Mail Notices.

Mails for the United Kingdom, for specially addressed cortespondtncc only, close at Wel lington, per Wainiftte. on Saturday, February 13. Hour not fixed. Extended Notice.—Ma>la for Fiji, per Taupo, close at Auckland on Saturday, February 13, until 11 a.m.

Post Office Notice.

A temporary telegraph office will be open at Takapuna racecourae from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, February 15, Money order telegrams for secretary, Takapuna Racing Club should be addressed to Auck land and made payable there.

In Memoriam.

Taylor.—ln loving memory of Elizabeth, beloved wife of Jamea Taylor, who died at Ashburton, February 12, 1896. Gone, dear mother ! much we miss thee ; No dear form like thine is near; No kind word to soothe or comfort; None like thee our hearts to cheer. Inserted by her loving daughter CM.

Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1897.

Most people are, we believe, under the impression that the Panama Canal project has been de finitively abandoned So far, however, from this befng the case it appears that not only are the works still proceeding but that there is even yet hope of their corupletiot*. Our Paris correspondent writing . on December 80 gives the following information on this interesting subject: —" The Panama Canal Company has just held a meeting in Paris, at which certain very interesting statements have been made. In the first place it is said that the profits of the Panama Railway held by the new canal company have been sufficiently ample to permit the Panama Canal Company to go on with its work. In the second place it is said, that three thousand navvies are already engaged on the Canal, and that there will shortly be a great increase in this number. In the third place, a hope was expressed that in view of the probable completion of the Panama Canal, the United States Government would withdraw its patronage of the Nicaragua Canal. It is obvious that the time has come to call the attentionol the French Panama Company to the fact, that an inter oceanic canal wherever located, is part and parcel of the coast line of the United States,"

THE PANAMA CANAL

A probate case which disclosed some very curious features c»rae before the Courts in Paris in December last. It appears that the testator—one Mmc Malberte, formed a strange resolution some few years before her death. She had been a beauty once, but old age laid his hand upon her ; and she became withered and wrinkled. 80 jealous was she of her former reputation, that when the realised what Time had done, she took a vow never to let a man see her again. She would not even make an exception in favour of the bank clerk who came to pay her the interest on a legacy which she had inherited, and as he would only ieave the money on condition that she signed the receipt in his presence she never got it for several years. Her only companion was a Mme. Grosse and it was to her that she ultimately left all her money —400,000 francs. Her original heirs promptly took the case in court, alleging that Mme. Grosse must have exercised undue influence over the old lady to obtain her fortune in that way. They added that they were never allowed to see their kinswoman, and they charged Mine. Grosse with having made a veritable prisoner of her. It was in answer to that accusation that the defendant informed the Oourt of the dead lady's strange resolution, which she said was the explanation of her refusal to see her friends. The judges believed the story, and found that the money had been left to Mme. Grosse as a reward of her unremitting attention to the departed.

A REMARKABLE WILL CASE.

A writer in a recent number of Pearson's Magazine gives a vivid picture of what women employed in tije white lead factories of England endure. Their or dinary task is to carry a load of T2lbs ! of white lead from the tanks where it is mixed to the stoves where it is dried. These are called " white bed women/ j and their death, after horrible tortures, is viewed with such unconcern that, at Newcastle, the writer tells, no reporter attended the inquest on one of the victims, named Elizabeth Ryan, He learned of her case incidentally, by overhearing the remarks of a group of women in the street " She screamed horrible," said one, " and tore out her hair in handfuls." Such nicß bair she had, too," said another, " poor lamb," He stopped and inquired, heard the name of Elizabeth Ilyau, and followed UK) the subject. He learned that the uhforcuuat@ girl was only nineteen, and had worked bjiit four months as a white bed woman. She had suffered pain almost from the first, but she had remained at her work, till one morning she fell down on the floor of the factory, foaming at the mouth and tearing her hair, "as it might have

THE WHITE SLAVES Of ENGLAND.

been in an epileptic fit," said one. She was carried to the workhouse, and, in the words of the nurse, '■' carried on terrible" in wild delirium. The first entry in the workhouse register was: " Elizabeth Ryan-—-Lead poisoning." The entry on the following day ran : " Elizabeth Ryan very bad." There was yet another note concerning her on the third day, and that was : " Eliza beth Ryan died to day." The victims do not always succumb so quickly, for cases have been known of women following this awful avocation for many years ; but soon or late, suddenly or lingeringly, they die af teragonies of tor ture, with all the symptoms of poisoning. It is a relief to learn that> under a decision of Sir Matthew Ridley, Home Secretary, the employment of women in white lead factories is to be illegal aftf-r June next. Would it were possible to forbid altogether the em ployment of human beings for hire at work wMeh is so dangerous to health t

Local and General.

Reading matter on first and fourth page. The oldest firearms were used in China. The Chinese were fighting with guna at a time when Europeans used bows and arrows. A special meeting of the Borough School Committee ia called for 7.30 this evening to consider the question of the proposed school excursion. Ex-Queen Liliuokalani, of Hawaii, has arrived at Washington from Honolulu to plead her claims, and wili afterwards pro ceed to London. It ia notified in our advertising columns! that the next ram and ewe fair at the Tinwald Yards will be held on Thursday, March 25. Commandant Booth (S.A.) received an enthusiastic welcome from a crowded meet ing at the Opera House, Christchurch, on Wednesday evening. Mrs Hobba, whose husband w»s wounded at Waterloo, has died in Ireland aged 103. She was the last of the widows of officers who fought under Wellington. The variety of elan tartans is said to have originated during the reign of Queen Mar garet, each chief adopting at Court a pattern of tartan for his distinguishing clan dress. Lord and Lady Brassey's opinion of Pic ton is that) it is one of the most beautiful places they have ever seen. They hope to visit it agatu before they leave for England. Cornwall is said to be at the head of all other counties in England for freedom from j crimes against property. Next in compara- i tive honesty come bhe western counties of Wales. The Queen of Poriugal recently amused heraelf by taking X-ray photographs of the Court ladies, and was so horrified at the sight of deformed skeletons that the ootseo is now tabooed in Court circles. A well-known expert bas made the inter-' eating calculation that the addition of to the price of the 41b loaf of bread involves a fcotal increased expenditure in the United Kingdom of £3,700,000 per annum. The Flower Show will be open this after noon and evening, and thoae who ha\ c not paid it a visit should not miss this oppor tunity as it is really well worth seeing. | If the inhabitants of the fixed stars had 1 pewerful enough telescopes to see us, they would not see us as we are co-day, but as we were 50, 100, or even 1000 years ago, for it would take light that time to travel to ute. William Prince, proprietor of a small dingy wine bar, in the Strand, London, died on February 3, leaving persona) property amounting to £400,000. He made this for tune in 30 years solely by this bar, although, unlike other publichouses, it was never open on Sundays or holidays. As there is important business to be transacted at to-night's meeting of the Cycling and Athletic Club we are requested to call the attention of members to the desirableness of a full attendance. The hour of meeting is eight o'clock, and the place Britton's Commercial Hotel. In our report of the Horticultural Society's Show, the completion of which appears in to-day's issue, we have omitted to mention two exhibits which deserve special notice. These are a plate of raspberries shown by Mr E. Stephens, Trevor ton, and a plate each of white and red currants shown by Mr J. Grigg, which are of especial excel lence. The Committee of the Horticultural Society had luncheon together at Brittou's Hotel yesterday. The proceedings were quite informal, but in the course of table conversation Mr R. Nairn, the judge at the Show, gave some useful advice in regard to staging, one of his suggestions being that a uniform shape and size of show case should be used by exhibitors. Humbugs are by no means confined to the human species ; they figure among the lower animals as well. At least one who has cloaely studied their habits says so. In mili tary stables horses are known to have pre tended to be lame in order to avoid going to a military exercise. A chimpanzee had been fed on cike when sick ; after his recov ery he ofteu feigned coughiug in order to procure dainties. Animals are conscious of their deceit, as is shown by the fact that they try to acfc secretly and noiselessly; they show a sense of guilt if detected ; they take precautions in advance to avoid dis covery ; in some cases they manifest regret and repentance. Thus bees which steal hesitate of en before ami after their exploits, as if they feared punishment. Bub at all this kind of thing man leaves his fellow animals far behind,

BANK OF NEW ZEALAND.

Retirement of Mr H. Mackenzie.

PSB PKESS ASSOCIATION. Wellington, February 11 Mr H. Mackenzie haa requested the Directors to be allowed to retire from the General Managership of the Bank of New Zealand, and the Directors have acceded to his request. Mr Mackenzie has addressed a lengthy letter to the Afau Zealand Times commenting seriatim on the report of the Liquidators of the Colonial Bank } and defending his actions.

MEETING OF PARLIAMENT.

The Wellington Post reports that the Minister of Marine told the deputation from the Seamen's Union which waited upon him on Monday that, in all probability, there will be an early session of Parliament this year.

IMPORTS AND EXPORTS.

The imports for the December quarter were:—£2,olo,l74, against £1.753,117 in the previous year ; the imports for the year were £7,137,084, against £6,400,129 ia1895. The exports for the December quarter were £1,769,766, "againsb £1,788,866; for the year£9,318,763, against £.8,550,224.

Presbyterian General Assembly

Ab Thursday's sitting the Rev Jamea Paterson, Wellington, submitted the church extension report, which dealt exhaustively with the work done. New ground h&s been opened up during the year, and new charges formed, but the supply of men to occupy these is still limited. The usual grants have been given by the Irish Presbyterian Church and Church of Scotland of £100 each, and the Free Church of Scotland has made a grant of £50, besides a special grant to Hamil on, Auckland, £225, to be distributed ojrer three years. ' The balance sheet was submitted by the Rev C. S. Ogg, Wellington, the treasurer. It showed income within the church, £475, and total income for the year from all sources, £1036, Jeaving a credit balance of £247.

An interesting discussion followed. The church almanack, proposed to be published, was submitted and adopted.

THE FLOWER SHOW.

The notice given in yesterday's issue being aeeess&rily brief, we add here a few further notes of this very interesting exhibition. Among Messrs Nairn's exhibits were also some choice specimens of lilium auratum, and a new variety of the iame regal flower known as L. auratum rubrunt vitaturn, having broad dark crimson stripes down the centre of the petals; also some trusses of bloom of L. tigrinum flora plena-— the doable tiger lily. There is also a bunch of the crimson blooms of the pomegranate. A i very noticeable exhibit was found among the collection of fuchsias exhibited by Mrs Cookson, this being avarietyofwhich wehave heard, but which we have never before seen, namely, a plant bearing pure white flowers, both corolla and sepal being colorless, the only trace of color beiug at the cuds of the stamens, which are tinted with heliotrope. The Dame, we believe, is Countess of Aber deen. Among Mr Dodds' beautifully grown fuchsias, was a very fine specimen of Black Prince ; also two very beautiful plants of Storm King—red, with double white sepals, Mrs Cookson exhibiting a beautiful " Avalanche." The exhibit which took the Olothiug Factory's prize for best specimen ornamental foliage pot plant was a well grown aspidistra lurida shown by Mr Dodds, and grown by Mrs Rudolph Friedlander. For Mr Pickford'a prize for new or rare pot plant, there were three exhibits, Mrs Cook 3on taking firat prize with a chamerops fortuna, the second being awarded to Mr P. Anderson for a specimen of Hoya Carnosa. The prize for best plant in flower, not other wise specified, went to an ackimenes atropur puria, shown by Mr P. Anderson, and a second in the same class to Mr W. J. Leggett, for a well-grown cockscomb. la coleus Mr Pitt, who took tirßt honors, and Mr Leggett, awarded second prize, Btaged some beautiful specimens of these very ornamental plants, and the single begonias shown by Messrs Leggett and Dodds well deserved the honors awarded them, being well grown and bloomed plants. For the prize offered by Messrs Landells and !^on in the amateur class for new or rare pot plant, there were three competitors who - were, however, unsuccessful, because a lapageria rosea, which is a new plant, was not in show condition, while a very pretty buff blossomed climber of the clematis order was not rare or new. In the collections of four pot plants, the first prize was won by Mr Dodds, with the following group'—namely, asparagus phiinosa (before mentioned), ftcus elastici (the india rubber plant), an orange, and a begonia, while in the second priz^ collection, Mrs Cookson's, we noticed a white helio trope very richly scented, and two begonias. Mrs Cookson, who, it will be noticed, was a very successful exhibitor, also showed in the class for window plants a spkndid iuchsia, profusely bloomed, of the variety known, we think, as Earl Beaconsfield. Mr LSoclds also stage.' 1, for exhibition only, a very handsome group of pot plants, among which were begonias, coleus, and a beautiful speci men of fuchsia tryphylla. Mrs Breez-j's hydrangea deserves mention as being a fine specimen, run, however, pretfcy closely by other competitors. Mention must also be made of a lovely exhibit of pure white fimbriated double petunia and the very beautiful display of ferns shown by Mrs Cookson. Mr Robert Nairn, of Messrs Nairn and Sons, the well-known Christchurch florists and nurserymen, officiated as judge for all departments of the show, the Committee, for the fi?st time, trying the experiment of a single judge for the whole, instead of two or three for each section. It resulted most successfully, the awards giving general satisfaction. la closing our notice, we con gratulate the Committee and its active and courteous secretary, Mr F. Makeig, on the excellence of the arrangements, and hope that the attendance of the public this even ing will fully reward their efforts. The following is the PBIZE LIST. POT PLANTS. OPEN CLASS. Fuchsias, 6 plants, varieties —G. F. Dodds 1; Fuchsias, 1 specimen plant (not to be included in the foregoing)—G. F. Dodda 1 Show Pelargoniums, 1 specimen plant—- Mrs Cookson 1 Geraniums (Zonales) 4 plants, varieties— G. T. Smith 1 and 2 ; 4 double, varieies— G. T. Smith 1; 1 specimen plant—G. T. Smith 1 and 2 Coleus, 3 varieties—-W. Leggett 1, P. Anderson 2 Petunias, 4 double, varieties—M. A. Jack son 1 Begonias, tuberous rooted, 3 plants, double, varieties—Mrs Cookson 1, G. F. Dodds 2; do. 3ingle—P. Anderson 1 and 2, G. F. Dodds 3 Specimen ornamental foliage pot plant, (prizes presented by N.Z. Clothing Factory) —iG. F. Dodds (grown by Mrs R. Fried lander) 1, Mrs Cookson 2, P. Anderson 3 Specimen new or rare pot plant, any kind (prize presented by Mr W. Pickford) —Mrs Cookson 1, P. Anderson 2 Collection of 6 pot plants, varieties, not otherwise specified —W. Leggett 1, P. Anderson 2 Collection of Ferns—Mrs Cookson 1 Plant, in flower, not otherwise specified— P. Andet&on 1, W. Leggett 2 AMATEUR CLASS.

Fuchsias, 3 plants, varieties—G. F. Dodds 1, M. A. Jackson 2; 1 specimen plant—G. F, Dodds 1, Mra Cookson 2 Show Pelargoniums, 3 plants, varieties— Mrs Cookson 1; 1 specimen plant—Mrs Cookson 1 Geraniums (Zonales), 4 plants, varieties— Mrs T. Breeze 1; 1 specimen plant—Mra T. Breeze 1, Mrs Jackson 2 ; double, 2 plants, varieties—Mrs Breeze 1, Mrs Jackson 2; variegated, 3 plants, varieties—Mrs Breeze 1 and 2 ; ivy leaved, 3 varieties—Mrs Breeze 1 and 2 Petunias, 3 double, varieties—Mrs Breeze 1, Mrs Jackson 2 Coleua, 2 varieties—T. Pitt 1, W. Leggett2 Begonias, tuberous rooted, 2 plants, double, varieties —G. F. Dodds 1, Mrs Cookson 2 ; do. single—W. Leggett 1, G. F. Dodds 2 Specimen ornamental pot plant (prize presented by Ashburton Drapery Co.) —G. F. Dodds 1, Mrs J. Hunt 2 Collection of 4 pot plants, varieties, not otherwise specified—G. F., Dodds 1, Mrs Cookson 2 Window plant—Mrs Cookaon 1 and 2 Pot Maiden-hair Fern, First prize, pair of handsome vases, presented by a friend ; second priae presented by Mrs J. Davison— Mrs Cookson 1 and 2 Cactus, in flower or otherwise, any variety —J. M. Cambridge 1 JRIYATB fRIZBS. Six Tuberous-rooted Begonias. First prize presented by Mr W. James, second prize presented by Mr H. M. Jones—Mrs Cookson 1, G. F. Dodds 2 Hanging Plant. Prize presented by Messrs Andrewes, Anderson & Co.—G. F. Dodds 1 and 2 Ivy-leaved Geranium, Prize presented by Mr R. Blaton—Mrs Breeze 1 Collection of Coleua, Prize presented by Messrs Craighead and Berryman —W. Leggett 1 Collection of Fuchsias, nob less than four (prizes presented by Mr G. F. Dodds)—Mrs Cookson 1. CUT FLOWERS. OPEN CLASS, Roses, best collection—W. H. Rule 1 Carnations, six varieties, one bloom each— J. L. Christensen 1 Dahlias,, four single—J. Grigg 1 and 2;' six Cactus—W. H. Rule 1, J. Grigg 2 Marigolds, French, six blooms—J. Grigg I and 2 ; African, orange and lemon, three of each colour—Millichamp'Bros 1, J. Grigg v ' ' Petunias, double, best collection—T. Pitt 1, Mrs Jackson 2 Aatery, twelve blooms, six varieties—J. Grigg 1, Mill;champ Bros 2 ; collection of Asters—Hugo E'riediaader 1, (Prize pre sented by Mrs Pollock) Phlox Jjrummondii, twelve varieties, two trusses each— Millichamp Bros 1, W. Leggetb 2 Collection of cut flowers, twelve varieties, three spikes each—G. T. Smith 1, J. Grigg 2 Zinnias, six varieties, three blooms each— J. L. Christensan 1, J, Grigg 2 Gladioli, six varieties, one of each—H, Haase 1, J. Grigg 2 PRIVATE PRIZES. Collection of Dahlias, (first prize presented by Mr A. Lawrie ; second priae presented by Mr J. XasfeerJ-Q. T. Smith 1, W» H, Bale 2

Collection of Petunias, (prize presented by Mr E. Stephens ; second prize presented by Mr 0. Digby)—F. Johna 1 Collection Phlox Drummondii, (prize pre sented by Mr W. J. Adams)— Millichamp Bros 1 Best 6 Geraniums (Zonales), varieties- Mrs Jackson 1 AMATEUR CLASS Rosea, 4 varieties-—W. H. Rule 1, T. Pitt 2 Verbenas, 4 varieties, 3 trusaea each— Clarke Bras 1, E. Swarm 2 Carnations, 4 varieties, 2 blooms each—B. Baker I and 2 Dahlias, double, 6 varieties—T. Pitts 1, W. H. Rule 2, Clarke Bros vh c ; single, 4 varieties, —Clarke B-osl ; Cactus, 4 varieties —W. Leggett 1,1. Pitt 2 Gladioli, 4 spikes, varieties—H. Haase 1 Asters, 6 blooms, varieties—Mrs M. Pick ford 1, Clarke Bros 2 Phlox Drummondii, 6 varieties, 2 trusses each —Clarke Bros 1, B. Baker 2 Marigold, French, 6 blooms—W. Leggett 1; African, orange and lemon, 3 each color —■T, Pitt 1, W. Leggett 2 Ziuaias, 3 varieties, 2 blooms each—Clarke Bros 1, J. L. Christensen 2 Best collection cut flowers, 12 varieties, 2 of each (prize in seeds presented by Messrs Arthur Yates and Co, Auckland)—!. Pitt 1, Mrs J. Hunt 2. Geraniums, double, beat 6 blooms, varieties—W. Leggett 1, E. Stephens 2 Sweet Pess, best 6 varieties, 3 spikes each. —Clarke Bros 1 and 2. PBIVAM PRIZES Roses, 3 blooms, (prize presented by Mr J. McKeague)—Mrs Piekfoid 1, T. Pitt 2 Hydrangea in bloom, (prize in seeds pre sented by Messrs Arthur Yates and Co, Auckland)—Mra T. Breeae 1 Collection of cut flowers arranged for effect not necessarily exhibitor's own growing, (first prize presented by Mra R. M. Oubh bertsen ; second prize, 12lbs of honey, pre sented by all P. Anderson; third prize presented by Mr J. Mellor) —Mrs MoFarland 1, Mrs Bushell 2, Mrs Jackson 3. Collection Phlox Drommondii, 3 trusses each varieties (prize presented by Mr Flower) ~W. Leggett 1, Hugo Friedlander 2 Geraniums, collection cut blooms (prize pres 1 nted by Mr GravesJ—Mra Jackson l s T. Breeze 2 Collection Petunias (prize presented by Messrs Shearman Bros)—!'. Pitt 1 BOUQUETS. Hand bouquet, for competition by ladies only (bouquet not to exceed six inches in diameter) -Mrs Dodds 1, Miss Fooks 2 OPEN TO ILL. Bridal bouquet, not wired (prize presented by Mr J. Burgess)— Mrs Jackson 1 Hand bouquet, not to exceed six inches in diameter, not wired (prize presented by Mr T. E. Upton)—Mrs Bushell 2 Table bouquet, any size (prize presented by Messrs Reid and Gray)-— G. T. Smith 1, Mrs Macfarland 2

Best bouquet in show (prize presented by Mr C. W. Purnell)-—Mrs Jackson 1 Children's bouquets.—Girls; under 15 years, best button-hole (first prize presented by Mrs R. Ftiedlander)~Misß G. Pilbrow 1, Mias A. Orr 2 Under 15 years, best spray (prize pre sented by Mrs R. Friedlander)—Miss Violet Breeze 1

Under 15 years, hand bouquet, made on the morning of the enow, in the presence of a person appointed by the Committee (prize presented by the president, Mr E. W. Han tner)—Miss L. Fooks 1, Miss K. Fooks 2, Miss A. Orr 3

Boys—under 15 years, hand bouquet, | made up on the morning of the show, iv the j presence of a person appointed by the Com- : mittee (prize presented by Mr Thomas Bul lock)— Master G. Breeze l s Master H. Fooks 2, Master E, Breeze 3 Beat bouquet in show, made by boy or girl (prize presented by Mr W. 0. Davis)— Miss K. Breeze 1 FKUir. OPEN CLASS. Beat two bunches black grapes, any variety—G. X. Smith 1 Best dish blackberries (first prize pre sented by Mr A. P. Williamson)—G. Tufctv 1, Mrs H. M. Douglas 2 .Peaches, beat 6 (first prize presented by Mr J. Patterson) —J. Simmonds 1, Mili i champ Bros 2 Nectarines, best 6 —Mrs T. Rollitt 1 Apricots, best 6—J. Simmonds 1, Mrs H, M. Douglas 2 Plums, 3 varieties, 6 each (first prize pre sented by Mr J. Wilson)—J. Taylor 1, G. T. Smith 2 Plums, dish 6 heaviest—Mrs T. Rollitt 1 Apples, 12 des-sert, 1 variety—P. Anderson 1, G. Tatty 2 Apples, 12 cooking, 1 variety (prize of SO lb of flour presented by Mr E. Thomas)—J. Grigg 1 and 2 Apples, best collection, 12 varieties, 4 of each (first prize presented by the Ashburton Publishing Co; second prize presented by Messrs Collins and Co)—W. H. Collins 1, J. Grigg 2 Pears, best collection, 3 varieties, 4 of each —G. T. Smith 1, J. Grigg 2 Filberts, or cob-nuts, best dißh—-Mrs R. S. Bean 1 Walnuts, best dish—E. Stephens 1, W. H. Rule 2 Any other variety of fruit not otherwise specified—J, Taylor (gooseberries) 1, J. Grigg (red and white currants) 2 Honey in comb —P. Anderson 1, B. Baker 2 AMATEUB CLASS. Two bunches black or white grapes (pre senteil by Ashburton Tailoring Oo)~J. M. Cambridge 2 Peaches, best 4 (first prize presented by Mr H. K. Bonnington)—Mrs Pearce 1, Wl H. Collins 2 Nectarines, best 4—Mrs T. Eollitt 1 Apricots, best 6 (first prize presented by Mr 0. W. Wroughton)—Mrs M. G, Barron 1 and 2 Plums, 3 varieties, 6 each (first prize pre sented by Mr J. Thomas) —E. Stephens 1 Plums; dish of 6 heaviest—Mrs T. Rollitt 1 Apples, 12 dessert, 1 variety—W. H. Collins 1, Kenneth Baxter 2 Apples, 12 cooking, 1 variety (prize of 50 lbs of flour presented by Messrs Rollitt and Co)— Mrs Mary Pickford 1, B, Baxter 2 Apples, best collection, 6 varieties, 4 of each—W. H. Collins 1, R. Lechner 2 Pears, 3 varieties, 4 each —Mrs J. Hunt 1 and 2 Filberts, or cob-nuts—Mrs R. S. Beaa (cob-nuts) 1 Any other variety of fruit, not otherwise specified—Mrs J. Jackson (Japanese wine berries) 1, E. Stephens (raspberries) 2 VEGETABLES. OPEN TO ALL.

' Cucumbers, best 2; first prize presented by Mrs W. Baxter—W. Leggett 1, Mrs Jackson 2 Cucumbers, beat 4 out-door grown ; first prize presented by Mrs VV. Baxter—J. Taylor 1, J. Grigg 2 Purnt)kins,2 heaviest; first prize preaented by Mrs'W. Baxter—T. Rollitt 1, J. Grigg2 "Vegetable Marrows, 2, suitable for table ; first prize presented by Mrs W. Baxter— Miss J. M'Owen 1, F. Johns 2 Tomatoes, best collections 4 of each variety—M. A. Jackson 2 Cabbages, best 2 heads ; first prize pre sented by Messrs P. & D, Duncan-J. Grigg I and 2; Cabbages, red, 2 heads—W, Leggett 1, B. Baker 2 Carrots, bunch of 6-Millicharap Bros. 1, B. BAer 2 Turnips, bunch of 6—W. Leggett 1, J. Grigs 2 Onions, 12 best-W. Bickerstaffl, G. T; Smith 2 „ , T _ _ Leeks, bunch of 6-E, Swarm 1, H. W, Barrett 2 . L m „ Lettuce, best 3of one variety—W. H. Collins 1, W. Leggett 2 Parsnips, best 6-J. Grigg 1 and 2 Beetroot, beat 6-J. Grigg 1, W. Leggett 2 Beans, broad, 12 pods—). Grigg 1, H. Friedlander 2 ; French, 12 pods—J. Grigg 1, Millichamp Bros. 2; Scarlet runners, 12 pods—H. W. Barrett 1, B. B*ker 2 Potatoes, kidney, 12 of one kind—Milli champ Bros. 1. W. S. Mitchell 2 ; round do. —Millichamp Bros. 1, W. Leggett 2 Peaa, 25 pods—John Grigg 1 Rhubarb, best 6 sticks—W. H. Rule 1 and 2  . , , Collection of Vegetables, in basket or tray I (prizes presented by Mr J. Orr)—J. Grigg 1, E Swanu 2 I SPECIAL PRIZES. Tomatoes, 6 best, large red. Prize pre sented by Messrs H. M, Caraoa & Son— M. A, Js.okaoa I

Collection of Vegetables. Prize in seeds, presented by Me*ara Nimmj and Blair; to be grown from their own seeds—E. Bwann 1 Potatoes, best collection, any variety, 4 of each. First prize cash 10a, presented by Ashburton Standard ; second presented by Mr W. J. Silcock -Milliehamp Bros. 1 and 2 Onions, best collection. Prize presented by Mr S. Anderson ; second prize presented by Mr A. J. Tyrell Baxter—J. L. Cfiristensen TABLE DECORATIONS. Dinner table decorations. Tables nob ta exceed 6ft bj? 74ft. First prize, filter, value 25a, presented by Mr W. Et. Rule ; second pi ins, 10a cash, presented by Messrs Tucker and Bean ; third prize, 5a cask, presented by Mr E. G. (Jriap. Tables provided —Mrs A, ■li. M&keig 1, Mrs Crisp 2, Mrs Brooke 3.

PROMENADE CONCERT.

The promenade concert waa most enjoy able. It was given to an audience that would have been larger had the weather been more propitious, but as it wan the number present showed that the Horticul tural Society need have no fear of any want of appreciation of their efforts on the part of the public. The weather was very far from pleasant; it was drizzly in the after noon, but there was a lightness in the horizon that left a hope of fair weather in the evening. That hope, however, did not come to fruition for just after sundown rain began to fall heavily and at eight o'clock, when the concert began, it required a con siderable amount of courage to face the storm. The concert opened with a sprightly orchestral march by Lorraine, " The Tore ador." The bad weather had delayed Miv Simmonds, the leader, and she did not arrive till after the performance of the march. Her place, however, was ably taken by Miss M'Owen, another of the first violins, who must be complimented on the success of the piece under her lead. The rest of the Orchestral Society's pieces were played under Miss Simonds lead. They were all of a light east, and well*withiu the reach of the players. The adoption of this class of music by the Society, though it by no means taxes the powers or patience of the members, enables the Society's repertory to be easily and quickly added to, so that new pieces may be available for every public appear ance. Mr Gordon conducted as usual, and under his baton Maple's "Jester" went with a nice swing ; so did Carl Volti'i •'Nicht wi' Burns," a wreath of Scotch melodies nicely garlauded ; "The Yeoman's Wedding," arranged by Prince Pooiatowski aa a cornet solo, was effectively given by Mr Gordon, with orchestral accom paniments; and Sylvester's inarch, "Lorn Palanka" was the last of the orchestral numbers, if we except the Mona waltzes well played by Gates' band, Mrs Claridge being pianist. A piano solo, played in Mm Bowman Fox's usual brilliant style waß a welcome number, as were the vocal items contributed by Mesdatnes Brooke, Saundere, and Crisp. Mrs Brooke was heartily ap plauded, and her re-appearance demanded, this being looked upon as her farewell to the Ashburton lyric stage, but we hope to hear her again before she finally leaves the scene of many of her most brilliant successes. Mrs Saunders' sweet voice and graceful style are always pleasing, while her correct and clear enunciation leave little to be de sired. Mrs Crisp has entertained an idea for some time past that her singing days are over, that her voice is failing, and that she should make room now for younger vocalists. Those of us who heard her sing Vln old Madrid" last night are ia a position to disabuse her mind of the fallacy of this notion, fcr she was in excellent voice, and sang with the same old charm that used to captivate her audiences a few years ago. Messrs Gardiner and Broad were the male voices, and contributed acceptable items to an excellent programme. Miss Q. Pilbrow did good service as accompaniste. Another concert will be given this evening.

To-Night's Concert.

We desire to call the special attention of our readers to the fact thafc a second promenade concert will be given at the Flower Show to-night, commencing at eight o'clock.

The Orchestral Society will again contri bute some excellent numbers, and Mesdames Brooke, Saunders, Crisp and Bowman Fox ; Misaea Fooks and Orr; and Messrs Broad, Gardner, Gates, Gordon, and Alfred Orr, have kindly promised their aemoea. Ab the weather yesterday was so unpro pitious, the funds of the Horticultural Society necessarily suffered, and it is there fore to be hoped that everybody who can will make a point of attending to-night's concert as weil to assist this very useful S ciety as to enjoy an excellent programme of music.

Cycling.

'■——■—-♦ Melbourne, February -12 The Council of the Victorian League of Wheelmen has now decided to quash Martin's disqualification as it is considered the evidence is insufficient to prove that he did not try to win the ten nJle event against! Ken Lewis, and as he received no monetary gain by loaing the event.

Labour Questions.

Per Press Association. Dunidin, February II The Board of Conciliation met to-day to deal with the dispute in the furniture trade. The reference came from the Furniture Trades Union, which appealed to the Board to enforce the signatures of eight firma of | employers to the industrial agreement that had been signed by the remaining employer! in the trade. The dissenting employer* submitted a modification of the original agreement, and the Board adjourned till Monday to allow consideration of the suggestions made, and in order that th« Union might ascertain the views of the men and also the views of other employers who signed the agreement. It ia believed that a settlement will be arrived at.

The Wellington City Election Petition.

PER FBESS ASSOCIATION.

Wellington, February 12 The Court has ordered a re-counb of the votes cast for Fisher and Atkinson respectively. This will take at least two days.

A GHASTLY HAT-RACK.

A medical man in the West-end of London has in his study what is per haps the most extraordinary piece of furniture in Great Britain. Ha was presented with it by an Austrian medi cal student some twenty years ago while studying in Vienna, where he became an intimate friend of the young Austrian, who died shortly after the doctor returned to this country, and left him the strange aod startling article of furniture by will.' It is the skeleton of a very large man standing erect, with the right hand grasping a long spear, This; is of "oak, with a number of projecting pegs, formed of bones of the upper arm 3 run through the wood, and it is used' as a hat-racs. In the centre of the skull is set a clock, and the ribs form a cage, in which the owner keeps his pet cockatoo, a splendid white bird with a light ye'l >w plume. It is rather close quarters for the cockatoo, but it is allowed a great deal of liberty, and when not caged in the skeleton generally sits on top of th» skull. The doctor has taught it to say : " We're only mortal," and whea. these words are pronounced from the skeleton's interior, or even from the top of his bkull, they are calculated to make the most volatile of the doctor's visitors ponder on the wisdom of these words,

THI ABHBURTGK GUARDIAN: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1897



G. J. NEILL IS SELLING WASHING PRINTS at 3|<l per yd ; WHITE MUSLINS 3s lid per doz G. J. NEILL IS SELLING DOUBLE-WIDTH SERGES in Navy, Brown and Maroon, at Is per yd G. J. NEILL 18 SELLING MEN'S ALL-WOOL SUITS at 23a 6d j Men's Tweed Trouasrs 5a lid G. J. NEILL IS SKLLING BOYS' SUITS at 4a lid each G. J. NEILL IS SELLING—Men's Bluchers at ... ... 4s lid Men's Nail Shooters ... ... 7a Hd Men's Shoes ... ... ... 5a lid Women's Shoes 4s lid Women's Strap Shoeß... ... 4s lid G. J. NEILL JDEFIIS COMPETITION IN BOOTS Every Pair Guaranteed to Wear and give SATISFACTION FRIEDLANDER'S CORNER, EAST STREET. IMPORTANT TO FARME|ES AND HARVEST BIBS. "WjTATCHES specially designed and constructed forjjthose engaged in agricultural work'^are to be obtained from ■S. SALEK, WATCH IMPOBTEB, EAST STREET, These Watches are made by EOTHERAM and other famed makers to the special order of S. Salek foi the ASHBUBTON WATCH TRADE. HAVING BOUGH LARGELY AT A HEAVY DISCOUNT PRICES ARE REDUCED. ALSO IN STOCK—Dixit Watches r(see [the name S. SALEK Asaburton, is on the dial)' at]2os. Other metal watches from 15s. All Guaranteed, VICTORIAN ,*3f« CMmmM^TMi. '" STEAM CARRIAGE FACTORY, ,/ fSi|^f§ r' f \7>/ \Zfe. SHOEING FORGE. ■*^&&J&&sg&*~ f. h. *«* STEEL BROS., [«•R-"— BEG to announce to the inhabitants o£ Ashburcon and surrounding district that the] have taken over the Business so long carried on by J. R. b'LEEL, and hope by Strict Attention to Business, Good Workmanship, aud Moderate Charges, to merit a fai; ■hare of Patronage. •■« i • -r-\ Coachbuuding Department— This Department will have our personal supervision and to aU who require a new Vehicle of any description, or their old one repaired, we can guarantee satisfaction if thej place their order with us. . Painting and I rimming— Now is the time to have your traps put into good order by having them wel painted, and our workmen are in the front rank of their profession, and the material user is the very best. Ironwork Department— We are prepared to quote prices for all kinds of ironwork, ani to supply oi repair Agricultural Implements of every description. >"~-~-— Shoeing Department— In this as in all other parts of our business we will give satisfaction to out customers, and if you want your horse shod by practical and skilled workmen, send it BIODgTICTORIAN SHOEING FORGE. STEEL BROS., PROPRIETORS, WEST STREET, ASHBURTON. 2 34



Business Notices, NEW ZEALAND Clothing 1 Factory, gOLE AGENTS |FOR THE FAMOUS "VICTORY" SEWING fMACHINE. < " ■ S br 02 * 5 $ I '? PH 3 '! 8 . O * ; Ph o Hg!Q" p ' Hdl « O " £■ S H I g CD ? P rr> ■ S HH Ph ■ g OQ P P. <1 o w Church Services. ST. STEPHEN'S CHURCH, Ashburton. FRIDAY—Choir Practice, 8 p.m. SUNDAY SERVICES. B.3o—Holy Communion. 11 a. m.—Morning Prnyer. 3.30—H01y Baptism. 6.30 p.m.—Evening Prayer. REV. T. A. HAMILTON. 3p.m.-Dwmo«. BQWMAN FQXi WANTED Known—Sale of this season's Millinery only, at greatly reduced prices, also large selection in Ladies Wnuelette Dressing Gowns and Morning Wrappers, Children's Pinafores, Overalls, etc., for fourteen days only.—Miss IS,. - Barnes, Arcade and Tancred Street. d> 16



OUR FIRST SALE, COMMENCING SATUBDAY., JANUAEY 30 MITCHELL & BRODRIBB, THE CENTRAL CASH TRADERS, NEXT TO J. ORR & COS IRONMONGERY DEPARTMENT, BIST STREET. ERUPTIONS IN THE DRAPERY TRADE. "f TTE have decided to eclipse all, with the result that one cut has been ma de at our new stock, which has severed the price in half. iXold Stock, no out of date shelf-worn goods to palm off on a sensible public. Our Clean, New, and Stylish btoek at just half^the ,5«, l nSS The cry is—How is itdone ? Here you have ib :No Bad Debts, No Credit which enable us to lose directly, a portion of Zhtl Pthe credit traders are losing indirectly. With this difference-At MITCH KLL and BRODRIBB'S all are treated alike ;at the «edit housea the good customers have to pay for the bad ones. Make no mistake. We want your money and feel assured that the few following sample prices will bring it. Space will not allow us to quote more than a very condensed list but this is a sample of the bargains offered you :— 9 pieces Light Print at 3s lid per doz yards Usual Price, 7.j>d per yard 16 pieces Dark Print at 3s lid per doz yards Usual Price, 8d per yard 22 pieces Gingham Prints, 4s lid per doz yards Usual Price, 9d per yard 19 pieces Fiord Crepona, 4a lid per doz yards Usual Price, lid per yard 17 Fancy Brilliant Cloth, 7^d per yard Usual Price, la 3d per yard 7 pieces Plain Crepon, 5a lid per doz yards Usual Price, Is per yard 11 pieces stripe Zephyr, 6s lid per doz yarda Usual Price, la 3d par yard 8 Plain Zephyr, 6s per doz yards Usual Price, Is 3d per yard 22 pieces Cashmere Cloth, 4a lid per doz yards Usual Price Is per yard JO pieces Mourning Cloth at the ridiculous price of 3s per doz yards. allure vont^atafc this very important sule both you and ourselves will have a spanking time. »BHui« y "White Calico 'in lid per doz yarda Usual price s|d per yard White Sheeting, 2 yarda wide, 10^(1 per yard Usual price Is 6d per yard Nainsook 4£d per yard Usual price 74d per yard Whits Turkish Towela 5s 6d per doz Usual price 9d each _ i^ilsiae 6 varda for Is lid, worth double Hundreds of Cheap Dress awaiting inspection Double width Tweeds U per yard Black and Colored Cashmeres from Is per yard up *Adies Black Lavantine Paragon frame Umbrellas from 2a 6d, 3s Hd, 4s lid, etc. Ladies' Sunshades all colors from 3a lid Black and Colored Velveteens from Is 6d per yard up A mixed lot of children's sunshades all colors from lid each j*,-, L j t>i i n HOSIERY—The be^ valae in the trade' Plain and Ribbed Cashmere Hose from l 8 ap> nmVff* GSve 8 S -A ai^e yevarid ty Cheap and Good. A beautiful Kid Glove, any shade, at 2s lid. Lower lines from GLOVE& Uoveß. a ft Oaßhmer J e Glov , B 4^, 6d, 9d, and Is per pair. Gaggety and Silk, from Is 3d upwards, m mr^S Blouses Blouses.-We have sold more of these goods than any house in town. What we have on hand-About BLOUsiA 2xt"en dozen will be cleured from Is lid, 2s 6d, 2s lid up ; just half price. All mualm and fancy Aprons just half wh»t you will pxy anywhere else. •mttvoov Millinery—Price cut in half. Trimmed Hats from Is lid upwards. MILLINERY inoec 1 Startling Bargains in the Clothing and Mercery Department*. A few Harvester HIS Seamless Merino Sox, 6d. Regatta Shirts, all sizes, 4s 6i. Brown cotton pants Is 6d Heavy 5 orkina Shirts, 2s 6d. Men's strong Moles, 6a 6d. Tweed Trousers, special 8s 6d Colonial 8, lid. Mens Tweed luits 21s 6d. Meu'e imitation Fox's Serge Suits, 29a 6d. Bailor Tweed Suits, 6s lid, size 1 to 7. CbotoM Tsock of Ties and Boarfs in Ashburton. All our Boots and Boom reduced Hard and Soft Pelts v Seas variety. Mohairßoot Laces, 3J per dozen. Heavy Kaiapoi Sox, Is, Kaiapo! Under Flannels, 3a lid. DO NOT JB^OEGBT MITCHELL & EROPRIBB'S FIRST SALE. HEXT 10 J. ORR & CO, E^ SXREKU ASHBURTON.



I Six weeks ago I suffered from a very severe cold; was almost) unable to speak. My friends all advised me to consult a physician. Noticing Chamberlain's Cough Remedy advertised in the St Paul Folks \Zeitung I procured a bottle, and after taking it a short while was entirely well. I now most heartily recommend this remedy to aoyone Buffering from a cold. Wm Keil, 678 Selby Aye., St Paul, Minn. For sale by ASHBURTON DaUG COMPANY. :



Synopsis of New Advertisements. Jewitt-Oysters, etc. Tender s for building house at Seafield—R. Bird, " FJetcher Bros.—New business announce ment. James Mellor —New stock of boots and hoes. Wanted—Four or five roomed cottage. Tinwald Wealeyjju Church—Anniversary services. Flower Show—Grand concert to«nighb. , T. Builooli—SwUob for |»1«,