MAIL NOTICES

London on May 24. _

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 1893 THE PROPOSED NEW MAIL SERVICE.

The idea of a mail service between Australia and England, which should traverse no land that is not under the ] British fla^, has been gaining strength very fast during the last tew years, but it was scarcely expected that it would come to the front in tangible form so soon as it has done. Canada, however, has been spurred by her desire for a share of the valuable Australasian trade which America now possesses—thanks to the San Francisco mail service—to make proposals to a powerful and enterprising Australian shipping company to establish a line of steamers between Vancouver and Australia. Unlike the United States Government, which does not contri bute to the San Francisco service from which it derives such im portant advantages, Canada comes forward with the offer of a substantial subsidy for the proposed line, and is asking that the Australian colonies should on their part contribute a sub sidy. On the advantages of the new dine it is not necessary to dilate. The time occupied en route will be as short or shorter than that of the San Fran cisco service, while an important trade will bC opened up. The patriotic sentiment will also weigh with many. Unfortunately the proposal comes to Australia at ab id time. Neither New South Wales, Victoria nor Queensland is in a position to enter into engage ments involving fresh charges upon their deplenished treasuries, and it is greatly to be feared that this may cause some delay in the realisation of the scheme. There can, however, be no doubt that the Canadian-Australian mail service will soon Le in operation. There also can be little doubt that New Zealand will be included in the new route, though at present, this «olony does not appear to have been consulted in the matter. The interests of both Canada and New Zealand in this means of communication are so great that they cannot be overlooked. We may be sure that Mr Ward will take care of New Zealand interests, and we cannot think that Canada in opening up a' mail and trade route with the Australian colonies will leave out the one which J8 making the most rapid and substantial progress of all.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

Attention is directed to a change in the advertisement of Messrs G. J. Neill and Co. who notify that they are opening a quantity of new gooda tor the winter. Messrs Randall and Musgrive are,, the successful tenderers for the grazing of the Eomestead and Port Hills blook of the Cheviot estate. The Railway Department announces that the Rakaia bridge will be blocked against road traffic between the hours of 8 p.m. and 7 a.m., from April 17 till further notice. The population of Palmerston North is now 5793, and that town therefore takes its place as the fourth largest iv the colony outside the four large cities. It will interest footballers and " bar rackers " to learn that at a meeting of the Canterbury Rugby Union on Tuesday even ing, a motion was eu'ried giving a referee power to terminate a match should the spectators persist in encroaching upon the field of play. The whole of the Cheviot estate, except t2OO acres, including the mansion and other buildings, have now been leased for period of six and eleven months at an average rental of 2s per acre, the total being at the rate of £5450 per annum, which is equivalent to 4 per cent on the whole purchase money. Surveys will be pushed on so. as toopen the lands for settlement at the termination of the leases. There was a .very fair attendance at the Oddfellows' Hafr-again on Tuesday evening, when the Rev T. Spurgeon delivered another stirring address, the subject being "The one Mediator," taking his text from first Timothy, ii., 5. He made an earnest appeal to his hearers to accept Christ as the one mediator between God and man. Mi Spurgeon speaks again this evening, and on thui aday night the address is to be especially for young people. In the " Gazette" of April 6, seven acres in the South Rakaia township are tem porarily reserved f'ior municipal purposes;' one acre three perches in the township of Chertsey " for public buildings of general government";' three acres two rood* in the sanie township "for a public recreation ground"; two acres. Dnd a quarter (nine town sections), Chertsey, "for municipal purposes"; and four acre 3 and a half in tfouth Rakei* "for a public garden." At Christchuroh p->Hce court, Tfces lay, two boys, Kearne/ (15) ana Aldridge (14) were charged with stealing goods from the shop or Ashby, Bergh and Co., ironmongers. The offence was committed on Sunday afternoon. Kearney entered through a back window after squeezing himself between iron btrs 3ix inches apart, and he gave Aldridge some money for having kept watch. Kearney received 21 hours imprisonment and twelve strokes of the birch j Aldridge wag dis^ charged. A stack of wheat on Mr E. T. Rhodes farm, nearTittifcru, was burnt on Monday. Athreih. ing party had jaat knocked off at other stacks in the same paddock, 200 yards to leeward. They ran over and saw the fire en the top of the stack, and saw a rat escaping singed clean. They set down the cause as the rat eating matches. The stack was oae of a pair, fifteen feet apart, and the other stack was saved by the thresher plnckily putting the machine alongside and thresh ing ife by tl*e light of the fire—a unique s»'.vage operation. There are nearly 30,000 persons in this colony each owning land valued at less than £100, the total value of their land being a long way under a million. There are about half as many, J5.000, each owning land valued at from £100 to £§00, and the aggre gate value of their land is s> little over two millions. Contrast with these thirty-seven persons who own land valued at five millions, and eleven who own nearly as great a value. That is to say there are forty-eight persons who own over £9,000 000 worth of land against 35,000 persons who own less than £3,000,000 worth. A slip probably unparalleled for its im meksll/ and the effects it produced, took plaJ some miles from Singleton, New South Wales, on 23, the best portion of a mountain leaving shpne^ bodily into a creek, trees, fences, efcc?, maintaining their upright position. The Greek has thntf been dammed up some three miles, in soip Barf* 100 feet, submerging some of the Whesi k<?«* On its banks and huts etc. _A farmer living near? fmt discovered It; On retiring to rest on the previous night the creek (Bowman's creek) was running a flood. lii.the morning be got up early, and' was surprised to e«a n? w*t?r in «w

Mv Andrew Orr opens his new premises to-morrow. The Rev J. H. Gray left tor New Ply- j mouili this afternoon. His successor, the Rev Mr Abernethy, arrives in Ashb\irton by the "express this evening. In Bauco at Christahurch this morning Mr Justice Penuiston gave judgment in the case re the barque Bells, which waa a queatiou submitted tor the opinion of the Co irt, wnether the captain hus a lien for disbursements as well as for wages. The Judge's decision was in the negative. Through the efforts ot several ot the Christchurch Presbyterian churches and the generosity ot friends Dr Blmslie has been enabled to cable £148 to Sydney. This I amount will be devoted to the procuring of immediate supplies of food for the mission aries and the Natives at New Hebrides, suffering from the^consequencea of the recent hurricane. To-day Mr E. J. Craighead broke the Methven—Ashburton road record. He left Ashburton at 10.35, timed by Mr A. J. LVliiller and two others, and reached Rowse's hotel at 12.10, timed by Mr C. O'Donnell— one hour thirty-five minutes. He started on the return journey at 12.12 and reached Ashburton at 1.39—0ne hour twenty-seven minutes; for the double journey, three 1 hours four minutes, including the two minutes stoppage at Methven. This is nine minutes better than Mr K. Curtis' record of last year. In the Bankruptcy Court at Christchurch on Tuesday, before his iionor Mr Justice Dennis&on, in re George Ell, an application wa» made to appoint the bankrupc assignee of his own estate, with a view to the recovery of certain presumed asisets. His nonor, after argument, decided to adjourn the caße for six weeks, to enable the bankrupt to apply for his discharge, and in the event of that being granted t'ae order of appointment aa assignee would bejnade. Mr Vogel, for applicant, wished to appeal against this decision, and the matter Btood over to allow him to communicate with his client. The monthly meeting of the Hampst<;ad School committee was held on Tuesday evening. Present—Messrs Crooks (chair man), Bisset, Pickford, Sage, Meaclem, hilliofc, Orr and Rickinan. The headmasters report stated that the number on the roll was 366, average attendance 303; and also that the progress made by one of the standards continued to be satisfactory. It was decided to forward the report to the Board. Mr Malcolm also also wrote thanking the committee for testimonial. A proposal from Mr Woodworth to give an object lesson on glas3 making in the school was approVed. A complaint with reference to the teaching was referred to the head master. The committee then adjourned till Satutday er«ning. The Hampstead Town Board, met on Monday. Present—Messrs Crooks (chair man) lasker, Macpherson, and Elliot. Mr Bullock wrote, stating that McLean and Princess streets had been dedicated and registered. Tha ranger was instructed to look up owners of unregistered dogs—an allowance of sixpence on each licence issued by him to be made to the ranger, Messrs Macpherson and Elliot undertook to ex amine and report on the bridge at Markey s; the Works Committee to report; on Wakanai Road, South Road, the cutting at Board's, and other works, The collector was authorised to sue for overdue rates, if necessary. Ihe district was reported to be in a satisfactory sanitary condition. Accoumts - Jt'3 16s—were passed and the Board adjourned. Strawberry culture has become an in dustry of considerable magnitude in Waimate. The plant thrives well and prolitically on the tine cleared bush land oi the locality, so much so that this season three crops h *ye been gathered-a visitor to the town last week {ia whom we aie in debted for these particulars) was surprised and pleased to find strawberries and cieam on his breakfast table Paring the main orop as much a3 four tons a day weie sent away, and the total for the season reached fully thirty tons. Messrs Tulett and luomas Hardy are the largest growers, having between them 36 acres in bearing, and next year they will have fifty acres. The kinds cultivated are Margaret, Alice Maud, British Queen, E.eanor, Trotloppes Victoria, Oouiit and a variety called Dr Hogg* We can speak of the Waimate strawberries as being of very fine quality and flavour, either fresh or preserved. The mortal remains of the late Mr James Reid, tailor, of I -ambton quay, were commit ted to their last resting-place in the Karon Oemetary on Sunday afternoon. The funeral cortege comprised members of the Cale donian' Sosiety, American Order of Odd fellows, and Wellington and Thorndon Bowling Clubs, of all of which bodies Mr tieid had been an active member. In the American Order of Oddfellows he had served as District Deputy Grand Master for Wel lington, and up to the time of his death hs was senior trustee of the Southern Cross Lodge. The brethren wore mourning rosettes and sprigs of cypress. The prin cipal mourners were the deceased's son and his two brothers (Messrs William and Charles Keid, of Ashburton). The Rev G. J. Allen (ierrace Congregational Church) officiated at the grave, and Bro C. W. Benbow, D.D.G.M., read the Oddfellows' mortuary service, the brethren afterwards dropping their sprigs of cypress upon the coffin.—"New Zealand limes." Judging from an account given by a Sierra leone correspondent (says the "Daily Chronicle,') a concert in West Africa is a very different affair from what it is in this country. Tha concert in question was in Freetown, by the Unity Club. On the second night of the concert the prices had to be reduced to entice an audience, and everybody was eligible for the best seats. As the result boys simply clad in their shirts, and men with no shirts, but only coats and trousers on, occupied, the reserved seats. One of the singers gave "Ta-ra-ra-boom-de-ay,' with the usual gymnastic accompaniments. This had a magical effect. The native audience rose tq their feet, and under the spell " Ta-ra-ra," kicked up their legs and sent fonjh their | " Boom-de-ays' in their native vernacular. The more timid person of the audience retired, and the whole place was given up to the devotees of "Ta-ra-ra." The seats offered no impediment to the performance of the dance, and the yells of the hackneyed song sounded throughout the whole building, and any further attempt to pro ceed with the concert was prevented for the evening.

MAYFIELD.

[jTKOM OUK CORRESPONDENT,]

The members of the different churches lire feeling the want of an instrument to lead the hinging at the services, the Pres byterian Uhurch Committee agreed to ask the members of other c'iurches 'to Assist in getting an oigan. The' suggestion was adopted heartily, and was decided to hold a ccncert after the sports on Easter Monday, and by that means and private subscriptions, get an organ to help tiie musical part of the services. The instru ment will be for the use of all denomina tions, and it is ipped that all will assist to the best of their ability tq get it paid for. Owing to the increasing population of this district it was found that the school would be too small to hold a good gathering, so the young people, f Q v the sake of a good dance, as well as the church people for a good concert, agreed to put down, a floor in the blacksmith shop, built hero by Mr Murray. That building is 30ft x 16ft, with a, leanto 12ft x 7fb which was convenient for refresh ments. The place was well filled, and a fairly good musical programme was gone through very satisfactorily: Four pounds were Taken at the door, which was thought fery good for the district. After the conceiV >&§' °¥ e}> *-ne 7 0UIiS people cleared the seats aiifl p^mmonieed^ homely danoe, whigh was fee;t up tjll aboub'fivi o'clock in the morning, Refreshments were provided by Mrs John Burgess, and Mr Robert Faga-i, of Alford Forest, supplied the music, and Messrs A. Stack. houae a»4 0. Chapman "were the M.O's, ■

St. Stephen's Church.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING.

The annual parish meeting oi Sh Stephen's Church was held in the school room, last evening. There was a fair attendance of both sexes, and the Itev. T, A, Hamilton presided. After devotions, the Incumbent said he had so recently taken charge of the parish that he had no report to give. He had to thank Mr David Thomas for cer- J tain improvements on the porch, and the , ladies who had raised money for new gates and the renewing of the fence, which the money would be sufficient to do. He had also jo thank the officers (if the Church for the excellent careful work they had done during the year. He recorded his thanks to the lay readers who had enabled him to maintain services in outlyiug districts He had set aside the fifth Sunday for Mount Somers, aud that would be a permauent service in future. ' After an expression of thanks to the choir and others, the Incumbent touched on the question of a curate, a question i which it would be well to put before the Bishop on his return frcm Home, Ano ther question that waa worthy of con sideration was the enlargement of the Church, as nothing ceuld be done in the way of improving the seats of the choir until more room was provided in the building. After urging heartiness upon the workers he said thattheduty of thecnoir was to lead the'singing of tha congrega tion and not to do all the singing. He believed a fair number of the congregation did sing, but he would like all to sing, except in the anthem, which was a sermon in song. The Incumbent then spoke at some length on Sunday School work The chief responsibility of training the children lay on the parents, next to them on the clergyman, and the Sunday School was an excellent auxiliary to both. The teachers were a noble band, whose work was intended to make Church-going men and women of those who were their pupils, and he trusted the teachers would realise the share cf responsibility that lay upon them. He would also like to have the assistance of hatf a dozen or more district visitors, who would report to the clergyman, and meet together to consult and exchange notes, so that by this means much good home mission work would be done. The Incumbent closed, with an eloquent invocation of God's blessing and a commendation of the work to their Loving Father. CHURCHWARDENS' REPORT. Mr John Curtis read the Church wardens' report as follows :— The Churchwardens and Vestry are again able to congratulate the Parish upon the state of the Church finances. The offertories | for the year have amounted to £269 10s 3d, 1 including £7 16s 0 ' fo:n Seafield and 2s 3d from Dromore. This is more than in any 1 previous year. As compared with last year, there is an increase of £15 12s, which is chiefly owing to the members giving by the envelope system. In the subscriptions there is a decrease of £14 7a Qd. Buring the year improvements have been made by the plant ing of trees and shrubs and erecting a gate in the Sunday School grounds. For these, hearty thanks are due to the ladies of the congregation, who by means of the Annual Garden Party have raised the necessary funds. Also, to the ladies of the Sewing Guild, who have continued their labors dur ing the past year and have contributed ueedle-work amounting to £"20, which was sold at the work stall. This sum has been -set aside towards erecting an ircn gate at the entrance to the church. The order is in hand, and as soon as the gate arrives, it will be placed in position. The lighting of the Church has been recently improved by the addition of burnerß behind the pulpit and reading desk. During the ensuing year, the Parsonage will require to be enlarged. Jn order to do this, it is t nought desirable to hold entertainments during the winter months, and also tot set aside the whole of the proceeds of the Annual Garden Party. The fabrics of/the church, school, and parson age are in fair order, all having been lately paintld and put in good repair. The Vestry desire to place on record their appreciation of the faithful services of the lay-rea,det s, choir, and Sunday school teachers during the past year, services which they trust will be long continued. -John Curtis, James E. Tri/vos, Churchwardens. Mr R & Bean moved, and Mr E. .1. Paul seconded the adoption of the report which was carried. OFFICERS. The Churchwardens—Mr .lohn Curtis (incumbent's) and Mr P. H. Cox (parishioners')—were elected, the latter in place of Dr Trevor, who desired to be relieved of the duty for this year. The following vestrymen were elected --Messrs Clowes, Herbert Pooks, Kemp thorne, Paul, Kees, J. H. Twentyman, E. Stephens, Littlecott, J. Bunt, ami Thomas. SUNDAY SCHOOL, Mr R. S. Bean said that recently several sources of revenue had been cut off from the Sunday School, and he hoped the vestry would make pome provision to supply what had beei- tiken away bo that there should be no difficulty in meeting expenses the school was required to bear, such as gas, etc. It was suggested that the case would be met by the Vestry taking over the Sunday School. CHOIR SEATS. Mr P. Williams thought there was but little hope of the Church being enlarged for some years, and an expenditure of a couple of pounds or so would raise the choir seats all that was necessary. He moved that; it be a recommendation to the Vestry to consider the question of having the choir seats raised. Mr Twentyman eeconded, and She motion was carrie i. ROBING RQOM. Mr Paul made reference to the neces sity for a room added to the Ohurch to provide robing accommodation for the clergyman and the chulr. Tt was decided to make this also a rec .inundation to the Vestry. THANKS. The usual votes of thanks (§ the Chu-ch. mt lens, f<r their work during the j^t season, and to the Vestiymen, the choir, the Sunday School teachers, and the workers generally were passed, special re ference being made by Dr Trevor to the good work that bad been done in the Sunday School. THE LADIES. The Incumbent before closing the meeting expressed his pleasure atpeeing so many ladies present and hoped th*y would always have the aid and encourage ment of the ladies, for whom there was much work iti the church. He was pleased with the happy tone of the meet ing and trusted the happy relations now subsisting between Incumbent and people would continue. ,■..,„. . The meeting closed with the bened^tion after a vote of thanks tq the ChairnvJu.

TELEGRAPHIC.

HUME AND FOREIGN.

[per press association.]

BANKING.

London, April 10. £ Shares in the English, Scottish and fl Australian Chartered Bank are quoted at £6 10s. In the course of an inter- f view to-day, Mr C. J. Hegan, chair- ' man of the bank, said that there was , nothing in the bank's position to cause alarm, except the recent fall in shares, which was not justified. , The bank's bullion in the colonies was sufficient to meet all demands, »nd it was not tiue I that the bank had applied to the Bank of England for assistance. , The prevalant opinion in the city is . that the scheme for the reconstruction ( of the Commercial Bank of Australia is too favorable to the shareholders of the institution. LOCAL VETO. The supporters of local option claim the victory at the meeting in Trafalgar Square, and declare that thoy held possession from first to last. The meeting approved the Bill, and thanked the Government for introducing it. Cheers were given for Sir Vernon Har court and Sir Wilfred Lawson. Tne opponents of the Bill have received a temporary check. THE TABERNACLE. The Rev. Thomas Spurgeon has ac cepted an offer to preach at the Taber nacle. PERSECUTION IN ARMENIA. The " Standard's " Constantinople correspondent telegraphs that 2000 Christians are imprisoned in Armenia. LABOR MATTERS. Numbers of the clergy in Hull waited on the ship-owners in connec ■ tion with the strike. The owners re i plied that the men's places were still open, provided they agreed to work l with non-Unionists. The Dockers' Union is penniless and is appealing to the various Trades Unions for funds to enable the fight . with the Hull ship-owners to be carried on. i The military are guarding the rail -5 waya and docks One thousand addi ! tiqnal non-Unionists have been sent [ from London to Hull. ' The " Daily Chronicle's " correspond > dent wires that the town has the ap \ pearance of being besieged. ; New York, April 10. ': The Trades Unions in Chicago have - ordered a strike of 7000 men in Chicago 5 for higher wages. I London, April 11. I At Hull many of the dockers are / resuming work, and the strike gives ? signs of fizzling out. j COLONIAL STOCKS 8 Sir John Lubbock, commentingQn Mr i Ballance's replies to the New Plymouth t harbor bondholders, expresses a hope * that the council of foreign bondholders c will not be driven to oppose the Stock c Exchange quotation of any N<?w <2|ea i land loan which may be placed on the c market. j A leading banker states that Victoria r must come to a definite decision with f regard to the conversion of stock by • July at the latest. He thinks that it '" would be better if the operation took y took place in June, and advises the ex q tension of 5 per cents., on condition '» that they are made redeemable at six ® months' notice j otherwise he favours !. offering tempting terms to convert a portion into 3 J per cents. The balance, • he thinks, is likely to fetch par at 4 * per cent., if there is any prosptct of the early recovery of the colony.

DISASTROUS EARTHQUAKE.

Constantinople, April 11. A fearful earthquake shock is. re ported from Malatta in Asia Minor, Three thousand houses were completely destroyed, and 6000 were damaged, while 130 persons were killed.

A TEXAN OUTRAGE.

Washington, April 10. A sensational shooting affair is re ported from Texas. * A young man named Fields, who had been rejected by a girl, shot his two rivals dead with a revolver. One of the victims was engaged to the girl, and was walking along the aisle of a church when thei outrage was committed. A spectator pursued and shot Fields, who is in a precarious condition from the effects of the wound.

THE SLAVE TRADE.

Zanzibar, April 10. A British cruiser captured a dhow, off here, and rescued sixty child slaves.

EGYPT.

Paris. April 10. M. Flourens, member of the Cham ber of Deputies, declares that the only means of settling the Egyptian diffi culty is a European Conference. THE MELINITE SCANDAL. Pari§, April 1L President Carnot has pardoned M. Turpin, who was imprisoned about eighteen months ago for selling the secret of the manufacture of melinite to an English firm. The "Figaro" accuses M. Freycinetj,, of imprisoning M. Turpin to prevent his divulging secrets, and afterwards offering to pardon him and pay compensation if he did not make a scandal of the affair. CHOLERA. Ten persons died at Lorient on Monday from cholera.

AN AEROLITE.

New York, l April IQ. An aerolite fell iii St Louis, Missouri, and destrqyed a statue erected i» memory of John Brown.

AUSTRALIAN.

THE MAKIN CASE.

Sydney, April U. The. sentence of death passed on Mrs Makin for cbild-rourder has been commuted tp imprisonment for life. Ihe date for the execution of Makin has not been fixed, pending considera tion of his petition to appeal to the Privy Council on the points decided by the full Court. THE PACIFIC CABLE. The Cabinet have had under con sideration the question of a subsidy for the Pacific o,ble, with the result that if either the cable or the Vancouver service be carried out, it must .be the outcome of Federal Australia. «' PROPOSED MAIL SERVICE. Huddart Barker and Co. h w

decided to make Melbourne th terminal port of the Vancouver se vice. Adelaide, April 11. The Government have decided not to participate in the payment of a I subsidy to the Vancouver steam ser ' vice. The Premier has received a telegram from the Premier of New South Wales asking whether the Government are willing to join in guaranteeing a sum of £20,000 to the Vancouver mail ser vice. The Postmaster-General states that from a.mail point of view business men are little concerned in the Pacific route.

BANKING.

Melbourne, April 11. The liquidators' report on the Metro politan Bank shows that the total de preciation of the assets since the issue of the last balance sheet is £398,000.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

Auckland, April 11. Mrs Lane, wife of Captain Lane, master of the missing schooner Maile, died to-day at her home, in Ponsonby. She worried agreat deal over the supposed drowning of her husband, whose boat is now fifty-two days out from Launceston, Tasmania. Mrs Lane leaves a family of several young children. The Crown Land Board at their meeting to-day approved of a number of leases for silver mining at Great Barrier Island., The Board of Education have resolved to send to the Minister of Education a resolution adopted by the Auckland City Schools Committee asking the Govern* ment to return to the system of paying on the working average instead of the strict average attendance. Nine tablets in honour <f the Rev Walter Lawry, fche Her -John Hobbs, the Rev Thomas Buddie, the Rev James Buller, the Rev John Warren, the Rev G. Buttle, the Key Joseph H, Fletcher, the Rev Alexander Reid, and the Ray 0. H. Syn&ckenberg, have been placed in the Pitt street Wesleyan Church, and were unveiled last night. At a largely attended public meeting to-night a branch of the Mothers' Union, established by the Countess oj. Glasgow, was formed. The Countess of Glasgow delivered an address on behalf of the Society. ! Wellington, April 11. The Government steamer, Stella, was I yut up at auction this afternoon and with drawn at £1250. The Premier has for the present aban doned his intention of taking a sea trip. The Government intend making the State farm, which is to be established near Waverley, a home for men who are past hard labour, and who will thus be taken off charitable, aid. It is considered that by paying them a small allowance for the work which they can do, they will be able to grow or make nearly all that will be required, and that^the farm will be practically self-supporting. When it is established, charitable organisations will be able to recommend to the Government old men who, while unable to secure em ployment or earn their living by hard labour outsi<?e, will yet be able to help on the farm. The Man^aongoho section of the Main Trunk Railway, about seven miles in length, is to be handed over to the Rail way Commissioners in a few days. The Free Public Library is to be opened on Thursday by Mr Justice Richmond. The police received information from Sydney to-night that the jewellery, which the young man Mills disposed of here, was stolen from the Exhibition Hotel, Castlereagh street, Sydney, in, September last. It was the property of Mr D. A: Matheson, and was valued at £275. Several silver watches, wnich were bought from the accused by people in W tllington, have been recovered by the detectives. Mr Oadman, the Native Minister, re ceived word to-night that the survey of the Ruatoki block ml be renewed to morrow, and is expected to proceed quickly as the maloontent natives have gone into the interior. The principal chiefs in the district have ordered the return of fche instruments which were taken from the surveyors. Hokitika, April 11. At the Eduoition Board to-night Mr Gammell, the inspector and secretary, resigned the position, and it was resolved to invite applications for the appoint ment. A crowded audience assembled at the Theatre Royal at Kumara this evening to meet Mr Seddon, who in a ugoroas speech, lasting two hours, traversed the policy of the Government. His remarks with reference to finance and the acquisi tion of the Cheviot estate especially met with approval. Mr Pearn moved a reso lution, thanking Mr Seddon for his ad dress, coupled with a vote of confidence in the Ministry and a wish that they might long remain in power to complete the good work they were engaged in carrying out to the benefit of the colony. On the mayor putting the resolution, it was carried unanimously amidst great cheering. I D.unedin, April U. A meeting of the Port Chalmers Political League was held to-night; tHe object being to secure unanimity of action at the coming general election, as It ig understood mat there are no less thag seven candidates prepared to com.c fqr ward in the Government interest. Addresses were delivered by Sir Robert Stout, the Hon. W. Bolt, Mr Pinkerton, Mr Earnshaw, and others, who all urged the sinking of petty interests. At a meeting of the Shop Assistants' Union it was decided to suggest to the Railway Commissioners that excursion trains from the country to Dunedin should be run on seme other day than •Saturday. Invercargill, April 1L There is a block of grain on the South land railway lines, so that the Depart* ment is unable to transport it with suffil cient rapidity, and passengers complain bitterly regarding the trains, which are often an hour late at their ; destinations, owing to the continual bhuntings, and they demand the running of extra goods trains to relieve the present traffic con gestion. Passengers by outgoing after noon trains grumble especially, as they are landed at wayside stations in darkness and sometimes in rain, when they should have been there in daylight. ■' ■■' •

IMPERIAL POLITICS.

FEfi FKEBS 483OpUnOY.

LoNcqN, April 11. The debate on the motion for the second reading of the Hqine Rule BU was resumed by Mr Chamb3rlain, who delivered a brilliant and inpisive speech.. The return of the Opposition leaders to the House after their vigorous campaign in the Provinces, has revived interest in the debate on the Home Rule Bill. Thb Government have ordered the authorities in Ireland to make a close scrutiny of all munitions of war imported into the country, and to insist on consignees making full declarations, '" i^]-

THE ASHBTJBTOtf GTTAftDfAN^ WEDNEtfDAtf, APKIL 12, 1893.



~~ Wanted. D'^OVTMPORGBT "Fiji and the i Fij.ans" To-night, Vvealeyan Church, LAUieni Leo'.ure by Rev Joi> /pHE Ashbunon Amateur Swhuming 1 Club invite Us Members to Gates Booms on Wednesday Evening, April 19, iTwitness distribution of prues * 8 p.m^ VV hand. Wages. £30 per year. Apply by letter up to Saturday to S.mßD^Aßhburton. 4+87 ""ANTED, good Grass or Turnips for 1000 to 3000 sheep. Apply FrIEBLANDKR BEOS. *H/ L^-T^^TWooUcti Factory, Cocker Spaniel, liver and white Collar L.B.C, 1892. Reward Somerset Ho^eL WANTED Known.-Foresters Social on Wednesday Evening, 12th. Refreshments provided. Double lickets 8s 6d, Lady's Is. D. Amos, fcecretary.^ B~ICYCLES (Adams, Uurties, and Go's machines) Cash or terms. Christ church pricea.-H. M. Jones. ___ rToaiKii^JL 1 Meat Marc- rhe oldes O the largest, tha best, and the cheap Mt. Small Goods a specialty. Fui weights guaranteed. A trial solicited. —W. J. SILOOOK. f^jff AW XiiiTXuown—ice Creams, ice W Creams, for the hot weather. always ready at IT. G. Flower's, Confec tioner, East Street. Jt3lAiSO£Trom £28 10.-). Organs from Jr £15103. Harmoniums, £10. Easy terms of payment. —H. M. Jones. rpHB Good bamaritan, tor ihe imnie X diate relief of pain.— Light s Cash tore. _____ ___** H" 7)MEOPATHIC Medicines, price Is. Solo -igent for district Light's Cash Store. 2 34 W" ANTED Known-9_d Gloves fui 4|d j 7_d Embroidery for 4|d ; 13s 6d Summer Dresses for 8s 9a.-~ Mitchell & Turner. <* 6<t WANTED, Ladies and Gentlemen to see the oirand Display in iht windows at "The Corner" Saturday.- W. H. Cotlieb. WAJS L'EL) Known.—Como and see our beautiful Mantles, Jackets, Ulsters, Macintoshes, Dress Snuffs, etc. H. C. Segers, Melford House. "P ADlKs>' aud Children's"Hats ; all tin XJ new shapes for the season now opened. Prices low to suit the trmes ;ai f^VLJiWQKX & Co.'s. Firewuod —Short Ury Guiu f Firewood, at 26s per cord; mixed wood, 24s per cord at Mayos. T-evortou.-Apply Mbs Jambs Frun Shop. CHEAP Fruit-Cheap Fruit.- Prim, Quinoes fof J*m and Preserving Mrs Jambs, Street Fruit riiiop. 2§i WAISTED Known.-Jacket & DreS Department a specialty. liigl olaasgoodß marked cheap. H. C. Segerss. Melford House^ WANTED Kno^n,—For Jacket, Ulsters, Dress S^uff*, ttc. Com. to Melford Hout.e. fl. 0. Sbobiw. 1 Hist'iNickel batches iii the market, i_s are those at-22s 6J and 25s Specially made for S. Salek, JbWtsller. Guarantee with each watch. W' AN ih'D Knowu— '* The Corner " i showini? a m&anificont New Stud of Drapery and Clotting. — VV. H Collier. WHY not Bake your own Bread wbc you can tree 50Jbs of the Be.s Boiler Flour for five shillings cash o five shillings and sixpence booked »■ Robert alcokn a, launders' Buildings. 11 32 T~ "HE Misses Adams'»ew Ltefreehmen Booms now open. Tea, Coffee, Cocoa, Lemon Squash, Scda and Mill and all the new summer drinks ready a *U tikes. Coleman's Buildings, Eas, ---Streefc. I^TEW Mantles and Jackets ; immense J_N variety just opened. Prices foi equal value lower than any other house, at S. W. Alcokn & Ca.'s. BANG ! Bang 1 Bang 1 Gmis I Guns 1 Guns t by the best makers and fitted with all the latest improvements Powder, Shot, Caps, Cartridges, Wads, and Cases at J. VV. Hardley's, East Street. Guns repaired. "HO is your PI urn ber 1 Why, J. V\ . Habdley, who is a Manufacture) of Spouting, • Uidging, Steel Gutters. Baths, Sinks, Tanks, etc., and who hat on hand the largest stock of Pumps and Pipe in town. W HEBE do you gee your Ironmon gery 1 At Hakpley sof course, where we get the bet>t value in Sheei Lead, Nails, Locks, Hinges, Ploueli Chains, Bope, Wire Knetting, Gorse Knives, Spades and Forks, Lamps Fender an^ Fire Irons, and anything yon require* ; . CIHKISTMAS Suits. Boys, thre. J garment long Trouser Suits at 15s. Boys, Colouial-made Knicker Suits from 10s. Men's nicely made Colonial Tweed Suits 80s. Colonial Tweed Suits tc measure from 60s.— Ashburton Clothing Mart, Saunders' Buildings. Bobbrt A-0->R». ANTED Known—Bobert Shields, Charles Street, opposite Woollen Factory, has commenced Dyeing and Cleaning Ladies' -md Men's Garments Bknkets and Woollen Goods Scoured. M «ierate charges. Parcels etc., left at firs Adams', Saunders' Buildings, will be Intended to. ________* EASTER Cards and Booklets, New Games, new supply of the Zither Harps and Autoharps, New Books, Stationery, and Fancy Goods. Sub scribers wanted for our Circulating Library. L, F. Andrewes and Co, Stationers' Hall. .



NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory, SPECIALS. j WANTED KNOWH-AU Wool Suits, 30a WANTED KNOWN -Men's Bannock 'Iweed Suits, 39s 61 WANIED KNOWN- Men's New Zealand Tweed Trousers, 9s 9d X^""'" WANTED KNOWN-Men's Trousers to measure, 17s 6d WANTED KNOWN-Boys' Guard Suits.. 10a WANTFD KNOWN-Boys' Sailor Mto, 11s 6d WANTED KNOWN-Youthß' Blue Jerseys, 33 61 WANTED KNOW^-100 Boxes Men sand Boys' Hats, fiom la 6d WANTED KNOWN-Men-s Boots 7a Gd, 10* 6J, 12a 6d WANTED KNOWN-Roys' Boots, 5s 6d, 6a 6d, 7s 6d WANTED KNOWN-Ladies' Boots, 6s 6d, 7s 6d, 9a 6d NEW ZKALAND CLOTMNCJACTORY. ALGX. HENDRY, Manager. 3TEAM CHAFF CUTTING AND CKUSHING. QeORGE OsBORNii Begs to announce that he is PREPARED TO CUT CHAFF AND CRUSH GRAIN KT&NY QUANTITY He u S eB Messrs Andrews and Boavenjs ,est Canterbury Ohaffimtter, ami then crusher with latest improvements, and nn therefore guarantee giving every satis faction. Orders may be left with MRGUDSELL, Tinwald; ijf' Willowby. o o T IEOPLVI about to marry and furnish t their houses, are invited to call on Picfefora A IJndriU, AT THB ASHBUBTON FURNITUEE WAEEHOUSE, tancrbd street, Next Building Society. -NOW ON VIEW— Dining-room Suites in Rimu, Bedroom SuSTnßimu, Iron and Brass Bedsteads, CneTt ß Drawers, Washstands Spnng B£^%s?«* Fancy Tables, Kr Cloths and Linoleums, Carpels, Hearth Rugs, and^Mats. Furniture Repaired, Restuffod, and Bepolished on the Pruniwcß. —Note the addre.s— TAKOEED STEEFT, jfex Building Society. Tlie West Tea IN CANTERBURY f<»r the money, and free from any excess of astringency. COUNTESS &S. i^HK YOUU OttOOBB*



Norton's Camomile Pills are confidently esemmended as a simple remedy foi tniigestion, which ia the cause of nearly all bhii diseases to which we aie subjectß Nokton's Pills, with justice called the "Natural Strengthener of the Human Stomach," act as a powerful tonieAndgtntfe »?Brient., are mild in their operation, and ■ vfe under any circumstances. Sold in b .ttlee, at Is lid, 2s 9d, Jils, by all medicine V mfWs t hronahcut tb« * *t\d-



KEATING S COUGH LOZENGES cure Coughs, Asthma, Bronchitis. Medical testi mony stales that no other medioine is so effectual in the cure of these dangerous maladies. One Lozenge alone gives ease, one or two at bedtime ensures rest. For reliev ing tlifficilty ol breathing they are invalu able. Tliev coitain no opium nor any vio ent *li «g- *b d *W Cbemifte, in Tins, \t ||d »a 42» W vwb»



WINTER* !893- G. J. JNeill & Co. RESPECTFULLY DRAW YOUR ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING Mew Ctoods. «cw Ooods. DRESSES. DBESSES. The latest in Shot Kep, double width, 2s 6d Amazon Cioth, double width, Is lid Fancy Dreas Goods, 6|d Heavy Dress Tweeds, 7|d Astrakhan?, Beaver Triaiming Ladies' Jackets and Mantles. . vn ntta MILLINERY IN ALL ITS BRANCHES. Trimmed Hats from 2s lid. Double Bpd White Sheeting, 10£ d Heavy Forfar, 6|d Blankets, Blankets, from 7s lid AH Wool Colonial Flannel, Is. CLOTHING. CLOTHING. Men's Suit* 19s 6d; Men's Heavy Suits, 25s 6d BOOTS. BOOTS. BOOTS. >! WONDERFUL VALUE IN BOOTS. Ladies' Shoes 4s lid ; Strong Leather Supers, 3s 6d Men's Oolonial-made Nailed Shooters, 8s 6d BCOTS ONE TRIALI Ladies' Strong E.S. Boots, 6s lid . Patent Leather Slippers in endless variety, at ft I NEILL & C 0.% FRIEDLANDEK'S BUILDINGS, CORNER OF gA^T_^Nj)^AIOQRE_STBEETS. S*lsot» «D MU^W* WORKMANSHIP. S. BALEK, Watcli .. akcr, Jeweller, & Oculist IKK"



("UNMERCIFUL DISASTER followed fast and followed faster" upon the fortunes, of poor Queensland until that unfortunate Colony is now in the most miserable condition imaginable. Gaunt famine may stalk over the land, frt m failure of the soil to give its annual increase, or from other of the manj causes of that distress ; the destroying plague may be let loose and grip with his cold hand the vitals of the young &nd strong, leaving sorrowing widows and wahns? orphans everj where, and. painfu; blanks in every household : ->r the demon of war may send firs and sword over a country, and leave desolation in then tr.tck in place of smiling scenes of peaci -aud plenty—all sad enough and sickening enougti if you will ; but what must be th. feeling of a whole people when they find their country covered as the waters covei the sea, their homes wrecked and ruined, and their hopes for the futur» sunk it. one mournful and inretrievable disaster 'i 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 Massing* as are only enjoyed by the dwellers in a second paradise ? Such feeling to be sure, as are prompting the housands 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 »een 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 history. SO THINK HLardley JBros., who are giving special value this mouth in Drapery, Clothing and Boots. 120 Dozen large Towels to be sold at irom 2s 9d a dozen. Splendid white Calico at 2s lid a dozen. Dress Tweed 4s 9d a dozen. Extra larg« grey Blanket* only 10a 6J. Sheeting at 10$ d. 94 Men's Suits from 19a 6d. Woollen Socks at ll£d. 'Men's and Boys' Straw Hats, best quality, only Is. A special Jine of Women's Leather Shoes 6s 9d. Men's nailed Shooters now only 8s lid, worth 12s 6d. NOTE THE ADDRESS— fit llltliKY BROS., ARCADE, AtsHBCJRTON. Hampton* TjIURNITURE riTAREHOUSE, fANCRED STREEr, Is Opposite Mitchell and Turner s. TRY HAMPTON'S FOB Perambulators from 22s 6d Perambulator? Reversible Hoods from 355, Patent Rubber Tires Basket Ware Chest Drawers Chairs atid Tables Bedsteads Cheap Furniture All Repairs Col ■•nial Couches Wire Spring Mattrasses BRANCH BUSINESS. EAST STREET, Below Patching's. GREAT ASSORTMENT OF CROCKERY, AND FANCI GOODS.— 2J35 CBE.VP MOUNT SOMERB COAX. W. & J. HAimiS HAVING bought the Lease of the Mount Somera Coal Fine, beg to announce that they are now prepared to e^pply the excellent fuel from the Mount Soiaors Qoal measures in any quantity. They have appointed MR JAMES BA&JSB, HAVELOCK STREET, their sole Agent, and all orders will be promptly attended to. _______ ______ I In connection w&h the above JAMES rtAKKR, Tinnber Merchant, Havelock I Street, solicits a share of public pa&ron- i & ge, and is prepared to give prompt and ; earef«l attention to any orders for i MOJJMT SOMERS GOAL (that pay be .entrpted to feim for eateciitioß, f



TO ADVERTISERS.  In consequence of the Longbeach Coach leaving Ashburton an hour earlier the Guardian will s" to press punctually at 3.30 p.m. Advertisements must be at this office not later than 2.30 p.m. Ashburton Publishing Office, April 4, 1893.



There is such a large demand for Rouses of a fair size in Bunedin at the presgnt time that; tho agents are said to know of only seven unoccupied houses containing five ropins or mor^. Hqlloway's Oint^knt asp Pills.—As winter advances and the weather becomes more and more inclement and trying the earliest evidences of ill health must be im mediately checked and removed, or a slight illniss way result in a serious malady. Ke laxed and sore throat, quinsy, influenza, chronic cough, brochitis, md most other pulmonary affections will be relieved by rubbing this cooling ointment into the skin as nearly as practicable to the seat of mis chief The treatment, simple yet effective, ig.admiEably adap^d for the removal of tjiese dise 7a&i/daring f infancy and youth. ,Qld 'asthmatic invalids will derive marveling relief from the use of Holloway s remedies, which have wonderfully relieved many such sufferers, and reestablished healtk after ev«y other wjeaua have signally failed,



The Ojtslow Biscuit. The latest andi most delicate biscuit nmuftotured b«? A.ulaob rook and Go, f