Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1897. LIQUOR CONSUMPTION.

Parliamentary papers as a ruie we rather dry reading, and columns of figures in a blue book do not often lure the reader into close and interested perusal But now and again one gets in a Parliamentary paper something worth reading, and the tabulated figures ®£ the statistician can one« in a way arrest .«fctantion. The Depart ment of Trade and Customs have pre pared for presentation to both fJouses of the General Assembly a return sbowmg the consumption of articles in common use per head of population in this C* 101*! *rOOJ *878 t0 1896~-fche last complete F ef r' J hem has ofJ ate years been consm^^' 6 <>*&¥ ab °Ufc the consumption of lW™ by the people of Now Zealand, iL n <» certain incautious speakers have made* $ne colonists out to be a very intemperate lot. But this return shows that, though in the far past there was a fair quail-

tity tf liquor consumed, the consump tion por bead has very much decreased during the years covered by the return. Taking spirits first, as it is the first article dealt with in the return, we find that in 1878—just when Vogel'3 free irnm gration scheme was about closing, after very largely increasing the population, both children and adults—there were in the colony, including Maoris, an adult male popu lation of 139,354. That handful of people consumed the formidable quantity of 657,233, gallons of " blue ruin," or 478 gallons per head male adult. Spirits that year contributed to the revenue £395,108, representing £2 16s 3d per head of male adult popu lation. The rate of duty then was 43 per gallon less ou imported spirits than it is to day, and besides, during that year and for four years following, the duty on New Zealand distilled spirits was only 6s and 7s. How much was distilled in » his colony then the return unfortunately does not give. Perhaps it would be as difficult to giro the figures for those years as it would be to give the figures represent ing the quantity distilled since distill* tion in this colony became illegal. Fext year showed a slight increase in the male adult population, It had risen to 147,313, but the consumption had gone down to 624,503 gallons over all, to 4.24 gallons per head, and to £2 11s 5d per head duty, the total contribution being £378,754. In no year following up to 1896 is any diminution of the adult male popula tion recorded, but a steady annual increase appears till 1888 is reached. Then we find a difference of about 300 against that year in favor of 1887, but 1889 made up that difference, and still showed 2000 to the good. But though the population has increased so satis factorily, there has been a steady fall ing ofi in the quantity of spirits con sumed, and the contribution to the revenue from this source has remained much about the same in the aggregate, though it has gone down very much per head. This may be accounted for perhaps by the fact that the rate of duty for imported spirits had gradually crept up from 12a in 1878 to 16s in 1896. From £2 11s 5d per head in 1879 there has been a steady drop, till in 1896 the amount was only £1 14a Sd. In 1889 it was only £1 11s lOd, but the filling off in that year was accounted for by 1889 showing an increase to £2 3a 4d, caused by heavy clearances in view of case spirits being taken at 2, 3, and 4 gallons, instead of actual quantities on December 1, 1888. Take an average of the two years and £l 17s Id will appear for each of them, against £1 18s 5d in 3887, and £1 16s 7d in 1890. ifor the same reason (the extra clearances in 1888) 1889 shows the smallest quantity in the con sumption columns—369,oß6 gallons total, and only 209 gallons per head, but in 1890 the slack was again hauled in, and the leeway was made up 435,075 gallons being recorded, and 239 gallons per head. With a popu lation of 208,679 in 1896, we absoibed only 451,679 gallons, or 2.17 per head This compares well indeed with 1878 with its 659,233 gallons and 4.78 gallons per head. In that year there was consumed for each head of male adult population about three-quarters of a gallon more than the capacity of « kerosene tin, if we may be nllowed the homely illustration, but iv 1896 we only got through about half a tinful per annum each man-— net very hard drinking to be s-iro. Tht j statistician is very gallant. He does not suppose that the ladies drink any spirits, and so deals only with " male adult population." When he comes to wine, however, bis columns become more comprehensive and he includes the ladies as well. Still th" aame steady march towards decrease is shown in the wine statistics as was noticeable in those relating to spirits. For 1878,278,321 male and female popu- I lation over fifteen (including Maoris con- I sumed in all 194,892 gallons of wine — • 0.70 gal. per head—paying at a low rate of duty £39,635 to the revenue, or 2s lOd per head. Last year the adult population (479,015) used only 99,478 gallons, or 0.21 gallon per head, paid £28,846 duty, at the rate of Is 2|d per head—a marked falling off indeed. I And it is the same with imported ale and beer. In 1878 the consumption per head was 1.75 gallons and the contribution to the revenue 2s Id. In 1896 the consumption had gone down fco 0.38 gallon, and the contribution to the revenue showed only 9d per head. The most popular beverage, however, is colonial beer, but as it was not till 1 1880 that the excise duty of 3d per gallon was imposed, no account was ! kept before that year of the quantity consumed, and a3 the duty was levied for only six months of 1880, that year need not be bothered with Jn Isßl it took 4,624,160 gallons of jyew Zea land brewed beer to slake the thirst alcoholic of our adult population—male and female (including Maoris) —or 14.6 gallons per head. That year "colonial svipes" yielded to the revenue £57,802; or 3s 7|d par head. The decrease noted in the consumption of spirits, wine, and imported ale only began to be apparent in colonial beer in JBB4, when it had gone down by about 200,00,0, gallons, and the con- I sumption per head showed qmly 12.5 | gallons. In 1890 after having fallen co half a million gallons in 1888 less ' than had been consumed in 1881, it took a jump up to 4,676,240, or about 40,000 gallons more thas in tha last named year. Still the consumption per head was only 11.7 gallons. The yearly increase of population since 1890 has gone till, in 1.89,6, 479,015 are the figures representing the possible customers of the brewers. Those customers jin that year consumed the largest quantity of colonial beer shown inanjryearoftherecord,butthe,quanti]fcy per head was only 11.2 gallons, and the contribution to the revenue 2j 9|H. Taking 1896 all through we find tha^ with spirits, wine, and foreign and colonial beer, the colony contributed to the revenue £1 19<s 3d per head of population, and these figures would be lower stjJJ i| we allow the female a'Julc population to be Included among the consumers of spirits. We feel sure that if the statistics of all the civilised countries were taken as thoroughly as #ur own, not many of them could show a mor,e fce^pgrate population.

Oan a man think himaelf to death? Empire, a weekly paper conducted by

Mr Stuart Cumber land, once famous

FATAL THINKING.

as a thought reader, says that a case was recently furnished by a member of the ni» dical profession, an educ ited and intelligent man, whose death was due to his own itnagiuation ■—in fact, he thought himself to death. He sustained injuries, which were not serious, by falling off his bicycle. He might have recovered in due course had he not conceived the notion that they would result in lockjaw. He was progressing favourably, when he an nounced to a brother physician that he would have lockjaw during the week, and would die of it ou the following uuday. Despite all attempts to dissuade him that the idea was absurd, he insisted on being treated with anti toxin. If this had any effect at all, it seemfd to increase the power of his imagination and bring his weakened body still more completely under the control of his mind. As a result, he ' developed alarming symptoms four days after he had predicted hits death, and it became clear that he would not recover. He died on the day he appointed, and of lockjaw as he pre dicted 1 He literally thought himself to death. This was clearly a case of knowing too much for one's own good, for an ignorant man would certainly have recovered.

Local and General.

Amusements are the order of the day in Methven. The bachelors' ball was held on the 17th. McKenzie Company has given two entertainments, and were.to give another last night. The kinetnatograph is to be shown on Friday, and there are rumours in the air of one or two other entlercainments, besides a bazaar, which is to be held shortly. Cricket has begun at Methven. The general meeting of the Club was held a short time age at which all the officers were re elected, and several new vice-presidents were added to the list. A considerable sum of money has been expended on the ground, add the result is that there will be aaplend d pitoh this year. The season practically commenced on Thursday, when a good number of members put in an appearance sor practice. The Methven Literary Society is pro gressing. As a sign of the times, at the last meeting, which was a " ladies' evening," Mrs Nee took the chair in the most ap proved way, and after successfully placing before the Society a capital musical and literary programme, concluded by intimating that the ladies had provided refreshments, which would now be brought in, and, she hoped, enjoyed. Needless to nay full justice was done. The Methven sa'eyarda are a success. At a meeting of shareholders held the other evening, it was decided to provide increased accommodation for sheep, and enlarge the cattle yards, erect new pig pens, and pro vide a sheep dip ; and as showing the eati , mation iv which the project is held, though there were only twelve shareholders present, the sum of £130 was subscribed in a few minutes.

Motor cara are seldom seen nowadays (says a London correspondent). So far as concerns any practical outcome the movement has hitherto been a failure. Of coime you can have a motor car that will run along for a considerable distance, but you cannot yet get one which will practically and usefully replace horse traction. Nor has the idea of eubsritctiug traction by a pair of man ridden bcycles, as tried by an advertising doctor, at all '• caught on." So we still have to submit to the harmless necessary horse with all his drawbacks.

According to the San Francisco Examiner an enterprising Galforuian named Ayer has attempted lo float a company for establish ing a balloon service between Juneau, or Lynn Channel, and Dawson city, in the Klondyke region. Mr Ayer is an experienced balloonist, and has already issued a circular to possible financial supporters. He pro poses to start his first balloon as soon as 2000dols are subscribed, and confidently expects to surmount all the difficulties of the Ohilkoot Paaa and the Yukon rapids. The British Genital African Gazette con tains some interesting particulars of the in sensibility of the black man to pain. The writer gives several instanced which cer tainly seem to prove that the coloured man either does not ieel pain as acutely as his white brother, or is possessed of a great amount of endurance. A Makua bad his foot amputated. The following day he was found out of bed, stumping about the hospital floor. A Yao, who had three damaged fingers removed, stole away aext morning to go on a journey of aome weeks, using the damaged hand freely. After the bombardment of a slave-raiding chief's capital, some women who had been mortally wounded were seen going about; picking up firewood, drawing water, and attending to their physical wants. Next day they had died of their wounds. The children are not different from their parents, in proof of which the writer tells the following story :— A little girl, after having her leg amputated, made her way to a pool, where ahe sab with the stump dangling in the water, which she splashed over it with her hinds, singing oil the time as though nothing were amiss. A good story is told by the Argus at the expense of a French philatelist who recently visited Melbourne, Aa he desired to have a complete set of Victorian stamp i at present in use he applied at the Postal Department for them, paying as the face value a not inconsiderable sum of money. Like many other stamp collectors he preferred to have post-mirks on the stamps, and inquired if he could be obliged in that direction. He was pleased to find that there was no iusu perable obstacle to the proceeding, and he was introduced to the mail branch, where his commission was duly attended to. But his stamps must have been handed over to a very vigororous f puncher," with a newly charged dye pad, for when he received them I back their pattern and denomination were quite indecipherable. His consternation and horror were at Brat beyond expression, and when he found words they were emphatic and in his native tongue. Hk undoing seemed irreparable until an appeal was nude in the highest official quarters, and then an srder wan iaiued that the defaced stamps should go into the accountant's " spoil,*' and a new set be provided in place of them. When asked whether he would have the second lot post-marked with "a little more csre," he replied with alarm : «• Oh, no; thank you. I will have them as they are this time."

While Judge Ward was hold jag his JQis triot Court Bitting oa Batarday. the Mayor and Mr David Thomas sab ia judgment on an old man named Barnes, charged with y-agrancy. The old fellow who had just been discharged fwnn the <Qld Men'B Home, had been in hjis young days a pri?e lighter in Victoria, and though very much now in the sere and yellow, stity fancies hjimaelf good enough to " take the starch out of younger men jf' Holding this belief he used to play the bujly to a great extent at the Home, but one day he' "struck a snag?' and got ."folded up" by another inmajbe who though abo#t his tyWn age, objected to be bullied by aa/one, andl took n'jwist put of the troab e some one, earning respite from annoyance in consequence. Barnes" was allowed to pass hfs dlya yery sjujetly, but having been spoken to by the mastep about certain im proprieties fchafc had oQQtifted he lost his temper, and made use of language f*r from proper. Another inmate, who had been in the habit of cleaning out Barnes' room, was taken ill and had to go to the hospital. Barnes was therefore told he would have to use the broom himielf. He rose in wrath at tfejis, &ad s like an old fool, struck the master. Mr MorHsfley oajfl give e,nd take with any Htm in a himilar poßltiofi | hufc ije <|rawß the me at violenoe, mi was not tb*t 4»y taking any playful clouts on the kead, B^rneg was rU Q Ant, And oyer a suit of clothes he was trvina to Sali {9 a Becond hand <iea!er« strayed into the kriSs of the police, theuo a gaai for» me»tfci

As it has been found that the present accommodation at Mehven Saieyards is not equal to the requirements, at a meeting of shareholders in the company held on Thursday last, it wai deoided to issue 200 more £1 shares, present shareholders to have the preference for fourteen days. More than 100 shares were guaranteed in the room.

Mr W. H. Sutherland, the well-known fishmonger, has removed fromTancred S'reet to new premises in Burnett Street, nexb i door to the Club, where he will carry on his business, making poultry a specialty but not by any means slacking the energy he has always displayed in the supply of oysters, fresh fish, cured fish, and last but not least fried fish, purveying hot dinners and suppers for customers.

CRICKET.

Opening Match.

The following will be the teams to play in the opening match to-morrow afternoon :— Uaptains'a aide—Alington, V. Steward, 0. Andrews, L. F. Andrewes, Powell, Denshire, Russell, P. Pritohard, Baigent, Jonas, Pilbrow, Morriesey, Upton, Marsden, Seldon and Thiele. Vice-Captain's side—Oromie, W. Steward, J. Pritchard, Wilkie, Percy, Curti«, Harvey, G. Andrews, A. Pilbrow, Priest, Friedlander, Ward, Hammond, Beckett, Chapman and Freeman. Game to starb at ,2.30. Intending member* are requested to attend.

ASHBURTON LIEDERKRANZ

The Ashburton Liederkranchen gave their annual "at home " in the Orange Hall last evening, at which there was perhapi the largest attendance the Liederkranz has e?er been honored with at any public appearance. Since last "at home' the Society has lost a considerable number of very talented members, by removal. For instance Mesdames Brooke and Mayne have left the district, so have Misses Clara Tomp ktns, Macdonnell, and Douglas, while several others, really good vocalists have withdrawn from the Society for other rea sons. But it says much for the vocal talent of the town that, notwithstanding such losses as these, there was plenty of talent remaining in the Liederkran* to give a really excellent concert. There were seventeen members of the Society on the platform, and for the trio work, which is the chief study of the members, the first and second trebles aad altos were admirably balanced. Un fortunately during the season the Society ' h&ve had to change their pianiste twice in succession, having lost by removal first Miss Macdonnell, and then shortly after Misß Douglas. This made it necessary to look round for another, and almost at a moment's notice Miss Trixie Denshire took the position, She is a *cry young player, bub she has a good deal of native talent, and having been admirably trained, she made a most credit able appearance indeed in her accompani ments to the part songs, many of which are very trying and difficult. The part aongs were very well aung indeed, the first trebles just being sufficiently strong to hold their own with the excellent seconds and altos of which the Society can boast, so that there was a roundness and fullness of tone in the ex position of the pieces that was delightful, while the time wa»excellent,andtheattention tothe expression marks close and careful. Henry Leslie's " Rise again, glad summer sun," i opened the programme, -nd the same ccm i poaer's lf Good night" was the closing piece, both of which were very well taken. J. L. H&tton's "April showers'" (•< Patter, patter") and Sir Joseph Barnby's "Who shall be fleetest" from the oratorio" Rebeka" were the ofcheis, both of which were very well taken, Mra Denshires singing of the s^lo m the ilatter leing warmly applau led I Both pie es were encored, and "Patter, j patter " was repeated, while " Aye Maria," i a beautiful devotional piece by Bartholdy, was given in response to the other encore Eho trio •• Sinks the night" was given sweetly by Mesdames Guthbertson and Alington, Mitchell and Gates, and Mrs Makeig and Misa Barlow—the parts being duplicated to give extra volume and steadi ness to a beautiful morsel of harmony, which was chastely produced. Mrs Gates and Mias McClatchie sang ihe duet "Flaw on them shining river " in charming style, and Mum MoCiatchie deserves credit for the satisfactory first appearance she made. Mrs W. S. Mitchell waa the only splo vocalist; end her songs *' It was a dreatn " (Cowan) anrl Tosti's "Good bye" were the treat anything put in her hands always is. Her songs were of course encored, and repeated. A piano duet by Mesdames Donald McLean and Bowman Fox, and a solo by the former, made up the instrumental numbers. The names of the performers require only to be meafcionrd tor let it be known that both items were most enjoyable. The excellent little musical programme having been closed —perhaps as fine a one as the Society has ever given—the abie conductress, Mrs Bow man Fox, in the name of the Liederkranchen invited the audience to coffee, which the ladies dispensed with the accompanying good things.

CABLE NEWS.

Home and Foreign.

Pre»B Association—By Electric Telegraph— I • Copyright. I

Admiral Bridge's Successor.

London, Sf^pt. 27 Rear-Admiral H. L. Pearson will succeed Admiral Bridge on the Aus? tralian station.

An Maud Annexed.

Ottawa, September 28

Canada has annexed Baffin* Land, a large island north-east of Oanadi, between Hudson's Bay and Davis Straits, in order to prevent it being seized by America in the event qf onneating Hudson's Bay with the Atlantic, becoming a Canadian grain carrying roqte.

Australian.

Press Aasociation-^By Electrjo Telegraph— Copyright.

The Contingent for India

Sydney, September 28.

The suggestion to send a contingent to the Indian frontier c»rae from the officer is command of the Lancers, eighty of whom have already volun ' tered and the balance are certain, Major-General French warmly supports $he suggestion, but considers that other branches qf the service should be represented. The oijfer is to be con« tingent on the Imperial authorities bearing all the cost of the expedition. A proposal also is made to send a hundred from the Sepond Infantry Regiment.

Reduction in Train Fares

With a view of competing against the largely increapjed cheapeued 'bus services, the Commissioner* haye re duced the train fares bj cutting out al! intermediate sections, which represents a sacrifice of of revenue annually.

COMMERCIAL.

LONDON MARKETS.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph- Copyright.

London, September 27. Sir J. B. Lawee, the emineut agricultural authority, estimates the British wheat harvest yield this year to average 26£ bushels per acre, and the total yield at 6,125,000 quarters. At) the Mark Lane market, to-day, wheat showed a fall of Is per quarter for the week.

FOOTBALL.

The following lines amongst others, referring to the rough play in the late Ota go-Wellington match were published in the Qtago Daily Times of the 27th :—

THE WILY WELLINGTONEE.

Which I wish to remark, And the same to make clear, That for lays that are dark And for trioks that are queer, The Wellington forward's peouliar, As any in this hemisphere.

You know Mr Firth 1 There ain't no pretty " go " Of the game on this earth That he dosen't know ; And his mind is extremely judicial; At lease all the papers say ao.

This wide-awake gent Goes for to declare That the recent eveot Was pulled off on the square ; And his reason is new and peculiar, Which it is that the gent wasn't there,

If he's led to suppose That the backs are too spry, He can flatten a none, Or gouge out an eye, Or jump on a fellow's abdomen ; For each clever dodge he is fly }

A chuck on the chin, Or a tap on the knee, If they look like to win— Pure chance, do you see ? la the Wellington manner peculiar- Effective, I think you'll agree.

When the centre goes smash, And the wings they go lame, It's the Wellington "dash " The great " forward game "— The rush that's so fast and peculiar, Which Firth he alludes to the same,

Whioh i» why I remark, Less in anger than pain, That for tricks that are dark And ior " bruising" that's plain The WelHngtonee is peculiar ; Which the same I am free to maintain,

Scene at a Match.

A telegram from Auckland states that the football match, Huntley v. Hamilton, to decide a dead heat for the championship of Waikato, was played at Ngaruawahia on Saturday. The ground was under water, and rain fell in sheets. A few minutes after the commencement Huntley got a try, which was (he ouly score during the game. The Rev. J. Hudson .wan referee, but was qnibe unable to control the game or the crowd, which behaved in a disgraceful fashion, crowding the goal-lines, rushing the ground, hooting the referee and players, and at times taking a hand in the game.

FANCY DRESS BALL AT SPRINGBURN.

From Oar Owe Correspondent

A most enjoyable Fancy Dress Ball was held last Friday in the Staveley Hall, which from its novel character to this district caused a good deal of interest and excite ment. .Being the first of the kind, and considering that the afternoon and evening were anything but inviting, you will be surprised to hear thafc there were upwards of ■ three hundred persons present fiom all | parts, as many as seventeen sets occupying the floor at one time. The promoters of the ball were the bachelors,' whose always indefatigable secretary was Mr McGregor, who spared neither lime nor trouble to make the meeting a success. The hall was rasteful y decorated with evergreens, as was ah& the" supper room. Besides these there were also cloak rooms and smoking rooms ot a temporary nature, which were a most enjoyable retreat for any who were nob dancers. The stage also was used as-a gallery for chaperones and visitors. The success of the ball speaks volumes for the bachelors, and in what other district could you find such a cumber to work hand in hand with right good fellowship, or onoe to take a move in haad who could carry it out to the end without a single hitch, or where are they made of suoh grit and energy aa theße young fellows of the hilly districts ? The ball was set rolling with"* "Grand March," and the body of the hall was kg once transformed into a fairy-like scene. The dresses iyf re Very beaufcifn! and well chosen, no two beiag exaqtly * ike. Mr Frizgell was not far wrong when he said during the evening ««that fehe dresses were a credit to the wearers and the district, and as yet never has a fancy dress in Ashburton equalled it or stood in comparison" to that of Friday eveuing. "Your Own" was unabla to come to any^ decision as to whose was the prettiest or most fanciful costume j all he knew was that they were all just lovely. Appended I send you a Hat of the ladies and gentlemen in fanoy dress of whom I was able to obtain names :— Ladies—Misses Matheson (Poppy), Smith (Night), H. Smith (Morning), Hitchell (Blue Bells of Scotlan i). L. Hitchell (Ivy), Scott (Graduate), Hood (Sailor Costume), Beckley (Patchwork), Harvey (Hospital Nurse), Tiinpscn (Flower Giri), Cook (Nurse), I Northey (Ball), Fergus'(Sailor fSostume),' Beckley (Lady's Maid), Burroughs (Red Gross Nurae), Murray (Gipsy) McLeish (Wattle); Mrs Jago (Indian Princess), Jonea (Gipay), Nell (Muaic), Hood (Spring), Grieve (Bride), Wright (Fbrget-me-Not), Lylian (Hospital Nurse), etc.

Of the gentlemen I saw Messrs Drayton, Black, Scott, W«Btbrooke, Knight (Sailors), MacGhregor, MacFarlane, i^keish, Mao- Garn&han, MacChepman, Pipers Scott and Roas (Kilted Lads), OFagan, O'Sullivan, and O'Frajssll (Irishmen), Bruce (Volunteer), Sloper, Grieve, and Carney (Stockmen), Fergus and Smith (Sambo), Knight and Grieve (Cricket), Jago (ladian Prince), D. Syme (King's Jester), C. Syme (Planter), B»ird (Doctor of Laws), Mackenz c (Knight ot St George), Tillet and Rudings (Jockeys), Walker (Convict), Gilman (Sir F. Drake) Stephen (Goudolier), Hood (Coon the Shiughran), Giles (Bandnjan), Richards (Pirate), Vincent (Kiug George III.), H Grieve (Duke of Venice), Chapman (Forrester), S,mith (Cook), Hutfc (Soanish ! Cavalier), Sharpiin (Faust). ■ * In evening dress were Aliases Scott, Harvey, Cook, Hurdley, Smith, Nell, and Raager, and Messrs Simpson, of Kicwee, Lylian and others.

Among the visitors I also noticed Mr and Mrs M/atheeon, Mr and Mrs Hitchell, Mrs Macßae (2), Mr and Mra Fergus, Mrs Harvey, Mr Syme, Mr and Mrs MacGregor 1 Mra Scott, Mr and Mrs Mowbray, Mr and Mra Qoldsinitb, Mias Lockwood (Christ church), Mr A, Jamieson and Mr Burgess (4<hburton), Mr Nell, Mr and Mrs Moses, and Mrs Giirn h (Alford Forest).'" Qf course it is 'needless to say anything about the supper; when one remembers the iMmes of Mr and Mrs Pollock, of Ashburton, and that it was served most elegantly by Mes damesScott, Anderson, MacGregor, acdGold sniir.h as wattressea together with a band of willing young ladies. £urin.g the emnng numerous aongs were sung, and exhibitions of step-dancinggiysn by Misses Campbell (2), and Messrs Hood and Carney. Music was ■upp!ied by Piper Sootb, Mr Pag*o, sad Misses Hitchell and Hanger (Ashburton).

PARLIAMENT.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.

m Wellington, September 28 The Council met at 2.30 p.m.

ART UNIONS Mr Jennings give notice of motion that the Government be asked lo take steps to allow properly legiatered bodies, such as Friendly Societies, etc, to have art unions for the purpose of distributing useful articles orcher than works of art.

CHAIBMAN OP COMMITTEES. .Captain Baillie was reappointed Chairman of Committees.

AD.DE ESS - IN-RKJPLT. Major Harrismoved Hie Addresa-in-Reply, welcoming His Excellency to the colony, and commenting in general term, on the matter of the Governor's Speeoh. Mr Jenkinion seconded the motion, and criticised the first four paragraphs aa some thing like hypocrisy, as they purported to come from His Excellency, and wen really written by his advisers. He spoke in favor of a training ship for the colony and a University for Wellington, and suggested the importation of » .killed inspector of technical schools.

Dr Grace also spoke. The Minister of Education spake in favor of the proposed University in Wellington. Ine colony did not know of the large amount of money that waa being spent by the Government in assiating technical education. Mr Bhruuki and Mr L. Walker (who dia-

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

The House met at 2.30 p.m. _, _ « WABD'S JOBMIOir. The Premier said that he desired to faring before the House a somewhat) delio&te and involved question. It was his duty, at leader of the House, to state that with respest to the Awarua seat he would later on «ive notice of the setting up of a l/omimttee of Privileges, He intended con ferring with the leader of the Opposition respecting the personnel of such Committee, as he believed that theooaduct of the House was above all par y. There would be no objection to Mr Ward taking the oath, but so far as taking part in the business of the House till the Committee had dealt with the matter, that was out of the question, Oaptain Russell said that the course pro* posed by the Premier was the beat way oet> of a very difficult and extremely unpleasant position. He had, however, understood from the Premier that before Mr Ward took the oath, the Committee would be set up. T l h!/ remier "Rid th»fc h« wished to confer with Gaptain Russell respecting the names of the Committee and the terms of the order °l refe _r«nce« As the law stood at present the House could not prevent- Mr Ward taking his seat-.

The matter then dropped. ' TAKING THI OATH, After some formal business Mr Ward took the oath and his seat.

LEAVB OF ABSKKCB. Mr MoGowan was given one week's leave of absence.

THE VACANT DUNimST SKAT. On the motion of the Premier, the Spaaker was instructed to L>sue a writ for the election of a representative for Dunedin, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Mr Fiah.

CONGBATULATINO THE PREMIER. Captain Russell said that before the business of the House was proceeded with, a pleasant task devolved upon him. By the desire and request of the members of the Opposition he offered to the Premier their most sincere congratulations on !u9 repre sentation of the colony at the Queen's Jubilee, Though he and the Premier differed politically, there had never been any in erruption of their personal friendship. In addition to the Premier's own individual merits, they felt participators in the honor* conferred on the Premier, as he was repre senting the colony when the houora were conferred on hijn. The Premier's name W-fw, now enrolled on the roster of English states men, an honour which bis family would cherish for ever and ever. He was sure (hat the House would join him in wishing the Premier long life aud happiness to enjoy the honors conferred on him.

The Premier said that he felt deeply indeed the tribute paid him,and only trusted that by the devotion of his best energies to the good of the peop'e of this colony and to the glory of that great Empire to which they belonged, he would prove to those who bestowed those honours that he waa worthy of the same. He had been much impressed by the manner in which public business waa conducted in the English Parliament, where the leaders of the House more frequently conferred on matters of public importance than was the custom in the polqny^ T-hwi was a matter worthy of "imitation. He thanked Captain Russell and the House for their kind expressions of congratulation. He believed that in bestowing the honor* on him it waa the intention to do honor to the colony of New Zealand and its people. YOUNG PXBBONB fBOTKOTION BILL. On introducing the Young Persons Protefl? tion Bill, the Premier intimaced hjs inten tion to refer the Bill to a Committee to be set up.

REPLIES TO QUESTIONS. Ministers, in reply to questions, said that the Glenmark Estate was very eligible for settlement, but the Government had nob sufficient funds to purchase it } feh»t the colony would not lose one,sixpence by the advances to the settlers, Isabella Aldred, and the Ute James Macintosh ; that no com munication had been received from the British Government respecting currency reform ; that no necessity existed for a Royal Commission on the fishing industry; that the Government Law Officers were consider ing what constitutes the nearest pound under the Impounding Act; that the in creases undsr the Railway Classification" Act would Ciunt from the Ist of- April; and that the Government could not see their way to refund to members of the Torpedo Corps the cost of the new uniforms lately provided- MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT. The adjournment! of the House wa* moved by Mr Lewis, and a discussion ensued on Bubj-ots arising out of tfye answers, to questions tills3op.m. The. Ho^se rQaumed at 7.3G p.m, * 4RDRKSs-iir-Bii^y,

Mr Wilson, in moving the Address-in- Reply, added his quota of congratulation to Lord Ranfurly on assuming the office of Governor, and expressed his regret ad the deaths of Mr Fish and Major Ropata. R«. ferring to the Premier's visit to England, Mr Wilson said that it had done a great deal of good, and it had been a wise thing to send the contingent- The success of the team of New Zetland marksmen, which corn* puted at the Bisley meeting, should induce the Government to encourage the Volaateerq in every possible way, which they had nat j done yet. He regarded the management of the Railway Department' as 'the beqt of the Government departments, and the increase in revenue was due got so much to an increase in population M to the liberal and commonsenae manner in which the Hon. Mr Cadman administered the railways, He favoured the V&naotjvat service against the San Francisco sorvloei He considered that the whole question of charitable aid should be revised as early a« possible. As to an extenston of the munici* pal franchise, he thought thai every householder should have a vote.in municipal elections. Ho coitfd not' agrep wjth the repeal pf the qomoiercial travellers', tax, anil advised the imposition of a proportionate tax. He dealt at s.qmo leagth witH the question of technical education, which shtm'd, he thought, be within he reach of every child. Speaking of juvenile depravity he said that he would not) support the introduction of the Q. H. Act. The absence, Bible instruction in the public schools was nofc responsible for this cvi', He could not oooceiys a b-tter method of coping with unruly b ys than by obtaining % training •hip for the colony.' He believed that there was mer« wide-spread prosperity in th« colony than fotr many yean. MrSym^s f econd d the motion, anitaid that the colony was fortunate in the Mlaottai of a Governor who possessed colonial expwi, Bnce. Evevy member would agree fchaTtlw Vcomm had thotooghty and ably repr*. tented the oolony at the Jubilee demon* f ilriUoß, wd tjjat the colony h»d. hnu ml]

!rHB AfttatrafcON gOaBDIaN: WEDNKSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28,.. 180?.



BICYCO^^ GBEAT REDUCTIONS IN THE PRICE OF WHEELS. "WAYERLEY" AND "BRITISH M 0 N A R|C H » BICYCLES AT PRIOES NEVER BEFORE HEARD OF IN ASHBURTON. HAVING obtained tlm benefit of the late Reduction in Price from the manufacturers [we can quote Lower than ever either for Oash or Time Payments, First-class Gentlemen's Machines with'Jall the Latest improvements from £18 I©S, usually iold at £33 108. We can supply Sesond-hand Machines for the use of Beginners learning to ride, and thus save them from disfiguring a new machine. JOHN ORR&CO. LARGE STOCK OF EXTRAS OF ALL KINDS. REPAIRING DONE BY FIRST CLASS WORKMEN. STARTLING ANNOUNCEMENT GREAT BOOM IN THE BOOT TRADE* MONSTER REMOTAL SALE AT McDonald & mcdiarmid's. COMMENCING ON FRIDAY. SEPTEMBER 17, AND CONTINUING FOR ONE MONTH ONLY. OWING TO OUR REMOVAL to more commodious premises, we hwe determined to hold a Gigantic Clearing Sale. We hold by far the largest stock of Boots and shoes in Aahburton, and to save expense and trouble of removal we will offer our goods at prices hitherto unheard of in tfaisltown. Make no.mistake^we mean .business. We Want the cash. You can'have the BOOTS AT YOUR OWN PEICES. LOOK AT THIS:— Men's Strong Watertight Balmorals, usually IQa 6d, now 7s lid. Men's Strong Close Bilmorals, good value at lls, sale price 7s lid. Men's Strong Nailed Bluchers, at 43 lid per pair. Gentlemen's Goo ? Tan Walking Shoes (ill leather), cheap at 8s 6d, now selling at7a Id Gentlemen's Black and Tan Canvas Shoes from 4s 6d per pair, usu».l||prioeJ63. Ladies' Glaeie Kvening Shoes, clearing at 2a 91 per pair. Ladies' Patent Leather Evening Shoes, clearing at 2s lid per pair. Ladies' Fine Quality Calf Skin Shoes, sewn, 8s 6d per p*ir. Ladies" Fine Quality Morocco Shoes, sewn, 8* 9d per pair. Ladies' Brußse's Carpet Slippers, leather soles, Bewn, 2a lid per pair. Ladies' Prunella Slippers, patent cap, 2s 9i per pair. Ladies' Prunella House Boots, patent wing, 3a lid per pair. Ladies' Black Velvet Slippers, clearing >\t Is 6;i per pair. Ladies* Strong Leather Garden Shoes, 3a 3J per pair. Ladies' Strong Leather Walkiug Shoes, with toeoap, 5s 9d per pair. Numbers of other Startling Lines, which must be seen to be appreciated. Nothing like them ever seen in Ashburton. Remember the SALE STARTS ON FRIDAY, the 17th inst. Don'fc miss it. Come early and secure the pick of the Bargains, Remember the Sale will cootinue for a short time on'y, as we must be in our new premises vithin a month. McDonald & mcdiarmid, BOOT MANUFACTURERS AND IMPORTERS, Matmger-J. NICHOLAS. . EAST STREET, ASHBURTON. DRESS & FASHION. A NDREW ORR is now showing a most fashionable selection of New Spring Goods in MILLINERY, MANTLES, CAPES, BLOUSES, PBINTS, NEW DRESS FABRICS, RIBBONS, LACKS, PALL NETS, GLOVEP. CORSETS, In all the leading makes. UMBRELLAS, FLOWERS, RIBBONS, BOOTS & SHOES, CARPETS, FLOOR CLOTHS, etc., Inspection Invited. ANDREW ORR. MITCHELL & TURNER —ABE NOW SHOWING— PER S.& RAKAIA, 21 CASES 4 BALES. PER S.S. WAIMATE, 12 CASE*. \ M. &T. / \ A / p RINTg CARPETS SQUARES MUSLINS OILCLOTHS CREPONS QUILTS BLOUSE GOODS CURTAINS SERGES GLOVES SUNSHADES AND UMBRELLAS. TO ARRIVE SEPT. 6, 8.8. AOTEA, 10 CASES, 3 PACKAGES, 4 BA^ES, DKESS GOODS, JACKETS AND MANTLES, MILLINERY. tOtfß TRUCKS CARPET SAMPLES, 1| Yard for the Price of 1 Yard.



Pu> lie Notices. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY, WE are now opening up NEW GOODS for Spring and Summer wear in all departments, and the general verdict is that we have more than excelled ourselves in the selection of ihe bv.est styles and choicest novelties for this season. THE FINEST DISPLAY » Vr R SEEN IN AS-HBURTON will now be seen at our branch in the followiug— MEN'S AND BOYS' CLOTHING, In Newest Tweeds and Sergea. HATS AND CAPS, LATEST SHAPES. STRAW HATS, Our Famous " Club make," white & colored. BOOTS AND SHOES, Special Summer makes. TIES. TIES. Nothing in Town to equal them. BOWS. BOWS. Artistic Designs; LINEN COLLARS, See our Latest Shapes WHITE AND COLORED SHIRTS, With Soft and Dressed Fronts. Summer Underwear, Pyjamas, Hose Braces, Gloves, Rugs, Trunks, Hat Bands, Tennis Shirts. THE HEADQUARTERS FOR CYCLISTS. Knickers, Hose, Sweaters, Bags, Racing Shoes, Racing Suits, Bells, Lamps, Oil, Wrenches, Pumps, Saddles, Etc. AGENTS FOR " The Osmond," :" Towns end," "Melton," and "Globe" Bicycles HALLENSTEIN BROS. & CO., i A. G. BARTON, Manager!



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Daaof6epeim/B(fectfo\ wqymy of ffie/m/fafiom\ I .!> //fs/Sf Oft frdVfflff. I Tfaysrepi/reafiGfwfaksomi experience cm tyy. largestsdfemAi/sM/asm a_SQLDJLAi.rGROCERS_ J j



M§§^ hUFCk Services. E33, ST. STEPHEN'S OHUROfI Ashburtoa. i, WEDNESDAY—St. Miohael'a Day. fte 8.3© a,m,~-Boly Communion. ' j^^Gleaners' Unioft Meeting—7 30 p.m. -Brotherhood of 8t Andrew l? CLASSED £22" (In the Church.); ~,^jg #WKDNESJUAY—Women 17.30 p.ni THURSDAY—Men „ _^JJ 1|7.30 p.m" (jjSATURDAY 2.30 p.m FRIDAY—Short Service 7.50 p.m. Choir Practice 8 p.m. SUNDAY-OCTOBER 3. 10.15 a.m. —Pieparation Class. 11 a.m. —Morning Prayer and Holy Communion. 3 p.m. — Greensfcreejb. 6.30 p.m. —Evening Prayer. REV T. A. HAMILTON.



•TJje true leaf of the Tea plant, u^njperpd wifch »:?<* P» ra '> thiß is Kozik Tea, try it.—



You haye ruined your constitution sufficiently by drinking inferior teas, recruit by drinking only Kossie Tba, it is pure and reliable.—John Orr & Co. Sole Ag a



Don't Cough. — Relief can be obtaiaed immediately. Use • KEATING'B COUGH LOZBNGEB'—weII known as the utterly unrivalled Cough Remedy. Strongly re commended by many eminent:.physicians. They $6 qno§ cfoegjf fcjtie qough and remedy the cause without any after effect; the most delicate can therefore can take them. One Lozenge alone gives ease—one or two at bedtime easuroi roib, gold everywhere io iiuiil^tMb, |



You are the jury n your hands I place my fate, I'll stand or fall by your deeiaiob; all I ask for ia a fair trial of Woods' Great Peppermint Cure fop oought and colds, it ;s easily procured, grocers and ohemiiti keep ifc» the price ia within the reach of »!l, It 6d •Q08«6d,, '