Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 1897. Local and General.

A smart shock of earthquake was expe rienced ab Waiaa at 3.57 p.m. on Friday.

The New Zealand Clothing Factory is making a special line of boys' holiday suits.

A meetine; of the Aahburton Trotting Club's Committee is convened for Tuesday afternoon next, at 4.30 p.m.

Railway excursion fares are advertised in this issue for the Christmas holidays, com mencing from the 20th inst.

The return match of the Albion and Melrose Tennis Clubs will take place at the former Club's courts on New Year's Day.

Cable news appears on the first page, and on the fourth page will be found the conclusion of the test cricket match and the prize distributiou at St. Patrick's parochial school.

On Thursday afternoon BroH. J. Williams, G.S., and acting G.M., laid the foundation stone of the Feilding Masonic Temple, in the presence of * representative gathering of brethren.

Tenders are invited for building the Con valescent Ward at the Hospital. Plans and specifications may be seen at the architect's office (Mr K. Bird), Burnett Street, and tenders close on Jauuary 7, 1898.

Mr Ebenezer Sandford, formerly M.H.R. for Christchurch, died last evening from inflammation of the lungs, after a short illness of forty-eight hours. He was forty nine years of age

In view of the early drawing of the Brass Band's art union, blocks are required to be returned to the secretary, Mr R. S. Piston, on or before January 2 next, and cash to be sent with them in every case.

The breaking up of the High School for the Christmas holidays will take place on Wednesday next at 2,30 p.m., when the prizes will be distributed. Parents and friends are invited, and refreshments will be provided.

Mr A. Lawrie announces that in several departments cash purchasers to the amount of £1 and over will be allowed a discount of 2s in the £. No doubt a large number of hausewiveß will take advantage of this liberal offer. Mr Henry Ziuder has now established himself in tha offices in Moore Street which were so loug occupied by Messrs Friedlander Bros. The rooms have had the careful attention of Mr John Wilson's painters and paperhangers, and bow present a most inviting appearance, not only of comfort, but of cosiness, so that customers are put at their ease at once when visit ing the^j

merchant's sanctum, and we hope tho merchant himself will have every suooeßS iv bis new quar-tere.

The supposed grave of Eve is visited by over 40,000 pilgrim* each year. It is to be suen at Jeddah, in a cemetery outside the city walls. The tomb is fifty cubits long and twelve wide. The Arabs entertain a belief that Eve was the tallest woman that ever lived. Mr W.A. Thompson, a well-known North Island cyclist, intends making au attempt to lower Shorland's reoord of 22his 13mbf>, Christchurch to Duaedin. He will leave Ohristchurch at 3 a.m. on lueeday and expects to reich Dunedin at 8 30 the same evening. The average wealth throughout the world, taking its population at one thousand five hundred millions, is about £65 per head, according to recent calculations. Russia, in spite of her great natural resources, appears to be the poorest civilised nation on the face of the globe. Messrs Mitchell and Turner have on view at their branch opposite the Bhop a very choice importation of carpets, linoleum , etc., amongst which are some oxooedinglj nice Brussels squares with hearth rugs to match. A nicer and more tempting show would be hard to find. Nothing more forcibly illustrates the great 'miscalculations of the specula: ore in Jubilee stands and seats than the confession of the loas sustained by Harrod's Stores Company in their desire to turn the proverbial honest penny by a little enterprise in seat-building. The loss amounts to £17,500. The Indian Famine fund, which was started in January last, and can tot be far "short of half-a-million sterling, is about to be closed. The Secretary of State for India regards the prospects of the autumn harvest as so favourable as to justify this course. The committee will publish a full report later. Mr 0. H. Dowding notifies to the farmers of Ashrburton district that he is a cash buyer of prime f reeling lambs; also that he has on hand the most approved varieties of turnip seeds, and that he is the sold agent for the Ashburton county for Cooper's celebrated and world-famed sheep dip. Those who have business to transact in this connection should give him a call. At the distribution of prises at the Convent Schools the work of the pupils of both the Sacrei Heart and St. Patrick's Schools were displayed in the anteroom, and comprised beautiful samples of both plain and fancy needlework, water color painting, etc. These were closely examined by the numerous lady visitors and called forth unbounded praise. Mr H. N. Anderson, bookseller and stationer, has crept further into the centre of businesß, and is now in occupation of the old "Blue House," next to Messrs John Orr and Co., where we hope he will do the roar ing trade that his enterprise deserves. He has gofc his windows in Christmas trim, and ihe artistic display in the main one is well worth seeing. Cards and Christmas devices are beautifully displayed, and the exhibition in itself is a most pleasing sight, and ought to'tempt buyers. A narrow escape from drowing was ex perienced at Gisborne on Thursday evening by Mr Townley (Mayor), Captain Thompson {harbour-master), King (harbour engineer), and Hastie (an employee of the Harbour Boaid), who were engaged in taking sound ings in a flat-bottomed boat at the entrance to the river. The boat, was swanjped and capsized. Townley and Hastie managed to grasp a line thrown them, and were hauled out. Captain Thompson was pluckily rescued by his son, while i£ing clambered on the bottom of the overturned boat, and went floating down the river, till someone Jumper! off the breakwater and assisted him to land on the pier. " Coming events cast their shadows before." In a short time, says a Japanese paper, there will be trouble in Jap>D, and everything points to the fact that the finances of the country are in a very dis ordered condition. The advertisement appearing elsewhere of a sale of Japanese goods, to be conducted by Messrs Fried lauder Bros, in the Orange Hall, on Friday next, is an indication that our Japmesecon temporaty does not write without some knowledge of his subject. The goods are of the best quality, and the firm has straight orders to self-, no matter what the return sell without reserve to the highest bidder, and return the cash immediately, 'J.here ought to be a bargain or two in this. The anniversary of the Hinds Weeleyan Church was celebrated on Dec. 12 and 16. On Sunday two large and appreciative congregations listened to appropiiate and able sermons, afternoon and evening, by the Revs. Wm. Morley and J J. Mather respec tively. On Thursday, Anniversary Day, the ituuual tea and public meeting was held, and was an unquaiifi^l success. The tables presented a charming and tempting display of viands of the best description, which were provided by the ladies, and the tables were presided over by Mesdames Norri h, Turn penny, McKeuaie, and Misses Jebson, Durey, Norrish, and Tarbottou. After the tea the public meeting was held, the Rsv. Mr Mather in the chair, and excellent addresses were delivered by the Revs^ Morley, Skinner (E'resbyterianJ, the chaiman, and Mr S. Chapman. Several anthems were Eung by the VVillowby phoir in their usual effective style, and an item by Mr D, Mil'er was well received. After the usual votes of thanks the Doxology brought to a close a very successful anniversary Jost in Time fob Chkistmas.-—ln order to keep "up-to«date" with our steadily increasing business we have decided to effect considerable alterations to our premises, anij to 'make rooa> for the builders we have' resolved fo greatly rVditce pur stock, fegforp Christmas. * We have therefore - ■ «« ww ip&fj{#y of ,<?ur tweeds and culled a «..„ -*•** '"«* ifeg f?W«V>PB Worsteds, eto, to o«~ *«• U*W\ reductions :—Men's suits to mea^. price 90s, now 70s; Men's trousers, usuai price 255, now 15s 6d; eto. We have also pleasure in notifying that we have just been appointed agents for the famous "British Lion' and " Waverley" Bicycles (both gents' and ladies'), which we are now selling with all the " up-to-date " improvements at the lowest cash prices, or on the most liberal terms to suib the convenience of our customers. (Every machine guaranteed).— Craiqhkad and Bbhryman, the leading Tailors and Outfitters.

ASHBURTON CALEDONIAN SOCIETY.

Annual Gathering*.

The following nominations have been received for the annual gathering on Boxing D*y :— Hurdles (440 Yards)—L. O'Driscoll, M. McGoverin, J. Laffey, F. J. Leggett, J. Brankin, J. Fechney, A. Houston, W. Houston.

100 Yards (open).—L. O'Driscoll, M. MoGoverin, J. Laffey, W. Green, M. T. Healy, J. McNaught, I. W. Baxter, J. Brankin, J. Fechney, D. Meharry, C. Lusk, J. Landells, F. Smith.

Grand Handicap —■ L. O'Driscol), M. McGoverin, J. E. Laffey, J. McNaught, J Brankin, C. Lusk, P. Smith.

Half mile flat—L. O'Driscoll, M. McGoverin, W. C. Jones, F. J. Leggett, J. McNaughb, J. Brankin, J. Fechney, D. Meharry, Phil Annett, Geo. Keeley. One Mile—L. O'Driscoll, W. C. Jones, J. Fechney, G. Culverhouee, Phil Annett, Geo. Keeley. Bicycle Races—For the bicyc'e races the following are the nominations:—l. Clarkson, H. J. Baker, W. Edge, W. K. Box, H. Holland, H. Clarke, W. J. Adams, C. C. Derrett, G. A. W. Sutherland, H. Bushel!, D. Johnstoae, H. Ritchie, J. Bates, H. A. Soanes, B. P. Levien, W. H. Trengrove, J. T Andrews, W. Stackwood, W. Clarkson. H. A. Soanes does not enter for the half mile, H. Clarke is not in the one mile or two mile list, W. E. Box is also out of the two miles, and he, with H. HolUnd, C. C. Derrett, and E. P. Levin, do nob encer for the five mile race. There are nineteen competitors in all, of whom eighteen have been submitted to the handioapper for the half mile run, eighteen for the mile, seventeen for tha two mile, and fifteen for the five mi c race The track is a quarter mile round, so that the scratch man hai twenty laps to cover in the long distance There .are 117 entries this year, m agwnafc §2 last year. Smoke Mw Vtnm.

CHRISTCHURCH WOOL SALES.

The following are the wool Bale figures of Messrs Friedlander Bros. Limited, taken from their catalogue of the Ohriatchurch wool sales : ~ I FRIEDLANDER BROS., LIMITED I BZ, crossbied hogget, 3 bales at 6d. j i? Mo A under —, crossbred ewe, 2at fa^ci. ; HN con j 'lined, ha fbred ewe, 3 at 6d ; croßß bred ewe, 3 at 6d; bellies, 1 at 4d. 4H c.iiij lined, merino, 2 ab 6|d ; crossbred hoggit, 2at 6|d. Z\ under —, crossbred ewe, 3at s^d. ZV bar over, halfbred, 3at 4f J passed ; meriuo, 7 at 4|d ; pieces, 1 at { 2d, UF bar under, first crosn ewe, 3at s£d | passed. RF bar under, halfbred ewe, 4ab ! 6£d. I'D bar over, crosßbred hogget, 6ab s£d. L 2, halfbred ewe, 10 at s£d passed. S | 1 | , halfbred ewe, 10 at6£d ; crossbred hogget, sat 6d ; halfbred pieces, 2 at 4|d ; crossbred pieces, 2at 3fl. DS b«x under, tnree-quaiterhred hogget, 5 at 5 J ; three quarterbred hogget, 1 at 4fd ; three.quarter bred ewe 2 at 4f J ; three-quarterbred ewe, \ part pieces, 1 at 4£d. KY, ctoss | bred ewe, 12 at 5d pissed. RM, crossbred ewe, 6at s£d, passed. Hi conjoined with bar under, crossbred ewe, 2at s£d. J?3 cross bred ewe, 4at sd. JtiW conjoined, merino, j 3 at 6d ; seoond cross ewe, 6 at 5 J ; first cross ewe, sat sd. S2, crossbred hogget, 1 at s^d; crossbred ewe, 4at s|d, KD, second cross ewe, 17 at 6ti; merino, 2at s|i; I bellies, 1 at 3|d ; locks, 1 at 2£d ; crossbred j and merino, 1 at sd. DA, crossbred ewe, 7at s£d passed. SM, crossbred ewe, 12 at 6d, WG, halfbred ewe, 3at s|d j crossbred hogget, 3at s£d. 17, first cross hogget, 4 at sfd passed ; first cross wether, 7 at f id, passed ; locks, lat lfd. x iv diamond, three quarterbred wether, 4at s^d. — over Y6, meriuo, 2at 6d, x in diamond, longwool and haUbted, 1 atSJ. BW over—, merino, lab s&d. RB over -~, crossbred hogget, 3 at s|d; crossbred ewe, Bat s|d. BT, half bred and crossbred, 2 at 6d, „'!'„, merino, 1 at s£d; crossbred, 1 ats£<i. W .A, crossbred ewe, 3at 6d. — over HA, halfbred ewe, 9 ab s£d. gD cod j lined, crossbred ewe, 14 at s|d; crossbred ewe, 2 at sd; crossbred hogget, sat s£d : pieces, lat 2£d. — under HB conjoined, first cross ewe, 12 at s£d ; bellies tmd pieces, 1 ab 3£d. — under J.B, crossbred, 5 at 5d passed, — under HE conjoined, crossbred ewe, 15 at s£d; MF conjoined in diamond, first cross ewe, 2% at s^d passed ; first cross ewe, 10 at s£d passed; Hampshire cross hogget, 4 at 5d passed ; second cross hogget, 4 at s£d passed. GWL, halfbred ewe, 14 at 4|d passed ; crossbred aud Down cross hogget, 2 at s|d passed ; locks, lat l£d. WP, first cross ewe, Bat 6jd ; half bred hogget, 2 at 6£d; first cioas hogget, 4at 6Jd, passed; mci mo, 3 ab 6jd ; b liies and pieces, 2 at 3|d; 30merino, 15ram fleeces, lat s|d. A ov«-r CO, crosabred ewe, sab 6d. PJ, bar over, cro.-sbred, 2 at 6|d. MS, bar over, merino 6at 6d. JL, crossbred ewe, 3 ab s|d. T over R, crossbred ewe, 2 ab s£d. PV. merino, 2at 6d. 6Z, crossbred ewe, 5 ab s|d \ halfbred ewe, 1 ab s|d ; bellies and pieces, 1 ab 5Jd. W.A, crosa bred ewe, 13 at s^d ; crossbred hogget, 6 at s£d passed. WM, halfbred ewe, 2 at 5d passed. [/], merino, 4at 5Jd, M 7, cross bred ewe, i 5 at'6d; crossbred hogget, 2 at 6J,-d. 43, crossbred hogget, 5 at s£d. HA con joined over —, crosabred ewe, sat s|d. *)s[, crossbred hogget, 10 ab b\A ; crossbred ewe, 2atsd ; pieces, lat ljd. X, balfbred ewe, 9at s|d passed. S over J, crossbred ewe, 1 at 5d ; crossbred and bellies, 1 at 3|d; locks, 1 at 2|. 2D, crossbred, 5 at sJit 3 over J, bellies and pieces, 1 at 2fd ; bellies, lab 3|d. D over W, first cross ewe, 9 at 5| 1; second cross wether, 1 at s|d ; first and second cross wether, 4 at 6d. XO cross bred ewe, 4 at 6|d ; crossbred hogget, 8 at sid ; mixed wool, lab 4|l Sin square, crossbred ewe, sat 5^.1, * Z6 crossbred, 35 at 5Jd, passed j merino^ 2at 6d. KD over — first crossbred hogget, 11 at s|d ; second I crossbred hoggeb, 26 ab o^d ; first crossbred fwc, 7 at s^-i ; second crossbred ewe, 3 at s|.<l 5 pieces, 3at 4d. TN conjoined, cross lii-ed, 14 ab 5Jd C over — halfbred, 4 at 4|d, passed ; merino, 3at s|d. MF conjoined in triangle, first crossbred hogget, 1 at 5d passe! ; Lincoln ewe, 6 at s£d ; Lincoln ewe hogget, 1 at 6d ; Hampshire ewe, (? at 6d j Leicester ewe hogget, lat s|d ; Lincoln ram, 2 at s|d. MF conjoined in diamond, Hampshire ram, 2at 6|d ; crossbred, 3 at qJ, pissed ; mixed wool, 1 at 51; second pieces, 2at 3£d. MS, crossbred ewe and hogget, 2 ab s|d ; bellies, 1 at 3|d ; mixed wool, lat s£d. T9, Leicester ewe, with 13 merino fleeces, 1 at sd, WL,, firjst cross hogget, 7 at s|d ; merino, 2 at 6|d ; first and second cross ewe, 6 at s£d ; O over W, cross bred ewe, 7 ab s|'. MF conjoined, locks, 2 at l^i. FB, halfbred ewe, 3 at s^l ; tbree quarter-bred ewe, 2 at 5iK D, crossbred ewe, 4at s£d, SF, oroasbred ewe, 4at s£d, passed. Shepherd's Orook, crossbred, 1 at Sid. KD— under, locks, 2at 2d. WL on join6d, locks. lat 3d. Z6, pieces, 2at v!rt ; rams, 1 at 5d ; S in square, pieces, 1 at 3|vl; crossbred, 1 ab 6d. —-over qT, cross bred, with- few merino fleeces, 2at s|d. M r/, locksi lat 2d. — o'vpr A|n circle, haifbred ewe, 6at 5Jd. H over U^ Jock?, 2 at 2^d ; bellies, lat 3|d. XO, locka; lat |-d. FM, crossbred, 1-at s'l'J merinos, 5 at s|d ; bejlies a»4 pieces, lat 2|<i JWB conjoined, crossbred, 1 at 4|d j merino, 4 ab s^d ; bellies and pieces, 1 at Sid,

SIR DAVID THOMAS

! TB ? crossbred ewes, 3 bales at 5f d. WP ' conjoined, crossbred owe, 4at 6d. BM, threequarter-bred, 2 ab s|d; halfbred, 3 at s|d. 0 over T s bellies, lab 3|d ; crossbred wether, 7at 6d ; crossbred ewe, 4 at s|d ; crossbred, 4at s|d. BK, threequarter-bied, sat sd. "^ over J6, halfbrad, 4 at s^d ; crossbred, 3 at s|d ; crossbred and merino, lat4f-d. Cross over 0, halfbred ewe, 2 at s|d. /Em circle over V, crossbred ewe, 1 at s|d. T?R,' crossbred, at s|d, passed, 18, crossbred, 12 at' 6|d. ;i — over 48, "first Grossb/red'hoggetr, $ab!sfd. HE?, conjoined, | ofgsgbred, ,4, at s§d.' 15,8, halfbred eWe, sat *"- - « lHi'cKWßßrsd, §W'#|d. "C? over ; —, . ' ' -'■«»••«<* .Jj6fcgetg,"| at fd. croaebred and nan... ' * 'tfß over —■, crossbred with 7 raiuo at sd; halfbred with 10 crossbred fleeces, 6 at s|d. Sin U, halibred, 6at 6Jd ; second crossbred, 7 at6d ;crossbred, 1 atsf i; cross bred hoggett, 1 at 6Jd ; crossbred, 1 at s^d; pieces, lat 2£d. OS, crossbred, 2 at s|i. TU, first Shropshire ewe, 2at sf<i; Shrop shire ewe, 6at 6id ; pieces, lat 4^d ; locks aud pieces, lab 3d. RI over —, crossbred and halibred, 2 at s£d ; hrtlfbred, 3 at s|d. X, crossbred, 2 at 4^d. '~sover CO, cross bred pieces, lat 4d; halfbred, 2at s^d ; longwool, sat 6d. RL, crossbred ewe, 5 at s|d. E, crossbred, sat s|i VR conjoined, halfbred, 6at s£d, passed. 70, crossbred, 6at s£d. AX, halfbred ewe, 9at s|-J. i over OF, crossbred hogget 4atsf J. — over JO, crossbred ewes, 4 at s|d; crossbred ewe, 2at s£d. — over TS, crossbred ewe, 7at Bit A. High&m, crossbred ewe 15 shorn, 21 at 6^d, passed ; crossbred hoggets, 9 at sd, passed ; crossbred, 1 at 4|d j second crossbred, lat 4|d, passed; belly pieces, 2 at 4d; first pieces, 2at 3v|d ; locks, lat l£d. LD conjoined, merino ewe, 6at s|d. 1) in square, halfbred ewe, 4at6d ; merino ewe, 1 at s£d. AH conjoined, halfbred and Shropshire,! at s|d, passed ; merino, 4 at 6|d. HB, crossbred, 1 ab s|d. JA con joinad, halfbred ewe, 5 at6^d ; threequarter bred ewe, sat s|d, passed ; threequarter bred hogget, 2 ab 4|d, passed ; halfbred hogget, 2 at sd, passed ; locks and bellies, lat 2|d. M over 5, merino ewe, 6 at 5|,1; bellies, 1 at 4yd ; pieces and locks, 1 at 2£d. TH, halfbred ewe, 8 at sJil, pissed ; cross bred hoggets, 4ab s|d, passed. bellies and locks, lat 3|d. 9M, crossbred ewe, 10 at 5Jd. M, crossbred ewe, sat6d ; piece?, 1 at 4d. 2L, first crossbred ewe, 7 at sd, passed; crossbred, 1 ab sd, passed. 32, halfbred hogget, 3 at 6d ; halfbed ewe, 5 at 6d; threequarter-bred ewe 2at SP; merino, 1 afc 4|d, passed ; bellies and pieces, 1 at 4d. MV, halfbred ewe, 5 ab 7d 5 balfbred and crossbred, 1 at 6d, passed ; haifbred hogget. 2at s|d ; bellies and pieces, lat 4^d. 4C, halfbred ew,e, 2at 7id. R, crossbred ewe, latsfd; Shropshite ewe, lat s&d. 4K, first and second cross, 3ab s£d, passed. 2d, stained halfbred pieces, sooured, 1 at 7d j stained halfbred pieces and locks, scoured, 1 at 6d. RT, halfbred ewe, 7at 6£d, passed ; stained pieces, locks and belllies, 4 Jd, passed. C between —, threequarter-bred ewe, 1 at s£d, passed ; halfbred ewe, 8 at s^d, passed. st£, merino, 1 at sfd ; crossbred, 1 at sd. 2L, crossbred hogget, lat s|d. K8 over —, crossbred, 2ab s|d. 83, crossbred, 2at s^d. 11, crossbred hogget, 2at skl» Square with four bars, crossbred, 1 ab 6^d. BT, crossbred, lat 6|d. Cross over W, halfbreJ andcrocs bred, 1 ab 6d. JJ, orossbreri, 1 at 6:3; pieces and bellies, lat 3|d' C \K conjoined, merino, lat sid, passed. JQ, halfbred, 3 at 4W, pasvel, M, halfbied, 1 at s|d:

crossbred lats£d : q>j, leeks, 1 fudge, ?frl. 1 Dover «J, cresubrod, I at; 5 2 <1. ft over G crossbred, lat s£d ; lock*, 2 at lijd; cross bred dead wool and black, 1 at 4^d, passed. C [P iv circle, crossbred en'e, 1 at, Efl. DS', memo, latS^d si , crossbred ewe, Sat6|d GV, pieces, 1 ut 34a ; half bred hogget, 1 at. s§d ; merino ewe, 1 ut6|J ; half-bred wether, 6tl. — over 3X first cross ewe, 6 at 4|d passed. 1) over S, bailor* d, 4at 7£d ;J J, ci osebred hogget, sat s£d passed. Awarima, ! crossbred, 20 nb6d passed ; croiabred hogget, 2 at) s^'i parsed ; crossb ed and half bred, 1 at 5|U passed; m xed cioisbred ewe aud j halfbreu hoggets, 1 at 6d passed ; bellies and ] pite.s, 2 ar, 3£d ; eUad and first pieces, 1 ai 4d ; locks aud pieces, 1 a 2^<i. H over U, 4 »r mired, 6 half bred, 15 crossbred hogget, 25 at 6d pissed. W3, half bred, 26 ao 6 passed ; crossbred, 18 at 5| i passed; mixed, 3 at s£d ; moritio, 2 at s£d ; pieceß, 2 at 3^;d ; locks, 1 at 21. R/O, haltbred, 27 at's* passed ; merino, 6.at 5d parsed ; crossbred, 7 at §d paused; rams, 1 at 6d; crossbred hogget, lat 5-jd ; mixed, 1 atod; bellies and pieces, 4 ab 3§<i ; locks and pieces, 2 at 2d ; dead, lat sd. 17, ilirtu quartet bred ewe, 6 t*t s£d pasied; rjrst cross ewe, 2 at 5J passed ; piects and bellies, 3 at 3*d ; mixed, 3at s|d. 5 over 0, bellies, pieces and Uck«, 1 at 2|d ; crossbred ewe, 5 at 6id, JS, cross bred, 9at sifcd pa'sed. YR, croßebred ewe, , 3at's^d. Ali conjoined, threequarur-breci : ewe, 10 at s£l passed; threequarter-bred no RBeci 3at s^d; crossbred ewe, 1 at s£d. N between bars, haifbred ewe, 5 at 6|d;' crossbred ewe, 2at 6<j<i; crossbred &ndr*ms, 1 at 6£d ; outted and lucks, 1 at 4d ; bellies ' and pieces, 2at 4d. — over 61, Shropshire era s ewe, 1 nt 5d ; merino, 1 at 4£d paused ; .locks and pieces, 1 at 2£d; first crossed i hogget, 13 at 51 passed. f |P conjoined, crossbred owe, 3at4jsd pasted. Wif over ~, bellies and pieces, 1 at 4d j crossbred, 4 at 6£.1. JL, merino, sat6d ; merino belliei and lockb, lat 2§d. JQ, crossbred ewe, 10 at s|d. 2D, haifbred, 6 at s£i passed; ttueequarter-bred, 2 at Sid passed ; meriDO, 2at 6d, JM M, crossbred ewe, 2at 4|d passed. MB over Oakflat, crosebred ewe, 3at 6£; pieces and dead wool, 2at 4|d ; dead wool, lat 2£d ; bellies, lat 4d } merino ewe, 1 at 6Jd. J D over—, merino ewe, 6 ats|d. J6, haifbred ewe, 10 afc sd; looks and pieces, lat 2|d. Triangle over 8, hatf bred ewe, 23 at Id ; haifbred ewe, 8 at6|d ; crossbred ewe, 11 at 7|d ; crossbred ewe, 7 at 7d; crossbred hogget, 6at 6|d ; crossbred rams, 2at 6|d; first pieces, 3at 4|d ; bellies, 3at 4; pieces, dead, and bellies, lat 3|d; I second pieces, lat 3d; locks and pieces, 1 at 2d ; 2E, merino ewe and pieces, 1 at3|d; haifbred ewe, 4at 6d. 29, dead and second pieces, lat 4£d ; longwool rams and half bred ewe, 1 at6d ; tirst pieces, 4 at 4£d; haifbred ewe, 1 at s^l; crossbred hogget, 1; at s|d ; balfbred ewe and hogget, 2 at S|d ; half ored ewe, 2 at s|d ; crossbred hogget, 4 at 6d passed ; haifbred hogget, 3 at s|d passed ; haifbred ewe, 10 at 6|d; haifbred ewe, 7at 6d passed. Or over U, first cross bsed, first crossbred ewe, crossbred ewe, 42 at s£d passed,; merino, 1 at s|d passed; mixed, lat s|cl; dead wool, 1 at sd. 8& over -—, merino and pieces, 1 at sd; merino, 1 at $d. — through 8, halt bred ewe and hogget, 3 at s|d. R O over —, merino ewe, 1 at s|d ; first j crossbred hogget, latsf 1; second crossbred j hogget, 3 at s|d ; longwool hogget, 6 at 5Jd. ' E D over —, tirst crossbred, Bat 6id. DV, crossbred ewe, 12 at 6£d ; bellies aud pieces, j 2at 3£d; crossbred, rams, dead wool and' black, lat 5^.1 gE conjoined, first cross bred ewe, 3at 5d passed. WT, first half bred, 7at 6£d | second haifbred, lat s|d; threequarter-bred, 1 at s|d ; merino and haifbred, 1 at sf d ; threequarter-bred and pieces, lat4| 1; bellies and locks, lat 3d. E D, pieces aud locks, 1 at 3£d. —over S A, beliiew, 1 at 3|d passed ; locks. 1 at 2|d. W V, merino, 1 at 6d ; crossbred, 1 at 6d ; crossbred and pieces, 1 afc Sd. H V con joined, half bred, 3 at 6|d ; crossbred, 1 at 6d. (J in '-, crossbred, 3at s£d passed ; cross bred hoggets, lat s£<l passed. MeG, second crossbred ewe, 6 at 5^4 passed ;second cross bred ewe, 4 ats|d. WX, crossbred, 6 at s|d passed. A 2, lhi et quarter-bred Lincoln ewe, 3at 4|d. IR, dead wool, 1 fadge, sd. EB, haifbred, 3 bales at 6d ; halfbied hoggets, .3 at 6d j merino, 3 at 6|i ; first pieces and bellies, 1 at 4d ; second pieces merino pieces >md locks, lat 2^cL W, locks and pieces, lat 2^d. (C), crossbred, lat s£d, passed. h.7, threcrjuartcr-bred, 2atsJd passed ; half bred ewe, sat s|ii, — over riA, first cross ewe, Bat s^d. IR, crossbred hogget, 13 at s^d, passed ; pieces, 1 at l|i. W, crossbred ewo (shorn), 22 at s^d -Qif, firßt crosßbred ewe, 7at 5Jd ; crossbred ewe, 6at s£d. 85, croesbred, 1 at 5Jd. Like (L, crossbred ewe, 1 at 5^,. p*ssed. T over J, pieceß, 1 »t 3^<3; crossbred s, Bat s|d. 70, first cross wether, 4at s£ii passed. MX, crossbred ewe, 3 at s.{'l. TT, crossbred, B*t 5Jd. P over H, fist cross ewe, 9at 5-Jd, passed; crossbred ewe, 6at SJ, passed. GE over \V, haifbred, 2at 6d. JvV coi joined, first cross bred ewe, 10 at 5| 1. Like H, crossbred hoggets, 6 at, si, passed ; haifbred, 1 at oil, passed ; rams, Int si'i; bellicp, lai 3d. 2S, bellies, 1 a<< 3?-ii;.rams, 1 at s|<i t passed, "over — crossbred ewe, Bat 6d. HR conjoined, fine crossbred, 5 at 5d pasred ; 3trong< crosbbred, 7at53 I; crossbVed and dotted, ~3 at s.j;d ; crossuredland first pieces, lat 4|!; first pieces and black, lat 4^.1; second pieces, 1 at 3=£d ; locks ai idt secoud pieces, 1 at 2^.d. 85, threequarterabred, 2 at s|d passed ; first combing halib-ed, 9 at s|i passed; haifbred 3at s£d ; threequarter-bred, 3 at 5d j pieces and bellies, 2 at Md ; rams, 1 at sd; locks and pieces, 1 at. §jjd. 11, merino ewe, 3 at 5| 1. fl3, bellies aod pieces, 1 at 3|d • crossbred, 3at sd, passed ; crossbred hoggets, 12 at 5| 1 passed. MB, (Oakflat), Leicester ewe, 6 at 6£ 1; Leicester hogget, 7 at 6|d ; Leicester eofcted, 3 at-6d.

OCULAR DEMONSTRATION.

ItrikingT Kroof. Mr G. % Smith., "of Smith's Ifursery, I p thjs morning with..a number of 1 interesting il{Ustraf;ip,nß, lihrqwing a strong -—«v of theijttestiODg whigl) h§vp light upon u^ ' *~ "' tlle »»]| been occupying the minu° .. population of this country, First he showed us a sample of Webb's giant and Stock's monarch rhubarb, the stems being nearly two inches through, and fully 3ft 6in long up to the leaves. These had of course been liberally watered during the late dry weather. In further. illustration of the benefits of systematic irrigation, he pro duced a bundle of oats over three feet high, well watered from the first, and in the same i bundle was a little bunch about 8 inches high sown at the same time but not watered. Again he handed us a bundle of richly grown ryegtass and clover from 12 to 15 inches high grown on irrigated land, tied up with which wan an equal number of stems of grass and clover grown on l*nd not enjoying a similar Benefit. The lesson taught by these exhibits alone, is in itself convincing, and we think that all the farmers who may have to-day seen these remarkahle evidences of successful irrigation, must have been more than ever convinced that no stone should be left unturned by the people of this county to bring about as soon as possible a successful system of irrigating the plains, That the benefits of proper irrigation are not confined to the farmers, is shown by the further proofs produced by Mr Smith. Thess are magnificent peas (Strata gem) and remarkably fine samples of new potatoes, the Beauty of Bath. That fruit too ia equally benefited by irrigation, a sample of gooseberries (Roaring Lion) as large as hen egg-, must be accepted as con clusive proof. Some splendid onions and dessert apples (Robinhood and Lord Wolse ley) bore evidence of the good keeping qualities of Mr Smith's apples. This looks like an advertisement, but under the circum stances he is certainly entitled to it. Before concluding we may mention that Mr Smith brought in also a trap which had been baited with cherries, and in it is a blackbird caught by the head, thus showing how destructive these birds are lo the gardens. Mr Smith has destroyed a Urge number this season— caught in the act.

PARLIAMENT.

The Council adjourned at 10.30 p.m.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Wellington, December 17 The Counei 1 mci. at 2.30 p.m A SATURDAY SITTING, It was decided to ait at 230 p.m. on Saturday. VISAL STAGES The Hawera litkAwotiits auii Elcc ric Ligt t ;ng Bitl passed its final stages. The Lnd for CSettlementfl Act Amendment Bill was committed, and amended to provide ihvt LOO ttcres be the limit of land which cam be taken for close settlement. The Bill passed its final stages

Tue Cuuuoil resumed at 7.30 p.m. SECOND READINGS. The Wriliugtim (jity Empowering Bill and Native Land Laws Act Amendment Bill were read a second time. BILLS FASS&D.

The Land ami jnoome Assessment Acts Amendment Bill and Harbours Act Amend* ment Bill paß*ed their final stages, BILL THROWN OUT, The second leading ot the Young Persons Protection Bill was moved by the Minuter of Education. la the debate that followed most of the members urged the enforcement of the CD. Ace at a proper means of coping with the evil. Mr McLexn moved to ad journ the debate for a fortnight, and »h« Bill was killed by 16 to 13. VICTORIA COLLEGE. In Committee on the Victoria College Bill, clause 36 was amended so as to throw open the schol irships to all the children In the colony under 14 years of age, but nod more than two tcholarships to be awarded to any school. The Bill was reported as amradfld.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Wellington, December 17, TECHNICAL EDUCATION BILL. The Bouse resumed at 10 a.m.

Mr Seddon'a motion to report progress was negatived on the voices The debate was resumed on Mr Smith's amendment

Mr Seddon intimated that if the Bill did not get through, he would make no effort to pas* it next session After further discussion the amendment) was negatived by 30 to 19

Mr Tanner moved to amend the inter pretation of " controlling authority " by the insertion of " but does not include any con trolliog authority which is at the satno time exercising administrative control over any school in the colony not receiving a grant of public money, and not endowed by Act of Parliament or Provincial Ordinance"

The motion was under discussion at 1.5 pm, when the Chairman left the chair till 2.30 The House resumed at 2,50 Captain Russell's motion to report pro* jtress on the Technical Education Bill wm negatived by 35 to 20 A verbal amendment wm made in clause 2, and progress was reported i The Native Land Laws Act Amendment Bill was committed, and the amended Bill was subsequently reported and passed itff final stages.

THE BEKT BOP? SUGAB BILL The Beet Root Sugar Bill wu introduced by message, and read a first time The House adjourned at 5.30 p.m, The House resumed at 7.30 p.m. PUBLIC WORKS DEBATE, Mr Hall-Jones moved that the Houie go into Committee of Supply on the Public Works Estimates.

Mr Richardson contended that the States menfc did not discloss the policy of the 60? vernment respecting public works or railway expenditure, and the iutention respecting future expenditure was unsatisfactory. lb was most extravagant economy to almost complete railways and then leave them u»' completed. He blamed the Government for going on with such works as the Makohine viaduct, which cou'd not be completed for many years to come. He condemned the practice of asking for twice the amount of money that could be expended in the current year. He said that the amount to be spent on public works this year was double the amount spent on public work* when the present Government took office, Mr Rolleaton said that it was, exceedingly disappointing tt t the last hours of the session te be called on to discuss what was a large part of a Government's policy. The B.sti -1 mates hn ring been kept back destroyed the possibility of any correct analysis of them. 'I he statement itself was not worthy of criticism, and was the poorest thing he had ever read that had been laid on the table of the House. It was utterly futile for an assembly like the House to keep control over Estimate* which had got into the condition which these Public Works "Estimates had; Many of the votes were largely for distriotg where they ought nob to hsyve been' agent, and many of the works were such that ought not to have been constructed opt of' pnb)ic money, but out of rates or loan* railed by the lonal bediti. The Estimates were unsatisfactory, firstly because they showed the growth of an unfair system of distribution of votes for road* and bridge*, depending on political support of the Ministry in power, and the payment of these votes out of moneys raised from the general taxpayers, who had no interest in them, lie contended that in connection with the Land for Settlements Act there was maladmini stration of the Advances to Settler* Depart ment, which made advance* to tenant* to pay their arrears with, which he considered was an improper use of the Department, As asa amendment he moved that the Public \Yor|* Estimate* were'unsatisfactory oh tW grounds of their unfair distribution, a.nd their frittering away of the general tax payer's money on works he was not interested, |b, and that the control of many of the rote*; should be in the hand* of the local bodies.. The Premier aatf that he ha<j asked. Oantain Kussell if any amendment was to b« - 1"J — ••'•'■taod that none wag moved, and ho oau «*..«„. to be moved. He considered it unfair that at this late stage of the session such a motion should be sprung on the House. No refer* ence was made to any particular work, and the resolutions generally were of a frivolous character. The proposal that certain public works should be handed ovep to the I^paJ bodies to control savoured of the days before Adam, as he contended that the Minister of Lands was just aa worthy of trust in the expenditure of over £3QQ,OOQ, as the Minister of Public Works in the previous administration who had control of $1,300,000. There was no degradation for members of Parliament to see that their districts were not neglected. The complaint of the Govern ment supporters was that too masy vote* had been given to districts represented by Opposition members. A* to the charge* against the administration of the Advance* to Settlers Department, he said that the Department had been a boon to settlers, and if the Government wished to give up the seeuriree for advances already made there would be plenty who would gladly take them up. Respecting Mr Rollestpn's demand* for an amendment of local government, he mid that the party to which Mr Rolleston belonged had never attempted to deal witty local government, and when the present administration brought down proposals, on the subject he (Mr Rolleaton) had aystemaU* cally blocked them. There had been, no frittering away of public money* on uaeletf public works, Mr George Hutchison discussed the revo lutions moved by Mr Rolleaton in detail, and supported them. He adversely pritiaispq the Statement, and said that the Government were devoid of resource in respect to their public works policy. Mr Hogg defended the Minister of Lands from the charges of squandering vote* in hi* Department, and considered it unfair that these attacks should have been made in the Minister's absence. He contended that ao previous administration had ab impartially distributed the votes for roads and bridges as the present Government. He contended 1 hut the expenditure on roads and bridge* did more for the advancement of settlement than the expenditure on railway*. Mr Pirani considered that the district* in which a large proportion of the pablio money was spent, contributed bu{; fistle to the revenue. The debate was continued by Messrs tang, Hrown, Flattnan, Thomson, Mawey, Bollard, Moore, McGuire, and Buchanan. Mr RoliesLou'd atn«ndmeat wa« loit 00 the \9JOW." ' ' • ■■ -

TBE ABHBTJKTON GCAEDIAN : SATUBDAY, DECEMBEK 18, 1897.



Christmas & .New Year. ( -—<x) — j SPECIAL SHOW : : DRAPERY & CLOTHING : : "VTEWEBT AND MOST FASHIONABLE DRESSES, Biouso Materials, Ccepons, fePrinls, Cambrics, Nainsooks, etc, etc. LATEST NOVELTIES IN SUNSHADES LAGI-S nmo COLL ™fwr GLOVI SIBBONS C°RSEb!IT B CUF UFMBEELL AS Etc. Mto. Ktc' |_ 0 — fcPJLI&INI>I.D ASSORTMENT N OILCLOTHS, CURTAINS, AKT MUSLINS, & HOUSEHOLD FURNISHINGS SPECIAL VALUE - In Men's and Boyt' Clothing, Shirts, Pants, Collars, Ties, Hata, Caps, Braces, etc. MBN'S AND BOYS' STRAW HATS.-GWaJMD VALUE.- A. P. WILLIAMSON, OA^SH DBAPER & CLOTHIEB', TANCEED STREET TO RES ID B A N T S BUILDING & FURNISHING. ITTB BEG respeofcfully to announce that we have received, pcr fc S.fc?. «• louie " and "mLiw*/, wry heavy shipments for our HOUSEHOLD FURNISHING Depart monfc, w. j— SHEETINGS 3URTAINB CARPET SQUARES i PILLOW COTTONS QUILTS HEARTH RUGS TOWELS TOILKTS OILCLOTHS TiBLINGS MUSLINS LINOLEUMS IN *. FANOT DEPABTMENt we vT S g ood ß^»^ We, Boleros, and 2d?o «su» variety of Black and Colored Gimps.. NEW SHIPMENTS OF Dresses, Straws, Mantles. 2 CftSeS of Samples HOSIERY, at LANDED.OOST. MITCHELL & TURNER. AND WHEELWRIGHTS. -tTAVING Purchased the whole>f MR ZANDKB'S^cII .atoted stock o BAR AN,B SHEET I B^N 1, We are prepared to Supply the Trade on the Most Liberal Terms Possible, We are also Doubling the present stock, so that the requirements of our client* will be met iv the most complete manner. All orders for the present left at Mr Zander's Store or Direct to Ourselm will have immediate attention. W. H. COLLINS & CO., REDUCED RATES FOR CHRISTMAS A.T S. S ALEK'S, THE LEADING JEWELLERY ESTABLISHMENT IN THE DISTBIGI Largest Stocjc Lowest Prices FOR CHRISTMAS__PKESENTS. T «r.Q f T?ffT>T7OED PRICED marked ia Plain Figures. Gold SPECIAL LINES at 12 8 6d, 17a 6d, 20a, upwards. Silver Brooches (new and choice d «£»> J t d 7^ |^2rf . ' Go ld LiUa Lt 8s 6d 10s, aod Brooohßß from U 6d **""£'J;,?™ W n Liato at 2s bi, 4s, and 4* 6d. Pencil Cases (a apwarda. Ladies' and Gentlemen» »»T« 1Q Ladieß . RiDgg (fche largest and finest la.ge*took t°e! le°tf^ to a n fc2'6 u Vto any'in Chti-lohuroh) from one guinea to ten ttook ««r iieen in Aehburton, equal to y taßtß{u[ in ftfc ?g 6d> WFJBCIAX. ATTIiiIVXIOIN IS GALLED TO THE STOCK OF Gold Brooches and Ladies' Rings. Thew two lines are Heavily Stocked, and are of the Newest and Ohoice ß t Designs. INSPECTION INVITED FOB CHRISTMAS PRESENTS AT S. S ALEK'S JBWELLBBY ESTABLISHMENT, ° EAST STREET. STOCK AHD mOBS UHEQVTAIAED IN THE DISTBJCT.



John Orr & Co. I , : , _ ,1 ■ John Orr & Co. mHB SUCCESS ATTENDING OUR Cheap Cash Sale Induces us fco adopt for the fut ire this system of doing business. And »s we purchase for Cash from the beet makers in England and America, the General Public will therefore have the advantage of Selecting GOODS OF STERLING QUALITY at pricta hitherto unheard of, CONSISTING Of IRONMONGERY, GROCERIES, OBOOKERY, GLASSWARE, etc., BEST SNOWDROP SUGAR ... 2£d lb TEA, BLENDED ... 101b Boxes la lb TEA, IN HALF CHESTH, lOd Ib, (strong liquor) Colonial Candles ... 4d lb per box Endiah Parafine Candles... 6£d lb per box Kerosene, 150 test ... 6d 6d per tin JS 12* 9d per case Cornflour ... 3d per lb Kssence of Lemon... ... 4d Worcester Sauce, Pints ... 9d bottle Essence of Coffee IOJd Sago 6'l^ Tobacco, Nubian squares... 4s 6d per lb Bran ... 3s 6d per bag Sharps ... ... .- 53 per bag Oatmeal, 251b Bags ... 2a 9d bag RollUt's Flour, 2001bs ... 24a „ lOOlbs ... 12a 6d 501bs .. 6s4*d Currants *W & 5d Eleme Raisins ... ... 'd Valencia Raisins ... .- ?d Sultana Raisins 7d Sicily Almonds uza Figs W Muecatela ... .- od Jordan Almonds 2s 3d^ Mixed Peel 8d 2£lb Tins Preserved Fruib lOd Lemon Squash, English ... Is 31 Lemon Juice, English ... Is 3d Sardines 4^d per tin Fresh Herrings 6£i per tin Herrings & Tomato Sauce lOd per tin Pressed Hops, per la .. Is4d Fruit Salt* 2s per bottle Ground Oinger la 4d per lb Anchovy Paste 8d per tin Citrate of Magnesia ... Is per bottle Sheeps Tongues, best ... JOi per tin CROCKERY & GLASSWARE Dinner Sats Toilet Set* Tea and Breakfat fc Sets Vases and Ornaments Tumblers and Wine Glasses Beeanfcei'S »n4 Water Bottles Glass Dishes J Iy and Butter Dishes GRAND VARIETY AND LOW PMCES IN ABOVE LINES. FOR THB FRUIT SEASON. Mason's Screw-top Porcelain Lined Jars. Pinbs 4s 96, Quarts 5a 9d, i Gallon 7s doz Ken rick's Best Enamelled Maslin Kettles 8 Quart 6s, 10 quart 7s 6d, 12 quart 8s 61 Bras* Maslin Kettles, Drop Handles. 2 Gallon 7s, 2J gallon lls 6*, 3 gallon 13s 6d, Steal Enamel Preserving Fans, 2s 6d, 38, 3s 6d, 4s, ¥OR THB HAIiVEST FIELD. WE HAVE A SPLENDID STOOK OF Reaper Secioiß Reaper Chains Hay Forks Hay Rakes * Oils, in 1, 2 & 4 gallons BINDEB TWINE. DONAGHY'S BEST; Flax, Mixed, & Manilla. John Orr & Co. j



Fubhc JNotioes. Special Discount. FOR CHRISTMAS SEASONS Of Is in the Pound. From this day till the end of December. VTTEJ are now offering some very SPECIAL LINES IN DRESS GOOD?. Exceptionally low prices quoted foi completed costumes. WJEE WITS DOW'«. Tweed Coifcumeecomplete from ... 20a A|Grand Line of Boya Colonial Tweec j Knicker Suits, sizes 1 toJI3, these we atari from -4.-S lid per Suit. WORTH DCUBLB. SPECIAL VALUE IN MEN'S TWEEI SUIT?. A really good suifc for ... J3O«* Ot We are offering Borne wonderfully Cneaj lines in all Departments. Akhburton Drapery Company CLOTHING FACTORY. i mm i MANAGER Church Services. ST. STEPHEN'S CHURCH, Ashburton. SUNDAY SERVICES. {December 19.) 11 a.m.—MorniDg Piayer and Holy Com munion. 2 30 p.m.— Distribution of Sunday School Prizes, in St Stephen's Schoolroom, Parents and friends invited to atteud. 3 p.m.—Dromore—Mr Gates. 6.3o—Evening Prayer. REV T. A. HAMILTON.



Keating's Powdkr destroys bugs, fleas, moths, beetles, and ail other insects, whilst quite harmless to domestic animals. In exterminating beetles the success of this powder is extraordinary. It is perfectly i clean in application. See the article you purchase is "Kea/ing's," as imitations are noxious »nd ineffectual. Sold in tins, 6d, Is : and 2a 6d oach, by all chemists. KOZ[£ TEA Most JEScuuomlcal