Fixe at Metkven.

On Thursday morning, Mr Arthur Dobbs, shoemaker, Methven, was awakened, about In If -past one, by an unusual noise, and gett ing up saw that Borne building m the neai vicinity of Mr Nee'a Hotel waa on fire. On making to the Bppt he found it was the stable, and gave the alarm. Mr Nee and family were roused, and very soon a number of people were on the ground lending assist ance, Mr Dobbs giving yeoman service m the work of -preventing the flames, which had a good hold, from epr adicg to the hotel building. There was plenty of wa'er m the race which runs ihrough the townsh-p, but iv the absence of uny sort of a fire engii c those present had to do the best they could with buckets. Thanks to hard work and a nor'-wester, which blew the fire away from the main building, the hotel was saved, but the stable was completely destroyed. The stable was a fairly large Luilding, of fif een stalls, two loose boxes, feed house, and buggy shed. At the time of the fire there were two of Mr Nee's racehorses m the loose boxes— Frown Eagle and Flyaway, both onteied for Rakaia sports, and calculated to have a good say m the events — but it was impossible to save them, and they were burned to death. It v. as the screaming of those horseß that was understood to have awakened Mr Dobbs, but the flames had got so fierce a grip of the building that nothing could be done to tave the animals. In the harness room waß all Mr Nee's harness, valued at about £60 ; a gig and a trap were m the shed, worth about £35 m all ; and a large quantity of feed — all of which was destroyed The horses were valued at about £70, and are a serious loss, for several reasons, to Mr Kee. Mrß Nee allowed a swagger to put up for the night m one of the stalls. This man is a well-known French man, a one-legged man, who makes a living by mending umbrellas and doing odd jobs of cutlet y. This man lost his wooden leg m the fire, and all his Bwag, toolß, umbrella phut, etc. He denies having had any fire m the sta 1 m which he slept, or having done anything at all likely to oauae the fire. The building was insured m the National, but for what sum we have not learned. Theie was no insurance on anything else. It may be mentioned that on Thursday morning the , local cons tab' e had the one legged French- ' man arrested for vagrancy, and on Friday morning the local bench sent him a month to gaol on this and other charges. { « ■ ' i

THE BARRYTOWN CLAIM.

A Pan-off m Asliburtou. This forenoon Mr Hugh Cullen, assisted \ by another old West Coast digger, panned j off, m the Arcade, m the presence of a large , gathering of people, a Bample bag of wash dirt from the Bairytown claim, recently se cured by Messrs Zander, Duncan, und Shury. The panbiog-off was carefully and efficiently done by the operators, and showed from 120 to 150 colors to the half-shovel. This would represent about 3s per load of wash dirt, and as the c'aim comprises closo on 200 acres, all tested and proved to be as good as j the sample operated on to-day, there can be j no question as to the claim being an un- J doubt idly safe speculation. J\ umbers of individual miners m the same locality, work ing barely half time, m consequence of irre gular water supply, have been making £3 per week for years past, with the mo6t primitive appliances, so that it stands to ordinary, reason that whh the unlimited water supply already secured, the venture was provtd extremely satUfactory to all Concerned. .

Conference of Premiers.

Press Association— By Electric Telegraph— Copyright. $ Wellington, December 19. ..The Premier has leceived favorable repli»s to his proposal for a conference of Premiers on reciprocity and trade relations with the Mother Country from all the colonies except New South Wales, which has not replied yer. It is suggested that a meeting should take place at Hobart afer the Federation Conference.

COMMERCIAL

Press Association— By Electric Telegraph- Copyright. London, December 17 New Zealand frozen mutton, first quality, 3^d per 1b ; second 2|d j lamb, 3|d. The English wheat m&iket is quiet, with an inclination to weakness, the Continental is depressed, while the American is declin ing and weak. Californian No 1 milling m wheat for early shipment, per 5001bs, 0.f.i., is quoted at 34s 6d. Russian cargoes, per steamer, per 492U)8,c.f.i., 31s 6d. The Bradford wool market is weaker.

SYDNEY WOOL SALES.

Sydney, December 19. The Sydney wool sales closed will be resumed on January 4. During the series 310,280 bales hav9 been offered a decrease of 26,658, aod 276,686 bales have been sold, a decrease of 28127 compared with correspond ing Bix months of last year. The Bales closed actively m all sections, beßt classes were a farthing balow the highest prices. ,•• Medium quality practically unchanged, inferior and la.mba wool, irregular, and scoured, weaker.

There was a moderate attendance at the Getaldine fortnightly sale, when the follow ing prices were < ffered : — Ewes and lambs 5s 6d, hoggets 4s lid to 8s 4d, fat ewes 4s lOd to 88 6d, pigs (small) 4s 3d to 6s 9d, fab cattle £4 to £6, calves 265, springing oows £3 10s to £4 sa. The New Zealand Farmers' Co-opera tive Association of Canterbury. Ltd., quote as follows on December 18, 1896 : — >Vheat— : ' •■ 'Prime millingP.earl 4s 6d to 4, s 7<l f . o.b. \,, '„ ijscan 4?Jd • ;. ;; Hunter's flssd to 4s 64 „ Seconds clean ... 3a 6d to 3j 9d f.o.b. Patf- Duns ... Isljd . „ Gpod stput feed ... $3 '  Milling gs to 2a J.d „ ■parley- Prime malting „. \ « : i Medium (dull) . / Nomiual Beans 2s 8d f.o.b. Peas- Prussian blues ... 58/ „ Partridge 3s to 3s 3d „ Chaff- Good oatsheaf ... (Nominal) 35s to 40s at country stations. The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company. Ltd., quote &% follows on December 18, 1896 :— Wheat- Prime milling Pearl 4s 6d to 4s 7d f.o.b. „ „ Tuscan 4s Sd to 4a 6d „ fi ,-, Hunter's 4a 6d to 4s 6d  Seconds, c'ean, few offering 3s 6d to 3s 9d ♦„ Oats- Tartars and Duns . . Is lOd to Is lid  Good stout feed ... 2s v Milling .. .. 2s to 2s Id „ Barley- Prime malting / (none offering) } Feed 2s 3d to 2a 6d „ Beans .-. Bs 6d to 2s 8d „ Eeas — ■' , Prussian Blues .. (nominal) Ohaff— . ' Gopcl oatsbeaf ... 3{ss to 37« 6d per ton at country stations.

EARTHQUAKE IN ENGLAND.

— ♦■■ — i Press Association— By Electric Telegraph— j Copyright. London, December 18 The worst of the earthquake was felt m Wales and west of the Midlands. It also reached Durham and Lincoln. 4'heahakewas felt in-over two hun dred to^ns and villages." The tower of Windjor Oaitle rocked, !

The Fodor 1 Convention.

Melbourne, December 18. ' The Premier has wired to the Pre . mier of New S uth Wales strongly r urging him to proceed with the Federal » Convention elections, and not abandon j the proposal merely becauae Queens r lai d has decided to stand aloof for the - present. » Sydney, December 18 } -As the result of a cabinet meeting s the Pn-mier is conferring with the ; other colonies as to th« issue of writs s fixing the date of the elections for 1 ted« ral delegates.

WEDDING.

Jones— Anderson. A very pretty wedding took placa on ' Wednesday, at the Presbyterian Church, Flemington, between Mr F. Jones and Miss Isabella Anderson, daughter of Mr S. Anderson, Flemington. A large number of spectators were present to witness the cere mony which was performed by the Rev. J. Skinner. The bride looked charming m a grey silk lustre trimmed with lace and ribbon, with orange blossoms and veil and gold brooch (the gift of the bridegroom). The bridesmaid, Miss Annie Dakers, wore grey tweed. Mr W. R. Anderson acted as beat man. After the ceremony the bridal party adjourned to the schoolroom where a sumptuous breakfast was provided. Out door games, etc., were indulged m dur ing the afternoon, and songs and garnet) passed away the evening. Among the wedding presents, which were nutner' ous, handsome, and costly, was a silver ten pot present d to Mrs Jones by the Flemington choir, Mr and Mrs Jones oarry with them the best wishes of their numerous friends.

LITEST ITEMS

A pleasant concert promoted by Mr H. Spensley took place at Ruapuna last even ing and was well patronised by the public. Miss Spenaley, whose reputation as a voca list is well known m Ashburton, sang some solos as did her sister, Miss Ruth Spensley, and both these ladies sang a duet which was loudly encored — as indeed were most of the items. Mr James Spensley on the 'cello, and Mr Hector Spensley on the violin con tributed largely to the success of the concert, white Mr W. Spensley sang solos. The pianißts^were Mr Hall, whose playing at the wedding was so much admired, and Mrs .; Rayward. A dumb farce, m which Mr I Ray ward's ventriloquism, supported by Mr j W. Spensley, kept the audience m roars of laughter formed part of the entertainment, which was also materially assisted by Mr Rayward with his dolls which he managed with much dexterity. The whole affair re flected great credit on the promoters. i If it required an annual outlay of $100, to insure a family againat any serious conse quences from an attack of bowel complaint ' i during the year theie are many who would j feel it their duty to pay it ; that they could ! not aff rd to risk their lives, and those of their family for such an amount. Any one can get this insurance for 25 cents, that being the price of a bottle of Chamberlain's Colic, Cholera, and Diarrhoea Remedy. In almost every neighbourhood sbme one has died from an attack of bowel complaint before medicine could be procured or a physician summoned. One or two doses of this remedy will cure any ordinary case. It never fails. Can you afford to take the risk for so small an amount ? For sale by the Abhbubton Drug Compahy- '

Strong English Words

When a person says "I suffered excrucia ting pain," ho expresses a fact m the strongest words afforded by life English language. The word • excruciating ' comes from cru%, a cross, and signifies an intensity of agony comparable only to that endured by one who undergoes the barbarous punish ment of crucifixion. There aro some diseases, which, for a time, cause pain of this acute and formidable nature. L'o find a relief for it, when possible, is at onoe the impulse of humanity and the studious desire of science. Two brief examples may indicate wh(it success je attending the effort to both comfort and cure cases of this kind. <• Nearly all my life," writes an intelligent woman, " I have borno the burden of what seemed to be incurable illness. 1 always felt heavy, weary, and tired. My appetite was poor, and after eating I had a cruel pain at my chest and between the shoulders. Frequently ihe pain was so iv tense that I was impelled to loose my clothing and walk about the room, My nerves were disordered and impressible, and I was, consequently, 1 easily disquieted and upßet. My sleep was habitually bad, and I seemed none the better for spending a night m bed. Eating but little my strength waned of necessity, and i came to be very weak. For a long time I got about feebly and with difficulty. "In August, 1887, I had an attack of rheumatic gout, \yhich gave me the most harrowing experiences of my life. The complaint took its usual course and refused to yield to the ordinary treatment. Through the partial failure of the liver and kidneys dropsy set m and my legs and feet became puffed and Bwollen. I euffered excruciating pain and was confined to my bed for thirteen weeks. Remedies of every description were tried but to little purpose. ' •My brother, visiting me one day, said be had been cured of an attack of dropsy by Mother Seigel'a Syrup, ' J -got a battle from Mr Hewitt, the qhemisr, m Seven Sisters Road, and after taking it |elt a trifle easier. I continued taking it, and soon the pain and swelling abated. I could eat without pain or inconvenience, and by a few weeks further use of the Syrup I was not only free from any local ailment, but felt better than I ever did m my life before. Since then I have enjoyed continuous good health, taking a dose of Mother Seigel's Syrup occasionally for some transient indis position. You are at liberty to publish my letter. Signed, Mrs Eizabeth Rogers, 42, Plevna Road, South Tottenham, London, September 13lh, 1895.' • In January, 1892,' writes another, • I had an attack of influenza, and was confined to my bed for eighteen weeks thereafter. Subsequently I was very weak and could get up no strength. What little food I forced down (having no appetite) pave me excruciating pain, so that I was afraid to eat". I came to be exceedingly weak and had frequent attacks of dizzine&B. I was worn almost to a skeleton and none thought I would recover. ♦In June, 1892, Mr Smith, a friend of ours, recommended me to try Mother Seigel'a Syrup, which I at once procured of Mr Qeorge Qoombsi the chemist \d Hucknall, Xfter faking it 'for only one weeji 1 fe!6 greatly benefited. I could eat better, and food agreed with nie. Continuing wifch the Syrup J grew stronger and stronger, and soon felt even better than before I was attacked by the influenza. You ape free to print this statement if you wish to do so, -igned, Mrs Ruth Halliday, 44, High Street, Hucknall Torkard, Nottingham, March 19th, 1895.' | Intense pain may or may not indicate urgent danger to life, but it is hard to bear, and very exhausting jusc the Bame. In cases of rheumatic gout (Mrs Rogers) the pain is caused by a poisonous acid m the tissues, originally produced by the decomposition of food m the stomach — indigestion or dyspepsia, i The same poison acting on the liver and kidneys creates the other symptoms mentioned. la the case of Mrs Halliday the ailment was. dyspepsia, which m the* first f plwe Invited iaflueusa, and tiheu romainod 1 fltQfMtßtlWff

TBte Uuifcbkttfe titilMUAHl SATUHDAt, DICEMBEfi 19, 189&



Business L = _i_^^H CHRISTMAS, 1896T^8 A MEBBY CHBISTMAS TO ALL. 19 NEW FRUITS ~NEW FRUIijB OUR .New Season's Fiuir, per s.s Gothic and Rakaia, is now to*and.J^M is the finest shipment of Fruit ever seen m Ashburton. Do not |^^| seeing our grand display of Christmas IVuits, now on \iew at our p)<w^^| Business, East street. It is admitted to be the best dressed Fruit WiHffl^M ever seen m Ashburlou We lead, follow who can. ll^H SEE OUR DISPLAY OF DRIED FRUITS, THEY ARE RUALLY MAGNIFICeJM 50 cases Finest Voßtizz* Currants ' 3 cases Sicily Almonds «»li^H 50 boxes Finest Sultanas 5 cwb Natural Figs - "V )|^B 25 casea t leme Raising 2 boxea Valencia almonds „ X^H 10 boxej finest Val.ncias \ 20 boxes Turkey Figs ""■' vH 20 boxes Mildnra and Californian Muscatels 2 boxes Jardoa Almonds ' ; 'H 10 caae3 new Dates 5 boxes Dried Apricots ""^M 4 cases new Prunes . 5 boxen Dried Peaches -^M 2 cases of lib boxes new Figs 5 boxes Dried Apples :B 11201ba finest LemoD, Orange, and Citrcn 'lIM ALSO THE FOLLOWING SEASONABLE GOODS. |9 5 gross assorted Essences 25 cases Ship Lime Juice '^M 5 gross 2£lb tins Preserved Peaw 5 cases Raspberry ' 1 gross finest mixed Spice, iv loz packets 5 cases Piae Apple Syrup ' and ilb tins 3 caaes Peppermint 5 gross 2itb tins Preserved Peaches 60 d. zm Herbal Beer Extract "gH 4 gross 2£lb tins Preserved Apricots 12 dozen issence Rennebt, etc., etc. ifH 5 casea Lemon Syrup . vfH JAM. JAM. JAM. PRESEBYING SEASON— IB96-gT^ '| 25 TONS CAFE SUGAR 55 TONS We have m stock and to arrive, 25 tons Finest Cane Sucar, among which it a small shipment of Bi ewers' Crystals, which is the best and safest Sugar for Jam or Jelly. making. Jam made from this sugar is bound to give every satisfaction. > JAM JARS? JAM JABS. | . 5 gross igallon Mason Jars, 10 gross 1 quart Mason Jars, 5 grosß I pint Maaon Jars. J Also the Celebrated Lightning Jars and "plain lib and 21b Glass Jars . !■ FECULINA. FECtJLINA. FEODLINA. A 4£d per packet, 4£d per packet. -60 dozen, 60 dozen, 60 dozen. We have just received another thipment of this Celebrated CAKE FLOUR. Havil^H only a small quantity, viz., 60 dczen, we advise our customers to buy at once, as we so^l out our last shipment m a few days. _. & CROCKERY. CROCKERY. CEOCKEBYt-J We have just landed a large shipment of OROOKEUY of all kinds f<fl our Christmas trade. Having bought them m thp best markets for Sp]^| Cash, we are enabled to sell them at Lower Prices than anyone m Ashburtoflfl Patent Anti-tannin Teapots, 6d to lOd each White and Gold China Egg Cups, Is 3d peril Brown Glazed Teapots, from 7d each dozen ■-'*■ Black and Gold Teapots (best quality), from Cups and Saucers, from 3s 9d jjer dcz ; M 2a 3d each White and Gold China Cups and Saucers. 1 Splendid Tumbler*, from 2s 6d per doz from 5a 10d dozen Lovely China Cruets, only lid each — hHh And all other lines Equally Chesp. To be obtained from the Cheapest House m Ashburton; SPECIAL —We wish to draw our Customers' at^nlion to the fact that wel cannot (according to the Ac% compelling us to close our pi cc nf hu incss on Thursdays^ at 1 o'clock p m.), deliver any goods from our Establishment after the stipulated time Tof J closing, viz , 1 o'clock. But iv the case of farmers and others, who Oder and pay for their 1 goods, before 1 o'clock on a Thursday, and cannot return m time to get them before wtul close, ye will serid ihem to any Bo re or place where they can call and get them. We dfl| about the most extensive business m this town, so says oue or the Guardians of thcPem^H m this :o\vn, and he ou«ht to know. . "^H FLETCHER BROS., 1 OASH SUPPLY STORES, ASHBURTON AxN?D OHIUSTCHUROfI|H Telephone 2^— Box 67. fl| F. M. JONES. • . H. M. JONES. SANTA t}LAUS <: AND, FATHSM CHRISTMAS ARE COMIKG AUAIN, to tho "great delight of young and old. IN order to give the a^ove distinguished personages alitting reception, K. M. JONfflH has specially imported from several leading London firms, a great variety of' STATIONERY, TOYS, DOLLS & FANCY GOODS, ■ Now Landing, ex Rimulaka, Matitua, Rakaia, and Vakeha, from London : Tasmaoi^H and Talune, from Melbourne. The ABhbuiton Box of Stationery, Is ami 6d boxes, unsurpassed for value by as^^H House m the trade. "B^B Plain and. Fancy Stationery. Latest Tiafs and Styles. . BOOK.H. BOOKS. BOOKS.B A Varied and Well-selected Stock of RE WAKU PRIZE and PRESENTATION BOOhH from Ward, Lock & Co., Cassell & Co., Neßbitt & Co., R; T. Society, and others/^! Poets and Standard Works m cloth and Morocco bindings. SCHOOL COMMITTEES LIBERALLY DEALT WITH. 1 TOYS. TOYS. * TOYP. TOYS M A Large Variety of all sorts— from ald Squeaker to a Steam Engine. DrnmJS Trumpet", Balls, Arks, Watches, Magic Lanterns, Skipping Ropes, Skittles, Balls^ Cubes, Games, Dog% Cats, Owls, Monkeys, Sheep, Beach Horses, Rooking Horses, Wheel, t barrows, Engines, Hobby Horses, Carts, Horses and Carts, Trains, Tea tfets ; Wood, Woolfl Rag, and Rubber Toys too numerous to particularise. V DOLLS. DOLLS. DOLL* 3 . DOLLS. ■ ALL SORTS AND SIZES FROM Id to 10a. V that squeak and Dolls that won't. Dolla that break and Dolls that don't. ■ Wood, Wool, Rag, Compo, Wax, and Rubber Dolls. I FANCY GOODS. FANCY GOODS. I Work Baskets, Ladies' Companions, Mirrors, Albums, Writing Cases, Writing Desks V Work Boxes, G ove and Handkerchief Boxes, Shell Boxes, Brackets, Plaques, Hund Baas *l Plush and Leather Goods. 6 ' | Electro-plated Ware, Fancy China and Glass Ware, Vases, Ornaments, cheap, pretty I and useful. Flower Bulb and Specimen Vases, 3d to 6d each. <*. j CHEISTMAS AND NEW YEAR CABDS. Great Variety and Designs. Boxes and .Packets. Wonderful va/ues. ] Must be seen to be appreciated. '. - 1 CRICKETING & LAWN TENNIS MATERIALS from Wisden land Co.'s, London. J Bats, Balls, Stum r 8, Racquets, Etc. ■ h. m.~ Tones. I SPRINgT & ..STJMMER 7 "^ FASHIONS. ""• A. P. WILLIAMSON, TANCRED STREET, t IS Now Showing a Grand Assortment of the Newest Goods m Sprint *"aud Summer DRAPERY— aII- marked at IOWEST OASH PRICES. &^ NEW DRESSES, NEW DRESBKS, NEW DRESSES, In Lv- tres, Shots, Tweeds, Serges, etc. etc. NEW WASHING FABRICS. All the Latest Paiteras and Colorings, m Chenes, Cambrics, Mudin9, Crepons, ~~~~" Prints, etc., etc. ' New Sunshades, Umbrellas, Ribbons, Laces, Gloves, Hosiery, Corsets, etc., etc, Crettonnes, Art Muslins, Curtains, m all the Latest Designs. 'JVIEN'6 AND BOYS' CLOTHING FOU THE SEASON. «gr BOYS NICKER SUITS A SPECIALTY _g$ Shirts,* Hats, Caps, Vests, Pantß, Socks, Braceß, Scarves, m splendid variety. i A. P. WILLIAMSON, (Late G. L. Beatb & Co.) TANCRED STREET, ASHBURTON,



J _ Business Notice. ~\(\ J>jOent OFF MARKKD PRICKS. Per Oenb -I /A R. MURRAY & SON WE AGAIN, as Christmas time comes round, give our Patrons and the Public the SUBSTANTIAL ADVANTAGE of a 10 per cent REDUCTION on all our lines, with the exception of Watches. We have paii Spec : al attention to have a Splendid Assortment of Articles of all kiuds, Suitable for CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR GIFTS, the reßult beine a selection that CANNOT BE SURPASSED m the district. — Among Other Things We Shaw- Fancy Ai tides m Sterling Silver Articles m Silver Plate, new designs Oold and Silver Oharma and Pendants Links and Studs m Gold and Silver Gold Alberts, Silver Alberta Gem Rings, Diamond Rings Brooches m Endless Variety Ladies' Watches, at all prices B. MUBHAY & SON, WATCHMAKERS AND OPTICIANS, ASHBURTON. 1O Per Cent REDUCTIONS. 1O Per Cent REDUCTIONS CHRISTMAS. CHRISTMAS. 1896. A LL IN WANT OF BOOTS AND SHOES for the Christmas 'Holidays should not fail to pay a Visit to the LEADING BOOT ESTABLISHMENT IN THE DISTRICT. Just Opened the following lines, suitable for the Holiday Season — Children's 2x6 White Shoes. Children's Tan t>nd Black Leather 2 Strap Shoes 7x9, 3s. Children's 'I an and Black Leather 2 Strap Shoes 10 x 12, 4a. Ladies' 2 Strap Shoes from 4s 6d. Ladies and Children's Sand Shoes. Ladies' and Children's Black, White, and Brown Canvas Shoes, m lace and strap. Gentlemen's Canvas Shoes from 53 6d \ Gentlemen's Tan Leather Oxford Shoes from 7s 9d. Splendid value. And other lines too numerous to mention. i Call and inspect our Stock and compare our prices, and we are quite sure you will be satisfied that we are offering the very best value m the town. McDonald & mcdiarmid, THE LEADING BOOT EbTABLI^HMENT, EAST STREET. J. KICFOLAS, Manager. Repairs and Orders promptly attended to. AN EYE-OPENER FOR FARMERS. BINDER TWINE - - v- - BINDER TWINE. / X>EFORE PURCHASING ELSEWHERE call at our office and inspect samples, ! obtain prices, make your purchases and save money. _ ° - i • W. H. COLLINS & CO., SOLE AGENTS CHRISTMAS. CHRISTMAS. •T^TE HAVE JUST LANDED THE FOLLOWING SEASONABLE GOOD 3;— Finest New Currants Californian Tinned Apricots, Pears and Finest New Sultans Peaches Fineet New Eleme Raisins Essences m twelve varieties Finest Lemon, Orange, and Citron Peel Paramatta and Ship Lime Juicej Keen's No. 1 Packet Spice Raspberry and Lemon Syrup Maconochie's Royal Scotch Fresh Herrings Maconochie's Silvocea Smoked Haddocks, Maconocbie's Herrings m Tomato Sauce a real delicaoy Prime Malay Muacatolles Maconochie's Kippered Herrings . Jordan, Valencia, and Sicily Almonds NEW FEU LIN A, THE PERFECTION OF CAKE FLOUR 3. Having been appointed SOLE AGENTS for Ashburton for this wonderful preparation, we have received a consignment of this season's Flour, and can with e^ery confidence recommend it to the public of Ashburton as the perfection of prepared Flour, for produc- ing pure and delioious cakes, with the minimum of time, trouble and expenses. FECULINA nuy be had m the following kinds : — Ground Rice, Cheese Cakes Rice Cakes Cocoanut Cakes ' Raspberry Buns Genoa Cakes Sultana Cakes Sponge Cakes  Seed Cakes Madeira Cakes Raspberry Sandwiches • Snow Cakes Currant Cakes CBOCKEBY. CBOCKEBY. We have some Choices Lines to hand ex " Qtarama." Inspection invited. Goods delivered daily. ' Customers waited upon for orders. Sole Agents for Tiger Blended Teas. Orders by post despatched with punctuality SHEARMAN BROS., GROOERS,& IRONMONGERS, MARKET HOUS&. Telephone No. 53 MEL iTorR'S 'ZEALANDIA' BOOT STORE IS now making a Special Christmas Display of Summer Boots and Shoes. Already the Ashburton Public have pronounced it to be the CHEAPEST AND BEST ASSORTED STOCK EVER SHOWN IN ASHBURTON. — Please Note a Few Quotations— •Ladies* pretty two-strap shoes, tan and black, 7s 6d Ladies' strap shoes, 4s 9d Ladies 1 and Gentlemen's waterproof Canvas-Shoes — Splendid valu6 Ladies' Cromelette Shoes from 8s Qd— Very cheap Ladies' Shoes, (3,s 6d— Great bargains. THOUSANDS OF OTHER LINES, THAT DEFY COMPETITION. Look at windows antLyou will admit that it is' the Best display ever made m Ashburton A trial will at onoe convince you of the difference m price and quality from other boot-shops. Note Address — JAMES MELLOR, TANCRED STREET, ASHBURTON. "TXrHERE, Oh where, is that Cheap 1VT OTICB ~ Are you S oin g to build YV Boot Shop? Mellor's Zealandia -LM Because the cheapest shop for Roofing Boot Store. Iron Kidging, Gutteru, Nails, fcead, Spont- . ing, Water Tanks, Pump?, Ranges, Register A FULL assortment of new- Veilingß m Grates Locka and Hinges, Washing Boilers, white, black, and black an,d. white, ™ d all ■orts of Ironmongery, isJ. W. Buy the celebrated new kid glove -The Hardley's, Ironmonger, Plumber, and Victory—only 2i 6d. The best glove m Tinsmith. Telephone 52. Sew' Zealand for the money.— A. Obr. t* /r ILLINE RY— Ladies should inspect the 11 124 jy|_ new Millinery, Capes, Mantles, TTTAVTii'n TT nn «, n n fM .n nBI , „„,! Jackets, Blouses, Frenoh and English completed. Special display of Millinery for s ■ the Holiday Season. A late shipjment of "Vf OWS; your time to Buy. There w a Sailor Straws to be sold cheap,— Mwchew XV Big Sale at Mbm-or's Zealandw Boob



Public notices i - we are now showing A BEITJTIFUL ASSORTMENT OF E L " E T R . 0 P L -A T E. bUITABLB FOR PRESENTATION, AND INVITE INSPECTION* \* I i JOHN ORR & Co £ 3 . | . H • O P-j . B «? S n w 1 1 1 s £.* a 3 8 B 5 3 E3 W CO ni * i PIANOFORTE TUNING. MR WOOLDRIDGB te now m Aah- burton on one of his usual visits for ' Piano Tuning. Annual Tuning, three visits, £1 le. Single Tuning, 10s. ORDERS maybe left at Mr S. Salbk's Jeweller, East Street, Ashburton. Country visited. 12 106 ' RAKATA SPORTS. BOXING PAY.— DECEMBER 26. THE following Handicaps have been declared for the Amateur events :— 120 7 Yards Hurdles. A. E. Evana scr, S. J. Gaw ... , Ber. behind snr. G. Hardy 2yds R. A. Gray ... syde . H. E L.. Gray - syda P. A. Keddel ,„ ,„ syda H. Curtis ... 11yds 100 Yards Handicap. . J. Diwison fcr. K. H. Morgan ... ... acr. R. A. Gray '. sor. H. E. L. Gray ... .» ecr. P. A Keddell ... ... 3yds J. O'Neill 3yds G. Hardy ... .„, „, 4yda I. A. Bdigent syds S. Gaw 6yds A. E. Evans 6yds J. A. Bruoe 7yda H. R. Davison ... „. 7yds Ha^.f Mile Handicap. L Broad scr W. Dayison ... ... ... 30yds J. Dayison ... ... ... 3S.yds J. Brown „ 35yds G, Har^y ... 35yds R. A. Gray ... ... ... 3,5yd8 H. EL. Gray ... .;. 35yds ! I. A. Baigent... ... ... SOyds C. Irvine „, 60yds 440 Yards Handicap. , BT. Cu'tia %- , , M acr R. H. Morgan 15yds G. Hardy 15yds J. Davison 15yds W. Daviaon 15yds R. A. Gray 15yds > H. E. L. Gray .. .. 15yds I A. Baigent 20yds •'C. Irvine .. ... ... ZOyda 250 Yards Handicap. L. Broad sor R, H. Morgan ... .. 10yds 8 J. Davison lOvds R. A. Gray ... .« ... 10yds G. Hardy ... ... ... l&tfs H. E. L. Gray ... , 18yds I. Alßiigfent,., ..". ...20yds , 8. J. Gaw .'. 20yds t . H. R. Davison 20yds phiwFa^ keddell, £2 J,2s ' Sectary,



(THE LATEST. Home and Foreign.- Press Association— By Electiic Telegraph— Copyright. (Received December 19, 10.25 a m.) A Bicycle Smash. London, December 18 Sir James JFergu-son had a serious fall from his bicycle, the force of the blow rendrring him senseless. A Successful Iteg'gar. Mies Brookes brought an action for libel against Truth for accusing her of imposture aud writing begging letiprs The jury stopped the case, and brought m a verdict for defendant. Miss Brookes admitted haying received £6800. United States. Washington, December 18 fn the Senate Mr Golman said the Democrats would not obstruct the Tariff Bill next session. 10 CORRESPONDENT. Observer. — We are neither inspectors nor detectives. Send your letter to Inspector Eade. Government Notices. NEW ZEALAND RAILWAYS. EXCURSION PARES FOR CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYB. rpHE Holiday Excursion Tickets issued J_ from 21st December to 2ud January will be available for return until 2nd February, instead of for one month from date of issue, as notified m posters and handbills. 12 127 BY ORDER. ♦-•'ankruptey Notices. ' IN BANKRUPTCY. In the District Com t, holden at Ashbur- ton. la the matter oi the Baukruptcy Act, 1892, and m the matter of George Herbert Bryant, of Hinds, Baker, a bankrupt. NOTICE is hereby given that the above named bankrupt intends atthe sittiDg of the Honorable C urt to be holden on FRIDAY, the Bth day of January, 1897, to apply for an order of discharge. Dated this 19 h day of December, 1896. R. M. CU I HBERTSON, 12 135 Bankrupt's Solicitor. T. Bullock. TO FARMERS AND OTHKRS. FOR SALE KQ f\ ACRES, Wakanut Plains, front- -0O U i»g the road leading to the School, being R.S. 25093 and others, mostly m E< glish grasses, well watered with County Water Races, very suitable to work with some of the rich, heavy Wakanui Lands. Terms and full particulars furnished on application. T. BULLOCK. TO LET. THE Rev Mr Blake's property, well situated corner of Wilkin Street and Main South Road, just beyond the Traffic Bridge. I. BULLOCK. OOi) ■ PRICE wauted for T.S. 319, opO/V«' corner of Havelock and William streets. Easy terms can be arranced. T. BULLOCK. FOR SALE, » AN IMPROVED FARM OF 1 AQQ ACRES, situated above the A\J O O Dromore Railway Station, being K.y. 27380, and others. A portion m crop the remainder m English grasses. There is a farm house of 5 rooms, also granary, 12 stalled stable, loose boxes and other buildings erected on the property. Well watered with county water raoes. Terms and full particulars furnished* 1 on application. T. BULLOCK TINWAL.D.* FOR SALE. T>ROPERTY well situated, fronting the X_ Main South Road, and not far from the Railway station, belonging to Mr Hedley J. Chesterman, as follows, viz, — Lot 16, on which is erected a Square Dwelling House of four roomß, with porch, etc., also Small Stable, etc., and sections 17 and 18 adjoining. To be sold as a whole, or if desired ■eparately. j ; As Mr Chesterman is now residing m the northemi part of the provincial district, the property is to be sold at a sacrifice, and on easy terms of payment. • _ ; Full particulars on application. T. BULLOCK, Agenr. Funeral Notice. FUNERAL NOTICE. nfIHE Friends of Robert and Maria X Bennett are respectfully informed that the Funeral of their beloved daughter, Sarah Minnie, will move from their resi- dence, Trevorton, on SUN.DAY, 20th inßt., at 3 p.m., for the Ashbqrton Cemetery. BAKER, BROS., 12 132 ' Undertakers. UO.L^ No. 23,, THE MEMBERS of the above Lodge are requested to meet at the Orange Hall, on SUNDAY, at 2. p.m., to attend the Funeral of Sister Minnie Bennett, the Secretary of the Ladies' Lodge, No. 5. - REES JONES, 12 134 m ; , Secretary. F.LAL, No 5. THE Members of the above Lodge are requested te meet at the Orange Hall, at 2 p.m. on SUNDAY, to at.tend Sis. M. Bennett's Funeral, late Secretary of above Lodge. , SISTER A. JONES, 12 133 President. Public Notice? WAKANUI PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH A TEA MEETING will be held on TUESDAY, December 22, m thfe Main School, Wakanui. Tea on tables at 5.30 p m. ; Public Meeting at 8 o-glock. Addresses 'by Clergymen and others, and an excellent musical programme, Tickets, la b£. 12 1 WANTED TO LET, OAA A. ORES TUSSOCK FEED, OUU Westerfield. 12 125 Apply Mail Office. ~ TENDERS WANTED. ' THE Trustees of the Orange Hall invite tenders for LEASING THE HALL, for one year, commencing January 1, 1897. Tenders close on December 26. Plans, tote.', with Mr W. J. JKdauu, Plumbet; Burneti SCre«t. : ' ' '■' ; REES JONES, 12 m Hoo, Secretary,



. Synopsis of New Advertisements. J. H. Allison-— 3OO acres tussock feed. Rakaia Sporbs — Handicaps. Railway Department — Christmas ex- jcursions* McDonald and McDiarmid — New busi- ness advt. Fletcher Bros — New business advertise- ment. Church Notices — English Chiirch — Wesleyan Church — Baptist Church— Primi- tive Methodist Church,- and Presbyterian Church. Baker BroB — Funeral notice - Orange Lily and L.O.L. — Re funeral of late Miss Bennett Wakanui Presbyterian Church — Tea meet- ing N Tenders — Lease uf Orange Hall