MAIL NOTICES,

Note—On and after October 1 the parcels posb system will be established between New Zealand and New South Wales at the same rate of postage as to the other colonies.

Ashburton Grardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY. OCTOBER 3, 1893. THE RAILWAY COM MISSIONERS.

The Bill to " reform " the manage ment of the New Zealand Railways having been so emasculated by the Legislative Council that its own father does not know it, ita parent has decided to let it go m the general slaughter of the innocents, and this Parliament will be troubled with it no more. The "Lords " by their amendment excising all that the Bill proposed, and sub stituting therefor a clause extending the term of office of the Commissioners for a year, virtually said to Govern ment—" We appeal to the country on this question, and until the country has replied we will allow you to do nothing m the matter." Meanwhile the term of office of the Commissioners expires m February. The dropping of the Bill by Government leaves things a? they were, and m February there will be three vacancies on the Com mission wiiich Government may fill m any way they choose. That is, the Commissioners are eligible for re appointment, but the Act lays down no cast iron rule that they shall be re-appointed, while as we read it, it is imperative that somebody must hold the offices. Rumors are rife m Wellington that m February Go vernment will resume control of the railways by the appointment of Com missioners—brevet or permanent— likely to obey tbe will of the powers that be, and to keep the nest warm until the expected, oertainly hoped for, decision of the country m Government's favor puts a majority at Mr Seddon?<3 back who will support the Bill the " Lords " have this session so emphatically blocked. These rumors may be true or otherwise, they may be very unkind and all that, but they have been circulated m the leading papers of the colony, and may be taken for what they are worth. But there they are", and although there may be no railway experts among the more im mediate and specially valuable followers et tfcs (government m the House, the appointment of the present Chief Com missioner is a precedent f.ov the ap pointment of at least one high officer whose .claim to experience m railway management may pot be so great as that of a roadside stafcionajastej;',

OUR MEAT TRADE.

Much contained m recent files of English contemporaries on the subject of the frozen meat trade we knew be fore, but it is always satisfactoiy to learn that the people of Great Britain know the merits of Canterbury frozen mutton, and are becoming more and more alive to the fact that much of it is palmed off upon them as "prime Scotch," and much that is sold as " prime Canterbury "is not so. In an August issue of the " Sheffield Inde pendent," a well-condu 2ted and im portant paper published m the great centre which gives it its name, men tion is made of the meat trade. The subject is introduced by a reference to the fact that the paper quoted had been a consistent advocate of the ex tension of the Merchandise Marks Act to sale of food, and the writer felt satisfaction m learning that the Select Committee of the House of Lords had reported m favor of legislation with the intention of preventing the frauds on the farmer and the public which it was evident were pretty common. The fact that something like a third of the total meat supply of Great Britain reached her shores from abroad was an impiessive incident, and to shut out, or even to seriously cripple that source of supply would be a serious step, and one which the writer would oppose m the interests of the consumer by every lawful means. But when he re membered that even m a large centre like Sheffield, the shops which osten sibly sell foreign meat might be counted on the fingers of one hand, it was tolerably clear that the bulk of that imported meat was sold as if supplied from the agricultural districts of Great Britain, and that the consumer paid for it the same price as if the British agricultural districts had sup plied it, and as if the British agricul turist were reaping the whole benefit. It was clearly established by the Select Committee that an elaborate and ex tensive system of false-marking, either by actual labelling or by verbal mis representation, was being resorted to, " mainly by the middleman and whole sale vendor, and that into his pocket the plucder goes." By all means, says the writer we are quoting, let the public have the foreign meat if they desire it. " Much of the New Zealand frozen mutton is of excellent quality, and the Canadian and American ranch cattle slaughtered at the port is a valuable addition to our meat supply. But the British farmer has a right to protest against this mutton being sold | either as ' best Scotch ' or • prime Cent(rbury,' and the consumer who wants foreign meat desires to pay foreign price for it. The Select Com mittee appear to have found difficulties m the way of marking every joint, and so as a preliminary experiment thf-y re commended that every person dealing m foreign meat should be registered, and display a prominent notice to the effect that he deals m imported meat. It is also suggested that the inspection of retail butchers' shops should be undertaken by competent inspectors, and that the powers of the Aci.o? 1891 by which the Board of Trade were in vested with the duties of the Public 1 Prosecutor under the Marks Act i should be extended to the Board of Agriculture m the matter of produce. A Bill drafted on these lines ought to meet with general approval m Parlia ment, and would at any rate mean an important step m the direction of preventing fraud." This shows that at least tha provincial press is waken ing up to the true state of affairs, and their agitation will go a long way to wards the education of the pupulation up to a knowledge of the fact that New Zealand frozen meat is so good that it can be sold as "prime Scotch," and that every clay this fraud is prac ticed upon the unsuspecting British consumer, When John Bull fairly acquires this knowledge, he will take care that the very marked difference m the wholesale price of New Zealand mutton m carcase and that of Home fed meat will no longer exist, or if it is to exist, 'the plunder" as our Sheffield contemporary has it, will no longer go into the pockets of the middleman or the wholesole vendor, but he shared with some degree of equality by the Home consumer and the colonial producer.

THE COMING CAMPAIGN.

The columns of all the newspapers furnish evidence tbat the election cam paign has begun. The new candidates appear to be the first to put on their war paint all along the line—the Ash burton, electorate having already no less than five aspirants for the favor of the ladies and gentlemen who may be on the roll, and there are whispers of an " unknown" who is expected to appear shortly. The position of the candidates is somewhat embarrassing to tine electors, and—we should think —to themselves as well. For it does not appear that there is any very dis tinct issue to be put befoie th constituencies on this occasion, un less we can hark back to some question that has been dealt with or formally disposed of during the session now closing. Amongst these perhaps the Licensing Bill comes first, sinca it is yery evident that the extreme section of the temperance party are far from satisfied with the Act just passed. From all that can be gathered on this subject, we should think the Prohibi tion Party will be satisfied with nothing shoit of a pledge to vote for the repeal bl the Licensing Act just passed, and the introduction of a new one providing for the direct veto, The land question is the only other one that o£ers s,ny

prospect of a definite issue upon which public opinion may be divided, but there is very little m even this that can be utilised as au elec tion cry. -'Open up the lands" " burst up the big estates," and all that sort of tiling has been shouted m the ears of the country for years, bub matters have not. changed much one way or the other. There is, however, one question which seems to us to be of the greatest importance to the people of this country, and we should like to see it put before the electors m such a form that they can answer it m no un certain way. We refer to the question of the referendum. If this is to be left to be settled by the House of Repre sentatives itself—by those exponents of government by party who have been edifying the country during the past week or so—we need not expect to have it fairly or seriously considered. The alteration m our system of govern ment that would result from the adop tion of the principle of the referendum would actually amount to a revolution ; and far too many interests are involved to allow of such a radical change being agreed ta by those whose proceedings would be practically put a stop to. But that some change is practically imperative no sane man—or woman either for that matter—can deny. Legislation that can be begun and ended m the small hours of one night cannot be anything but a farce. Oan anything more absurd be imagined than to introduce a.n important measare into Parliament at 11 o'c'ock at night 1 Half of the representatives of the people have gone home to bed and the other half are dozing on the benches of the Legislative Chamber, but the Government, secure of a party majority force the Bill through all its stages, and make it the law of the land if the Upper House can only be induced to do the same kind of thing, The way this sort of law making has been carried on this session has created much un favorable comment, and points unmis takably to the urgent need for a change. We believe that the adoption of the referendum offers the only con venient remedy for this great and growing evil. So far as we can see the tactics of party government render government by the people impossible. The voice of the people is silenced by the terror of the Ministerial whip, and towards the end of the session no mea sure, however much it may be required by the country, has the least chance of passing into law unless it be neces sary to the safety or convenience of the Government of the day. This is intolerable, and should not be sub mitted to any longer. We think the people of this colony would do w ell to take advantage of the opportunity offered by the appro iching election to stop this lightning and reckless legis lation. It would be a distinct and positive advance m the direction of real democratic government if the con stituencies were to demand from their represantatives a pledge to support the introduction of the referendum into our system of legislation. If this were adopted by the men and women of New Zealand they would soon begin to understand something about politi cal matters, and take an intelligent in terest m them too. They would cease to be at the mercy of every politician who might come along with a string of worn out platitudes - striving by cant and cajolery to persuade them that " Ood lin's the man, not Short." As a new political era may now be said to have begun, we should like to see our fair allies m the van m demanding this reform of our constitution. It is a subject to make a beginning with.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

£300 has been voted by the local body of Palmerston North for the purpose of laying down a cycling track, etc. Mr I. R. 0. Ounninghame-Graham will address the electors of Ashburton m the Oddfellows' Hill this evening at eight o'clock. Peter Cook, wharf laborer at Lyttelton, while handliug coal on the hulk Lota, shortly before five on Monday afternoon, dropped dead. He leaves a widow and 8 children. Letters from places bayond the colony addressed as under were received afc the Ashburton post office during tin month of July, and are still unclaimed —H. 0, Heyder, and Samuel Hill. The question has been asked whether the wives of foreigners can register their vo'es, As answer, by the Electoral Act just passed, the wife of any British subject, foreigner or otherwise, is entitled to a vote. On Saturday next, the Rev, V. W. Isitt will address a public meeting at noon m Bullock's Arcade (which has been lent for the mirpose by Mr D. Thomas), his subject bsing the Direct Veto and Prohibition. A Timaru draper has been fined 103 and costs 7s, for giving an unstamped receipt for £2. He explained that he was very careful about stamping receipts, and this one was given m a hurry, and not as a receipt for an account, but as a memorandum of having re ceived £2 on account. The Auckland University Council have adopted the report of the Committee re the dismissal ot Professor Aldis m order to place tbe circumstances on record. They have also decided to take steps to appoint his suc cessor, and intend requesting Bishop J. B. Selwyn, Master of Selwyn College, Canter bury, Sir Walter Buller, and Rev B McKenzie, Rector of Edinburgh Academy, to select the new man. The usual monthly meeting of the Ghertsey School Committee was held m the schoolroom, Ghertsey, on Saturday evening last. There were present, Messrs Childs (chairman)Oak'ey, Dunlea, Page and Lukies. The master's report showed the attendance for the quarter to have been 54:8. The faci that measles was m the district was discussed, but it was decided to take no action at present with regard to the school. The Secretary was instructed to write to those booksellers supplying school books for price lists of their school books. It was decided to remind the Board again that the clerk of worka had not paid his promised visit,

The Borough Council announce thac the by-law prohibiting persons sweeping or depositing rubbish ia the street channels will be enforced. The local angler.* have been well at work since the opening of the season, and fair > baskets have been secured by several, but the fish are not large. Alfred Joseph Kirk, storekeeper, late of Hawera, was arrested m Wei ingfcon this afternoon charged with fraudulent bmk rupU;y. Vive informations were suorn by the Official Assignee. Kirk's examination by bis creditors takes place this afternoon. On Wednesday evening we are promised a lecture m the Oddfellows' Hal!, by Mis W. D. M. Burn (one of the leaders of the dress reform movement m Xcv Zealand) on I " Woman m the 20th Century." Coming just at the present time, when the ladies are about to exercise their new privilege and responsibility, Mrs Burn's able lecture should be very welcome. Her lecture will be varied by vocal selections contributed by the popular tenor, Mr H. Weir, of Christ church, and others, The Wellington "Times" thus describes an incident m the House :—-"I think I hear some other hon geatleman speaking," was the remark of Major Steward m the House of Representatives at half-past two this morning, as a very audible snore smote the air, and mingled with the eloquence of Mr Wright, who was then giving his views at exceeding great length about the Midland Railway proposals. "No, sir, he's snor ing," replied Mr Buckland, as he pointed to the form of one of the members for Wel lington, stretched on one of the benches, sleeping, like several other weary members. The snore was stopped, and the debate went on. On Sunday evening Messrs B. Pannell and Lilly, two members of the Christchurch Cash Amateur Bicycle Club, were m the Club's room m Morten's buildings, and had occasion to go to a small room used as an office. On opening the door a strong smell of gas was perceived and the jet was found to be open, They turned it off and left the door open for half an hour co allow the gas to escape. The apartment has been built for a strong room and there was no ventila tion beyond the door. Mr Pannell, after the lapse of half an hour, went into the room and struck a match. An explosion immediately followed, and he was thrown violently on to the floor. His hauds and face were scorched, but no other damage was done. The "Wheelman" says:—"The number of old gentleman m Christchurch who get about on their wheels is astonishing. The other day one of these old chaps called upon us with the request that we place his name on our subscribers' list. Our visitor gave his own age at forty-seven and his father's at seventy-two. He said they were both cyclists and that his father was a better rider than himself. They were both recent recruits to the wheel, Some little time ago we chronicled the fact that there was an active octogenarian wheelman m Christ church, and now we hear of another veteran who first saw the light eighty-two years ago. Not long ago there was m Wellington a person of the " masher " type who made it a practice to hail cabs to drive him wherever he wished to go, but was equally careful m failing to pay for the service, always being "short of small change," and promising lo pay later on. One day last week a cabman who had before been victimised, and knew of other sufferers, decided upon getting satis faction. So he drove the dandy—faultlessly got vp—to a secluded spot on the reclaimed land, and there demanded his then and pre sent fares. The usual procrastination being offered, cabby ordered the fellow out of the vehicle, and when once on terra firma " took oat " the debt by administering a severe thrashing. Wellington Jehus have now lost a customer they can well do with out. The following clipping from a Yorkshire paper will be read with interest by our readers, inasmuch as the cricketer referred to is the brother of the Rev. James Cocker of this town, "Btgshaw" being the pro fessional name of Harry Bagshaw Cocker :— " Derbyshire, by their brilliant nine-wickets victory over Essex, had ample revenge for the defeat sustained at Leyton earlier m the season. On that occasion, however, Derbyshire were without both Bagshaw and Hulme, who did such splendid service m the match which terminated on Wednesday. Bigshaw is undeniably the best left-handed batsman of the day, and his performances this season have pretty well proved that there are, at anyrate, no better. His average for Derbyshire-—2l completed inn ings—is 32-2. Considering what a batsman's • eason it has been, Hulme's bowling figures, 35 wickets at a cost of 13 runs a piece, are also wonderfully good; and yet with cricketers like Bagshaw, Hulme, Chatterton, Davidson, Storer, L. G. Wright, and S. H. Evershed, Derbyshire is not, good enough to be included amongst the first class counties." At a meeting of the representatives of local bodies m Christohurch on Monday to consid cr matters m connection with the Midland Railway, it was decided that the following telegram be sent to the Premier : —" The feeling m Cnristchurch and district is very strong that the prospect of securing connection between the east and west coast is imperilled by the present position of affairs. At a representative meeting this morning it was resolved to telegragh to you strongly requesting your support to the report of the Public Accounts Committee, or such mo iiOcation as you may arrange with the Company to insure the immediate prose- ' cution of the East and West Co&sfc line, and make the matter a Government question. We consider that at present the Nelson extension must be postponed." The telegram was signed by the Chairman and vice-Chair man of the Kailway League, the President and vice-President of the Chamber of Com merce, President and Secretary of the Indus trial Association, Secretary of the Agricul tural and Pastoral Association, President and Secretary of the Canterbury Liberal Associa tion, Mayor of Christchurch, and Secretary to the Railway League. It was also resolved to seek the co-operation of the mayors of the boroughs m Canterbury.

CRICKET.

At a general meeting of the Ashburfcon Cricket Club held last night Messrs Meddins and G. JBraddell were elected members. The election of captain and vice captain was then proceeded with, Mr Denshire being chosen for the former office, aKd Mr Cuthbertson for the latter. The match next Wednesday will be between teams chosen by the captain and vice-captain, to be selected from the following players :—- Lane, Denshire, Dixoo, Mitchell, G. and E. Andrews' L. F. Andrewes, Russell, Mitchell, Cuth bertson, Jackson, Black, Alins>ton, Upton, Flower, Burke, Grant, Smith, Purchase, Mayne, Marshall, Sawle, Owen, Braddeli, Meddins, Salek, Clarkson, D. Thomas, M'akeig, Oonter, Danlop, Broad, Alcorn, Bateman, Ward, Priehard, Orbell, and Murray. The match will commence at 2 p.m. sharp. We are glad also to note that some of the enthusiasts have taken to practising m the morning, commencing a.hout Q a,m. i

THE REVOLT IN BRAZIL.

(per pkkss association 1)

Rio he Janeiro, Octobev 2. Officers who have not joined the rebels informed the representatives of the British Admiralty that the capital will remain neutral. The President is reported to be much incensed.

Dynamite Outrages.

PSR PIIES.S ASSOCIATION.

i London, October 2. I An extraordinary scene was wit nessed m St. George's Cathedral yesterday. A dynamite cartridge was thrown through the door and exploded. There was a panic amonsf the congre gation, but most fortunately no one was hurt.

LABOR ITEMS.

London, October 2, A mass meeting of miners passed a resolution that the nationalisation of the collieries was the only remedy for the dispute. Tillet said that the owners had not succeeded m their attempt to starve the strikers.

PARLIAMENTARY.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

Wellington, Ootober 2. ELECTORAL AMENDMENT BILL. In the Legislative Council the Electoral Law Amendment Bill was pub through its final stages. CONSPIRACY LAW AMENDMENT BILL, In Committee on the Conspiracy Law Amendment Bill, a new clause was added by 18 to 11 to prevent men employed at gas and water works from suddenly leav ing work without noticei Progress was then reported on the Bill. STOCK BILL. The Stock Bill was read a second time.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

The House met at 2.30 p.m. MIDLAND EAILWAY. The debate on the Midland Bailway proposals occupied the whole afternoon, and consideration of the question had not concluded when the House took its dinner adjournment. Mr Guinnesa's motion for the adoption of the report of the Public Accounts Committee was lost by 31 to 17. Mr Seddon then moved the amendment which he gave notice of last week, grant ing an extension of time to the Company for five years, and giving the Company debentures m lieu of land grants. He said he had no fear of the threatened legislation, but he held if the contract were not modified the credit of the colony | would be affected at Home. He admitted that a great mistake had been made when the colony agreed to allow these works to be uuderfcaken on the land grant system. The House dividad on Sir Robert Stout's amendment, that the contract be adhered to, which was lost by 24 to 26. The House resumed at 7.30. ELECTOKAIi LAW AMENDMENT BILL, lhe amendments made by the Legisla tive Council m the Electoral Law \ mend ment Bill were disagreed with, and Messrs W. Hutchison, Guinness, and Seddon were appointed to draw up reasons. MIDLAND RAILWAY. Mr W. Hutchison resumed the debate on thn Midland railway, and moved an amendment reierring tha proposals of the Cjmpany to the new Parliament. The division on this amendment re sulted—ayes 27, noes 27. The Speaker gave his casting vote with the noes, and declared the amendment lost. Mr R. Thompson moved that the first paragraph m Mr Seddon's resolution, re ferring bo the substioution of debentures for land grants be struck out. Lost by 29 to 28. Many other amendments were rejected, and finally the Premier's amendment was carried by 2d to 23. The Magistrate's Court Bill was re-committed and some amendments were made m it. It was then read a third time and passed, and the House rose at 12.45 a.m.

ROAD BOARDS.

UPPER ASHBURTON.

The monthly meeting of the Upper Ash burton Road Board was held on Monday, September 25.. Mr MeLsan occupied the chair. CORRESPONDEXCK. From Mr John Corbitt, stating that the ford across the north branch, river Ashbur ton, opposite the Winchmore school, was m a bad state. The clerk was instructed to write JVr Corbitt asking him if he would undertake to keep the ford m order for 12 months : if so, what amount he would re quire ? From the Ashburton County Council, stating that this Board's application for 100 gum saplings was granted subject to the engineer's supervision, and this Board paying all expenses. From the Ashburton County Council, stat ing that the engineer has seen to the bags at the ford, as complained of by this Board; also stating that the Council is not respon sible for gorse on roads at reserves. The Boird decided re gorse on the road at reserve 1402 to leave the matter ia Mr Stitt's hands with power to act. From Mr John Anderson, stating that he would get stone gatherer machine ready as soon as possible, and advise the Board later when to expect delivery. From the Commissioner of Taxes, acknow [edging receipt of the Board's letter apply ing for an advance of subsidy for the current year, and m reply stating that as Parliament has not yet made any appropriation for such subsidy, he could not certify to any advance ; and asking the Board to renew its application after the Appropriation Act has been passed. From Mr R. Campbell, apologising for his absence from the Board's meeting through sickness.

ACCOUNTS.

Accounts amounting to £113 17s 2d were passed for payment, and the Board ad journed.

CORRESPONDENCE.

;We do not hold ourseives responsible lor the opinions expressed by our correspondents.)

MR WASON'S CANDIDATURE.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir,-—I was somewhat surprised to notice m last night's " Guardian " an ad vertisement inviting the friends and sup porters of Mr Wason to meet him to-day (Tuesday) to arrange meetings, etc., for , the forthcoming political campaign. I think, air, seeing that we are totally m the dark as to Mr Wason's present politi cal opinions, it would have been advisable to first announce a date for an address, and then a commiitee formed afterwards. Past politics cannot now-a-days be taken as a line (vide " Guardian," September 4) It has been freely stated that Mr Wason supports Sir R. Stout m " land politics," and if such be a fact a good number of Liberal electors would doubtless support him. The meeting arranged for to-day would only be a provisional one, but of course is very suggestive, seeing that only farmers and merchants could attend. Trusting that Mr Wason will see his way to meet working men and give them a chance to hear his views before any pledg ;ng, I am etc, A. J. Tvrrell-Baxter.

THE CHOLERA.

Tbnekiffe, October 2. An Italian steamer arrived at Tene riffe with sixty-four cases of cholera aboard ; the vessel had been previously refused admission to Brazilian ports.

COMMERCIAL.

London, October 2. liiere was a good attendance ac the vtoul sales. Competition was keen and puces fit m. (Received October 3, 1 p.m.) London, October 2. At the wool sales competition was Dnskand prices unchanged. "ELMS. New Zealand" brought 9d. The sales close on Saturday. Valentine, the New Zealand dairy ex pert, 13 addressing the leading Chambers of Commerce m the North of England. enlisting support for direct consignments of New Zealand dairy produce to Liver pool. New Zealand stocks have risen 10a.

Hampstead Town Board.

The monthly meeting of the Hampsfcead Town Board was held last evening ■ Messrs Crooks, (chairman), Orr, Tasker, Andrews, and Elliott being present. Mr Macpherson Bent an apology. WATER SUPPLY. The Committee appointed for the pur pose repotted they had seen the county engineer, and had come to the conclusion that the best course would be for the Board to write to the Council expressing their views on this matter, and after dis cussion the clerk was directed to write to the Council " that m view of the Council's proposal to include the town district m a water supply district, it does not appear to this Board that they would hare any authority for dealing with the distribution of the water inside their district, and that, m any case, it would be more satisfactory and economical for your Council to under take and control the whole work under its own powers and by-laws." BOUNDARY LIKES. The A.shburton Borough Council wrote stating they were willing to have a survey of the boundary line oh the Belts made at the Town Board's expense.—Received. KATE. The resolution of last month, to strike a rate of £d m the £, payable on Novem ber 1, 1893, was confirmed, and the rate book signed. FORDS. Mr Taeker was authorised to have the approach to the ford at the end of Trevor's Road made safe. TRESPASS. It was resolved to instrust the Ranger to prosecute all persons riding or driving on the footpaths; also that the pound keeper be requested to attend to the impounding of stray stock. ACCOUNTS. Payments amounting to £44 15s 4d were authorised and the Board adjourned. BOARD OF HEALTH. The Inspector of Nuieanc3s reported that the distiict was m a particularly good sanitary state. He had been spoken to about the bacon factory, which he had visited, and found that it was thoroughly well kept and clean,

SPORTING.

The following departures from last year s programme have been made by the linwaid Racing Club for their ISew Year's meeting, 1894:-The Cup and flying Handicap have-been made open : a flit race, the New Year's Gift, has been substituted for the Hurdle Race ; the Trot has been shortened from thrne miles to two; and the lotalisator tickets fixed at £t and lOa for the respective machines, ihe amount of stakes for each race remains the same as last year.

Christchurch, October 3. New Zealand Cup seratchings—Mer* ganser and Riversdale.

Melbourne, October 3. Latest quotations for the Caulfield Cup are—loo to S Division, taken and offered; 100 to 7 Weller ;■ 100 to 6 Brockleigh and Fulliam ; 100 to 5 Wild Rose and Dona tion ; 100 to 4 Donizatti, Sain foin, and steadfast. For the V.X.C. Derby 6to I is on offer against Patron, and both Trenchant and the Sailor Prince are nibbled at for small amounts at 7 to 1,

HAWKE'S BAY SPRING MEETING.

[per press association.]

Napier, October 2. Perfect weather for the meeting a large attendance, and good racing. £5013 went through the machines. Results— October Handicap, of 60 soya ; one mile and a distance.—Dreamland, Bst 1 • Rangatea, Bst 2 ; Mystic, 7st 3 Won by a nose. Time—2.3. Dividend-£4 4s. Handicap Hurdle Ra.ce, of 75 soys • about two miles.—Kapua* list 1; Jack, lOst 61b 2 ; Cheater, Use 12lh 3, Eight started. Won comfortably. Time— 4.4 4-sth. Dividend—£3. Hawse's Bay Guineas, of 300 soys ; o ll e,Ti c"TlPegasuß'l Pegasuß ' M lOlb v > Stanmoor, Bst 10 2 ; Noyade, Bsfe 51b 3. Tussock was the only other starter. Won by a length and a half. Time—l 47 l-sth Dividend—£llßs. Maiden Plate, 1£ mile.-Miss Letty, 7st 111 b1; Pinrose, 7st 41b 2 ; Flaneur, 7sr 131 b3. Ten started. Won by a bngth. Time—2-16 2-sfch. Dividend— £2 Is. Welcome Stakes, of 75 soys ; four furlongs. -Forme. Bst 1 • Nixie, Bst 2 ! Huatu, Bst 51b 3. Eight started. Won easily, Time-0.53 2 sth. Dividend— £113s Oorinthiav Stakes, of 40 boys ; 1| mile.—Chris, lOst Ulb 1; St Anthony, 12st 101 b2 i Prairie Grass, lOst 121 b, 3. Nine started. Won easily. Time-2.21. Dividend—£l 14s. Flying Handicap, of 100 soys, six furlongs.—Dingo, 6sc 101 b1; Stanmoor, Bst2; St. Katherine, Bsc 31b 3. Ten started. Time—l.lß l-sth. Dividend -£11.

Customs Revenue.

Wellington, October 2. The Customs revenue for six months of the financial year has exceeded the estimate by about £22,000. The total amount collected last month was about £144,500, as against £152,509 13a 9d m September last year, and £164,884 10a 9d m August. The four chief ports con tributed as follows :— Wellington £36 237 19s ; Auckland, £32,34114s 7d ; Dunedin £25,513 11s 3d ; Lyttelton and Christ! church, £24,661 12s. The Patea return, which averages about £500, is not yet to hand. * The beer duty collected m the colony Sf-oo 8,? 0?? of September ameunted to blow ]4s 4d, as against £4574 19s 2d m previous month, and £4573 10a 2d iv the month of September last year. Amounts collected at the four principal centres were as follows:— Dunedin £1060 14s 9d, A™Jland £1017 33 lOd, Christchurch nl 7s sd» Wellington £543 12s 9d. Ihe six months' return shows a defioi •noy of £2727 as compared with the estimate for that period.

THE ASHBPBTQft GOABDIAfI: TUESDAY, OCTOBEB 3. 1898.



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Tlio OnSLOw Biscuit. The latest and most doliga,te I Biscuit mwiufacuu'ed by Aulsebrpols aua Q<j t 9



S. BALEK WATCHMAKER, Manufacturing Jeweller, -: and :- OCULIST—OPTICIAN. East Street, Ashburton. The Establishment for first class Watch and Clock repair ing. Charges as low as is consistent with SOUND $ RELIABLE HO RKMANBHIP



]¥ew Jewellery. lew Jewellery. ITew Jewellery. JUST OPENED UP- A consignment from Home of the very latest style and newest designs m Gold and Silver Jewellery, Silver and E.P. Ware, etc. Inspection invited of the very choice and High-class Stock, which will be found equal to any m Christchurch and at LOWER PRICES, A Splendid Selection of GOODS, SPECIALLY SUITABLE FOR PRESENTS.



CLOTHING DEPARTMENT Boys' Sailor Suits from 7a lid Men's Sac Suits from 30s Men's All-wool Trousers from 9s 6d. ALL NEW PATTERNS. TAILORING DEPARTMENT Men's TSuits to measure from 59s 6d Men's Trousers to measure from 17s 6d BOOT DEPARTMENT. Men's Nailed Balmorals, 9s 6d Men's Bluchers, 6s 6d Boys' Strong School Boots from 5s 6d. NEW ZEALAND QLOTHING j^ACTORY. ALEX. HENDRY, Manager



! NEW ZEALAND I ! CiiOTHiwGt Factory : IBW "GOODS. Men's Straw Hats from Is New Tennis Hats from Is lid New Tweed Hats from Is Over 1500 Hats m stock. New Washing Ties from 4d New Tennis Shirt? from 3s 6cl New Collars, New Shirts, New Studs. INSPECT OUR NEW STOCK.



T3RESENTS— Beautiful Presents now L being given away to all purchasers of Drapery, Millinery, Boots, Clothing tc. —H. C. Segeks, Melford House. WANTED Known.—The V and N Corset now landed, m all sizes,— Mitchell and Turner. WANTED Known.—Choicest Novel ties m Dress goods, Mantles and Millinery are to ba seen.—-Mitchell and Turner. WANTED Known, that Mrs, Jarvis, Monthly Nurse, has removed to % larger house on Aiford Forest Read, near Woollen Factory, where she will be pleas?d to receive patients. Best references. Terms moderate. 9 130 TCTANTED Known—' 1 The Corner " it * * showing a magnificent New Stock of Drapery and Clothing. — W. H COILIBB.



WANTED— A strong Girl, about sixteen, for housswoik. Must be used to children. Washing put out. — Mrs H. 0. Sbobrs. 9 216



FOR SALE—OO Acres, all m English grasses, not far from tfea Tinwald Saie yardd. A property such as tfrh has often been asked for. JTJJULLOCK' LONGBEA-CH COACH. " /'\N and after MOND4-V, October 2 \.J for the summer montk^ ij;e Longbeaoh Coach will start from Ash- i burton at 5 p.m. I R. R. BROWNE, I Huaclmianj j



tz%T Come and see our Sliopfull of New Mercery, Hats, Shirts, Ties, Boots, (fee. (all niAtked m plain figures). Men's Good Tweed Suits to measure during the sale from £3 Is§ lo £3 lO<* FOR CASH. CRAIGHEAD&BERRYMAN THE LEADING TAILORS AND LUrmTfIRS, ! Ashbvton, 9*62



DO YOU KNOW r\ .HAT we are SELLING OFF all our J- NEW GOOD 3, and giving a dls count of FOUR SHILLINGS OFF EVERY POUND FOR CASH, because we are OVERSTOCKED, and MUST REALISE.



.> \O to Hardley Bros, for Bargains ' T in Blankets, 49 pairs of large white suitable for double beds only, 16s 6d worth 255. Extra large Grey, only 10s 6d worth 18s 6d, Selling rapidly.— Hardley Bros, Arcade. WHO is your Plumber 1 Why VV . Habdley, who is <* Manufacturer of Spouting, Ridging, Steel Gutters, Baths, Sinks, Tanks, etc., and who has on hand the largest stock of Pumps and Pipe m town. fI J BEfciK do you gee your Ironmon- W gery? At Hakdleys of course, whore we get the best value m Sheet Lead, Nails, Locks, Hingos, Plough Chains, Rope, Wire Knotting, Gorse Knives, Spados and Forks, Lamps, Fonder atit^ Fire Irons, arid anything you require



BUITS to measure, during tho sale, 495, 55a, 60s, 70s, and 755. Fit and workmanship guaranteed. —R. Saunderss' Buildings. Uj ANTED Known—Some wonderful r '' job lines n Drapery, etc., now oeing sold; also presents to all purchasers. 11. 0. Segeks, Melford Bouse. WANTED Known—For good value m first class Drapery, Millinery, I Boots, Clothing, etc., go to Melford House. Beautiful presents now giving away to all purchasers. IT7 ANTED Known—W. H. Collier's VV noted four clasp Kid Gloves, 2s 6d, have just arrived m all sizes. MITCHELL and Turner's prepara tions for the Season * are acknowledged to be very complete.



Wanted.



TBIS WEEK G. J. NEILL and Co. ARE SELLING- Berlin Wool Is lid Beautiful Dress Goods 3d per yard Splendid Plush Is 3d per yard White Calico 2s 11J per doz Grey Calico Is lid per doz Double Bed White Twill Sheeting 9|d Cretonne 3^d Double Bed"Unbleached Twill Sheeting 9JI Heavy Flannelette 3id Cotton Shirting 4&d Men's Tweed Suits 17s 6d Boys Tweed Suits 4s lid Men's Tweed Trousers 5s lid Men's Tweed Overcoats (with cape)Jl7s!6d BOOTS- BOOTS. BOOTS. WE STAND UNRIVALLED. Women's Morocco Shoes 4s lid Women's Strong Leather Shoes 6s 6d Men's Leather Elastic Sides 9a 6d Men's Colonial made Nailed Shoot€>rs£B3^6d Men's Colonial made Bluchers (all sizes);ss AT ■G. J. NEILL & CO.'S. FRIEDLANDER'S CORNER, EAST STREET TERMS-CASH. NO DISCOUNT.



DONT Forget to send your Bicycles along to the Old Kindergarten to ue repaired, at moderate rates.



r^OOL yourselrea dnv'n rj these per- J 'urbed limes wi h Ice Ci-emi. Revty to morrow (Sa'urday) —H. G. Flower, Confectioner. WANTED Known—That A. J. Walker repairs Bi yole*3, Sewing Machines, Lawn Mowers, Medical Coils, and all descriptions of light machinery. "T7"IOLIN> Case, and Bow complete V from 80s upwards. Accordeons, Concertinas, Mouth Organs, String.*, Resin, Bridges, &a—H M. .Jones. fc. EW Lines m Boxed Stationery, J m white and tinted, Account and setter Books, Albums, Wiiting Cases, Photo Frames, New Goods.—ll. M. Jones j



MR WILLIAM Mo LEAN Evangelist from Ireland), will D.V. preach every evening thia week at 7-30 till Friday inc'udve, m the Arcade Chambers. All are cordially invited. 10 5 ptRTCKET and~La^i~fennlß "Material V^ just unpacked at reduced prices. New Books, Games and Fancy Goods. AU goods reduced m price for cash this month —L. F. Andrewes and Co, Station <W Hall _ BOOKS m good order and complete bought or taken m exchange. .New Stock arriving every week. Circulating Library.—J, Ma^sden, Newsagent.



fIIAHITI Oranges, Bananas, Tomato JL Saucrt, good Apples, Marmalade, Tomato Plants, etc.—Mas Whittington, Burnett Street. Tf HE Best Nickel Watch m the Market .J for 15s. Usually sold by Jewellers at from 20d to 25a each. Specially made In England to our order. —John Okr and Co. 9 192 S"OMERSET Meat"Martr~ThToide6t I the largest, the best, and the cheap •Bb. Small Goods a specialty. Ful freights guaranteed. A trial solicited. -W. J. Silcock. 4t182



* FOOD FOR INFANTS AND JNYALIDS, MELLXN'S LACTO-GLYCOSE OR MILK FOOD. BPEGIALLY ADAPTED FOR COUNTRIES WHERE FRESH COWS MILK CANNOT BE OBTAINED. Then Good* are free from Animt G^t and keep good m aty Clitmtc. To he ohtaiwd from all DnmhU and Store*



\\7 ANTED Known.—To make roam VV for Spring Boots I will give ten per cent for cash. Repairs done at once cheaper than ever to stay bad titnea over afcj. Moison, Premier Bootmaker. 8 18 I7SS 0) I^^^ U.5.9.C0. 111 "" A UNIOiN STEAMSHIP COMFANI OF NEW ZEALAND. STEAMERS SAIL fkom LYTTEL TON AS UNDER: For Wellington— Monday, Tuesday, Wod nesday, Thursday, w.d Saturday. Nelson—Tuesday and Saturday. Auckland—Thursday ani Saturday. Sydney—Every Second Tuesday and Thursday. Dunedin—Tuesday and Friday. Melbourne —At freqi" jnt intervals. ! For partieu.fcr apply to j MIL.ES k (JO., L'MIL'HD. i AGENTS, ASH BURTON L {



"%/I EDTOAL Coils made and repaired JVJ on the shortest notice at easy prices at A. J. Walker's, Old K:nder garten. BANG 1 Bang ! Bang ! Guns! Guns 1 Guns! by tho best makers and fitted with all the latest improvements, i Powder, Shot, Caps, Cartridges, Wads, *nd Cases at J. W. Hardley's, East Street. Guns repaired. ON DE RYWL~ Satisfaction.— The special nickel watch made for S. Salek, soJd at 22s 6d and 25s is the bast.—Obtainable only from S. Saletc, Jeweller. 7 63



RAILWAY Bo k Stall.—A very large and choice lot of books to select from. - 7 103 BOOKS m great variety to suit all classes of readers, at the Railway Book Stall 7 102 IF yot. want fiist class fruit go to Atmms' for Fiji, Tahiti, Auckland »nd Sydney Oranges, Citrons, Lemons, etc.