COUNTY COUNCIL

The Aahburtoa County Council met to-day. Present—Messrs E. G. Wright (oh irmai), C. J. Harper, Kdwaid Herring, Matthew Stitt, E. Richards, James Johnston, Duncan Cameron, and Donald Williamson.

CHAIRMAN S STATEMENT. The Ghanaian's statement was read as under:—The Government has notified the Council that any recommendations made by thti returning officer respecting the polling booths for the forthcoming Licensing Com mittee election for the Aahburton district will receive favorable consideration. The returning officer has been informed of this and furnished with a list of the booths suggested by the Council. The water races at the Highbank estate are now completed and application has Lean made to t!.e Government for the balance due to this Council. The Hampstead Town Board wrote, pointing out that the bridge at Markey's required certain repairs. That Board has been advised that this Counci. cannot recognise any 1 ability in connection with this bridge, and if any accident ocsurs through neglect in keeping it in proper order, the cost of the damages will fall legally upon that Board. The Committee Appointed by the Council to consider cases of tampering with water races have been con sidering several of these cases, and the report of the Commit nee and answers from those persons implicated will be rea<i to-day. The Wakauui Road Board asks for a cheque for half cost of repairing bridges over the Wakanui creek, and notifies its intention to wait on the Council on tins question. The Council to-day will have to elect one of its members to act on the Lytteiton Harbour Boaid The police during last month have been prohibited, by instructions received from the head of that department, from Belling dog collars, and the rangers were authorised to sell collars temporarily until the Council met to-day. This order has now been revoked, and the police are continuing this work. A circular has been received from the Minister of Justice stating that this Counci is appointed to have authority with the licensing district of Ashburton. Mr Lambie notifies to the Council that a deputation intends to wait on the Council to-day in support of a petition for increased water supply from the Kakaia, and also re Kyle Cemetery site, which has been damaged by fire.

engineer's report. The Engineer's report was read as under, as well as the interim reports which follow it, and referred to in the main report:—

Aahburton-Rakaia Water Supply.—A bout the middle of last month, Puduing Hill atream became so low that for a few days the water barely reached the lower end of El and adjoining races, but since then the supply has gradually improved, though part of El is a little intermittent still, the result of tampering apparently to the east of the railway. There was a little snorts*ge in the Wakanui district last week. This was caused by a breach in the temporary dam at South Aahbarton river, which was duly repaired, and the full supply restored. It is to be hoped the ushburton rivers and their tribu taries will not again fall so low this season, but recent experiences point to the ex pediency of limiting the 'extent of any additional races which might be proposed to b« fed from these sources. All the fords Are now in fair order. There is a good supply in the Ashburton Forks district, also in Mount Somers and Springburn distriote. The Alford races are aomewhat variable, but the supply is now more constant than it was last month. Ashburton - Rangitata Water Supply.— AH that portion of the district supplied from the South Ashburton river continues to have a good service, the mains and sub-mams having to be kept more than usually fu 1 for the purpose. That portion in upper Hinds, aituated above the line of main from South Ashbtirton, with slight exception, is at present fairly supplied, but waa recently very badly off, as the Council ia aware, from the comparative failure of the Hinds Gorge sources. The deputation appointed by the Council to visit that district will furnish their report. In accordance with your in etructionß I took levels, and neat separate ! report for a scheme over the Anama Downs from South Aahbarton river, which some of the settlers thought might be feasible. It i«eiaa, however, much too extensive and expenuive ft.project to bs entertained. With reference to my interim report for supply from Rangitata Gorge, I may state that the small main from lower level referred to would cost at least £7000. I will at an early date, as requested, investigate and report on the question of storage at some suitable point, or points, in the bed of the limestone creek.

County Bridges.—The repairs of main beams, etc., Bakaia Gorge bridge, are now in hand. The reserve at river Stour has jbeen applied for as directed. With refer ence to the fire at North Ashburton bridge, Pudding Hill, on January 29, »s already reported, a track for traffic has been made across the river, and the necessary materials for renewals are being prepared. Aahburton, February 8, 1897.

Auxiliary Water Supply, Upper Hinds.— In Accordance with your instructions, I inspected the route proposed by aome of the aettler» for bringing in a supply from the Aahburton river for that portion of the district situated above the line of the present main from that river, and have taken such levels and measurements as to enable me to form an estimate of the work, which, in the circumstances, can only be regarded as approximate. The line extends from the South Hinds river in R.H. 29106, near the base of the hills, in a northerly direction to the cliffs, behind Woolraers, adjacent to the Ashburton river, where the line is 200 feet above the level of the river, and situated 12£ miles from the starting poinb. For a farther distance of about six miles it would follow the southern bank of the river to the point of intake, about three miles north of Mount Possession homestead—the distance in all, following th« windings of the various cullies, being about lSj miles. The annexed table of levels &hows the high attitude of the ground above the level of the South t ehburton river at Woolmers, which is the nearest point at which the river could have been tapped, supposing the levels to have been suitable.

For the first six miles the work would be comparatively easy, the cost of excavations probably not exceeding 3f * per chain, bub at tbe North Hinds gorge, and from the ninth to the sixteenth mile, the excavations for the most part would have to be in rock, some of it very difficult, and the cost would vary from £3 to £10 per chain. In the precipitous portions near Woolmers and Sandy's Knob, the channel would have to be scarped out of the face of the rock, and would be an expensive undertaking. I estimate the co t of excavaiionp on the entire length of JS.). mils»at £748 C Flumes, North and South Hinds, £500 Other smaller flumes, 2000 lineal feet £1800 23QC Catchwater drains and culverts ... 30C Sheep and dray bridges, say ... 30C Fencing ... - •■• 3W Roadworks and protective works ... 35C

#11,030 exclusive of land and contingencies.— The width proposed for the channel was 6 feet at bottom, with side slopes varying from 4-fco I aad li to 1, according to the nature ■v. ail or rook ; depth of water from 12 to 15 iliches. Thia main would be situated altogether outside the district to be bene fited, and the cost of maintenance of channel and flumings would be an expensive item. A aerioua drawback to the projeot (apart from its cost) is that it would further draw ors a eoui'ce which has recently proved to be jidt more than equal for the supply of exist ing mama depending on it. AlhbwtOP, tfftQWJf 27,188?.

Upper Ritigitata Water Supply.—As the scheme from the south Ashburton river did not seem to be one likely to be adopted, I took further levels in Rangitata Gorge, with i a view to amve at tbe possibilities from that 1 source, as applicable to the uppermost portion of the plains, i found on levelling several miles up the gorge that in order to reach the point A, near upper end of the Montalto property, the inlet, on account of the low fall in the river, after leaving the narrows in the rocky gorge, would be some twenty-three miles vp —near Mesopotamia. For about three miles near the mouth of the gorge, the cutting would be principally through rock, and for the remaining distances would be in terrace slopes, com posed chiefly of gravel. Numerous gullies would be crossed on the way. That upper ftcheme would not appear to be at all feasible, but oue at an elevation lower by about eighty feet might be worth considering. This would leave the liver about the upper end of the narrow s in the rocky gorge, and reach existing water race T at a point about 9£ mites from the proposed intake, and

thence to join Limestone Creek race near Montalto homestead. For about three miles at the upper end the channel would probably be situated on the south aide of the river—in Geraldine county. Meantime, I have only made a cursory examination of that line, but will take further levels and report more fully if you wish the matter to be followed up. Though expensive, I anticipate the cost would be le.-s than for the scheme reported on from Ashburton river. It would enter on the Plain a little lower down than might be desirable, but the minimum supply from Hinds gorge would fairly serve all the area above it. Ashburton, January 27, 1897. The Chairman said that he and Messrs flerriug, Harper and ohapman had gone up the Eangita&a, gorge with the engineer", and had looked over the ground, but they were satisfied the cost would be such as to put the scheme out of the question. The cost of all the schemes dealing with the Rangitata and the Hinds gorge was such as to put them all out of the question. There only remained now, an a source ftom which the upper settlers could be supplied, the Limestone creek, and the engineer suggested storage. It remained to be seen whether the storage system suggested >>y the engineer would enable the Council to provide those upper settlers with water, and whose difficulties in regard to water the Council fuly realised. Both Messrs H irper and Herring were satisfied that no more water could be taken from the Ashburton river, and that it was out of the question to touch the Eangitata gorge owing to the immense cost. Mr Heniug d ew attention to the pollution of the river that was going on at Mount Somers and Hakatere wool teeming works. With abundance of water in the river it might noi be of serious consequence if the farmers boiled their water befoie using, but in the low state of the river just now he thought the throwing of large quantities of soap and other matter into the stream was not advisable.

Mr Ha per paid a high compliment to Mr Baxter for the excellence of the work done by him during the last month, which Mr Heiring bore out, and on the motion of the first named gentleman, a hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mr Baxter.

TAMPERING WITH BACES,

The Committee appointed submitted their report on recent caeca of tampering with water races. The offenders had been written to in regard to illegal use of water from the races, and replies had been received. These were read by the Clerk.

Mr Harper said that in mo»t cases up Mayfield way the races were charged to overflowing. This had been necessary to send water down the plains, and at fords the water had in some cases overflowed, aud seeing this there had been a temptation in the diy weather to some people to utilise the water for irrigation.

Mr Cameron said he was glad to hear that there was more water than the races could carry, and he thought the races should be enlarged. He did not defend what the settlers had done in tampering with the races, bub thought they should be let off with a severe reprimand.

The Chairman aaid some of the cases were more aggravated than others. Mr Johnston said he saw no reason for leniency. The rangers must be protected, and their hands strengthened it" they are to do any good in preventing the races from being tampered with. The Chairman waa opposed to Mr Came ron's proposal to let all the offenders off with a caution, There had been leakages in cases no doubt; but that was no reason why fche leakages should be made larger by selfish people to use the water for irrigation, to the deprivation of people lower down. Mr Stitt said that in his district settlers were required to make good any leakage in their races.

Mr Williamson thought that the cases should be dealt with individually by a Com mittee, and on their merits. The discussion had brought out the fact that soma of the races were overcharged, a condition of things that ought not to exist. Ultimately Messrs Johnston and Harper were added to the Tampering Committee, to which the cases were referred with power to act.

DEPUTATIONS. Messrs Peter Stewart and A. H. Ayrton waited on the Council as a deputation from bhe Wakanui Road Board, to know what reason the Council assigned for rescinding bhe resolution under which the Council and the Road Board had agreed to pay each half cost of necessary work done on bridges and fords over the Wakanui creek. The Chairman having read the minute of the Council on the subject, said the Council evidently thought the Board had had the concession long enough and decided that it should cease. The Council would soon be supplying the settlers from another race that would be absolutely free from any inter ference by the proprietors of 'he mill, and that being so the Counpil had no intention of bearing any further responsibility in re gard to these fords and bridges Mr Stewart desired to know how the settlers would be supplied if the creek were stopped, and the Chairman replied that it was the intention of the Council _ supply the settlers with water, and it would not allow the settlers' supply to be interfered with by anybody—millowners or otherwise. The Chairman said the Council would abide honorably by its agreement up to the present time, but did not intend to spend any more money on these bridges and fords. Mr Stewart thought it would be a graceful "act on the part of the Council to assist in the cost of the two proposed new bridges, which would cost about £65 each. The deputation then withdrew. At a later period of the meeting, Mr Williamson moved that £25 be voted to wards the cost of the new bridges, proposed by the Wakanui Road Board, which Mr Richards seponded. Mr .lohnston opposed the vote, failing to see that the Wakanui Board had any more claim on the Council than any other Board, and once the Council began to allow sub sidies of this kind, they might expect applications from all parts of the county. He moved an adverse amendment. Mr Cameron also spoke strongly against the motion, and seconded Mr Johnston's amendment, pointing out that the Wakanui people had been exceptionally treated in the matter of the creek. Mr Williamson pointed out that there was no other district in the county similarly situated to the Wakanui people, and it was absurd to say, in view of the many settlers supplied from it, that the creek waa not a part °f the general water system. On the amendment being put it was found that the Council were equally divided, Messrs Cameron, Johnston, and Herring voting for it and Messrs Williamson, Harper, and R:chards against. The chairman gave his casting vote with the noes to bring the position back to where thay start od frpm 'i'he motion fraying been put, the votes were found to be east on the same principle as be fore, and the chairman gave his vote with the Wakanui settlers, explaining his vote by saying that the Council had been at not a farthing's cost in regard to the headworks of the creek. A deputation of four residents waited on the Council from the Kyle, Doric, Pen derves, and other districts, headed by Mr John Lambie, and representing thirty or torty settlers who had signed and presented a petition to the Council for a fuller supply or water in the districts mentioned. Mr Lambie'was spokesman, and pointed out that a very large area of country on the seaboard waa absolutely destitute of water in the dry Bfa«QQ. and an increase oj supply w»» now

'imperative. But recently a great ore had swept a tract of counttv three miles wide by nine miles long, and had there been water in theracesmuch of the country mighthavebeen saved, as a few buckets of water would have stopped the progress of the flames and saved thousands of pounds, but most of the races were absolutely dry. Mr Mulligan said he had had a dry race for monihs, and there was no satisfaction in paying a water rate for a race in which no water rau. The Chairman said there was no fund from which the cost of an extii* supply could be defrayed, and he feared that any exua work in the direction of increasing this supply would have to be defrayed by in creased water charges. Besides they had already drained the Aahbuiton river so much that it hud given out thia season. Mr Mulligan remarked that the Rakaia river would lake some time to drain. The deputation also asked for a contribu tion towards lenewing the fencing a d gates of the Kyle graveyard, which had also been destroyed by the fire; and that <ho engineer should be asked to provide a plan of the cemetery. The engineer was instructed to report on the whole question of the supply referred to by the deputation at next meeting, and £3 was voted for the cemetery. LYTTELTON HAKBOUB BOARD. The Chairman (Mr E. G. Wright) was re-elected member of the Lyitelton Harbour Board for the County. In moving the re elecion, Mr Harp r said that Mr Wright had been instrumental in reducing the tariff. Mr Stitt seconded. Mr Wright taid that an agitation had been got up to equalise the rat _ on exports and imports. The rates on impoi ts were at present much heavier than those on exports, but it had to be borne in mm i that the country people used just as much of the im ports as the townspeople, and it had always been the desire of the Harbour Board to facilitate as much as possible the export of our produce. In some countries bonuses were given for exports, but we had not reached that point yec He had no'.hingvto defend so far as his conduct iv this matter was concerned, und as long i>s he wis on the Board he would do what he could to make the export dues as low as possible. He thanked the Council for his re-elec ion. PAYMENTS. Accounts to the amount of £568 were passed for payment.

ROAD CLOSING. Consideration of the closing of a road in Longbeach Road district was held over for a month.

DOO COLLABS,

Sergeant Bailo i wro:e to the effect that the police were empowered to sell dog collars till the end of March.

WATER SUPPLIES,

Application-* for water race facilities and concessions were granted to Me-sra E» B. Cooper, Ben. Hampton, John Kallantyne (subject to engineer's approval), and one by M. J. Kerr was held over.

SLAUGHTERHOUSE LICENSES. Licenses were granted to Thomas Revel), Ashburton, and John McPhail, Kakaia.

POISONED GRAIN

The Chairman was authorised to purchase a supply of wheat for poisoning this year, and to use two ounces ut strychnine to the bushel.

It was alro decided to try phosphorus this year as an experiment.

PUDDING HILL BRIDGE,

The names of six persons were mentioned to the Council as having been prominent in assisting to extinguish the fire at Pudding Hil! Bridge. Mr Williamson moved that a vote of thanks be tendered to all persons who had assisted in extinguishing the fire at Pudding Hill bridge, more especially to Miss Mar garet Muirhead, and that a gratuity of one guinea be granted to Misa Muirhead.

ADVERTISING. Messrs Williamson, Herring, and Harper were appointed a Committee to deal with the question of advertising.

HIGHBANK,

Mr R, Donald was allowed to alter a water race at Highbank

RUAPUNA VILLAGE SETTLEMENT RACES,

It was decided to reply to the Commis sioner of Crown Lands that uothing could be done in the matter of bringing ia a supply of water from the Rangitita or Ashburton owing to the excessive cost, and that the Council notified the Government that they were warned of the difficulty of supplying this dietricb with water before the village settlements were sold.

Ihe Council then adjourned.

ROAD BOARDS.

Wakanui.

The usual monthly meeting of the Waka nui Road Board was held on Saturday. Present—Messrs Stewart (chairman), Ayr ton, Rule, and Lloyd.

THANKS. Mrs J. A. Poole wrote, thanking the Board for the cheque sent, and for the sympathy they had shown towards her in her recent bereavement.

IMPOtJNDING. The ranger, Mr W. de B. Oompton, wrote pointing out how unfairly he had been treated in the tecenb impounding case— Welch v Compton—and asking the Board to pay his costs in the ease and to assist him to appeal to the Supreme Court. Ie was resolved to aak Mr Compton to furnish an account of his costs, and also to write to the Upper Ashburton Road Board asking the co-operation of that Board in preventing Nicholas Welsh from grazing his stock on the public roads. It was further resolved to give John Gough seven days' notice to remove a tence on the road opposite the property at Dromore occupied by him.

OFFICB. It was resolved to have the two inner rooms ci the office painted, and to allow five shillings per month for office clearing. KqLL. The name of Mr John Holmes was phced on the roll in lieu of Mr H. A. Mackay, in No. 3 Ward ; those of Mr Thomas Kelly for section 26716, Mr 0. A. Pearoe for 26685, and Mr T. J, Keiroan for 26729—in place of Mr F» de 0. Malet. The last-named asked the Board to collect the rates from the transferees, but the Board instructed the clerk to inform Mr de C. Ma'et that they held him responsible for the rates, and to point out to him that he had not forwarded the written consent of Messrs Kelly, Pearce, and K^irnan to the transfers proposed, and that without such consent the transfers ooiild not be made,.

ulerk's report. The clerk's report was read. It dealt with some minor matters of work and cer tain office arrangements, and was adopted.

UNPAID RATES,

Ib was decided to cue for all overdue rates. ACCOUNTS.

Accounts to the amount csf $172 13.3 6d having been passed for payment, the Board rose.

Mount Somers.

The usual monthly meeting of the above Board was held last Monday, All the members present- Mr Chapman, chairman.

overseer's report.

The Overseer's report was read and con sidered satisfactory. TENDERS Tenders were ordered to be called for blinding the boulders on the Pound road ; also for shingling about ten chains of Ford and Newton's road. The stones were ordered to be picked off on the Yaletta road from Mr Matherson's diwnwards, and it was deoided to get some planks for a foot bridge put over the creek near Mr Grieves, and to have fome boulders spread and broken near Mr Cook's. BRIDGE OVER HAKATEEE CREEK. On Mr Hutchison's application, it was agreed to allow him £2 extra on his last year's offer to build this bridge, tho. worfe to ba do^e as ag possible. ' £oAD TO MR KNIGHT'S RANGITATA GORGE. The Overseer reported that the work on thia road naa * Deen fioished. Cost £14 2s 9d. -^-Approved.

HAKATERE ROAD. The question of forming about twenty-five chains of road near Hakatere waa held over till next spring.

KOAD ALTERATIONS ON THE ALKORP ESTAXSJ;

The Olerk was instructed to again write to Messrs Fooks and Son, and ask them' to attend to this matter aa soon as possible as the business had been in hand since 1885,

THERATEPAYERS' ROL%. Mr Hull wrote, asking for the name of Mr Peter Bates %o be pub on the roll for lane} aold to him.—-Aareed to on oouclitjga liiftt ■ ill rate* «?e paid.

SPRINGBURN TRAM ROAD.

Tenders were opened for reforming; the Springburn tram road, and that of J. Brown was accepted at 2s lOd per chain. ACCOUNTS. Accounts amounting to £23 3a 9d were passed for payment. RACECOURSE RESERVE BOARD. The Board then sat as a Racecourse ' Reserve Board, and on resuming adjourned.

The Wellington Suburbs Election Petition.

■ Wellington, February 8. The hearing of the petition against the election of J. Wilford for Wellington suburbs began this morning before the Chief Justice and Mr Justice Conolly. Messrs Chapman and Morrison appeared for the petitioner-, and Messrs Skerrett and Reeves for Mr Wilford. Mo>t of the momiog was taken up iv opening the case. Mr Chapman explained that the grounds relied on were bribery by money payments, and promises to obtain employment for electors, and that Mr Wilford was registered on the electoral roll in respect of a uon-residectial qualifica tion only. He proceeded to detail the names of persons alleged to have been bribed, and with respect to the other grouud relied on said Mr Wilford appeared to be registered on a freehold qualification, and siuce the Act of 1896 no such qualification existed. He stated that they would produce a letter in Mr Wilford's handwriting asking the Premier to give a post to one Mulv aney. This letter had never reached the Premier.

Argument on the motion to remove from the file the petition against Mr Bucnanan's return for Wairarapa was heard on Saturday before the Chief Justice and Mr Justice Conolly. Sir Robert Stout argued that th°, petition was received too late, and Mr Skerrett in reply argued contra. Judgment was reserved.

At a meeting of the Hospital Committee this morning—present;, the Mayor and Me srs Willimson, Harper, and Stitt —the Committee's report a^ to tenders for supplies was approved of. It was resolved to ask the Inspector of Police at Christohurch to see that in all cases of accident in which the p.itients were not likely to be able to pay for hospital treatment—accidents happening between the Kangitata and the Eakaia —the pitientf be sent to the Ashburton Hospital aad not to Christchur h. The reaaon for this was that the Ashburton Committee had to bear all the costa and expenses in cases, and preferred that the patients, if they were not able to pay for treatment Should be treated at their own hospital. Mr Stitt, for the Visioing Committee, reported everything satisfactory at the Hospital. It was resolved to ask the Dunedin and Christ church Hospitals what hours were act &part at these institutions for visitors, and to fix hours for the Ashburton Hospital after receipt of informatioa. Accounts were passed and the Committee adjourned.

Holloway's Pills—Any dyspeptic of ferer aware of the purifying, regulating, and gently aperient powers of these Pills should permit no one to cloud his judgment or to warp his course. With a box of Holloway's Pills, and attention to its accompanying " Directions," he may feel thoroughly satisfied than he can safety and effectual y release himself from his miseries without impairing his appetite or weakening his digestion. This most excellent medicine acts as a nervine and bodily tonic by aiding nutrition, and banishes a thousand annoying forms of nervous complaints. An occasional resort to Holloway's remedy will prove highly salutary to all persons, whether well or ill, whose digestion is slow or imperfect, a condition usually evidenced by weariness, langour, listlessness, and despondency.

Looking From the Lonely Rock

The island of St. Paul is merely a great rock in the Southern Ocean. It is the top of a volcanis mountain. The nearest inhabited land ia Australia or Africa. To that ugly and desolate refuge came a boat containing nine persons—two oi them women. They had food—on short allowance, for perhaps a week. la leas than three days they were half insane from anxiety. Water, water, water everywhere, but no help. On the fifth day, at dawn, a brig hove to off the island- They saw .her. Shouting, praying, weeping, they stumbled to the beach, and were rescued. It was one chance in a hundred. I'll tell you why some other time.

But, alas ! isn't it as bad or even worse on land ? Look at the physical wrecks in homes, in hospitals, and answer me. One perishes of privation from shipwreck. A thousand perish of privation in the midst of plenty, It isn'c food they loug for, but power to use it—worst and deadliest of all wants.

"My food seemed to give me no strength,' says one of this armj of unfor tunates, •• and as the hopeless, starving days passed slowly by I grew weaker and weaker. By-:and-by my legs trembled and bent under me, and I could no longer get about.

♦' The ailment which reduced me to this fearful condition began in the spring of 1892. At first I hardly recognised it for what we commonly call a disease. I felt tired, heavy, and languid, as one often does on the approach of warm weather. I fancied it would pass away, but it did not. I lost my appetite, and only ate from habit and to keep me going. I had no pleasure in it, and no warmth or glow followed it, as happens always when one is well. No matter how light and simple the repast was, or how careful I had been to select things that would not be apt to hurt me, the result was the same. No sooner had I swallowed it than my stomach was distressed, and my chest and sides full of pain. If you will allow me so to put it, my food appeared to strike back at me, as though I had no right to use it.

". There was a nasty bitter flavor in my mouth, more or less headache, and a kind of nervGijsuess, which was new in my exper ience, as it was depressing and cheerless.

" Home remedies failing to help me, I consulted a doctor, but hia prescriptions bomfited me no more than our domestic medicines had done. My flesh and strength grew less, and I felt like one who has missed his way and lookß in vain for a guide to point the road home. "Finally I commenced attending the Leamington hospital, and continued to do ao for t'welva months, but; the treatment tihey gave me had no better effect than all the rest. You can hardly understand how weary I got of taking drugs. I turned almost with loathing from every new dose— not because of the taste, but because they deceived my hopes ; they were of no use ta me.

"In thja state I was, when in March, 1894, a friend urged me to try Mother Seigel's Syrup, On account of the very reasons I have mentioned, I hated to experi ment with any more medicines. But 1 over came this aversion (most fortunately for me) and got a bottle of Mother Seigei'a Syrup from Mr Judd, the chemist, in Leamington, and after taking it I felt a marked and great improvement I had no pain after eating and my food felt right, digested, and gave me strength. And as I grew stronger my nerves ceased to trouble me. I can only say that by the continued use of the syrup I got better daily and was sqon aa vigorous and well aa §ve.r. I ha^;e had eg, relapse, and have eyety reason to think my mt& % permanent one, You are welcome to publish my letter. (Signed) (Miss) Lucy Eden, Tachbrook. near Leamington, Sep tember 26, 1895. tA

We hope Miss Eden's recovery may indeed prove permanent, and if it does she will find no words too strong when she speaks of the. remedy which wrought it. But oh, the vast multitude who, stil| stand, liifee the ship wrecked people on the island, looking for rescue 1— victims of that most obdurate, common and baneful of diseases, chronic dyspepsia. It is for their sakes Miss Eden kindly writes her statement, and for their sakes we print it. May it reach many of them !

RAILWAY TIME TABLE.

TABLE, Trains loave Ashburton FOR THE NORTH every day at 7.20 a.m., 3.40 p.m., aad '7.5 p.m- (express). Qn Mondays, Wed nesdays, and Fridays, an extra train, leaves at 11.0 a.m. Trains arrive from the North °very day at 10,45 a.m.,, \% 48 noon (express) and 8 0 p.m.

Trains leave Ashbwirtan FOR THE SOUTH every day at 10.55 a.m , and 12.53 ooon (express), On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays a train leaves at 3.50 p.m.

THE ASJEIBtJKit/A GUAKbIAJSs MONDAY, FEBBtJAEt "8, 189?.



Highest above starting Miles. point ft t South Hinds. At 1 8 *eefc 2 26 feet g SO feet a 66 feet g 129 feet 6 North bank, North Hinds 152 feeb 7 North Hinds Gorge 176 feet g $04 feet 9 Limestone rook 218 feet m 209 feeb ll 215 feet 22 222 feet 12* Cliffs at Woolmers 886 feef 121 South Ashburton riverbed 26 feet



Wanted. WANTED —Two Apprentices. —Steel Bros., V.cloruui Carriage Works and (Shoeing Forge. 2 50



WANTiiD, fora Clieiu-House four or fie ro,ms, with wash-houso and copper. Rent moderate. Apply Charles Braddell. 2 56



LO^T— Parcel containing clothing, etc., between Friedlander's grain store and feTEEL's Alford Forest Road. Finder rewarded on communicating with Mail Office. 2 51



WANTED, two or three pupils for piano (beginners) at 15a per quarter. Apply first instance to H. M. Jones. 221



WANTED KNOWN.—M«son's Jam Jtrs, i-gallon*, 6s; quarts, 5b ; pinis, 4a. Lightning Jars, J gallons, 9s ; quarts, 7s—at John Orr and Co. 252



WANTED KNOWN—A large shipment of Mason's Screw Top and Lightning Jam Jars jusc to hand. Must be cleared— 6s; quarts, sa; pints, 4s. Lightn ing jars, 9s; quarts, 7s.—John Ork and Go's, 2 °*



STARTLING ANNOUNCEMENT.— You can purchase Groceries, Enamelled ware, Crockery and Glass, Boots and Shoes, Oatsheaf Chaff, Bran and Sharps at Hamp atead, and have Goods delivered at your door at Town Prices. A quantity of the famous Mauritius Sugar for Jam making just to hand.—E. Mahood, East Belt Cash Store. Telephone No 76.



PIANOS, Organs, Bicycles, best value obtainable for cash or terms. Music procured on the shortest notice. JS'ew lines now opening up in Stationery, Fancy Goods, Photo Fiumes, Platedware, and Fancy China. New Books by the mail.—H. M. Jones.



NEW POTATOES, New Potatoes Magnificent Sample. Id per lib or I3lbs a Is—at Fletcher Bros.



WANTED Known—Every article sold proves Heavy Reductions.—Mit chell & Turner.



MOTHERS and fathers who have to provide Boots and Shoes, should call at Mellor'a Zealandia Boot Store.



WANTED Known—Our Friends realise the Genuineness of the sale,— Mitchell & Turner.



WANTED Known—The Economic Kid Glove, four buttons, Is 9d per pair, is the Glove for every day wear.— W. H. Collier.



WAN iED Known—Sale of this season's Millinery only, at greatly reduced prices, also large selection in Ladies' Flannelette Dressing Gowns and Morning Wrappers, Children's Pinafores, Overalls, etc., for fourteen days only.—Miss E. Barnes, Arcade and Tailored Street. 213



WANTED Known-Spectaclea, Eye Protectors, Goggles, Folders, and Everything in the optical line at 8. Salek's, Optician



WANTED Known—Large delivery o the " Economic" Kid Gloves, four buttons, Is 9d per pair, worth much more.— W. H. Oolliek.



Priedlander Bros., Limited. TINWALD YARDS. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1897. WE have received instructions from D§ Oliver, Esq., to offer as above : A f\f\ HALF bRED LAMB 3, Lincoln. 4fc\_/v_/ Meiino Cross. R. FKIEDLANDER, 2 35 Auctioneer. F, Ferr man.



AWAITING A WELCOME HP M E. /~\NE LARGE ENAMEL MILK DISH, ONE BASIN, AND SUNDRY BOOKS. Borrowers will kindly note. F. FERRIMAN.



Public Notices. HORTICULTURAL SHOW AND PROMENADE CONCERT. ODDFELLOWS 2 HALL, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1897. F. MAKFIG, 2 12 Hon. Secretary.



HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. WANTED KNOWN that entries close on TUESDAY NIGHT, at 8 p.m., at the Secretary's Office, Arcade. F. MAKEIG, 2 48 Hon. Sec.



OOYAL EXCHANGE ASSURANOB I J FIRE, LIFE, SE&, aacl ANNUITIES, KsSABiISH ED—l72O, Claims Paid—Thirty-seven Millions. J. 6. BELL, .. AGENT, Burnett Street, Ashburton. 2 39



Baker Bros. r^URNISH ING UN DERTA KEB S,



Corxier of Wakanui Road and Caas Streets and at Baker and Brown's Coach Factory, Havelock Street. EVERY REQUISITE SUPPLIED Telephone ISo. 69.



A CA&D MBS A. cfcLARIDGE, TSACHEK OF P[ANOFORTE, ORGAN, and SINGING, COX STREET, AS HBURTON. TERMS ON APPLICATION,



Henry Zander. JUST LANDED 1000 BAGSIOO0 BAGS MAURITIUS USB, NO OIHER FOR YOUR JAM. j Henry Zander, Cheapest Grocer in Ashburton.



TO FARMERS AND DEALERS. /CLEARING AND SKIN SALES con \J ducted, and Saleyards regularly attended to, under the Supervision of MR DAVID ZANDER, Auctioneer. Brooke's and Odham's Sheep Dips always on hand. Advances made against Shipment! of Lamb and Mutton. My London Agent is known for his utmost reliability. HEKEY ZANDER, STOCK AND STATION AGENT.



JUST LANDED, Ex Kaikoura and Fazilka, 100 Oases CASTOR OIL 100 Cases VALVGLINE 10 Bales SEAMING TWINE 1000|Feet LEATHER BELTING 100 Galvanised STEiiL COLLARS HORNSBY & RANSOME PLOUGH SHARES Barbed and Plain FENCING WIRE 200 Drums LINSEED OIL CROCKERY and GLASSWARE Etc Etc ' HENRY ZA.NDER, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANT.



TO CONTRACTORS AND CARRIERS. J HAVE ALWAYS FOR SALI OATSHEAF CHAFF CRUSHED OATB CRUSHED BARLEY FEED OATS BRAN and SHARPS HENRY ZANDEE, GENERAL MERCHANT.



STORAGE. I AM PREPARED to receive GRAIN on Storage at Lowest Current- Rates. My Shipment of CORNSACKS is now to hand. Henry Zander, GRAIN, WOOL, AND GENERAL MERCHANT.



T. Bullock. pi () 1 r\S.—Price wanted for T.S oyX/v A~\J 818, containing £-acre, i Aiiken street East. T. BULLOCK. FOR SALE. fi OODWILL of Lease in Perpetuity of VJT 100 Acres, with two-roomed Cottage thereon, situated about a mile from Ruapuna, The land is well fenced and partly broken up, 16 acres being in turnips, and watered by a County water race. Rental to the Crown £6 10i per annum. Suitable for a family man, as it is close to a School, and the present owner states there is plenty of work to be had in the district.



For further particulars app'y to T. BULLOCK.



DESIRABLE Suburban Residence nicely situated on the North Belt, healthy locality, fronting the Domain and Recrea tion Grounds in the occupation of Mr W. C. Davis.



I am authorised to sell this property for £410, on exceptionally easy terms of pay ment, viz. £20 cash deposit, the balance by annual instalments of £20 extending over a number of years, bearing the, low mts o* interest of 5^ per cent* pey annum. T. BUU/TOK, Agent,



FOR SALE. 2 ACRES, being Lot 37, at back of Presby terian Manse, Trevorton. As the owner is leaving the district, offers are invited for this. T. BULLOCK. GOOD BUILDING SITE. OFFERS are invited for the purchase of T.S. 768, containing | acre, fronting Wakanui Road, Eas»., near Mr A. Young's store. Good land, long frontage. Must be sold to close accounts. Apply to T. BULLOCK.



TO LET, at a low rental, Shop and Dwelling in East Street South. T. BULLOCK. BARGAINS.



I^BW AND SECOND-HAND]



DRAYS, SPRING WAGGONS, ROAD CARTS, GIGS, DOUBLE-SEATED BUGGIES, FARMERS' AND WHITECHAPELS, ALL TO BE SOLD VERY CHEAP AT ! STEELE'S VICTORIA CARRIAGE WORKS, ' West Street, Ashburton, .. 1 136 A CARD MRS A n fi LA RIDGE, jGL. \J m V7LARIDGE, TEACHER Of PIANOIf&BIS, ORGAN, ahd SINGING COX STREET, ASHBURTON. Terms on Application,



NOTICE. THERE is a vacancy for one apprentice in j this Office. Applicant must have passed the i sixth standard. Ashhurton Publishing Company. January 18th. MISS BESSIE SIMMONDS, Teacher of the Violin, Will t resume Teaching at her Rooms, SOUNDERS' BUILDINGS, on i SATURDAY, January 23, from 1 o'clock p.m. ; also, following Mondays, Wednesdays i and Satwdaya. '"*' I Terms on »Ps>Hcftt<iQ&i



JAM. JAM. JAM. ■I , 'Q' 1 ftQ^7 PRESERVING SUGAR -i qaH J-O«7# PRESERVING SUGAR ±Ot7* 250 Baga MAURITIUS SUGAR 250 250 Bags MILLAGUIN SUGAR 260 100 Bags BREWERS' ORYSTALB 100 FLETCHER BROS. HAVE just landed some of the Finest PRESERVING SUGAR that ha* war com* to this market. Anyone wishing their Jam to vita out °g!m»» Mid keep in good condition, should not fail to buy their SUGAR from FLETCHER BROS., LOWEST PRICES IN ASHBURTON. JAM JABS. JAM JARS. Pint Mason Screw Top Jars 1 Qt. Mawu Sorew Top Jam £ gallon Mason Screw Top Jars lib Jars with Screw Ton 21b Jars with Screw Tops 1 and 21b Jan with Plain Ttpi SCREW TOP JABS FROM 3s 3d Per Down, PRESERVING PANS. PRESERVING PANS. We have all sizes of Enamelled Preserving Pans—Both light and He» ißaantel, at VERY LOW PRICES. HEBBAL BEER. HERBAL BEER, 8 GALLONS OF SPLENDID HERBAL BEER for 7D, by using FLETCHER'S EXTRACT OF HERBS. Thin extract Saves Boiling-Is ABSOLUTELY PURE—Makes a Splendid Tonic B«er— Non-Intoxicating—Has a Creamy Head like Bottled Ale. Please Note—That we are Sole Agents la New Zealand for this extract. TEA. TEA, TEA. Good Station Tea, in half-chests, from Is per lb Splendid Tea, in 5 and 101b tins, at la 6d per lb SPRING BLOSSOM TEA. SPRING BLOSSOM TEA. (Sole Agents foe Ashbnrton) In ilb, lib, Sib, and 101b Air-tight Tina, at Is 9d and 2s per lb. 2d per lb Reduction off 5 and 101b, tins. 4Jd FECULINA 4j4 FECULINA 4Jd FECULINA. THE PERFECTION OF CAKE FLOURS. This preparation stands Unrivalled as the Perfection of Prepared Flours £<> producing Pure and Delicious Cakes with the least possible time, trouble, and expenM. FECULINA may be had in the following kinds:— Ground Rice Raipberry Buns Sultana Cake Cheese Cakes .Madiera Cakes Sponge Cakes Raspberry Sandwiches Genoa Cakes Cocoanut Cakes Sponge Ginger Bread Currant Cakes Rice Cakes Seed Cakes Snow Cakes, Etc. To be Obtained from the CHEAP! ST HOUSE in ASHBURTON, FLETCHER BROS., CASH SUPPLY STORES, ASHBURTON AND OHRISTCHUROH. Telephone 24—80 x 67.



Asi burton, February 1, 1897. ■jDEOEIVED from Messes MITCHELL and TURNER ? the Sum of FIVE HUNDRED POUNDS on account Purchase of Stock. JOHN OKE i For Self and J Co-Trustee. .. . ijTVW TN Consequence of ABOVE PAYMENT we have been granted an Extension of THREE WEEKS to raise the balance of Five Hundred Pounds, and to enable us to meet our engage ments we have decided to place the whole of our Stoo\ of BOOTS AND SHOES amounting to close on Twelve Hundred Pounds under CLEARING SALE PRICES (quotations in future issue), and are now fitting up a SPECIAL SHOWROOM for the display of a portion of this Large Stock, and hope to have all goods marked down,and ready for f ale on WEDNESDAY NEXT. Having'bad a very Successful Season we are fairly SWAMPPJD with remnants from all Departments which we are determined to clear out the next few days, MITCHELL & TURNER.



IQAN NEW Year Cwds and XOl/ I • Booklets, Christmas Cards half price, New Books, Fancy Goods, Toys ant) Stationery. A large variety of goods suitable for New Year presents. New lot of Foreign Stamps and packets.—Andbbw.es, Anderson, & Co. "tfTTANTED Known—Jam Jars, Jam Jars W of all kinds at very low prices at VtMTCum Bbos, Cash Supply Storei,



WANTED Known—Oar Show Room to be cleared of all Summer Goedc —Mitchell & Tukneb. ANTED Knowa^GiTto the Cgknkb for Newest) Styles in l)f«pery and Millinery—W. H. Collier. MILLINE RY-Ladies should in^ot th c new Millinery, Capes, Mantle*, Jackets, Blouses, French and English Cgwefcs itU new and up to d»t#.—A, Cta.