PHASES OF THE MOON.

AUGUST] First quarter 6 5 55 am Full moon ... .., 13 153 am Lasb quarter 20 7 59 pm New moon ... ,„. 28 259 pm

MAIL NOTICES.

The Letter Box will be cleared for the despatch of correspondence from Ashburton for the undermentioned places as follows :— Burnham and Danaandel, daily ... , 3,15 pm Chertsey and Rakaia, daily 630 am 315 pm 6 30 pm Dromore, Selwyn, and Horn by, daily ... 6 30 am Ghristchurch and north, daily i 630 am 315pm and 6 30 pm and on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays ... * ... at 10 30 am Eiffelton, Willowby, daily ... 10 30 a m Lißtnore, Tuesday, Thurs day, and Saturday ... 10 30 am . Elgin, Wakanui, and River side, daily 6 30 am Seaview, Seafield, Kyle, and Jfewlands, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday ... 630 am Wheatstone, Waterton, Ash ton, Longbeach, and Flemington, daily ... 345 pm Mount Somers, Springburn, Stave'ey, Alford Forest, daily 4 pm . ' Methven, daily 3 15 pm Geraldine, and Orari, daily.. 12 30 pm Oamaru, Dunedin, Waimate, and south, daily ... 12 30 pm E'tling, Rangitafca, daily .„ 10 30 am Ternuka, Timaru, daily, 10 30 am 12 and Tuesday, Thursday, 30 pm and Saturday 3 15 pm Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, 10 30 am 1 daily .. .... .. 30 pm And Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday ... ...315 pm Ruapuna, Monday and Thurs day _ ... .... 4 pm Mayfield, Monday 9 Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday ... 4 pra Weaterfield, Tuesday, Thurs day, Saturday 4 pm Letters containg anything of value should be registered.

Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 1897.

The figures obtainable for 1894, show that in that year all over this , colony, with its INQUESTS IN 700,000 inhabitants NEW ZEALAND no fewer than 924 death inquests were held, including 14 Maoris. Of these 705 were males and 219 females. The following table classifies the nature of the verdict in each case :—• Nature of Verdict. Male. Female. Total. Accident , ... 393 99 492 Disease and Natural o*uaes 226 99 325 Intemperance ... 4 —- 4 Homicide 6 1 7 Suicide 58 17 75 Nob Classed ... 18 3 21 705 219 924 From thiß we learn that liability to accident is four times greater among men than among women, that homicides are as six to one in favour of the gentler sex, and suicide as about three and a half to one. Amid all the out cry in which extreme Prohibitionists indulge, it is curious to find that out of the 924 deaths requiring inquests only four are attributed to intemperance. Of course a proportion of the suicides may have been produced by the vise of drunkenness, but, even allowing such proportion, the percentage is exceedingly small. Deaths by drown ing form a large percentage of the accidents, no fewer than 281 bodies being found drowned out of the 492 attributable to accidents in the year under notice, equal to fully 57 per cent of the accidental deaths from all cause's.

Some interesting particulars are con tained in the report of the Suez Canal Company as to the AUSTRALIAN growth of Aus- TRADE via SUEZ, tralian traffic by this route during! the past twenty years. With hardly an exception there has been a steady increase throughout, though between 1891 and 1894, when the effects of] the financial crisis' were" most severe, the figures were almost stationary. A general view of the development is conveyed by the following figures :— ! Year. No of vessels. Neb tonnage. 1878 ... 27 ... 46,248,058 1884 ... 253 ... 553 558,940 1890 ... 261 ... 716,480,180 1894 ... 262 ... 798,367,000 1895 ... 269 ... 839,548,008 1896 ... 576 ... 871,490,000 The importance ot the Suez Oanal as regards India is generally recognised, but the rapid development of Aus tralian trade by this route is not sufficiently realised by many. Last year more than a tenth of the tonnage passing through the canal was bound to or from Australia.

Local and General.

la order to meet the wishes of our advertising clientele, some of whom make it a sine qua nan that their business announce ment a shall appear on the same page as ! reading matter, we have decided upon f altering the make-up of our paper, and in future, as to-ciay, reading matter will be found on the first and fourth pages. The object is to make each page of the paper equally good as an advertising medium. Oar readers will soon get accustomed to Ending reports, news, etc., spread over the whole |?aper, and our purpose in drawing attention to' the .change is to advise them where to look. We sh'ill insert a paragraph at the head of the "locals*' atf a guide. In to-day's issue " Interprovincial News," an article on " Tools," and " Sporting " will be found on the fourth page, and on the first page there is a column of readable and uaei'ul .''p&rip $ptes," and an interesting article on ." Ney Zealand horses for the London market." The Hon. W, 0. Walker arrived in Ohristchurch to-day from Wellingtoa. The jyork of constructing the Victoria Lake in IJagley J?ark ? Christchurch, is now in full swing. ; A sample of early potatoes grown fay Mr | Qfas<Uey, seedsman, Colombo street, was on ' view yesterday jn Qhristehurch. ~, ""mitiieF Of 6s.lgap|* js perhaps the smirCabinet mm f* is **»' standing only 4ft 6in high. An electrical machine for cutting . has been invented which is capable of cutting oub from 200 to 300 suits a day. The champion sheep-shearer is an Aus tralian. He has broken the record by shearing 33,825 sheep in twelve months, his earnings being £338. In the seventeenth century the average duration of life was only thirteen years; in the eighteenth, twenty ; in this century it is thirty-six. Whaft will ib be in the j twentieth 2 Since the beginning of this century no less than fifty-two volcanic islands have risen out of the sea. Nineteen of that number have since disappeared, and ten are now inhabited. Mr Seddon and family have arrhed at Albany, all well. They will leave Sydney for Wellington about September 5 or 6, so that September 10 or 11 should see them iv New Zealand. Final arrangements have been made for the acquisition of the Anama Estate, in the Ashbueton district, under the Land for Settlements Act, and the property will be taken over by the Government early next year. Mr David Thomas will conduct on Thurs day next, September 2, an important clear ing sale at Wakanui. Mr James Moore, one of our oldest county settlers, having disposed of his farm, has decided to clear out the whole of his live and dead stock, and as there is no reserve everything will be parted with to the highest bidder. The sale will be held on the farm, and luncheon will be provided. There are five good draught I horses in the catalogue, and several good cattle, both dairy and store, while the implements * and sundries are all of a kind and condition likely to tempt buyers. The sale will be worth attending by farmers who care to look after picking up a few of the little etceteras of farm furnishing that mean money when bought new, but bought second-hand in good condition on an occasion like this are as good as new, and their purchase means saving money. Everything must be sold, as Mr Moore will take nothing with him, The weather prophets predict that the long fine dry spell which we have had will b< followed by a very wet and severe winter. The one thing needful for protection against the elements of such a winter ia a really good reliable waterproof coat or cloak. We are assured that Messrs Oraighead and Berryman have become famous for their well known brand of winter clothing, which has hitherto given such satisfaction, and in anticipation of a still larger sale for these goods, this season they are now showing probably the largest stock of waterproof tweed, serge, and melton overcoats ever exhibited in Ashburton. They are also supplying ladies' and gentlemen's water proof cloaks and coats to measure at ready made prices. Every garment guaranteed thoroughly waterproof. (Three months trial, if defective money returned). All wool linings—keeping tha wearers always warm and dry—aewn throughout with strong silk,, ventilated and every improve mat " up fco dafiei'^AßVj,

Ireland sends out as emigrants to other' lands from 40,000 to 50,000 of her sons and daughters annually, while Scotland parts with only from 16,000 to 18,000. The figures last year were : For Ireland 42,222, and for Scotland 16,866. The oldest Australian native is Mrs Mary Ann Search, born at Cornwallis, Windsor, N.S.W., and now in her 98bh year. Her father, Simon fe'reebody, was 103 when he died, and the old lady has a married daughter 60 years ot age, Country people more especially are re minded that Mr MacKeiizie's Concert Com pany give their first entertainment in the Oddfellows' Hall to-night. Mr Mackenzie ami Miss Glover arrived in Ashburton last evening from Christchurch. A Press Association telegram from Wei | lington states that the Hinemoa arrived at i the scene of the wreck of the Tasmania this morning. The weather was good, but ahe found no sign ot the wreck above the water, and proceeded to search for it by Bounding. The running of horseless vehicles has tie* come a national sport in France, and clubs devoted to it have been formed in the big cities. Oneof tfaesightsalong the French roads this summer will be the addition of many motor cars to the great number of bicycles. An advertisement in the Press notifies that Mr 6. H. Moore has deoided, in consequence of the greatly increased demand for land, to arrange forthe subdivision of the Glenmark and Waikari Estates. The lani is some oi the fineet in Canterbury, and no doubt there will be keen competition for it. An orchestra will lend assis anoe at Mr Mackenzie's concert this evening. It is a custom of this entertainer to secure an orchestral whenever he can, from a belief, common to all true musicians, that a piano by itself is insufficient for satisfactory work «t an entertainment is a hall of any size. Thus .frank Lincoln, the well-known entertainer/—' 1 The severest criticism on me aren't those printed in the papers. An American farmer came to me: ' gay !my son would help you a lot in your show, he is the biggest fool in the country—perfect natural born fool.' 1' 'Captain Edwin has received a telegram from Adelaide stating that a fall of ashes has been recorded in Western Australia. As this is probably the result of the volcanic eruption in the Phillippinelslands, the circumstance is worthy of some notice, owing to the dis tance the ashes must have been carried, which would probably be from 2000 to 2700 miles. The Bluff Harbour Board's solicitors ad vise that that Hon. J, Gr. Ward's election to the Harbour Board is not barred by bank ruptcy, he having resigned just before filing, and the Act not providing that an undis charged bankrupt is ineligible as a candidate, though the Municipal and Counties Act both expressly debar a bankrupt till he gets his discharge. The Prince of Wales has presented an exquisite diamond pin, with a design of a horse and jockey, with the jockey in His Royal Highness' colours, to the Earl of Coventry, as a momento of the victory of Persimmon at Ascot, and in token of his appreciation of the excellent arrangements at the meeting, as carried out by order of the Earl of Coventry. The Timaru Herald says that owing to the recent subdivision of land in the Waimate district, and the consequent increase of settlement, carpenters, painters, and plum bera are ruahed with work, and it is a difficult matter to get any small job attended I to without waiting in some cases for weeks. ! The building trade has never been so fully employed in Waimate during the last ten years as at present. A good story comes to haud from Wash ington illustrative of the uncompromising candour of the lady journalist. One day recently a newspaper woman, full of busi ness, burst into the office of a chief of de partment. The great man was out, so ' Can you tell me when he will be in ?" she aeked of the secretary. " Really, I haven't an idea "he drawled in reply. •'Well," said the lady, as she turned to go, " I muaß say you look it." A concerb and dramatic entertainment in aid of the funds of the Ashburton Football Club will be held on Friday, September 10, at the Oddfellows' Hall, and a few words as ' to the nature of the performance may be of .interest. Arrangements have been made with the Fendalton Dramatic Club, Christ church, to perform the three-act comedy j " Tom Oobb," which has been played by the Club in Christchurch and suburbs some half dozen times during the last month. The press speak very highly of the play and also of the performers, who are spoken of as showing meiit and ability not generally looked for among amateurs." Ihe piece is a very laughabje one, being brimful of smart dialogue and complio<*ted sijfcu&tions. A special feature of the performance will be a ventriloquial sketch by Mr H. H. Rayward. Mr Rayward will bring two life size wax figures with him—an old gentleman and lady—and the way he makes them talk is most ludicrous and exceedingly clever. The programme will also inside songs, instru mental items, and a comic Suet, " JJ old Gendarmes," by Messrs Ray ward and Simms. The full programme will appear in a future issue. HohpO^AY's PjIAS ANQ OINTMEHf.—The most effectual pur^ for Goub and Rheu« rnatism—A frequent cause of these'cbffi plaints is the inflammatory state of the bipod, attended with bad digestion, lassitude and greab debjljty ? showing the want of a proper cirqulatipu of the fluid, and that "•"wiri&y of thp blood greatly aggravates ! l"i •■«.««. |f gjloway's Pills are of so these disor^. •.. * * &w dGge§ en purifying a nature that .. "hijiak in time are an effectual preventive « 6 . gout and rheumatism but anyone who has an attack of either should use Hollo way's Ointmont also, the powerful propor ies of which, combined with the effects of the Pills, ensure a certain cure. The Oint ment should be thoroughly rubbed into the parts affected at leasb twice a day, after they have been sufficiently fomented with warm water to open the pores to faoiliate the introduction of the Ointment to the glands.

Synopsis of New Advertisements. F. Ferriman—New business advt. Eatertainmen—MaoKenz'e Concert; Com pauy, Oddfellows' Hall, to-night. Baker Bros.—Funeral Notice. Mrs Adams—Fruit for sale, cheap. S. Hardley—Notice to farmers. Oorrick Family—Grand concert, Odd fellow's Hal!. Caledonian Society—Final Ingleside. Jewitt—Fresh Oysters, etc. T. Bullock—Land for sale. John Moorhead—Tenders, Church Notices—St. Stephen's, Wesleyan, Tabernacle, and Primitive Methodist.

THE FEUDING SHOOTING CASE.

The Looneys in Court.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph. Fbilding, August 28. At) the Police Court yesterday before A. Greenfield, S.M., Thomas and Annie Looney were charged with shooting at Feilding, on Augußt 16, at Dr Oharlton, W. Adams, and L, E. Reade with intent to kill, Both accused were committed for trial on three separate charges at the next sitting of the Supreme Court at Wellington on August SO. Inspector Pender conducted the case for the prosecution and Mr Fitz herbert for the defence. During the hearing of the charge against the JLiooneys yesterday, Gillies said he had only known the daughter since the end of June. It did not appear from his evidence that the girl fired at him, but at Adams, who was near him. Burrett, licensee of the Manchester Arms, said that the girl threatened to shoot Con stable Healy when he made towards her, and he stopped. It was about) ten minutes or a quarter of an hour afterwards that Dr. Charlton was shot. Another witness said he thought the police ought to have inter fered, but believed they would have thrown away their lives had they attempted to arrest the girl.

Mr L., a broad-minded pressman, met Mr C, a Prohibitionist, the other day. " That's a nasty cough you've gob," said JL. •' Come and have a rum hot; it'll do you good." '• No, thanks; Woods' Great Peppermint Cure for me ; it beats all your rum hots for coujhj and soldi, jt'i iol,d everywhere,

METHVEN COLLIE DOG CLUB.

First Annual Meeting.

President—Mr P. Murray-Aynsley ; Vice- Presidents—Messrs A. Orr, and J. Batty ; Secretary and Treasurer—Mr 0. P. Lock ; I Oommittee—Messrs Wright, Suliivan, Darr, Alington, F. Baker, Tramper, Quade, J. Nee, McDonald, Miller and Beafctie ; Judges —Messrs Donald Fraser and Donald Came- j ron; Flag Stewards—Messrs Wright and Trumper; Timekeepers — Messrs Aynsley j | and Hatty. The trials in connection with the Methven < Oollie Olub began at Rose Hill, the pro perty of John Holmes, Esq, yesterday. There was a large attendance of farmers, shepherds, and the general public, about two hundred being" present. The day was delightful as regards weather, and the beautiful scenery around was entrancing. The green bush in the foreground, and the i blight sun glinting on " the yellow haired tuasook," with the snow capped hills in the distance, made a picture calculated to make the eye of an artist glisten, and the outing ' was an enjoyable one for everybody. The trials began punctually at 9.30 of which the following are details ;—- Class L—Heading and bringing back, aboutSQO yards; time limit twelve minutes.— The first dog to work was Mr J. Johnston's Mosa. After a run across the tussock, and taking the hiii, he got in sight of the sheep, and making for them drove down the hill, but ultimately had to be called off as he lost the sheep in the bush. The next dog out was Mr J, Johnston's Sweep. He too had to be called off for an early faulb. Mr Muir heada' Rap followed. He cast to the right, went straight to the sheep, and with a good cast headed quietly, keeping his sheep clear of the bush, and bringing them right on to the flat. He came somewhat hurriedly, bat was firm, and got bis stock very close to the yards, but had trouble in getting in, ulti mately however, putting them into the ring in good time and under good command. Time nine minutes. Mr J. Headey's Wag, next took the ground. Casting to left of the tussocks he mounted the hill to the top v headed quietly, and brought his work straight down to the flat. Here the sheep 1 became bewildered and scattered, but Wag had his eye on them, and rounded them again, but time was up before he finished and he was called off. Mr J. JEL Turton's Scott was next asked. His work all through was good. He went straight for the sheep, headed quietly, brought back j steadily, put them well into the ring, and was well under command. Time nearly eight minutes. Mr F. W. Clarkson's Yarrow was the next in order. He headed bis sheep well, and was well under command, brought back steadily and quietly, but was slack in getting them into the ring, and failed to hold when time waa called. His owner caused some amusement by his manner of addressing his collie, to whom he spoke as he would have done to a man, saying " If you don't hurry up, time will be up, and then you'll get fits." Mr J. Tumper's Jack next took the hill, making away to the right across the tussock. He did not head well, split his mob, and was called off. Mr A. McFarlane's Doll fol lowed. After some fiddling, the sheep were sighted and headed, a little noisily, but they were brought down smartly and neatly. The work was firm if a little hurried, but the sheep were put well into the ring under l good command. Cheers were given Mr McFarlane for the nice way ia which he worked his animal. The three next entries put in no appearance. Mr J. G. Turfcon'a Fly made a mistake at the beginning and was called off. So was Mr Johnston's j Fanny after losing the sheep. Half an hour for luncheon, and work was resumed with Mr William Grieves Darkie. Fair work, but exceeded the time Ihnib. Mr 0. J. Johnstone's Florrie also showed good work ing abilities, but overstepped the time limit. The next entry failed to appear, and Mr W . Grieves Chivie, was called off early, as was Mr C. J. Johnslone's Lass after some fair work. Mr R. Pollock's Wily made some zig %%g work and was lost sight off, and eight minutes having elapsed before he was seen again he waa called off. The judges' award wan to be given this morning. Class 11.-^Heading, bringing baok and yarding ; about 500 yards. Time limit fif teen minutes.—The first entry was scratched, and work began with Mr J. Muirhead's Rap, He cast to the left, headed and brought back steadily and quietly to the hurdles, where he had some trouble, running a little wide in penning, and being somewhat slow , ia slewing. But he did his work i in thirteen minutes. Mr A. McFar lane's Doll did good work till bring ing back, whea the sheep split, and there was a failure to pen. Mr R. Pollocks Laddie was called off after twenty minutes' work. Mr J Johnston's Fanny also failed to pea and was called off, so was Mr C. J. Johnstone's Florrie, after good work that ended in a failure to pen. Mr J. H. Muir head's Tip was called off afcfer au early failure to head. Mr C. J. Johnstone's Lass did fast work in heading and bringing back, but, working wide at the yard, did not pen within the time limit. The class was not finished when our despatch left. It may be mentioned that only merino sheep were used, and some of them were rather wild. "The luncheon was provided by Mrs William Wright and Mrs Hayward, who won golden opinions from all sorts of people for their signal success as purveyors. Oar correspondent adds that the Commit tee and all connected with the trials are to be congratulated on the best affair that has been held in the county. The trials were resumed this morning.

BARRYTOWN GOLD FIELD.

Ujp. Thomas's Visit,

An interview with Me Thomas, ft'lichi ti« has anything to tell, is usually interesting, and knowing this fact our representative waited upon him to ascertain what he had to say about his visit to the Barrytown gold mine, from which he has just returned. He and Mr Zander lefb A^hburton last week in the wet weather and reached Springfield en route for the Coast. The Journey by Porter's Pass lay through from two to three feet of snow, so that the coach did not make the best possible time ; but after Porter's Pass had been traversed the snow lay in patches only, and this was the condition of things till Arthur's Pass was reached, where i the snow ranged in depth from two to six feet. The roadmen had cub a path through the mass for the coach to travel in, but had left the corners awkwardly sharp, leaving an opportunity for the driver to show his skill in negotiating them without sending his horses breast high into a mountain of snow. All the difficulties, however, were satisfactorily surmounted, though the snow covered the ground halfway down the gorge. But after clearing the gorge from that out no more snow was encountered, and fine weather was vouchsafed ft) the party during the remainder of the journey to Greymouth, which place they reached all right. Thence they went to Hokitika where they fixed a contract for taking the plant by sea, a rather dangerous proceeding ; but " needs must," etc., as to have taken it by road was impos sible. This was made evident to the visitors when they had taken horses and ridden, to Barrytown by way of the beaoh. They found that, to use Mr Thomas's own quaint way oi putting if, •' this was no slouch of a road." The horses went over their fetlocks in soft shingle at every step, so that to have at tempted to take heavy mining plant by cart along such a track was altogether out o£ the question. Arrived at Barrytown the party I looked over their claim, as well as others with in a five mile radius of it, to see what was being done. They tested their own ground, I and in no case did they ever get less- than 60 I or 70 specks to the half shove!—a good j prospect. The claim is 192 acres in extent I on the flat land. There is an ample water { supply—in fact the water supply is the best j eDJoyed by any claim in the colony. The 1 formation of the country is beach sand, with £ rock underlying ; " and if" said Mr Thomas, j 11 we can a weep the rock it must be one of I the riche&t claims in New Zealand." The j claim, he added, was good any way, and the j leavieafe gold would be found at the rock, j For the last twenty years Barrytown had ] been much neglected. There had been j small parties of diggers pottering away at it, j but they could not do the best possible with I the country because there* was too much j water to struggle with, and to come out of j the struggle successfully would necessitate a large expenditure of money. Small parties of diggers were not in a position to do this, but » company with capital

could, and the Barrytown Goldmiu ing Company were doing this. livery one in the district spoke in high terms of the property, whxh they mu\ only wanted proper means of working to pay handsomely. The gold was there, they all knew—find the means to save i.. The dirt had been handled previously only in small quantities, and had shown good returns ; it would be for the Company to handle it in large quantities and get proportionately largo returns. The plant for Barrytown was nearly all at Greymouth, bo that Mr Thomas, who has a practical knowledge of such things, had an opportunity of seeing it, It is of the most modern character, and everything is of the best description. He expected that some portion of it would be delivered at Barry town next week. The whole ground adjoining the claim has been taken up by syndicates and others, with a view to following the footsteps of the Barrytown Goldmining Company. Every body admits that the gold is there in quantity, but the question for which an answer is looked for is—how to get is oub, To provide a satisfactory answer to this question Is the task before the Barrytown Company. The people in the district have never before seen a plant of the kind pro cured by the Barrytown Company; and are of course unacquainted with it. That being so they may be pardoned for being a little aoeptical of the new appliances, But the Company's manager has been accustomed to using similar plants, and this, he says, is the best he has ever seen in New Zealaad. For thirty years he has been used to the best plants down south. Asked for his own straight out opinion of the venture, Mr Thomas said it was " sound and good, and that opinion I am backing up by purchasing a number of shares more. X i have bought a number since visiting the ground." ■.■.-, r , ,■

GOLF.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Christchuroh, August 27, There was fine weather for the continu ation of the Ladies' Golf Tournament to-dtiy, when a bogey match was played with fifty four competitors. Mrs Pym, (Chrifstehurch), with 15 of a handicap won with 3 holes and 0 down, Mrs Holland, (Dunedin), was next with a handicap of 3, 2 holes up j and Miss Begg, (Dunedin), handicap 9, 2 holes up; , Mrs Woodhouae, {Dunedin), handicap 9.

CANTERBURY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph, Christohuroh, August 27. The annual meeting of the Chamber of Commerce to-day was preceded by a banquet at which there were 70 present. Thirty-one new members were elected. The acting President (Mr B. W. Roper) delivered a most interesting address, pointing out how the colony had gonj ahead, and showing that those who took a pessimistic view of the future were not justified in doing so. It was decided to urge on the completion of the . Weit Coast Railway, and a deputation was appointed to interview the Minister for Railways at the first opportunity on the matter of accelerating the speed on the lines from Lyttelton to Springfield and South bridge. Great interest was manifested in the proceedings,

SEAFIELD.

The anniversary of the Seafield Sunday School 'was celebrated last evening, and was largely attended. The tea meeting in the afternoon was the signal success it always is, and the after meeting was equally successful* The room was beauti fully decorated with evergreens, flags, and chastely wcrked illuminated mottoes, while effect was given to lighting by the use of laurels, and other wreaths entwined about the candle holders. The piano, at which Mies Richardson presided, was on the stage at the end of the building, and after the Rev. T. A. Hamilton, who was chairman, had delivered an interesting address, taking for his subject "Habit: second nature, 9'a most enjoyable programme was submitted, the performers being Mrs W. B. Denshire, Mrs W. Bruce j Misses Richardson, Moore, and Qollieon ; Rev. T. A. Hamilton, and Messrs Lambie and Oraighead and Master Freddy Smith. The Key. J. Olphert de livered an excellent address on " Small things " at an interval in the programme, and at the close of the meeting the usual votes of thanks were passed, the gathering dispersing after the hymn "Crown Him Lord of all" had been sung.

Tinwald Town Board.

The monthly meeting of the above Board waa held on Friday evening last. Present— Messrs E. Gates (chairman), Q. Doherly, 3. M. Hampton, T. Williams, and M. Lagan. OORRBSPON^ENCB Correspondence was received from, the Qontroller-Qeneral, forwarding balance sheet duly certified —The balance sheet) was read and adopted. BY-LAWS. The Board then drafted a complete set of by-laws, and ordered the same to be 1 perused* , WORKS. It was resolved to have about 200 yards o! shingle carted for patching South Road, Graham's Road, and Carter's (Derraoe, Improvement to Graham's Road and some minor works were also authorised, and after passing accounts amounting to £5 19s 2d the meeting adjourned.

ASHBURTON HOSPITAL.

Subscriptions for Convalescent Ward.

The following further subscriptions have been received : — Bad Amount previously acknowledged 199 18 5 Mitchell % Turner, Andrew Orr, T, Bullock, each ggs, .„ 6 6 0 R. Friedlander, W. ?. Collins & Co., Fletcher Bros., Ashburton Drug 00., H. Zander, each lg. 5 5 0 J. Ward, Tucker & Bean, each £1 2 0 0 Shearman Bros., D. gander, each 10s 6d ... ... ... ... 110 E. G. Crisp, W. J. Allen, A. P. Williamson, T. H. Undrill, H. Bairstow, 0.W., H. E. Bon nington, John Taylor, H. 0.5., W. Patching, O. Digby, J. 0. Duncan, each 10s ... ... 60 0 S. Salek, F. Clark, W. Jewitt, F. Steel, A. H. Field, 0. H. Williams, J. H: Jamieson,F.N ?p E. Stephens, Weka, J. Patter son, T.* E.Kilwortb, each 55.., 3 0 0 W. Sutherland, R H.8.U., A. Curtis, Hard-up, R. Murray, J. Forbes; Anon, M.D., H. 0., J. Nolan, R. McCallum, A. H. Williams, Pollock, J. Ivese, each 2s 6d > 115 0 Mrs Madden 2s, J.E.D. Is, A Friend Is 0 4 0 Total to date ... ... 225 9 5 August 28,1897.

Canterbury Land Board.

The following items of local jnfosresfc are from the report of the Board's meeting on Thursday last:— It was resolved to re-offer forfeited rural sections 36475 and 36572 near Rangitata, fat disposal under part 111. of the Land Act, 1892, as second-class land ab the ranger's valuation for land and improvements. In the matter of unoccupied sections in the township of South Eakaia, it was resolved £hat the Board would be prepared to grant "temporary licenses on condition that the gorse is eradicated, and the land laid down in English grass. In relation to defaulters as to residence aad improvements at the Highbank settle ment the explanations in seven cases were accepted as satisfactory; in five cases an extension of three months' time was allowed in which to fulfil the conditions, in three oases personal residence on the septiqns was dispensed with during the second year's tenancy, and in fourteen cases it was r< - solved to forfeit the leases for non-compliance with conditions,

CABLE NEWS.

Homo and Foreign.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph- Copyright. Obituary. London, August 26 Right Hon Sir George Medorn- Morgan, M.P., for Denbigh East. The deceased was Secretary for the Colonies in 1886. Boat Accident. Four old Etoniaus attempted to row across the English Chancel. They were accompanied by a tug, A heavy swell caused the boat to sink, and the occupants were rescued with great difficulty. Mount St. Ettas. Ottawa, August 26. The Duke d'Abruzzi, a member of the Italian Eoyal House, ascended Mount St. Elias, one of the highest peaks in the north west territory of Canada. The party reached an altitude of 10,OOOft, and wera fifty-one days amidst ice and snow* President Borda's Assassin. Buknqs Ayres, August 27 Arredondo, President JBorda'i assassin, was an army officer. The deed was due to personal hatred, and there were no accomplices. The crowd at the Cathedral door threatened the murderer with violence, and the mili tary were compelled to charge with fixed bayonets. Several were killed and many wounded. Letter from the Ameer. Calcutta, August 25. The Ameer, in a letter to the Indian Government, called on God to witness that he had not induced the tribesmen to rebel against the Empress of India, Russia and France. St. Petersburg, August 26. At a luncheon given by the Czar in honor of President Paure, His Majesty said that the French President's presence created a fresh bond between two friendly and allied nations, both of whom were resolved to maintain peace.

Australian.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph— Copyright. Fatal Boiler Explosion. Sydney, August 27. A boiler explosion near Bathurst completely wrecked a mill, killed a man named Guthrie instantly, and seriously wounded several others. Fire on a Steamer. Albany, August 27 A fire which occurred on the Oroya was soon extinguished. Most of the passengers were asleep. One case of goods was burnt. The greatest damage was by water. The goods damaged are chiefly for Melbourne.

THE SITUATION IN INDIA.

Further Rebel Success.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Copyright Calcutta, August 26 A battalion of British infantry is ready to move from Lucknow to the Pan] aub, if required. Quetta reports state that one of the Beloochisfcttn chiefs, who wag arrested on suspicion of intriguing against British rule, hag been released. August 27 The majority of the garrison from Fort Ali Musjid have arrived at Jam rud, at the south end of the j^hyber Pass, bringing theic arms with them. The telegraph wire to, Farachtnar has been cut in two places., The Afridis in great force, assisted by a force of Ghajsis, attatked Laodi Ifcotal, situated at the crest of Khyber Pass, on Tuesday last. The garrison there consisted of 350 Khybcr Pass Rifles, composed of the surrounding tribesmen, and 150 other tribesmen. They bravely held the fort until Wednesday morning, when the enemy effected an entrance. A desperate band to hand encounter then ensued, lasting two hours. The losses on both sides are unknown. The Afridis than burned the fort and are now reported to be dispersing, declaring their inten tion of re-assembling on September 15. Information received by the Viceroy gives as the reason for the temporary dispersal of the rebels their shortness of food supplies, Similar successes are reported from the north-west frontier. The Times 1 Simla correspondent ' states that so sudden was the attack that it was impossible to send a force equipped and provisioned into the Pass. The only way to prevent a recurrence \vill be to attacjc the Afridjf in their stronghold at Tirah Pass,

The French President in Russia.

Press Aasociation.—By Electric Telegraph- Copyright. St Fetebsbubg, August 26 M. Faure has distributed many honors to Ministers and courtiers, aa well as costly gifts. Over 3i}Q hqnora have been conferred on the array an 4 navy. The Czar haa given presents tq IV).. HanotauJf: and the French oncers. The Ozar took fareweil of M. Faure aboard a Russian cruiser, the Presi dent kissing the Empress's hand. > Speaking at a luncheon, M. Faure referred to the graceful and superb welcome accorded by the Russian people. These great events established an intimate friendship between Franca and Russia, who now were two friendly and allied natiqns, united in brotherly order. The Ozar, replying, mad§ com plimentary illusions to France.

Mr Seddon's Return.

Press Association —By Electric Telograph~* Copyright Albany, August 27. The Bight Hon. Dr. Soddon and family have arrivbd all well. They leave Sydney by the Waikare qn. September 4. ,

THE ABHBOBTOS GtJABMAIS I BATUEDAY, ATOtJSf 28, 1897.



' Tim _ ■ im : Business Notices ' DEESSES & DRESSMAKING ■= EXTRAORDINARY. = j AFTER AN EXCEPTIONALLY SUCOBSSFUL^SBASON WE ARE NOW PREPARED TO TAKE VERY MUCH REDUCED PRICES FOR OUR FEW REMAINING COLORED DRESSES.' A LOW£PRlCEfquoted forpreM Oompktd, Belt) Sty!e|aud Fit. ,!. ■ . ". --;*-- ■■■;- ■■ ■ ■ ■ •■■ ■'■ '. MITCHELL & TURNER.



1897. NIMMO & BLAIR'S. 1897. FRESH STANDARD SEEDS. 8d per Packet, TIMETABLE SEEDS. 3d per Packet. Or 13 for3s .6d. 100 VARIETIES. . 100 VARIETIES. /"^TJLTURAL Directions are given on each Packet, and the novice at gardening cannot \_^ fail to have euccesa by using Nimmo and Blair's " Standard " Seeds, and following the directions given on Packet. Nimmo and Blair's strains of Vegetable Seeds are either grown under their own personal supervision, or are procured from the most reliable sources in Great Britain ana Europe, and the many testimonials they have received from all parts of New Zealand prove that their efforts to supply pure and genuine seeds have been thoroughly •ucoeseful. Id Packets. FLOWER SEEDS. Id Packets. IN OVER 100 VARIETIES. This Hit includes the most hardy varieties, aa well as the showiest, and each packet contains more than sufficient aeed to plant an ordinary garden. Full directions for sowiDg are given on each packet, and if followed, the best results will be obtained. We can supply any of the latest Novelties in Vegetable or Flower Seeds at the Catalogue Price. CALL AND PROCURE A COMPLETE CATALOGUE. SHEARMAN BROS., GROCERS & IRONMONGERS, Market House, Burnett Street. Telephone—No. 53.



WEDDING PRESENTS, BIRTHDAY PRESENTS, AND PRESENTATIONS. 6 REASONS 6 -TrrHY THE ABOVE SHOULD BE PUKOHASED FROM S. SALEK'S THE LEADING JEWELLERY ESTABLISHMENT IN THE DISTRICT. I.—-The Largest Stock to choose from. 2—The Newest Stock from which to make a selection. 3.—The Very Latest Styles and Fashion in Jewellery are to be seen there. 4.-—The Greatest Variety of Novel and Unique Articles suitable for presents is found in the establishment, s.—Prices charged are the LOWEST, 6.—And Everything is marked in plain figures. S. BALEK, THE LEADING WATCHMAKER & JEWELLER, Ba » T STREET.



H. M. JONES. Organs, Organs. 7 STOP AMERICAN ORG '£%^ ! with couplers, at Imported Price— £16 «&■ Best Value ever offered in Ashburton. 13 STOP AMERICAN ORGAN, a beauti ful instrument, at Imported Prioe for Gash, Pianos. Pianos. HAAKE, KAMSPERGER, WEISNEK, and other pianos, at Imported Prices for Cash. Bicycles. HARTFORD, VICTOR, STAR, and COLUMBIA —Ladies' and Gentle men's Bicycles, from jI(rCASH LATEST BOOKS BY MAIL. Stationery. FL&IN, FANCY, and COMMERCIAL, in great variety. H. M. JONES.



CAESON & Co., WISH TO CALL ATTENTION TO THEIR TEA TRADE. HAYING juefc received several packages* of high-class Bulk Teas, including Ceylon, Orange Pekoea, Pekoe Souchouga, and Assam Pekoes, we are prepared to offer the best value in Canterbury. In proof of this statement! we guarantee our blends to contain a larger proportion of choice and high-class fcea than any advertised blends on the market at the same price. Our 1/10 Blend gives universal satisfaction. Our 2/- Pure Ceylon Orange Pekoe is unsur passed. Samples post free on application. We still maintain our reputation for The best sugar-cured Hams and Bacon. The finest and freshest Eggs and Butter. The celebrated •• Timaru" Diamond Grain Oatmeal, The "St. George" brand Jams, Sauces, and Potted Meats. ; Aulsebiook and Phasnix Biscuits and Confectionery. '•Tai Koo" brand Snowdrop China Sugar. CARSON & CO., GROCEBS AND IRONMONGERS, Tancred Street and Arcade. Buyers of First-class Dairy I'roduce in any quantity. Agent for Arthur Yates' Garden Seeds. 8 22 WANTED Known—Our 7s 6d Tweed Dresses, Also our all wool Serges in Cardinal from 2s, Navy and Black from 2s 9d. Satisfactory Dress and Mantle making on the premises. AH descriptions of ladies garments made to order.—Mitchell NO TUBNBB- W ANTED Known—Our Clothing and Mercery Deparment—Special lines in Men's Trousers, exceptional value. Choice selection in Ties, Collars, Shirts, Hats, and Wool Underclothing. Sewn Macintoshes in stools and. to order.—MixoaiiW* & Xpftraß,



public Notices. i; AGIiNTS FOR THE ANGLO-NEW ZEALAND , CYCLE COMPANY. I THE OSMOND Xil-El GLOBE XJEIJES M&LXOXf THE XOWJNJEICD IF you are thinking of purchasing a Bicyolej it will be to your own interest to inspect the above High-Grade English Machines, Ladies' up-to-date Cycles from £19 15s. Gentlemen's Latest Patterns from £1915s The very easy terms we are giving places any of the above beautiful Bicycles within the reach of all .by paying a small deposit, and balance in easy monthly payments. Don't be afraid to come in and see our Machines. All transactions strictly confidential. Catalogues and terms on application. HALLENSTEIN BROS. & CO., A. G. BARTON, Managed



<v .a a » • • i P* JS'fi |? OD s^ < m ■** si Pj. CO §T! a:i h o 3 5* li * o fr\ o,° <& £ &il §c 1 « IS P § W p > Oa LXJ O fe; IS SS < vi $ S O Pll BB S Hsi p E? H



Church Services. ST. STEPHEN'S OHURCH Aehburtou. SUNDAY SERVICES, AUGUST 29> 8.30 a.m.~Holy jQornmunion. 10.15 a.m.-*-Preparation class in school room. 11 a.m.—Morning Prayer. 2.45 p. m.—Children's service. 3 p.m.—^wmore, Mr T. A. Gates. 3.30 p.m.*— Ho. lw Baptism. 6.30 p.m.-Evening 2*^er. REV T. A. HAMIT,? 01'



METHVEN. LATEST NEWS. mHE ASHBURTON "GUARDIAN," X with the day'a telegraphic and cable news from all parts of the world, can be had from MESSRS HIBBB' BROS., daily, immediately after the arrival of the evening train.



TTT"ANTED Known, Mbllor's Bargain T V Sale now on. Come early. Uhil draft's Straps 1* 9d, usually 2« 6d,



Many Ladies complain that the Tea they have been using hta neither atreng&h nor flavor. If they try Rons T**. they will be satisfied Try the No 4at £/4. 'tin superb The true leaf of the Tea plant, tuitampcrf c| with sad pure; this U Kozis TIA, try ife^ Jobs Off * 0o.» ftg»fc*iii