Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, MARCH 20, 1897. COLONIAL AMMUNITION.

Foe some time past there has been complaint as to the ammunition supplied to the Volunteers. It is said to be far from uniform m quality, and that no ten rounds served out are the same throughout m explosive power, so that a marksman who, with uniform ammunition, may be counted upon with considerable certainty to make a certain score at a given range, and under fair conditions as to wind and weather, finds his shooting suddenly fail when using the Govern ment cartridges. One cartridge may carry the bullet all the distance practised at, the next falls short, not because of any fault on the part of the marksman, but because the powder is w»r.ti:E.g m explosive power. For the same reason, a bullet that may carry the distance, has not the necessary force behind it, and so wobbles past the target. At the last rifle meeting complaints were not only numerous, but were heard on all sides that the ammunition could not be depended upon, and as a result many of the acknowledged best shots of the colony were not seen at their best, and tn&de all sorts of unexpected* failures, un explainable except on the score of faulty ammunition. This state of affairs having been put before the Premier, he took occasion m a speech at Wellington to refer to the matter and said that" from whathehad heard he was satisfied the ammunition was not up to the mark. A test had been made and the ammunition had been accepted as being equal to that test, but afterwards it had been found that it was not equal tc it. They must apply the remedy, and speaking on behalf of the Govern ment, he simply said that steps would be taken to remedy the defects which now existed. He had been astonished to find that ammunition manufactured m another colony by the same company which supplied the ammunition for the last rifle meeting was superior to that made m this colony. There had been a time when the fame company manu factured good ammunition m New Zealand, and he intended to find out the reason for its falling off m quality. The colony's Volunteers must not be placed m the hands of a company which was not doing justice to them or the colony. Colonel Pole Pentoa eaid he was not aware who was responsible for the specification of the contract under which the New Zealand ammu nition was manufactured, but he pointed out that the figure of merit was 15j instead of 12 as m England. This allowed ammunition which was 20 per cent, worse than the English to pass into service." We should be sorry indeed if the Government are forced to import ammunition from outside, if we can make our own here of satisfactory quali y ; but if the pur veyors of ammunition here fail, as they apparently have done, to supply cart- I ridgf'S at leas>t equal to the not too '"!"h standard of English regulation quality, tberC !a a 9 Other course apen ;for I the target practice of* C?* volunteers cannot be allowed to suffer from fi" 1" cartridges for the sake of " encourag ing local industry.' It would bo a pity to have to go outside the colony for cartridges, and we trust Mr Seddon will take steps to have the deserved improvement effected m the manufac ture, and also to have all the inferior ammunition called m, and replaced by more reliable material,,

THE LICENSING ELECTION.

As we have been asked to state whether Wednesday next, 24th inst, being the day appointed for the election of the Licensing Committee, will be a public holiday we reply m the affirmative — i.c, from and after mid-day. The statutory provision m this respect will be found m section 10 of the " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act Amendment Act 1.895," which reads ias follows :—" Every day on which the election of the Licensing Committee takes place . . . shall be and be deemed to be a public holiday after mid-day, and such half holiday shall be deemed to be a holiday within the meaning of the several statutes for the time being m force relating to pubii.3 holidays; and, further, between the hours of twelve o'clock noon and seven m the evening it shall be unlawful to sell intoxicating liquors m any licensed premises,'' This provision is specific and mandatory as regards the sale of liquor between noon and 7 p.m. but as regards shopkeepers it is, we believe, optional to close or keep open. Those who close are, however, relieved from the necessity of closing on Thursday afternoon — the public half-holiday taking theplace of the usual weekly half-holiday.

Local and General.

The Hon J. M'Kenzie is still m poor health. The Rakaia bridge is cloß^d to road traffic between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.ni. A Bill ia to be introduced m the House of Commons to enable women to sit on County Councils, An American negro, formerly a slave, and the chili of slave parents, has attained his 120 th year. Weiss and Memmotfc, champion billiard players, to-night at Hick's bil'iard room, Devane's iiolei. The sitting of the Assessment Court for the borough of Ashburton ia fixed tor Thursday, 4pril fsb, at 10.45 at the Court house. On Thursday morning a bull belonging to Mr J. Hughie, Rangiora, broke into the paddock of Mr Thos. Ross, and before it could be secured ripped three horses so b-idly that it was fearfjd they would not recover. It is reported as probahle that the Easter camp for the Canterbury Volunteers may be held at Anjbprley. An jaspection of the recreation ground for tha tents find camp and a view of the country for the purposes of a:" aa^ tamotUYfe§ js to be made,

Replying to the Wellington Trader and Labor Council, the Premier prC.mlee» *»»^ members of Conciliation Boards sh til receive a guinea per day while engaged m their duties, with an increase of ten shillings per dry when absent on Board business,

A good indication that there will foe a short session next month and that the Premier will go Home is afforded m the fact that members of the House have received fchair Ijets of Hansard addresses from the Government Printer with a refuel to correct and return by first jnjjj ?

At Tarn worth, on the 6th inst, a baby girl rained Alice Flenrng got hold of a box of pills and swallowed 15. She died shortly afterwards. A bridegroom recently married m Ken tucky was 105 years old, the bride being 101. The bridegroom was left a widower sixty years ago. In Denmark it is the law that all drunken persons shall be taken to their homes m carriages provided at the expense of the publican who sold them the last glass. A New Plymouth councillor explained the other night that the child of a resident was lost to sight for several houra m one of the ruts of a borough road. Next! Mr Wilhelm Zander, lately of Ashburton, was m town yesterday, on a visit to his relatives here. He has been m Brisbane for the last six years. A curiosity m thieving is reported from Timaru, Mr Campbell-Colquhoun advertising that a sueak thief has stolen one of his phonograph "records." We observe that a presentation is to be made at Temuka on Wednesday evening next to Mr A. E. Q Rhodes by his suppor ters at the general election. The market; reports of Messrs David Thomas, Banmer and Graves, and the Rakaia agency of the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Oompay-appg^rgjJ msJLonttb p§i.' ' " A rather romantic wedding was celebrated at Masierton last week, when a young man, who is seriously ill with typhoid fever and not expected to recover, was united to the lady of his choice. It is stated thai the, lakes m the Maokenzie country are full of fish, and a committee has been appointed by the South Canterbury Acclimatisation Society to consider the question of netting them. " I don't believe whippings do children any good," said Mrs Wiggins. '• Why, I whipped Johnny at the photographer's three times because he wouldn't look pleasant, and he still looked as cross as a bear." The wife of the Emporor Menelik, of Abyssinia, lives m dread of leprosy she being descended from a family of lepers. It is stated that at certain times of the year she . orders children to be slain m order that she may bathe m their blood, believing that by this means she will escape the terrible curse of her ancestors. In Messrs John Orr and Co.'a window this afternoon* there is on view a very pretty little show of trout, eight m number, scaling about 181 b, ranging from l£lb to 31b weight, and all m the pink of condition. They were taken with the minnow last even ing after sundown by Mr H. Milner, of Flemington, at the mouth of the Ashburton river. During the recent celebration of the 25th anniversary of tfte great Chicago fire, the telephone building m Washington street arranged a large transmitter over the street, so as to catch the cheers and muaio of the procession as it passed. The transmitter was connected to all the telephone lines m the country, and as the procession passed its cheers were heard throughout the Union. A very handsome residence has just been built, to the plans of Mr R. Bird, architect, of this town, for Mr Jamea McLean, Cairn brae. The contractors for the building were Messrs Page and Sons, and for the painting, papering, and decorations Messrs Elston and beggott, The whole work reflects the greatest possible credit on alj, concerned, being equal, if not superior, to anything m the county. Mr John Holmes, the flax expert, received many promises of support m Dunedin to the fund which is being raised to send an expert to the United States and EJngland to investigate the circumstances connected with placing phormhtm tenax on the mukets. Among those who have given donations are the Uuion Steamship Company, Westport Coal Company, Messrs Hallenstein Bros. (Mr tlalltnsteiu previously gave a donation m Wellington), Messrs Speight and Co., and Bing, Harris, and Co. It will be a satisfaction to householders to know that two of the gang of night i marauders who during the past week or two I have been visiting a number of premises m I town and suburbs and committing a host of petty depredations, besides perpetrating many acts of wanton mischief, were arrested '»«t pight by Constable Eade. They had a depot excavated under a tent pitched among the flax near Burnards wool-wash m which were found a number of articles, the spoils of their midnight prowlings, The police are enquiring for owners of the property. Three more of the members of the gang wete arrested to-day. 1 Mrlves, »v American, has discovered a 1 system, based on the spectrum, by means of which phoiograplia are said to be produced wlneh, looked at through a new optical instrument called the " kromakop," appear to the eye m the natural co ours. The discovery seems to open the door to a vast field of usefulness as well as pleasure, for it will afford an imperishable record of color m many varying walks of daily life, where such a i (cord must be of great and lasting service to mankind.

Synopsis ot Nkw advertisements. David Thomas—Ram fair, March 25. Friedlaader Bros—Livery stable for sale. T. BuLock—Grain store for a&le, Jt7so Haniner and Graves —Ashbarton ram and ewe fair Thursday, March 25. Church notices—St. Stephen's, The Taber nacle, Primitive Methodist, Wesleyan, and Salvation Army. Assessment Court—Sitting tjn Thursday 8 April 1. ! Wesleyao Harvest Festival—March 27. Wanted to sell—Cow. Notice —To the party who found brooch. Mrs Adams—Fruit, etc. Licensing Election—Notice to electors. Railway I)epartment—Notice re Kakaia Bridge, ' Mrs Ranger—Notice to Ladies.

Messrs Friedlander Bros., Limited, have for private sale a livery stable business—a going codcern. Mrs Ranges, so long and so favourably known iv and aroond Ashburton ? offers a comfortable home to ladies from the country!

The J. G. Ward Association.

PreasJAssociation—r-By Electric Telegraph,

Dunedin, March 20 The Official Liquidators' report m re the J. GL Ward Farmers Association was filed m the Supreme Court to-day. It will be impossible to send out the summary till to-night.

THE AROWHENUA LAND SALE.

The following telegram from the Com missioner of Crown Lands to Major Steward, M.H.8., im reply to a letter from that gentleman, has been handed fco ijs for publication for the"W;fi?r.'n;*tion r>l intending applicants. Christchurch, March 20. To Major Steward, M.H.R., Ashburton. J\'e Land Board holding investigation into applications for Arowhenua at Aahburton, Board has to meet here on 27th and at Timaru 03 33th,, Too late now to make alteration. Sidney Weetman. Commissioner Crown Lands, Christchurch.

THE QUEEN'S CELEBRATIONS.

Presa Association —By Electric Telegraph— Copyright. (Received Wakapuafsa. Marph gQ, JO.y a.m., CSuabdian ofpce 11.1Q ».m.) IMPOST, March 10. 1 The Queen lias appointed the 20th of June as a day of national thanics §iving for the completion of the sixtieth year' oi Hep reign, and the 22nd of June as a Bank holiday throughout Britain.

Jpragrant and Inviqatatinq—Neu) Venus, I

FOOTBALL.

ANNUAL MFETING.

The annual meeting of the Ashburtom Junior Football Club was held last evening m St. Btephen's Schoolroom. There was a ! large attendance, and the chair was occupied by Mr P. Wilson. 'J he secretary read the annual report and balance sheet, which were very satisfactory, the lattei showing a credit balance of £5 ss, which was voted to an accident fund. The secretary stated that during the past season, six matches had been played, five of which had been won, aad one lost—the Juniors scoring 71 points against 9. The following officers were elected for the ensuing year : —Patron —G. A. M. Buckley, iisq. ; President —D. Thomas, Esq.; Vice-PresHents—Revs. T. A, Hamil ton, Father O'Donnell, Dr. Maude, and, Mesßrs A. Harrison and J. Wilson; Captain I —F. Wilson ; Vice-Captain—A. Pilbrow ; Committee—Messrs E. McTigue, J. Hep burn, J. Brown, J. Pritchard; Secretary— I. Baigent; Tredßurer—Mr F. Feniman. Hearty votes of thanks were passed to the various honorary officers for their support during the past, and the meeting closed.

CORRESPONDENCE.

(We do not hold ourselves responsible for the opinions expressed by our correspondents;

THE MELBOURNE ARGUS ON NEW ZEALAND.

TO THE EDITOR. Sib,--I trust you will kindly grant me space m your much esteemed paper to pub lish the following. It is a section of the leading article of the Melbourne Atgus of February 10 whioh was sent to me by a lady friend to enable us, as she facetiously puts it, to "see oarselves as others see us-"—I am, etc., D. Oliver.

" Victoria used to lead and New Zealand followed ; now New Zealand leads and Vic toria follows." So said Mr Seddon, the Premier of the island colony, at the Mayor's luncheon yesterday. This must be taken aa the hon. gentleman's pleasant way of putting it that New Zealand has become the " wild cat state" of the Australasian colonies, and that he rejoices m the fact. A wi.d cat state is one which indulges m frantic rushes where it should tread cautiously, and which meanly hangs back where it should make a resolute advance. Utah and Wyoming are representative wild cat states m America ; they adopt female suffrage off-hand ; they go solid for free silver j they experiment m prohibition legislation j and no doubt if they had the power th«y would tax travellers from the sister states, and would mix them selves up with discreditable financial scan dals. There, however, New Zealand has tha wild cat advantage. The other states look 1 on m pity and surprise, and endeavor to profit by the lessons which their wild cat neighbors afford. In these regions it is New Zealand that is the happy hunting ground of the sentimentalist and the charlatan-— though neither of them, nor both, it should be added, will be able to prevent such a land from doing well. New Zealand is the Great Britain O£ the South, and even under the barbarian Great Britain made progress. But when it comes to an enlightened, patri otic, and progressive policy, such as federal unionship, then New Zealand hangs back. An Imperial policy and broad views are not m the line of her leaders. Happily there is an Opposition m New Zealand, which has gained and is gaining ground, and until it comes to the front, why, we m Australia must leave the island colony politically alone. Physically her giant scenery attracts, if politically her Seddons repel ; and, happily for all, the eternal hills and the fern-clad glens are the stronger attraction. But what a contrast there is between the Premier, whom, ex offic'w, the M.yor hid to invite to luncheon, and the Premier whom the pro gressive and advanced citizens of thia metro polis entertain this evening. Mr Seddon takes the lead m inventing new ways of keeping people apart by taxing men as well as goods j Mi G. R, Reid cakes the lead m throwing every Australian barrier down, and welcoming trade and traders to his domain. The one mtnis a narrow proviueialist; the other, whatever his faulte, is an Australian statesman. [We have complied with our correspondent's request by giving the above insertion, but may remark that the Argus takes a very prejudiced view of New Zealand politics, and the above article, which is now very stale, has been fully answered over and over again since it appeared m that journal.—Ed,]

THE ARITHMETICAL PUZZLE.

TO THE EDITOR.

Sir, —I see that the arithmetical puzzle has been again brought up m your columns V* Ex-Arithmetician " gives a very compli cated solution, and uses two figures twice over even then. If any manipulation of the figures other than simple addition was allowed, the following would be a simple solution, and would comply with all other conditions :-— 61 + 4+5 +7 + 8 + 9 + (3 x 2) = 100. Another way to get the 100 would be by subtraction, 100 being easily obtained m many ways. If the 4is omitted from addition and deducted from the total otherwise obtained the result is 100. When I wrote to you pointing out that as the figures must always remain a multiple of nine and that 100 could not be obtained by simple addition, I did not think the above solutions of sufficient intefreat to send, but aB some people still take an interest' m ili J now send them.— I ami etc., ! A. Edwakd Pjeache. March 19, 1897.

Concert at Willowby.

One of the nioau successful concerts ever held at Willowby took place m the school room on Friday evening m aid of the Prohibition League, when there was only a fair attendance, ttie harvest operations now going on m the district keeping & largo number away who would otherwise have been present. The Rev. p. Abernethy presided, and made a few rerpa^ks m refer ence to the drink trafijc. Recitations " The Lifeboat," and " Mary Queen of Scots " were ably given by Miss Oiphert (Auckland), who is a first-class elocutionist, the last mentioned item being given m the costam '. of a,d. 1587. In response to eneorea Miss Oiphert gave •'The faithful lovers," and >' The dandy fifth." Mias Birdie Butler (Auckland) sang •• The toilers," and " The Holy City " with admirable effect, her fine voice being heard to the best advantage. Equally successful were her well merited encores " There's no one like mother to me," and " Whisper and I shall hear." Miss Gates sang "No crown without a cross," and Miss Davis *' Daddy," both pieces being well rendered. " The letter that never came," and " If the waters could speak aa they f|ow," contributed by Miss Oollison, were given with good expres sion and called forth hearty applause to which she had to respond. Mr E. Craig h«ad-gfrv.u 'l Anoaor-scV (Hjd "The storm fiend," and Mr o. Tr- iie ■' The iittJj? hero/ these items being well received, as also was thojr duet "The minute gun at sea." A quartette by Mrs J. M&rsden, Miss Jamgs, Mr 0. James, and Mr I<\ Tilley, was very creditably givea. The accompanists were Miss Gates aud Mr Wheeler. At the close the Rev. J. Oiphert spoke of the advantage of getting prohibition candidates on the licensing eomroi.ttee s to be ballotted for on Wednesday next.and referred feelingly £$ the death of the late BewP, B, Monro, oiiS of prohibition's ablest champions. lie thext; on behalf of the Prohibition League, pre posed a heirty vote of thanks to the singers and to the audienge, which was carried with acclamation. The proceeds of the concert amounted to £2'9a 6d

Licensing Elections.

Presa Association—By Electric Telegraph CHBXSTCHURqff, ftfargh \% Messrs E. Smith, ?!. l*»«dowp, T, Gapes, F. Trent, and L. J. C. M-addison, were elected unopposed to-day as the Licens ing Committee—all members of the old Committee. j

Ytu try tie New Vmw Tebatt9

MAGISTERIAL.

ASHBITRTON-SATURDAY,

(Before Mr R. Alcorn, J.P.)

Alleged Burglary.—William Williams was charged with haviDg, on the night of March 18, broken into the house of Henry Hooper, with intent to commit a crime. Regan Williams was charged with being an accomplice m the crime. The accused are I brothers, the elder having but recently completed a sentence of imprisonment, and the younger, a Burnh m school boy, is m the employ of James Smith, butcher, Alford Forest road. Severa'- other charges are to be laid against them, of breaking and entering houses, but the above was the only one dealt with at present sufficient to obtain a remand till Friday.—William David Fox and William Dunn, two lids of about sixteen years, were charged with the robbery of Mr Octavius Digby's orchard. They are also suspected of being concerned m the burglary and attempted incendiarism at Zetland Lodge along with the Williams brothers. They were also remanded till Friiay.— R. G. Bright, another lad, was aiiao remanded till Friday, on a charge of weafetng "Tnto and stealing from T. A. Andrew s workshop.

THE PETONE MURDERS.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

Wellington, March 19. The charge against Stephen Bosher of murdering Mr and Mrs Jones it Petone occupied the Supreme Court the whole day. A large portion of the evidence was similar to that adduced m ihe lower court. Emma Walters, residing at Taita, deposed that Bosher stopped hi r on the toad to Tail* on the morning after the murder, and told her that the Joneses had been murdered. That afternoon she was at Bosher's house, and mentioned some Testaments whioh Boeher was to have brought from Jones to her, and Bosher replied that he had had them m his possession for a wesk. Being cross examined she said that after Bosher toli her that the Joneses were dead he said to her that he had called for the books for her thai same morning. Jonea had told her that there were three Testaments for her, but she was not aware of the fact that only two were found m Bosher'a possession. To His Honor : Witness did not reconcile Bosher's two statements that he had calied for the books that morning, and that ha had had them m his possession for aw ek. Several witnesses gave evidence that the knife pro duced was similar to one ovrned by Bosher. Dr Xeare deposed that the knife produced was found concealed m stables on his premises m Cuba Street, Wellington. Accused used . the stables. Santabury, a contractor and uncle of the last witness, recognised the knife as Bosher's. About the time of the trial of Shore, who was first accused of the murder, witnessed asked Bosher, "'Whera is that knife of yours ? Have you got it still Y Bosher replied, "'Yes." Witness asked him if the police had not aßked him for it, and Bosher said "No." Witness replied, " Well they soon will. You hide that knife and I'll give you my knife," a white-handled one, Bosher considered a while, and.then took witness's knife, but did not give witness his. He went away and did not return for three hours. Witness saw him return and followed him to the stable. Witness did not see what he did with the knife, as he was two or three minutes m the stable before witness got there. Bosher then went home, and witness did not see him for twer or three days. On September 15 witness had another conver sation with accused, who said that people were suspecting him, and that the police were after him. Witness said, "You have no occasion to fear the police if you did not do it." Bosher looked on the ground and made no reply. Witness had a strong sus picion that accused was the right man, aud his reason for wanting to exchange knives was to get hold of Boshei'i. Witness saw the knife again about two months ago, after it was found. The knife now was not m the condition m which he first saw it. The point was now broken, and m August last it was fine and sharp.

EXTRADITION OF BUTLER.

Today's Lyttelton Times writes :—Owing, doubtless, to the discovery by the San Fran cisco lawyers that Butler's big bank account m Sydney only existed m the fertile imagi nation of the accused, the delay m obtaining extradition has not been so great as was originally anticipated. There is every likeli hood—though the police will, doubtless, try to keep the matter secret—that Butler and his captors will b*. passengers by the mail steamer Mariposa, which is to leave San Francisco on April 1, and is due at Auck land on April 22, and at Sydney five days later. Instructions were, some time ago, sent through to San Francisco to the repre sentatives of ibe A. and A. line to carry out such arrangements as Defective Roche con sidered necessary for the safe conveyance of his prisoner by whichever steamer chanced to be the one next sailing subsequent to the extradition being granted. In concluding a recent interview with the San Francisco correspondent of the Sydney Morning li<r(ild> Butler said ; " I do not know when I shall reach Sydney, but when 1 do I want my old chums to come and see me." It is just be cause a few hundreds of people m Sydney are said to be anxious to meet Butler, and introduco him to Judge Lynch, that the j'authorities are lively 10 keep the date of his arrival secret. There is uot- m Australasia any of that sickly sentiment which leads Americans to pamper and pet men aocuaed of the most abominable crimes. Butler has beea the subject of these atteationsj of which the following sample may be given. A white-haired old gentleman arrived at the prison groaning beneath the weight of a huge parcel, and asked to see " the unhappy man." He was ushered m and gave his name as A. B. Denting, a charcoal manu faciurer, residing m Oakland. He shook hands feryemly with the pt^lwart sailor, and forthwith opened the parcel, displaying to the man's astonished eyes a regal assort ment of jams, jellies, cakes, sweets, and luxuries of all kinds. Mr Doming explained that he had received a summons m the night from the Almighty, who woke him up and told him to go to the rescue of Butler'a soul. This was to be effected by feeding him on delicacies for several days, and then" insisting upon a starvation regimen.

YOUR MOTHER.

Honour the dear aged mother. Time has scattered the snowflakes ou her brow, pillowed deep furrows m her cheeks, but she is aa sweet and beautiful now ! The lips are thin and sunken, but those are lipa that have kissed many a hot tear from childish cheeks, and these are the sweetest lips m all the world. The eye is dim, yet it ever glows with soft radiance of holy love which can never fade. Ad, yes ; she is a dear old mother* The sands of life are nearly run out, but feeble as she is, she will go farther and reach down lower for you than all others on earth. You cannot walk into a midnight whore she cannot see you j you cannot walk into a prison whose bars wilj keep her out; you cannot mount a scaffold too high for her to reaoh that she may hiss you and bless you it evidence of her deathless love. When the world despises and forsakes you, when ifc leaves you by the wayside to die unnoticed, t!:e dear old mother will gather you. into her feebie arms and carry you home, and tell you all your virtues ? until you almost forget your soul is dis%yred by vice. Love her tonderly and cheer her declining years wit! holy devotion. — (Tablet;)

CABLE NEWS.

Home and Foreign.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Copyright.

A Tale of the Sea.

New York, March 18. The schooner Hilda rescued four of (he men belonging to the French steamer I^esaire, which foundered off Gape Hatteras. They were survivors of a boat of 38, who escaped when the vessel sank. For seven days they drifted on the ocean. The others be came insane with starvation and thirst, and died.

Arrest of Students.

St Eetersbubg, March 18. A thousand university students attended St. Petersburg Cathedral, with the intention of holding ft requiem service m connection with the death of a student who was con* cerned m a political intrigue, but th« police interfered and arrested ft number of them.

Australian.

Press Association —By Eleotrio Telegraph-' Copyright.

A Bank Inquiry.

Brisbane, March 19. The National Bank Committee will resume its investigation on Monday. The whole management of the Bank will be investigated, The Committee is armed with absolute discretion to make the most comprehensive^ and thorough examination,

Export of Heat.

Sydney, March 19 With the object of promoting the export of mutton, the Government has decided to add £50 to £50 given by the steamship owners as a prize for the fat sheep or lambs best suited for export shown it the forthcoming Sheep Breeders' Show.

Rewards of Bravery.

Melbourne, March 10 The Royal Humane Society has awarded bronze medals to Ooulson and Jury for their bravery m rescuing their comrades m the Stockton colliery explosion.

A Missing Necklace.

During the voyagefroni New Zealand on the Manapouri Mrs Freeman Thomas missed a diamond necklace valued at £250. The detectives searched m vain, examined the crew and gave up the necklace as lost, but it was subsequently discovered fallen under the grating of the washstand m the cabin.

THE LATEST.

Some and Foreign.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Copyright.

(Received Wakapuaka, March 20,10.7 a.m., Guabdian office 1110 a.m.) v The Transvaal. London, March 19. It is reported from Capetown that the Orange Free State and the Trans vaal have resolved to enter into a federal unioa.

Australian.

Press Association—By Electric Telegraph- Copyright.

(Received Wakapuaka, March 20, 10.25 a.tn. Gtjakdtan office 11.55 a,m.)

Proposed Dock Labor Strike.

Melbourne, March 20 The Wharf Laborers Union have had under consideration a circular from the English Union proposing concerted action m a dock laborers strike m Various parts of the World m! the middle of «the current year tJ}« Union decided that the time is not ripe for suoh action here.

THE INSURRECTION IN CRETE.

— *_. „. Press Association—By Electric Telegraph- Copyright.

Serious Fighting at Retimo.

The Fleets Fire on the Cretans.

The Question m Parliament.

Letter from Gladstone.

A^Effs, March lijj. The blockade of drete has beeq,, postponed until Sunday, with a view to encouraging the prospect of the main tenance of peace. An Austrian cruiser sunk a Greek boat containing provisions and muni tions of war for Herak|ion. Colonel Yasaos is collecting a great; quantity of stores at Sphakia. Receiydl Wakapuaka, March 20, 9.40 a.m., Guardi \n Office 10.40 a.in. Athens,, March 19. The Admirals of the foreign fleets hqve appealed to all m Orete tosubmft and co operate m bringing about a new era m the island. The Powers, they say, guarantee liberty and security, free from intern! control by Turkey. Serious fighting has taken place between the Moslems and Cretan insur gents at Rntimo and Heraklion, The British and French warships fired on the Cretans to prevent an attack on Sitia. London, March 19 The Government being irritated^ »$ the heckling of Sir W. Harcourt an,4 Mr Morley, over the question o| coer cion m Greece, Mr Ralfour challenged the Opposition to, bring forward A motion of censure against the Govern ment. Mr Morley said the Opposition was awaiting the development of fcha pol cy of $he Governm*"** (Received Wakapuaka, March 20, 10.7 a.m, Guakdian office 11.10 a,m.J London, March 18. A letter written by Mr Gladstone m the Westminster Gazette^ dealing wirji the situation m South Eastern Europe, hns been published m pamphlet farnj. Mr Gladstone attacks the European C ncert for its disregard of Armenia. He says Britain is tied to the apron strings of young Emperors who lack experience. It is tune she shook off the incubus and took measure^ fa prevent the punishment of Greece,

THE ASHBURTON GUABDIAI« : SATUKDAY, MABCH 20, 189 T.



Holloway's Pills and Ointment. —It is impossible entirely to prevent the noxious y ipours which are giyen off m mines and tunnels, and those who, like miners and railway operatives, have to work day after day m such vitated atmospheres, suffer m health and strength m consequence. The qhest and liver often become clogged with the products of oo&i pombustion, peceasita fcjng great attention" to the health. No remedy is more valuable for miners and, the. Hka than HQllway's Fills, as they o&rry off all effete matter from the blood, and healthily stimulate the liver. They are also invaluable for costive bowels and for all bilious dis orders. The ointment is a priceless remedy for piles, sprains, ulcers and all raaaner of •prop* : I



From all accounts Chamberlain's Cough Remedy is a godsend to the afflicted. There is no advertisement about this : i we feel just like sayiug it.— TH Democrat Carrollton, Ky. For sale by Astourton Drug Coif •



Business Notices GEAND SHOW OF NEW GOODS AT THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory. /^\UR MR HENDRY has returned from Dunedin with the CHOICEST LOT OF! NEW GOODS ever seen m Ashbuirton. , NEW HATS NEW SHIRTS NEW TIES HALLENSTBIN BEOS. , Ps fis g *« S Ph O g j, wI. - 1 os P in B§g k*« sill si 3 pq Dr Wilhehn Morris, T)HYSICUM Erlangen (Bavaria), 1884; X State Exam. Munich, 1888; late Assistant Doctor at the University Hospital, Erlangen; late Military Surgeon, Leipzig, 1889, HAS COMMENCED PRACTICE AT ASHBURTON, And may be consulted from THURSDAY 11th insti, AT HIS RESIDENCE, CORNER OF BURNETT & WILLIAM STREETS, Lately occupied by Mb C. M. Brooke Hours of attendance 9 to 11 a.m.» 2 to 3 and 7to 8 p.m. Sundays 9 toll a.m. Telephone, No. 90. P.O. Box, 85.



MEN'S AND BOYS' HATS. HATS. HATS. p>f\ DOZEN FELT HATS ALMOST GIVEN AWAY. A GRAND SUCCESS. MITCHELL & BRODRIBB'S T^ABRIO AND PRINT SALE being euch a Grand Success, we have decided to hold it FOB TWO WEEKS, A GREAT HAT SALE. p?f\ DOZEN MEN'S. KQ DOZEN B0 V S|'. Men's Soft Felt Hats 2s 6d, worth 5s Boys' Soft Felt Hats Is 6d, worth 3a 9d Men's toft Felt Hats 3s 6d, worth 6s 6d Boys' Soft Felt Hats 2s 6d, worth 4s 9d Men's Soft Felt Hats 4s 6d, worth 7s 6d Men's Soft Felt Hats 5s 6d, worth 8s 9d Men's Sgft Felt Hats 6s 6d, worth 10s 6d Men's Soft Felt Hats 8s Gd, worth 12s 6d EVERY AR'IIOLE m the Clothing and Mercery Departments equally Obeap, so as to clear the shelves for the NEW GOODS expected by the end of the month ; while the balance of general Drapery will be still further reduced, so as to make a clean sweep before the New Season's Goods arrive. Prints, Brilliants, Cambrics from 3s lid per dozen, worth double Flannelettes for Dressing Gowns and Home Blouses 4s lid dozen, half price Trimmed and untrimmed Hats, Aprons, Blouses, Veilings, Ribbons, etc., at half cost BOOTS AND SHOES—the Best value m the trade DON'T FORGET THE GREAT HAT SALE AT MITCHELL & BRODRIBB'S, THE CENTRAL CASH DRAPERY MART, tfKXX SCO J, ORB % CO., BAST STREET, ABH£URTON ?



SPECIAL NOTICE TO TIMEKEEPERS. TUST RECEIVED, direct from the Manufacturers, a few HALF-HOUR CHRONOGRAPHS. The Special advantages arc^ — LEVER MOVEMENT. NON-MAGNETIC. ABSOLUTELY ACCURATE TO FIFTHS OF A SECOND. The finest Watch of its kind and best value ever offered m the district. PRICE (with Guarantee)— M2 IOS. TO BE OBTAINED ONLY FROM S.SALEK, WATCHMAKER AND JEWELLEB, EAST &TREIT, A^HBURTOX.



LOOK OUT. G. J. NEILL —IS SELLING— Table Damask at Is per yard Twill Sheeting, 2 yards wide, white or grey, 9-jrd Turkish Towels, 8d each Cretonne, 3|d Flannelettes, 2s lid per dozen uG. J. N EILL I s S BLLING- Men's Heavy Tweed Suits at 21s 6d, wonderful value Boys Suits, 4s lid Men's Tweed Trousers, 5s lid BOOTS. BOOTS. Men'a Nail SHOOTERS 7s lid. Women's SHOES, 4a lid Men's BU7CHERS 4s lid. Women's Lace SHOES 4s lid The Cheapest Boots m Ashburton are to be got at G. J. NEILL'S, FRIEDLANDER'S CORNER, EAST STREET. ~ HELLO R'S * ZEALANDIA' BOOT STORE. NEW LEATHERS. NEW LEATHERS. NEW LEATHERS. THE ONLY SHOP m Ashburton that is selling the Wonderful Crack proof Calf, beautiful m appearance, and m wear practically mdestruct -1 kangaroo Calf, soft as a glove, with all the wearing properties of Kangaroo. Kangaroo Kip Cow Hide, dresser! on o new and improved principle, equal to the hardest wearing Kip, but as soft aud comfortable as kid skin. All these new leathers I have made up m Ladies' and Gentlemen's Boots and Shoes. They are splendid goods, and well worth a trial. Keep up to date and ask for these new goods. Every pair is guaranteed. JAMES MELLOR, ZBALAIBDIA BOOT STORE, ASHBURTON,