FIRE ALARMS.

Allenton „ ... .. one toll Borough, north of railway .., two tolls Borough, south of railway ... three tolls Hampstead four tolls

MAIL NOTICES.

Daily mail services have been established to Elgin, Wakanui, Riverside, Flemington, Kiffelton, and Willowby. Mails for Mayfield will m future be despatched on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Fridays. The Longbeach line of mails will hence forth close at 3.45 p.m.

Ashburton Guardian. [Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit] FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 1895 1894

Having noted the leading features of the year's contribution to history m the Old World, the affairs of our own colony now claim our attention. One event happened towards the close of the year which will not readily be for gotten —the loss of the s s. Wairarapa, The wreck of that vessel at the Great. Barrier Island with the attendant loss of so many lives- of her passengers and crew is a tragedy still fresh m tho minds of our readers. So fresh is it that any recapitulation of the horrors of that fearful night wouSd be alto gether supererogatory. But the dis aster carried with it lessons to both seamen and landsmen that may well be laid to heart, and which if heeded may be of incalculable value m the future m the direction of the preven tion of any possible repetition of a disaster so appalling. A disaster such as th# loss of the Wairarapa, great as it was, w&6 however a comparatively light afflction wifh that which the colony narrowly escaped m financial matters ; as but for the bold conduct of the Government and Parliament m averting the crisis threatened m con nection with jthe affairs of the Bank of New Zealand, thopsantls m the Colony must have been ruined and the Colony itself paralysed far years. The legis lation for the year has been remarkable for the Cheap Money Scheme, the creation of New jZealand Consols, the passing of the -Conciliation and Arbitration Act an,d the resumption by the State of the control of. the railways. Commercially, 1894 will be remembered as a year of depression, we hope as its culmination, the unprecedentedly low prices ruling for all our principal ex ports being responsible for the pre vailing scarcity of money and the undeniably hard times. Let us hope that we have got to the end of the Jane and tha tihe proverbial turning w^il^o soon m sight.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

Ismail Pasha, ex Khedive of Egypt, is J reported to be dying. The London Press comment on the non appointment of new peers by Lord Rose bery. The Longbaks have founded a kingdom styled Kainan, on >\ territory m the south westofCorea. They have already en throned a king. Miss Fiorence Nightingale, who is 74, is lining m a quiet cpjt m West Louaun, where, say.s an £ merican visitor, even her neighbors do not know her. The Cz« has arranged for the carrying out of some grand military movements at Smolensk, including an exact reproduc tion ot the attack and defence m connec tion with Najoleoa's invasion m 1812. Mr John Burns, speaking at Phila delphia, said that; the millions of soldiers maintained m Europe were only legalised murderers, and militarism drives the best men to foreign lands. The American silver mine owners are anxious to establish a market distinct i from London, They are trying to arrange | for sales direct to a central authority m New York without the intervention of brokers. At their meeting to-day the County j Council decided to close their offices on Saturday at 1 p.m. m accordance with the Shop Assistants Act 1894 and to abolish | the Wednesday half holiday so far as the i Council is concerned. The late Sir J. D. S. Thompson, the Premier of Canada, whose body was brought from England on board H M.S. Blenheim, was burried at Halifax, the obsequies being the occasion of a most impressive scene. A gold vase weighing two pounds has reached the British Museum. It was found by a native while diving for sponges off the Island of Samos. Ib is supposed to be all that remains of a Roman vessel wrecked 2000 years ago. A telegram from Blenheim dated 3rd inst says:—The highest flood for some years inundated the business portion of the town last night, and the country towards the sea for miles is under w*ter. It is feared that great damage will have been done to crops. The rain since Tuesday has been phenomenal. Mount Cook has at last been conquered. Messrs Graham of Waimate, Clarke, and Fyfe of Timaru topped the Mount from the Hooker side on Christmas Bay, the ascent having been made via Green's saddle. The time from the Hermitage was fifteen days. At the County Council meeting to-day it was stated by Mr Grigg, who should be an authority, that the best way to eradicate the Californian Thistle is to starve it out by ploughing it under for two or three years, thus excluditag the atmosphero without which it cannot live. Judge Hughes asks antiquarians to save the Berkshire White Horse from being grown over. The figure is at Cffington, aud is said to d&te back to Saxon times. It was made by removing turf on the hillside so as to show the chalk beneath. The Horse is 355 feet from nose to tail, and 120 from ear to heel. Dwelling-houses are at a premium m Wellington, owing mainly to the large influx of Bank officials and others. It is said that houses of from nine to fourteen rooms easily command a rent of from £ ICO to £250 per annum. One fine house m Fitaherbert terrace (one of the pleasantest situations m Wellington), with only a fairly large garden, has just been let furnished at £400 per annum, We are m receipt from our contemporary rJ he New Zealand Primitive Methodist of the sheet almanac for 1895 presented to the subscribers of that paper. Typo graphically it Is admirably got up, and it is embellished with capital photographs of the City of Dunedin and several of the connexions! church edifices and protraits of the Rev. C. E. Ward, Presidantof the Conference ani other prominent ministers of the church. It also contains a table of Scripture lessona atid much interesting information, In Nelson, the other day, a farmer, while mowing grass with a reaper, had to stop his machine to save a dog which had got dangerously near it. The dog did not move, so the farmer getting between the knives drew the dog oui, throwing it f'om him with an angry exclamation. This caused the horses to move ahead again, thus setting the knives m motion. The farmer realising Instantly the dangerous situation made a leap, but only jasfc^ m time, for even as he jumped the knives caught his boot, and he received a nasty gash m the heel of his foot. As Mr James Digby and a lad the son of Mr McKay hairdresser were driving into town this morning about 8 a.m. the horse Bhied when passing the Old Mens' Home, the backhand broke and the animal bolted throwing out Mr Digby and the lad. Mr Digby was bruised but noli other wise injured but the boy was not so fortunate one of the wheels of the trap which was loaded with 13 cwt of meat passing over hia abdomen. He was conveyed to Dr Tweed's private hospital where hewaspromptly attended to. He has sustained some internal injury but it is hoped not of a serious nature. Impurities m the blood—We have see hosts of letters from people who have re- | oeived great benefit from the use of Clarke's Bood Mixture. It cannot be too highly j estimated, for it cleanses and clears jjthe blood from all impurities. This is a good ■ testimonial from the "Family Doctor "which goes on further to say j •' It w the finest blood purifier that science and skill havp brought to light, and we can with the utmost confidence recommend ib to our subscribers and the public generally." For Scrofula, Scurvy, Eczema, Bad Legs, Skin and Blood diseases, Sores and Pimples of all kinds its effects are marvellous. Thousands of testimonials. Clarke's Blood Mixture is sold everywhere, at 23 9d per bottle. Beware of worthless mitations and substitutes' Holloway's Pills.—Weakening weather. —Ttte sultry summer days strain the nerves of the feeble and decrepit, and disease may eventuate unless some restorative, such as these purifying Fills, be found to correct the disordering tendency. IjColloway's medicine gives potency to the nervous system, which is the source of all .vital movements, and presides over every action which maintains the growth and well-being of the body. No ,pne.,can oyer estimate the necessity of keep ing the nerves well strung, pr the ease with which these pills accomplish that end. They are the most unfailing antidotes toindigestion irregular circulation, palpitation, sick head ache, and costivenpss, and have therefore attained jfche jlargest^ale and highest reputa tion.

Floods in Nelson.

Neison, January 3 The report of floods m the country dis tricts is most distressing. In the Motupiko Valley the flood is the highest on record. Garden and crops are destroyed, sheep drowned, fenoes levelled, and much land washed away.

Ashburton High School.

The High School Board of Governors md an all-day Bittiug yesterday, at a pocial meeting called to consider the tpplications for appointments to the -caching staff. There were present — VJessrs B. G. Wright (m the chair), Hugo Friedlander, A. Orr, D. Williamson, Denshire. His Worship the Mayor, and Hon Major Steward. For the position of iiaadmaster there were seventeen appli janfcs, all University graduates, nine with he degree of M. A., seven B.A.'s. and one D. O.L. After devoting over two hours to the reading of the candidates' testimonials, the area of choice was, for various con siderations, narrowed to two candidate?, viz, Mr G. A. Simmers, M.A., and Mr A. Ml, Poison, 8.A., the choice of the Board eventually falling upon the first-named gentleman. For the position of headmistress there were twelve candidates, four of these having the degree of M.A., and seven that of B.A. By a process of gradual elimina tion the number was reduced to four, and finally to two, viz,. Miss Edith H.Peatce, M.A., and' Miss S. Saundere, who has for the past ten years held the position. The decision of the Board was m favor cf the first-named lady. For the post of assistant teacher there were no less than twenty-foor applicants, far the greater number of the candidates (nineteen) being ladies. The choice was finally narrowed to two of the latter, viz., Miss Jessie Knapp, 8.A., and Miss Muriel T. MacDomiell, the last-named lady being selected. The new headmaster is at present a tutor m the Training College, Dunedin, and has a splendid record. In 1886 he passed the final examination for the B.A. degree, and won a University senior scholarship m Natural Science, and m 1887 gained his M.A. degree with First-class Hononrs m Physical Science. His classification as a public school teacher is A 2. This is the second highest rank ; m fact there are only ten classified teachers m the colony of higher rank. In the chemistry classes of the Otago University — both practical and theoretical under Professor Black, Mr Simmers always took a first class, and divided the first prize with another student m theoretical chemistry. He also aofced as assistant for three sessions m the Physical Laboratory to Professor Shand who speaks m the highest terms of appre ciation of his valuable aid m arranging and mounting experiments for class de monstrations and laboratory practice. Being well up m botany and having a practical acquaintance with agriculture, Mr Simmers is thoroughly compebent to give instruction m agricultural science. As tutor m the training college he has been responsible for the instruction of classes preparing for matriculation and teachers " E" and ** D" certificate examinations m Latin, mathematics, and science, and has carried on the work m mathematics and mechanics to a standard equivalent to that required for the B.A. degree pass. At the six annual examinations since his appointment to that position students taught by Mr Simmers have carried off four first prizes, four second prizes, and three third prizes—that is eleven prizes out of a possible eighteen— m competition with candidates from all parts of New Zealand. Mr Simmers holds the Toiic Scl-fa College's Elementary Certificate for singing and musical knowledge. During his University career he was the winner of six first prizes for Physics, Theoretical Chemistry, General Biology, Zoology, and Practical Biology, During the past four months he has been Acting Rector of the Training College. He has had experience m ail departments of educational work, having been at one time master of the Training College Model School and at another of the ISgapara pullic school. Of his work m the Training College, Mr W. S. Fitzgerald, rector, says "his record m preparing candidate!* for matriculation and Teachers' Certificate examinations is a very high one, especially m Science, Latin and Mathematics. His success m teaching these subjects indicates a peculiar fitness for High School work. Mr Fitz gerald adds "' Mr Simmers is a man of sterling principle and I am persuaded that if appointed his influence over the boys and girls of the sshool will be ex cellent," Mr Simmers is thirty-five yeara of age and a married man. The new head mistre-a, Misa Edith H. Pearca, is a lady of 28 years of age. She holds the M.A, degree of the N,Z. Uni versity with First-class Honors m Latin and English, and a teacher's certificate of the Otago Education Board—her classifi cation being A 4. During her very suc cessful University career, she carried off first-class certificates m Latin, English; Mental Science, and Mathematics; came out first m every English class during three years, and was top for her year m Mental Science. In 1892 she gained the John Tinline scholarship - a success which marked her as the foremost English scholar of that year m New Zealand. She has also high credentials as a teacher of singing. Professor Gilray says "Miss Pearce is the ablest student I have trained m the University of Otago," and Profes sor Shand writes— *{In addition to her scholastic attainments, Miss Pearce pos sesses m a high degree those mental and moral qualities which are necessary for success m a public teacher. She is kindly and courteous m manner, firm m purpose, has excellent expository powers and great capacity for work." Professor Salmond testifies to the *' admirable " character of her work, and to her " clearness and firm ness of mind" and conscientious dili gence." Miss Pearce has been engaged for some time m teaching m the Caver&ham public school, the head master of whioh, Mr Milne, M.A,, says of her that "she maintains good order and discipline, and s!iowa very considerable tact m the man agement of her class and skill m teaching." The assistant mistress, Miss Murifl T. MacDjnneU, was a pupil teacher m the Port Chalmers District High School, has since attended the Normal Training Col lege, Dunedin, and has subsequently been engaged m teaching m several of the city schools. She is classified D 4, She has also for two years been engaged m teach ing music. Mr Macleod Smith, organist of Dagmar College, certifies to her theo retical and practical knowledge of vocal music, and her efficiency as a pianiste. 11 he Rector of the Port Chalmers school ga y 8 —»« A 8 a teacher she is bright and energetic ir> manner, and has rendered valuable assistance to the class teachers," while the head mistress adds that "her character is irreproachable, and she has the manners and accomplishments of a lady." Mr Allardice, M.A., speaks of her as " a painstaking and conscientious teacher," and Mr E. M- Allen, J P., char acterises her as an excellent teacher pi the piano, and adds thst she has been organist of titie Anglican Church, Port Chalmers, for six years. Adjourned Meeting? The business of the meeting was re s,umes yesterday. Present—Hon Major ■Stev/ard (m the chair), Messrs A Orr, iWshirts- Williamson and IJis Worship fche Mayor, 'Jhe following resoljjHpa wa^ agreed to:— That the Board greatly regrets to hear of the death of Mr John Edgar Buchanin, who has for the past fourteen years been connected with the Ashburfion High School, for the last eight years as head master ; and desires to place on record its appreciation of his faithful and efficient service and to convey to the members of his family their sympathy with them m the bereavement they have sustained: also, that this resolution be forwarded to Stir Edgar S. Buchanan. It was farther resolved "That &s a mark of the Board's sympathy, and m appreciation of Mr Edgar Sc Buchanan's Conduct as hewn tensna of the headmastersbip, thjKl be forwarded to him a cheque for tyie

Mount Somers

The annual treat and flistribution of prizes to the children attending the Mount Somers school took place on Txew Year s Day. The day, though somewhat cloudy, was all that could be desired, and as this event is the only New Year fixture along the foot of the hills, there was a large attendance o* visitors fiom MaylieM, Va'etta, Springburn, Alford Forest, and other places. These along with the residents of the immediate neighborhood made up., a very respeotab'e crowd. The sports were held m a paddock kindly lent for the occasion by Mr Bateman, the local Boniface. Ample provision had heen made for the comfort of all. A large tent, con structed of a couple of tarpaulins lpnt by the railway department, held the refreshment tables, which were presided over by Mrs Jones assisted by a galaxy of lady helpers, and a gipsy tent, containing the prizes was occupied by Mr A Campbell. A long list of events were got off by Messrs James Tait, John Hood, and E. F. Bentley. AH the events were well contested, and the close finishes reflected credit upon the handi cappera. The young men amused them I selves at the noble game of cricket, while the young ladies, assisted by a few of the sterner sex, engaged at rounders and other equally harmless games. At the close of the sports a tin of lollies wa3 scrambled, and th«a the children were drawn up m for line according to their classes, and received prizes for their work during the year. Special prizes for attendance were awarded to Alice Patton and Sefton Hood, and Owen Jones and Harriet Beckley were recipients of the popular prizes. Cheers for the Committee, teachers, owner of paddock, and all who had helped to make the day an enjoyable one, brought a very happy season to d> close.

Methven New Year Sports.

The above sports were held on January 1 m a paddock lent by D. Cameron, Eaq;, Springfield, The weather was threatening, hut rain held off till night. There was a good attendance, and some good racing. Maiden Trot—J. Blake's Poppy's 50yds behind, 1; G. Macrae's Tommy, 103 yds, 2. Won easily. , Methven Plate—J. Nee's Flyaway, 1; E. O'Connor's Dolly, 2. Obstacle Race—W. Setter's Van Breeze, 11; G. Macrae's Tommy, 2 Handicap Trot—J. McFarlane's Biddy, 300 behind, 1; J. Smith's Speculation, scratch, 2 j The Nun 350, Agar 250, New. luce, 50yds behind, also started. Ladies' Parse—J. Smith's Lapwing, 1; Flyaway, 2; Rotomaha&a 3. A good race. Lapwing's rider broke a stirrup leather, but won by about two lengths. Dolly fell, her rider escaping with a shaking. Hack Race—R. Baxter's Roy, 1; R. Bryant's Somerton, 2. Collina ran second, but went inside a post. The Consolation Race was won by Roto mahana athletic Events—looyds-—T. Mangan 1, Sheridan 2. Hop Step and Jump—M. Henderson 1, T. Margin 2. Three Legged Race—M. and J. Henderson 1, J. Mangin and Dart 2. 440yds—Dart 1, Sheridan 2 Stone Picking Race—M. Henderson 1, W. Fagan 2.

CORRESPONDENCE.

We do not hold ourseives responsible tor tbe "pinions cxpiessed by our correspondents.)

ASHBURTON HIGH SCHOOL.

TO THE EDITOR.

She,—-As there is a rumor m this district to the effect that a certain written report from the examiner, re the recent examination of the Ashburton High School, other than that published m your columns, has been withheld from the public (concerning a public institution, and paid for by public money), will you kindly inform your readers if this is true? Also if it is true that the examiner referred to (Mr Oesswell) examined the school and sent m two reports of the same examination to the Board of Governors after the master's position w)s advertised as vacant, and that he (Mr Cresswell) then applied for the position himself. The public also demand to know the reason why Mr E. S. Buchanan, as acting master, was not allowed an inde pendent report on his work if the above rumor be true.—l am, etc., Justice. No second report was sent to the Board. Mr Cresswell was appointed as examiner on the recommendation of Mr Buchanan. Mr Cresswell was an applicant for the headmastership.—Ed.

COMMERCIAL.

London, January 3. New Zealand frozen mutton, first quality, 4Jd per lb; second quality, 3f-d; i^ew Zea land lamb is celling at an average of s|d, and Australian at 4£d. A South Australian wheat cargo, ex barque Adele, sold at 25s l£d.

ASHBURTON MARKETS.

Mr David Thomas reports npon the live stock market m the Ashburton county for the week ending December 31:—As the date for holding the usual weekly sale of live stock fell on Kew Year's Day, it was decided to hold the sale on Monday Dec ember 31. Off sales m the Ashbnrton county, do not catch on, and few of the auctioneers expected anything more than a day'a outing. Nor were they dis appointed, as although there was a fair yarding the business done was not satis factory. Probably after the beautiful rain we have had it may be better at the next Tuesday's sale m Ashburton. The totals yarded for the day were 4028 sheep, 54 cattle, and 6 pigs. My entry consisted of 1476 sheep, 26 head of cattle, and 5 pigs, and I succeeded m disposing of the fallow ing at the prices quoted :—ll sman two tooth crossbreds 6s, 5 merino ewes 3s, 10 fat crossbred ewes 7» 4, 20 merino ewes 11 lambs 2s sd, all counted, 64 four-tooth ewes and wethers for Mr A. Leatham (perfect plumi) 12s ; 61 good two and four tooth crossbreds 10s 2d for Mr W. Miller, 173 good halfbred two-tooths for Mr W. J. Stoddart at 10a 4d. The three lines last mentioned were first class sheep. 90 crossbred ewes and 86 lambs all counted 5s 5d each, 327 crossbred forward lambs 7a 7d. On acgount of Mr J. Shearer a really good line of 896 crossbred two* tooth stores, Bs. In cattle the market was likewise weak. In fats I sold 2at £6 17s 6d, lat £6 ss, lat £5 12s, 2 at £4 JJfo 6d, 2 at £5, 3 IS-montha old £3 2smF,S at £3 103, 3 yearlings ac 395, 3 twenty months old, £3 17s 6d ; Springers from £4 to £6 10.

THE NEWFOUNDLAND CRISIS.

St Johns, January 2 The Financial crisis is increasing. Business is paralysed by the absence of money.

THE COREAN WAR.

Los don, January 3 Reports from Shanghai state that China does not intend to cede qne inch of territory to Japan. Owing to lack of funds China is unable to re-organise her army at present, but she l?opes b.efore long to be I ablp to recapture Port Arthur* j The negotiations for, peaqe h&ve bpe^ postponed until the arrival of Mr John Foster, who is on his way from America to Tokio to assist the Chinese Envoys m arranging the terms of settlement. It is thought that with Mr Foster's assistance there is le3S likelihood of the* negotiations resulting m failure.

COUNTY COUNCIL.

The Ashburton County Council held its nonthly meeting to day. Present — Messrs J. Grigs:, C. J. Harper, U. Williamson, James Johnston. D Cameron, itid H. Friediander. Mr Harper was looted to the chair m the temporary ibsence ol Mr Friediander, for whom Mr Cameron asked a few minutes grace, and :he last minutes were read and confirmed. chairman's statement- The Chairman made the following statement :— The Council's solicitor informs the Council that the present by-laws re slaughter houses remain m force under the new Act for 1894. The Council therefore need not move further m pre paring fresh by-laws. A list of renewal licenses for this year will be placed before bhe Council for approval. The election of one of the members of this Council to act on the Iyttelton Harbour Board tikes place on the 11th of next month, and the Council will have to hold a meeting on that day for that purpose. The recaiver of land revenue advises the further pay ment to the credit of the Council of £56 Is 9d on account of Rangitata thurda, for the period ending November 1, 1884. The matter of making by-laws re traction engines crossing county bridges is a Bubjecfc the Council should consider to day. The Wakanui Creek Committee have met since last meeting, and will present their report to-day. The Commissioner of Crown Lands writes to say that; the sum of £40 for water supply. Hinds Village Settlement, is available, provided the balance of the amount required is pro vided by the Council. engineer's bepokt. The foil©wing report from the Engineer was read:— Ashburton Rakaia Plains Water Supply— With the exception of some slight interrup tions caused by freshets at the intakes, the service throughout continues to be satisfac tory. A quantity of shingle has been washed into the auxiliary channel, but other wise the mains and distributing races are m fair order. About December 10, the Rakaia river left the >Acton intake altogether, re ceding from the south bank to a channel about the middle of the riverbed. By some scooping and light earthworks, a sufficient supply was led across the riverbed to rein state tbe service, and the supply will be kept up m this way till the stream returns to the south bank. The service m Wakanui district was a little lighter than usual for a few days on account of some tampering with embankment near flume at Cochrane's, the object apparently being to bring water into some part of the gully. This matter is re ferred to m the ranger's report. Last week the supply m North Ashburton river diminished considerably, and would soon have been insufficient for the normal supply of Wakanui creek had recent rains not aug mented the supply. In accordance with your instructions I am taking preparatory steps for bringing m a supply from the Bouth branch if occasion should arise, some minor works m riverbed near intake being all that would be necessary. I have taken levels over the proposed connection between £1 and E3 races, Doric, being an extension of the water race main from JUkaia river, to provide an additional service for Messrs McMillan, Storey, and William Harrison, including the construction of a loop line off £3 race. There would he heavy cutting for the first thirty chains along Mr Henry Harrison's boundary, especially through two sand hillocks, where the depths would be four feet ten inches and eight feet five inches respectively. For the remainder of the way the race would be of the ordinary depth. The length of proposed connection between El and E3 races would be two miles, and the loop line asked for would be about the same length. To give an adequate supply, about four miles of the existing race from near Acton homestead would have to be im proved more or less, and the manager states that m that case he will stipulats for three sheep bridges and two fords for field cros sings. It appears to me therefore that the total cost would be Buch as could not reason ably be defrayed by the three landholders at present more immediately interested, but 1 understand the landowners m Kyle district would defray a quarter of the cost if the race were to be extended a still further distance of about four miles to the vicinity of D 4 race near the Ohertsey road. 1 am of opinion therefore it would be well for the settlers m that district to take concerted action m the matter. Ashburton-Rakaia Water Supply.—-All the races below the line of tbe South Ash burton main have been well supplied. The Upper Hinds races, which are dependent on the gorge supplies, are somewhat light, as is usual at this period ot the year, but the late rain will give a more copious supply m that quarter. If preliminary arrangements should be completed soon, it would be Well to in vite tenders for enlarging mains, etc., some time m March, m order that the heaviest portion of the work might be got over before winter. County Plantations.—l beg to annex re ports from ranger re fire m plantation re serve 1782 near Winslow on December 17, and another m reserve 1905 between Tinwald and Winslow on December 28. The damage by the latter is merely nominal, a few chains of gorse fence only being burned. Californian Thistle.—l beg to report that a patch of this noxious weed exists on Medi cal Reserve 2255, Valetta, adjacent to water race. As yet it is only about twenty yards long by six yards wide, but it should be ex tirpated, and meantime I have asked the ranger to have it cut down to prevent its seeding. County Bridges.—The repairs necessary since last meeting have consisted merely m the renewal of some of the planking. In accordance with your instructions I adver tised the Rakaia Gorge bridge as unfit for traction engines, and have written to the Engineer m Chief for plan of the bridge, so that I may compute the cost of ironbark joisting referred to m his letter of December • 21, and other items which may be necessary. Riding Maps.—At your request I have compiled maps of the seven ridings m the county, m connection with the valuations now about to be made. Acton Irrigation Works,—These are now completed, and Mr Allan is preparing to have the supply distributed over a consider able area of grass lands within the limits of that estate. (Left Sitting).

MAGTSTERIAL.

ASHBURTON-F RIDAY.

(Before A. Harrison and J. W. Sawle, J.P.) Application yob, Restitution.—Mr Cutrh bertson applied to have certain goods which the police had seiz&d on authority of a search warrant, retorned to the person from whom they were taken; but the matter was adjourned for a week m order thac the police might proceed with the case m the usual way, Mr Purnell undertaking on behalf of the person who claimed the goods that an information w quid be forthcoming. Assault. —.John Murray was sentenced, $o, fourteen days' imprisonment fW aa^ul^z — Douglas on Christmas Day. ' Alleged 'Larceny. — o.' Coaling, fish, h&wker, Christe.hurch, was charged with, having, on or about November 2b, stolen a rug the property of the owners of Chester* field station. The rug was valued at £4. Mr Donnelly, of Christchurch, appeared for the accused, and consented to the case being desalt with supsmarily. The accused pleaded not guilty. The rug was lost; on $i$ Ashburton bridge off a dray belonging 'to, the prosecutors, and found by the defendant and taken to' Christchurch.—Mr Donnelly, fo^r ! the defence, contended that there was n% evidence that the accused knew who o,wns4 the rug when he found it, or that he intended to steal it when he found it, and these facts were necessary to constitute larceny. From evidence for the defence it appeared that accused made no secret of having the rua; m his possession, and that he told a man m Christchurch to advertise it. It was ad mitted that the accused's character was good —The Bench dismissed the ca«e, but cautioned the accused to be more careful m future m regard to property that might be picked up by Win.

THE ASHBUKTON GtJAfcDIAK I FRIDAf, JAKIfARY 4, 189§



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FoßlNraaEffPWFj the best vauiedv is un doubtedly Norton's OamO'mile PixiJ*. Thay, can confidently be recommended:'-;a» being njild m operation and absolutely free from i injurious drugs. Acting atoncb as a splen-i dfd tonit aa<jl£ gentle aperient.' ,For nearly: 100 years I&ey ha^e proved unequalled for Jndiges^ion, I)yp|pepßi», and for Liver *nd Stomaph Qooipla 'ty"; Sold mi bottles Is i^d, 2» H a»d lie, by all ttedi>| cine Vendors throughout tn@ wwli, A jjnple, H»ffi and certain remedy-



MR JOHN R. PROCTER, OCGLI3TS OPTICIAN, OF HIGH SrREEI', CHRISTCHURCH, V^ILL bo m Ashburton on SATURDAY, JANUARY 5. Only and can be consulted upstairs over H. M. Jones, Stationer, East Street.



CHRISTMAS & NB.W YEAR 1894-95 H. Z. C F. Opened up this week for the holidays, NEW TIES, NEW SILK HANDKERCHIEFS. A LATE shipment of Men's Navy Blue and White STRAW HATS, to be Cleared at 3?, worth 4s 6i. BOYS' STRAW HATS Is. We have tho Latest shapes m Hard and [Hott FELT HATS. See our Windows for Grand Christmas Display, For comforb try one of the New Soft Felt Hats—weight l|oz CLOTHING DEPARTMENT. A few Boys Washing Blouses to be Cleared at 3a 3d. Gents' Fancy Tests m Great Variety. FOR TRAVELLING- Steel Trunks from 12s Portmanteaux and Gladstone Bags. HANDSOME PRESENT— A Bismarck Sewing Machine with Coves for a©£s lOs. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. ALEX. HENDRY, Manager TO OUR SUBSCRIBERS SOMIE of the Guabman runners having been changed, our Subscribers are respectfully requested to notify the man ager at once any irregularity m the delivery of their papers. Aahburton Pablishfng Co., January 3, 1895.



WANTED Known—Special line of Gents' Kegatta Shirts, all sizes, with or without collars, 2s 6d.—W. H. Collier.



WANTED — Everyone to see onr splendid display of Christmas Fruib, etc. Dop't miss »" ein§ the Finebt Show m Ashburton. Note address— Fletcher Bros , Wholesale and Retail Grocers, Cash Supply Stores, Ashburton.



OWN Make In Ladies' and Children's Underclothing, Aprons, and Pina fores ; also a good assortment of Calicoes, tyluslins, Flannelettes, Trimmings, etc., afc Mrs A morn's new shop, Bakei's Buildings.



Wanted I "PRACTICAL Stacker wants employ- j JL ment. Apply Mail Office. Iji9 | WANTED Known—A tremendous' run on our Gloves, 4|d upwards. < —Mitchell and Turner. " , "OHOTOGRAPHIC Chemicalsat, lowest JL price. Instruction given free. — Ashburton Drug Company 1 22 SEVERAL lines still to clear, laafc day of Sale To Morrow, (Saturday). E. Williams, by the Convent. 1 23 SATURDAY, Last Day Hyde's Fancy Fair. Walk right m and if any thing you want secure at bargain prices. 1 24 WANTED Known.- Having had such a successful season with Dresses, balance to clear *t nominal prices.— Mitchell asd Turner. T ANOASTER'S 'Instantograph' _I_J Camera, £410a.—Ashburton Drug Company. ] 20 ■/._ . THE «Tit Bits' Hand Camera. No previous knowledge of photography required. You simply take aim and press the button. £2. — Ashbubton Drug Company. 1 21 WANTED Kiwn—All wool Delaines, Prints, and Crepons below whole sale ratea.—Mitchell and Turner. WANTED Fnown—That H. A. '* lower, Confectioner, East street, has a splendid variety of Fry's and Cadbnry's Chocalate Boxes, now m stock. BLANKETS bought at Edwards Bennet'a Sale, a special line of Double Blankets at 7s 9d. Extra large and heavy 15s 8d and 16a 6d.—Robert Alcorn, Baker's Building*, WANTED Known — Mrs Hooper (monthly nurse) is open to accept engagements. Apply, by letter, to Mrs Hooped, Alford Forest Road, Ashburton. 11*134 "T3EAOTTFUL ar,d useful Presents to _L) all purchasers of 2a 6d and upwards. —H. C Segers, Melfcrd House. ROBERT ALCORN has opened m Baker's Buildings, next the Court house, with a stock of Clothing, etc., bought at Edwards, Bannett's and the Kaiapoi Sales, the cheapest lot of goods ever brought to Ashburton. Also an assortment of Boots. «VTANTED Known-Holders of VV Present tickets can now get them changed!.—H. 0. Segers, Melford House. WANTED Known—The Corner Is showing a magnificent New Stock of Drapery and Clothing.—W, H. Collier. PRESENTS. We are now giving Presents to all purchasers of 2? 6d and upwards.—H, C. Segeks, Melford House. T AD IKS' and Gentlemen's lefr-off JIJ Clothes and all kinds of goods boughc, sold, or exchanged. — Mrs Knight, opposite Templar Hall, near Post Office. 11 170 NOTICE 1 Notice Sport for~~aTl Guns let out on hire cr sold on time payments. Having a professional Gunsmith on the premises, I undertake to repair Guns ot uny description. Gun fittinsrs m stock. Prices,low. —J. W. Hardlby, Ironmonger, etc' WANTED Known—Spectacles, Eye Protectors, Goggles, Folders, and everything m the option lire at S. S ilek's, Optician, WANTED —Every Lady to try Madam Balcombe'S Patent Ex panding Belt Corset (registered), guaran teed whalebone throughout. Orders left at Mr E, Hall's, Herbalist, Ashburton, will receive prompt attention. 10 86 BOY'S and Girls Own Annual, British Workman and Workwoman, Infant's Magazine, The Prize, Child's Companion, Ohiidren'i Friend, Little Dot, Family Friend, Band of Hope. Young England, and other New Books at Lowest Prices.— L. F. Andrewes and Co. 11 98 GUNS ! Guns ! Guns ! My new stock of Gunsj ust to hand direct from the manufacturers. Double and Single Barrel Breech Leaders, Rifles, etc. In speetfon invited. No old stock to select from at J. W. Hardley's Sporting Repository SWEEPING Reductions. —Is Books for 9d, Is 6d Books for Is, 2a Books for la 6d, 2a 6d Books for 2s, and all others at equ&l ra*"e of reduction at L. F. Andrewes and Go's., Cash SaJe. 618 i^iHEAP Christmas Present, Cheap V>> New Year Gifts, Cheap Toys, Cheap Dolls, Cheap Fancy Gooda. Mas Adams, Saunders' Buildings. BANG ! Bang i Bang 1 My new sea son's stock of Ammunition to hand Eley's, Kynock's and, Glut) Cartridges, Powder, Shot, Caps, Wads, Cases and all sporting materials of the first quality at J. W. Hardley's, Gun Emporium. WAITED Known —That if you are m w&ut of. a first) class article m sum mci? Boots and Shoes, you cannot do better than call at J. Moison's ; you will get the very bast at reduced prices. Ar for his own make, they are well known to the delight of the wearers, throughout the .iustralaeian colonies. Repairs well done and at oncß. premier Boot Maker, Town Hall Boot Stor@* F'ic street, Ashburton. /"IHftISTMAS Presents, <Shoi«e Orna \J mente, Withers and dstfa ft'arps, Balis and .Dolls for everybody from Id each; Jointed Dolls for 6d, Sleeping Beauties Is. Chinese Conquerors 63, Russian Embassies Is, WaJjkjlng Men, "talking Dolls, Scotch Greys, and Ennis killen Dragoons all wonderfully cheap at Mb.s Alcobn's Ladies' Dnderclothing and Fancy Bazaar, Havelock street. WANTED Knowrn—That owing to the success of the Sale now being held up at Saunders' Buildings, opposite Rail way Station, ib will be continued for another twenty-eight days. lam not advertising a few cheap lines, bub the ffhole of the stock. Don't lose the oppor t.unitjr of securing genuine bargains—A Lawbs®. 166 1 QC\ F* w ¥■*&# i4t(is and ew LOtJ D . Year Gif ts qf kinds. Fancy Goods, including 'Fancy $lass and Chinawarc, Toys of various kinds, Cfyinesej Lvntems 4 New Games for indoors and' outdoors, mAvding Tennis and Cricket! Material-; Wteifeig Desks and Cases,: Inkstandf, Photo .a&i %|f*p Albums, 1 Ladiea' Hand Bags, jPii.ctur.e frames j Pictures, Texts, Accordeons, Gon,certfnjiß,; Violins, Zither H«rp?,, Banjos and a; great variety of other goods all at Reduced Prices for Cash ab L. F. Andrewes asp Co.'s. POLLAR CJGABETXISS-^d pey pack«



Business Notice^. Holidays Holidays. HOLIDAYS ARE NOW IN FULL SWING. mHE CHEAPEST HOUSE IN CANTERBURY FOR Drapery, "Clothing, and Boots. G. J. WEIL L. ffloliday Dress for 3s Ud A Boy's Suit for us lid l&Jito'Ss lid dozen \ BOOTS. BOOTS. Ladies Shoes 4s lid I M«n's Bluchers 4s lid Men's Nailed Shooters s lid | G. J. NEILL. EAST STREET, FRIEDLANDER'S BUILDINGS, 18 0 4. Christmas and New Year's Greeting FLETCHER BROS-,,, HAVE JUST RECEIVED EX GOTHIC -100 cases Finest New Ve3tiaan Currants 50 boxes Finest New Sultanas 30 boxes Finest New Valencias 50 boxes Finest New Eleraes 25 boxes Australian Muscatels, to be cleared at Scl per id ALSO THE FOLLOWING JUST TU HAND FOR CHRISTMAS TRADE- Jordan Almonds Dedicated Cocoanut Keene's Mixed Spice Preserved irmts Preserved Ginger Pears, Peaches, Cordials, <fee. Apricots, &c. Valencia Almond 3 , lib bottles of Persian Sherbit, 8d per bottle. it A splendid line of Christmas Oake m Fancy Baskets to be sold at Is Gd each, PLEASE NOTE, that all those Goods are of the very FINEST QUALITY PROCURABLE, whbh we intend to sell at the LOWEST POSSIBLE PRICE. A look at our windows will show. PRESERVING SEASON, 1895. JUST LANDING Ex AURIGA,— 25 tons Fine it Mauritius Cane Sugar (1161 ba^s ) This is the FINEST CINE SUGAR to be S ofc and jam, 4c, made with it will keep almost any length of time. NOTE ADDRESS FLEIUHER BROS., CASH SUPPLY STOKES, ASHBDE'TON, AND LOWER HIGH STREET, CHRISTCHURCH. Don t miss seeing our splendid show of Christmas Fruits, &c. FOR CHBISTMAS, 1894, AND NEW YEAR, 1895. PRESENTS, UAmm ,• Q• ,rB INSPECTION is invited of the New, Choice, and High-class Stock at the Jewellery Establishment of S. SALBK,. WATCHMAKER AND JEW EL L E|R EAST STREET Where is to be seen the LARGEST and CHOICEST Stock of Gold and Silver Jewellery, Diamond Goods and Plate, m the i)istrict. Bought for Cash and marked down at Prices which must prove S. SALEK'S To be the Cheapest Establishment m the District, and inspection will prove a Stock equal to any m Christchurch is to bo found. S, SAJLEK, WATCHMAKER AND JEWELLER. ."~~ WIMSLOW. &AH 1 Act PRICE re- 3^31 I JLvJS.'""'"" quired for SECTIONS MO, 141, 150 and 151, an T.Sullß4, 1185 each containing \ acre, acre iv on« WLock on the upper side Oameron Street, West, fenced and planted nfrwiway. Offers ua invited for these, with macraearpa. Tarms if required. %plj to Persons desirous of building are Invited ?.. BULLOOK. to inspect. Easy terms. -~ —TINWILS7 T. BULLOCK^ nO nr ,£™ 5 *™«nov- i rHO LET, at a low rental, small shop m UU 3 ROODS,* '^ q mxl bufconetoTancred All m grasses, just below Tinwald, ,sUe^. rn r,w originally part of Graham's Fatm. well T BULLOCK. watered, »nd which should make a good __ r-, -,«-— — — — diiry farm. Offers are invited for this*. is,v»rybouy to use litan Maw barms of payment. Apply to Vy Soap, greatest maw«J <rf the age-