains, bruises, or swellings oi any kind in horses. PAGE'S No. 2 Horse Oils. Sure cure for sores en backs or shoulders, and any kind of broken wounds. Numbers of Testimonials can be produced. AGENTS For Chertsey Mr T. McDowell, Store keeper. for Ashburton, Mr Anderson, Saddler For Tinwald, Air Clark, Saddler. For Ueraldine, Mr Connolly, Saddler. For Timaru, Mr Price, Saddler. Sole Maker and Proprietor j F. W. PAGE, OUmVC&hY CANTERBURY. 187 The Best Tea IN THE WORLD j Ilyslop'g Ceylon. NINIAN HYSLOP, ass CO., Tea Importers, TO Cfchel itroot, ChtieUhurebf



Read This. These Bar^aini* must be §cc» to be " Believed, New Dress Goods 9|d, now t\& All Wool Summer Serge la, now "#* Summer Drees Tweeds worth Is, for s£d Plaid and Stripes for Children's Dresses b*d Flannelette 3s 9d dozen Heavy Twilled Flannelette 4s lid dozen Cotton Shirtings worth 8d for 5Jd Cotton Shirtings worth 9*d for 6W Double Bed Sheeting, white twilled, IOJd White Lace Curtains from Is 9d a pair Good twilled Cretonne 4£d yard iSSffm color,, la H, redact to «id Striped Dimity for bed valfcnces 6^d yard CLOTHING. CLOTHING. Men's Strong Tweed Suit* 32s 6d, reduced to 19s 6d Men's Colonial Tweed Suite 23s 6d Men's Serge Suits 20s o ... Men's New Zealand Tweed Trousers 8s lid SS. I** rf Mutton .«d M.Wm dirt oh«p. Boysr Tweed Suits 4s Hi. Come and see them. BOOTS. ; BOpTS. BOOTS. Men's Colonial made Bluchers, 6s Men's Cookhara Boots, worth 255, for 14a 6d Women'd strong Leather Shoes. 4s lid Ladies' Glove Kid Boots 8s 9.1, re luced to 6s lid Ladies' Glove Kid Boots 10s 6d, reduced to 7a 6d U. J. NKLLL and (JO., FRIEDLANDER'S BUILOINGS rT^nir W4WHM4KING AND JKWEtjO.RY nUI'AIRTHO DEPARTMENT 8. BALEK, •Watclitnaker, Jeweller, & Oculist *i'Ss*'' ""^Ew Zealand 1 "UNMERCIFUL DISASTER



followed f-ist and followed faster" upon the fortunes of pu-T Queensland until that unfortunate Colony is no* in the most miserable condition imaginable. Gaunt famine may stalk over the land, mm failure of the soil to give its annual increase, or from other of the many causes of that distress ; the destroying I plague may be let loose and grip with his cold hand the vitals cf the young and strong, leaving sorrowing widows and wa ling orphans everywhere, and painful blanks in every household ; or the demon of war may send fire and sword over a country, and leave desolation in their track in place of smiling scenes of peace and plenty—all sad enough and sickening enougti if you will; but what must be the feeling of a whole people when they find their country covered as the waters cover the sea, their homes wrecked and ruined, and their hopes for the future sunk in one mournful and inretrievable disaster J These feelings can only be imagined. And what ought ours to be in regard to the sufferers —we who dwell in the most glorious country under the sun, and enjoy such blessings as are only enjoyed by the dwellers in a second paradise ? *ucn feelings, to be sure, as are prompting the 1 thousands of meetings, and plans and organisations of the people of. this Colony, to send help to the afflicted. New Zealand has come nob'y to the front in this matter, and her Canterbury sons have been well in the van at the first call. And we of Ashburton shall be in the front of the foremost if we belie not our past Hardley Bros., who are giving special value this mouth in Drapery, Clothing and Boots. ]20 Dozen large Towels to be sold at from 2a 9d a dozen. Splendid ' white Calico at 2s lid a dozen. Dress Tweed 4s 9d a dozen. Extra largo grey Blankets only 10a 6d. Sheeting at 10M. 94 Men's Suita from 19a 6d. Woollen Socks at 11M. Men's and Boys' Straw Hats, best quality, only Is. A special line of Women's Leather Shoes 6s 9d. Mens nailed Shooters now only 8s lid, worth 12s 6d NOTE THE ADDRESS HIRDIEY BROS., ARCADE, ASHBURTON.



THE ASHBUBTON ABCADB T>AINTING & OAPERHANGING ESTABLISHMENT. JOHN ?ILSON (LateJas. Craigie), Has in Stock a Choice Selection of PAPERHANGIffGS in New Designs. BORDERS, DADO? AND CEILING PAPERS in Great Variety. . Estimates for Painting and Decorating I given. All work executed promptly, with the very b3st muterials and workmen. JOHN "WILSON, ARCADE, BURNETT STREET. 3§Bo Messrs Colemane and Sons' Eucalypti Extract (manufactured at Mittagong and Cootamun<h-%, New Soufch Wales) has attained a reputation as a, specific lor affec tions of the chest, langs, 6O»Bumptior.B asthma, diphtheria, and a variety of gtimp complaints. It numbers among ifcs jankrpW Earl Jersey, the present, and Lord Camng ton, la™, Governor of New South Wales, while in Great Britain during the influenza epedimic scarcely a house or office was with out it. Messrs Colen.ane aud Sons'whole aale depot is W phvi.tchurch Sharland :ind Co. are wholes v &ge#ts £/£• the Mprtb Ulapd,



The Best Remedy fob Indigestion— Norton's Camomile Pills are confidently recommended as a simple remedy for Indigestion, which is the cause of nearly all bh<* diseaftCj? £p which we are subjects Norton's Pio<s, vifh- justice called the •'Natural Strengthener' ot the Jfuman Stomach," act as a powerful tonic and geafcla aperient, are mild in their operation, and glfe under any circumstances. Sold in bottles, at It lid, 2« 9d, lla. by all ic*dioin« vwidon thtevfjwiit tin *#|W,



SANDER AND SON'S EUCALYPTI EXTRACT There are imitations of Eucalypti Extract in the market now, produces of simple distillation forming crude resinous oils. In order that these qrude oils may not be taken for Our J?iw»e Volatile JECughb Iypti Extract, whioh is reoogniaed by the medical division of the Prussian Government to be of perfectly pure origin, as per information forwarded to ua through the Consul at Melbourne, March 2, 1878, we state: — It is proved by tests made by the Medical Clinics of the Universities at Bonn and Greifswald, Prussia, and reported by Dr Schulz, Professor of Pharmacology at Bonn, and Professor Dr Mosler, Director of the Msdici.l Clinic at Greifswald, that only products that are saturated witJi a oxygen aud freed of acids, resinous and other 'substances, adherent to primary distillation, i will develop the sanatiye qualities proper to the plant. Sander and sSonH* Jb2u<sn,lyj?ti Extract, according to these authorities, and according to" Professor Dc Lister, of England, and tc Drs Bauer, (Vfclntire, Wood, Hazard, etc,, of America., is the only extract corresponding to scientific tests, and the only one which possesses the proper therapeutic value. All other crude oils are to be classed among the turpentimes, which have, when used as medicine, no therapeutic effect and are abandoned as an internal medicament. These so called Eucalypti Extracts, which may have received distinction at Exhibitions as commercial articles and are used for mechanical pjjrpoges only are discernible: 1." By their-de^cien^y in jjunqjsnt odour (which our product, the only genuine Eucalypti Extract, develops most freely I through its; surplus of oxygen). ' 2» Py t^F alcoholic thin and mobile appearance, b,eing reduced W specific (jenai'ty through thjj> presence of a'oi.3.s.' ' ~? "' • ' " 3. B,y their taste, the result of the poi*tracf,fng {*:ndency of resins an«[ tannafcef. ' „,'",''. If these ci'ude oils, oy ho called eugalypja extracts are applied hy mistake in cases «f croup, bronchitis, diptheria, internal in= flammationß, dysentery, wounds, etc. ,\ the consequences are most appalling. For safety sake ask always for Sander and Bon*' Eucalypti Ex tract and gat the old, welL tested and reliable preparation.—Sandhurst, Victoria,