ASHBURTON PUBLISHING COMPANY

NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS TO ••GUARDIAN" & "MAIL." OWING to the very favorable reception given to our recent circular to our subscribers to the Mail and Guardian, the time for receiving subscriptions in terms of the circular has been extended to SATUR- I DAY, August 13. HENRY WILLIS, Manager.

PHASES OF THE MOON.

Ashburton Guardian, Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 1898. WORKMEN'S COMPENSATION BILL.

I • f*o many measures are brought before Parliament which cannot possibly be looked upon seriously, and which have no chance of getting upon the Statute Book, that it is almost waste of time to discuss a Bill until there seem3 to be e prospect of its passing. But there are some which might stand a chance of btsinsj passed without protest, through ignorance of the tifect they would have upon the liberties of tho people or the interests of trade and commerce. Sue!) :s the Workers' Compensation for Accident Bill, now before Parliament. It is understood to be based upon the Ac. passed last year in the imperial Parliament. But, as might be ex pected, the colonial sponsors have introduced more than one clause of such an objectionable nature as would render the passing of the Bill in its prpsent state a public calamity. What makes the action cf the Government more remarkable is that these objec tionable clauses have been introduced since an advance copy of the Bill wss circulated, so that employers of labor have hud no opportunity given to them to protest. One of these po visions is to be found in section 17, which practically provides that at and from the time when an accident occurs, the amount of compensation or damages which a workman may claim shall be a charge on the employer's estate, or interest in the mine, factory, building, or vessel, including the plant, machin ery, land, etc. The effect of this would be that the moment an accident were to recur upon any premises rated as a factory, etc., the whole property imme diately becomes chargeable with the amount of compensation that may become payable to the injured work man. Or to put it more plainly still, the moment an accident occurs from which any claims are likely to aribe, the owners cannot deal with the property in the way of selling or mortgaging, except as subject to these prospective claims. And this in view of the probable fact that they may be found not liable for any damage. A still more unreasonable provision is made in sub-section 3, according to' which this charge on the property shall have priority over all other claims. A moment's reflection will show what disastrous effects this Bill, if pissed, would have upon all kinds of business, rendering it impossible for persons to raise money upon any property whose value may at any time disappear thiough an accident over which* the owners havo no control. Mining would be practically killed. Indeed it is by no means certain that the passing of this extraordinary measure would not necessitate the calling up of all advances made on property worked with machinery, bpcause all security taken over such would be liable to contingent and unexpected claims, which would be a first charge on the property. It will at once be sten what a disastrous effect this measure would have upon some of the chief industries of New Zealand were it placed upon thoState Book with out alteration. Scarcely any of the larger industries of (he colony can be carried on without the aid of borrowed money, but if this measure in its present shape became the law of the lind the only security available in the majority of cases would be rendered neaily valueless by tho liability to accidental charges of indefinite amouut being made a first charge upon it. The Imperial Act is free from the absurd provisions we have commented upon, but it is looked upon as a merely tentative measure. We wonder what j the British statesmen who prepared it will say to the New Zealand Bill should our legislators be shortsighted enough to pass it. But every business man, every miner, every mill owner — in fact every person using machinery through ' cut this colony should leave no stone unturned to get the obnoxious clauses struck out. The Imperial Bill with slight modifications is <juite sufficient lor this colony, j

Local and General.

« Hockky for Girls.— A third Hockey Club, for girls, to be called " The Kiwi," is about to be started at Kaiapoi. ! On the first page to-day will be found the continuation of our ferial, also anintere-ting article ; iho fcurth page contains interpro viucial news. Opossums. — The L-\unceaton Telegraph rxpi'pspes doubt if the order of Mr Sertdou for 200 black TusmaDian opossums for New ZeftHnrl will be completed, as opossums are becoming scarce. Of the 200 ordared 66 have been sent to New Zealand. A Correction. — The Press says — In reference to a paragraph which appeared in our issue of Saturday, regarding sale of land on Glenmark, we are asked to explain that Mr David McMillan's valuation of £5 10s was for the whole block of 1064 aorea, and that the 664 acres outside the paddock just eold was much inferior to the latter. Maori Fpneral — A large number of natives arrived froiu Temuka by last night's express, on their way to atcend the funeral of the father of the well-known footballer W. Uru f which takes place on Wednesday. They stayed in Ghristchurch last night, and proceeded to Kaiapoi by the first train this morning. Martial Music— We have jusb received from Mr H. A. Gates a musical composition for the pianoforte by Henry Richards.' It is a grand naval and military divertisement, descriptive of the American-Spanish war. The various incidents of the war, from start to finish, are very oleverly represented in the music. Fhe piece presents no great difficulties, and ahould be welcomed by lovers of descriptive music Fire —Our Rakaia correspondent reports that about eleven o'clock on Friday night Mr James Foley's cottage was almost totally destroyed by fire. Mrs Foley and the children escaped by the window. Mrs Foley waß disturbed by hearing the bacon which was hung to the ceiling falling, the ties being burned. Mr S. Robs ani Mr J. Elliott were soon on the spot and saved the cottage from total destruction, and also a lot of effects. The family had a narrow escape. HOOKEY.— The following have b-en se lected to represent the Ashburton Hookey Club in the match with the Y.VI.C.A. Club, to be played on Hagley Park, Ohristchurch, on Thursday afternoon : — Forwards —R. Miller, F. Gale, F. Watt, H. H. Fooks, W. McKinney ; halves— D. Stock, W. Mellor, A. Silcock ; three-quarters— F. Potter, C. Andrews ; goal-keeper — L. F. Andrewes. Emergency — R. Congreve. The team will leave by the 7 20 train on Thursday morn ing. "AILEEN ALLANAH, AILEEX ASTHOBB." — At Auckland last week an application for divorce came before His Honor Mr Justice Conolly in the Supremo Court. Frederick G-irmson, petitioner, applied for a decree m'si dissolving his maniaye with Aileen Anna Marie Girmson, the respondent. Patrick Markey was joined as corespondent. Mr Palmer, who appeared for the husband, called one witness, and His Honor granted the application, with costs on the lowarscile against the co-respondent. Rev Dr Erwin. — The Ota&o Daily Times reports : — The Rev Dr Erwin, of North Belt, Ohristchurch, has intimated to the management committee of Mornington Presbyterian Church that he declines to have hid name inserted in the call to the pastorate of that congregation. No reason is assigned for the refusal. It is understood that steps will now be taken to ascertain whether the next on the list of eligible men — a gentleman recently settled in charge of a North Island congregation — is open for a call to Morningtou. Football. — A football match will be played on Thursday between teams repre senting the Ashburton Football Club and the Ashburtcn Volunteers, The last match between the Clubs resulted in a draw, both sides fccoriog fourteen points, and this match Will no doubt prove interesting. The fe.im lo represent the Volunteers will be choseo from the following: — Pritchard, Hepburn, Wilkio, Hefford. C* K. Smith, Miuni?, Watt, Gourdie (2), Kule (2), Loitch, Childs, Sando, Bright, Potter, Clayton, Barrett, Hamilton, Leggott, O'Connor, Reynolds, Stephen?, T. Smith. Phiy will etart at 2.30 p.m. Mind the Paint.— Persons who have to cross the demaia will do well to be on the look oat for web paint at the entrance near the et&tiou, as both posts and rails urc having a fiesh coat, and beyond the eme'l there is nothing to warn the unwary. Last evening quite a number of people found out too late that the painters had beon at work, and their language, to use the old drill in structor's term, w.ts " sarcastical." A notice, or some kind of warning would have all the annoyaco?. It is to be hoped those who havs the contract in haud wsl! take a hint before they commence the second coat. A Cannon. — About ten o'clock Jaat night, as> two of our townsmen were tracking for home a'ong East street, and when about opposite the Wesleyan church, thore came sprinting down the footpath from the Poßb Office end a bright specimen of young New Zealand. And "ho had 'em all on too," even his long waterproof, with cape, &c. Though he had more than half the path open to him, he foolishly made a cannon off one of the homeward bound, and went off at a tangent, finally landing full length in the side channel, which was running full. He was so astonished that it was some seconds before he recovered his power of speech, but tha oratory he poured forth then ia nob fit foe publication. It is to be hoped this young man will mend his ways, and for the future understand thai the footpaths in Ashburton were nob originally intended for training tracks. It will help him greatly also to remember that the rule of the road for pedestrians is "keep to the right." >'ew Firm. — There will thortly commence business in Ashburton as auctioneers and general merchants a new firm under the style and title of Nicoll Bros. The partners are well and favorably known in Ashburton county. The senior is Mr H. F. Nicoll, who for the past three years and more has been accountant at the Bank of New Zeal land. He will be the auctioneer of the firm} The junior is Mr L. A. Nicoll, well-known to the clients of the late firm of Hanmer and Graves. This gentleman will have charge of the business departments. The ,new firm has recruited as their traveller another of Hanmer and Graves' etaff in tho person of Mr Culin Campbell, whoso experience in ths grain and stock department, and his personal knowledge of the county and its inhabitants, should make him a strong acquisition to the combination. 'I he firm will hold a weekly eale in their rooms in Easb Street every Saturday. They will also act as agents for the Christchurch Meat Company, Limited, whose Islington manures have obtained & favorable standing in Canterbury. The seed department will be a special feature of the new firm's business, and we, in common with their many friends, wish the new firm success in their undertaking. 8 9 'The new freezing works will undoubtedly prove, a great boon to Ashburton. Farmers, tradesmen and laborers, as well as the enterprising merchants who promoted the soheme, will all participate in its benefits. The number of business men whose names appear on the list of shareholders show that they have cheerfully co operatad with the farmers, realising that the prosperity of our town and district depends on our local industries. A few weeks ago we gave our renders a description of Messrs Craighead and Berrym&n's well known tailoring eatab lishment {on the completion of their exten sive alterations and improvements). They j aro now one of the largest employers of labor in Ashburton. They p*y the highest wages and attribute the success of their business aa " tho leading tailors and outfitters " to the employment, of the beat skilled labor, and the fact that they have tho largesb stock of up-bo-date tailoring goods to select from. Their prices are the lowest compatible with good quality. The number of Massey- Harris bicyctea sold by this firm lately showa that they are deservedly very popular high class machines. Intending purchasers will do well to bear in mind that Messrs Craighead and Bebrt man's motto is "satisfaction." The great relinquishing sale of boots and shoes now going on at McDonald and MoDiarmid's is without parallel in the annals of boob sales in Ashburton. Their stock is particularly heavy in gentlemen's boots and shoes, and the fact thab they are being sold at marvellously low prices should be a great iuducemenb to purchasers) bo buy I while the itook w.rwh in 6c«6«c|a.i» good,?, '

ROAD BOARDS.

Wakanui. The adjourned annual meeting of the ratepayers in Wakanui Road District was held on Saturday. There were fourteen \ ratepayers present, and Mr Peter Stewart, Chaiiman of the Board, presided. The Chan man said the meeting had been called to receive the certified audited balance sheet «.f the Board for the year ended March 31, 1898, and he would ask the clerk to ! read it. The clerk did eo. It wbb the same balance sheet, a summary of which was published on the occasion of the recent annual meeting. Mr Brown desired to know if any interest was reoeived on ihe good balance that the Board appeared to have at Ihe b*nk. The Chairman replied tha^ there was not. Mr Brown thought they should not strike so high a rate. The Board's financial posi tion as to wardß was — No. 2, to August 1, 1570 15s lOd creditor ; No, 5, £2 10* 3d. No. 3 ward had been on the wrong side, but last year the rates had been increased, hence the credit. No 3 had been too well looked after. It was no wonder that she got into debt, when she levied so small a rate. Mr L'oyd thought the rate was high enough. Mr Brown reminded him that the rates were struck on the capital value per £. He did not think it was a good plan to have too much money in hand. It would be better to have an overdraft. At all events he hoped that before another annual meeting they would have considerably less, and he strongly urged the keeping of the rates of No. 2 ward low. In fact he saw no reason for the striking of a rate at all this year, nor did he see why No. 3 ward should not assist in building bridges over the creek — the people in No 3 used the bridges largely. He thought the boundaries of No. 2 should be extended He should oppose the build ing of bridges out of No. 2'a funds alone. Mr Bonifant also thought the No. 2 boundaries did not go far enough to include people who benefited by the bridges. The Chairman said thvt when Uat year's rateß were struck they did not know that it was likely to bs so bad a year, or perhaps the rates might have been le?s. Last) year was very dry, and in consequence the ex penditure on the roads had not been so heavy ; hence the large credit. The. Board had maintained a strong finance in view of certain things — especially the contingency of having to renew the creek bridges. The balance sheet was then adopted, on the motion of Mr Brown, with Mr Bonifant as seconder. The thanks of the meeting were then accorded to the Board for their services, and to the Clerk for the energy he had thrown into his work and the efficiency he had dis played in its discharge. Mr Thompson, in speaking to the votes of thanks, expressed his belief that the present Board could not be bettered in the district. The Chairman and the Clerk acknow ledged the compliment. Mr Bonifant suggested that a washhouse and coalhouse might with advantage be added to the Board's property. The Chairman said the Board would con sider the matter. The meeting then adjourned. The Board rcet immediately after the rate payers' meeting — All the members present, and the Chairman presiding. GRAVEL PIT. The Commissioner of Crown Lands wrote stating that Reserve No. 3230, 2 acre3 p:\rt reserve 2165, lot 3, had been resumed by Government as a gravel pit, and the Board could now proceed to fence it, and use it for its original purpose. HAMPTON'S ROAD. It was resolved to invite tenders for shingling on Hampton's road, and to expend thirds accruing from Reserve 2165 for the benefit of settler 1 * on that reserve. ASIIBUKTON L'OUND. On a letter (rum the Horough Council, the Board decide:! to contribute =£52 10a for maintenance of the Ashburton pound, as the district hid no pouad of its own — the contribution to civer till March 31 next. SUBSIDY. The Commissioner of Taxes forwarrlpd the u-uu.l form of declaration, which must be made and forwarded before Bubsidy could be paid. He alto aaked for a copy of the resolution levying the rate.— Both matters hid been attended to. SMALL BIRDS. The Minister for Agriculture wrote, say ing thab the Board's letter, asking him to en .'o roe clause 701 Smill Birds Nuisance Aot, was under consideration by the Cabinet, LEVBI, CROSSING AT CHKRTSEY. In explanation of a letter ftom Mr P. Page regarding the level crossing at Chertsey, the Clerk said thab the fault lay with him that tho district engineer had not been written to until Mr Page's letter was received. The letter had now been written, the C:erk being under the impress'on that it had been sent before.— The exp'anation was accepted. ROLL ALTERATIONS. Several roll alterations were sanctioned. DEPUTATION. A deputation from the Borough Council on the subject of the pound was received. They were informed of the action already taken by the Board. overseer's report. The overseer reported on works completed and in progress. RENT ARREARS. A list of arrears of rent was submitted, and the clerk was instructed to have the same collected. PLOUGHING GORSE. Permission to plough on roads to destroy gorse was granted to Mr Joseph Lloyd, on the condition that the roads be left in propel condition. The Clerk was instructed to Berve gorse notices on several ratepayers, and failing compliance to put men on to do the work, recovering the cost from the offending parties. PAYMENTS. After some minor business had been transacted accounts co the amount of £34 Is 9d were passed for payment and the / meeting adjourned.

South Rakaia.

The usual monthly meeting of the South Rikaia Road Board was held on Thursday. Present — Messrs Lambie (chahman), Holmes, Copland, Harrison and Morland. TENDERS The following tenders were accepted. — Shingling, Cole and Turnbull ; rolling roads with traction engine, D. Turnbull ; tussock ing, (No. 1 contract) P. Hudnqr; (No. 2 contract) B. Dunatau ; (No, 3 contract), W. H. Dunstan ; cropping four acres of land, Geo. Shellock. clerk's report 1 heOterk'a report was read and considered. WORKS The Clerk was instructed to have a number of works carried out on roads ; to call tenders for ploughing the Beach road, and for sowing the same down, tenders to be in by noon on Friday, August 19 ; to have some shingle on bad places in township footpaths ; to write to the Council again of slaughter houses ; to proceed with erection of guide posts j and to let the plantation lately in occupation of Mrs Cronin. The Clerk's action in extending Welsh's shingle contract was appreved of. FORFEITED CONTRACT It waß resolved to cancel R. J. Dunn's contract and to have the work completed ; the deposit to be forfeited. IUCE CROSSINGS Mr Muckle waited on the Board and received permission to make eight race crossings over roads, providing they were made the full width and in accordance with the county engineer's specifications. CREEK TO THE ÜBACH. Mr Carruthers waited on the Board and expressed a wish that no water would be backed up on him. The Board informed j him that there was no such intention. KATES It was resolved to enforce the ten per cont penalty on all rates outstanding on Angust 19, and to sue for all outstanding with penalty on September 30. THIRDS The Receiver of Lund Revenue wrote advising payment of thirds. hogg's whabe road A number of ratepayers wrote asking for something to be done to Hogg's Whare Road. The Clerk was ordered to report. SIUNGLB Mr Rogers worte consenting to shj 1b being Uktm from his Uutf, ' ■

THE ACCLIMATISATION RESERVES ] Mr Shury wrote asking that a track be ,' mad« on the riverbed near bhe beach. — Ro aolved that no money be spent on the river bed, the creek crossing to be put in order as ■ soon as possible, the owners of adjoining I lands to be given notice to clean creek out at once. RACE CROSSINGS Tho County eugineer wrote re number of rnce crossings. The Clerk reported that acme were noo shown, and he was instructed to call Mr Baxter's attention to tha fact. SUBSIDY The Tax Commissioner advised pissing of £121 6a for subsidy re rates collecced. KYLE CEMR.TEBY Ifc waß resolved to supply a number of trees to Kyle Cemetery to replace those destroyed by fire j also to renew the adjoin ing plantation, which was destroyed at 1 the same time. j ACCOUNTS Accounts for £50 Is 4d were passed for j payment, and the members met as a j CEMETERY BOARD. j It was resolved to have the outside strip fenced and planted. The Clerk to do the work as soon as possible. Accounts for £6 were passed for payment and the meeting closed. ADJOURKED ANNUAL MEETING OF RATEPAYERS ! The adjourned meetiug was held on Thursday, the attendence being email. The balance sheet, certified as being correct by the Government auditor, was read, and on the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr Brimmicomb, was adopted. The meeting then closed. j

COMPANY FLOATING SWINDLERS PUNISHED.

■» United Press Association— By Eleotrio Telegraph — Copyright. London, August 7. Louis Simmons Lupton, financial agent-, and John Hunter StephensoD, mortgage broker, directors of the Lydenburg Consolidated Mines Com pany ; and Walter Bargoyn Watts, solicitor, were found guilty of con spiracy and fraud in connection with the flotation of the Company. Lupton was sentenced to five years' imprison ment and the othsrs to one year each.

BARRYTOWN.

United Press Association— By Eleotrio Telegraph Gretmoutii, August 8. Barrytown No. 1 Gold Mining Company ia now down forty feet below the surface, after passing through an eight feet drift of close gravel, containing good .payable gold. The Company are now elevating the stuff, and the eigthy feet face ia looking well, and better as they open out. The greatest depth at which gold was previously got was fourteen feet. Above the layer of drift there is twenty-five feet of auriferous pay able wash.

A "CASTAWAY" SAILOR.

United Press Association — By Electric Telegraph Wellington, August 8 On the last trip of the steamer Duke of Portland from London to New Zealand she ca led at Hobart, where one of the crew missed hib passage. On arrival in New Zealand the Captain applied to the customs ) to have the man struck off the ship's articles, but this the authorities refused to do, on the ground that the discharge should have been made at Hobart. The man came on to Wellington by the Rualiine, and represented to the custi ma office that hi3 clothes and effects were on board the Duke of Portland. The customs took the matter in hand, and before the steamer was allowed to leave the co'.ony her Captain was obliged to send the man's goods ashoie, and also to deposit a sum for his maintenance until he could obtain another ship.

JAPANESE N. Z. TRADE LINE.

Uuited Preaa Assooiation — By Electric Telegraph WEIiMNGTOtf, AugU9fc 8. Mr Oldridge, Japanese Consul, who returned from Sydney to-day, states that the extension of the Japanese mail line to New Zealand was not definitely aettled, though it, has been spoken of for some time past on the other side. He does not think the colony will see the line here this year. New vessels are building for the Australian trade, and will supersede the present steamers in November.

SPORTING.

THE GRAND NATIONAL MEETING. United Pre3s Association — By Eleotrio Telegraph. Uhristchuroh, August 8 ACCEPTANCES. The following acceptances have been received for the C J.O. Grand National meeting : — First Hunters' Hurdle Race, of 50 bovs ; once round and a distance. — Orescent 12-4, Glenore 12-2, Windermere, Jack the Flat, Riverdale, Rex 11, Jib, and Valetta 11-9 ; Piccadilly 11 0. Maiden Hurdle Race Handicap, of 100 Bova ; one mile and three-quarters — Head ford 11-2, Castashoro 10 9, Penrose and Hussar 10-8, Seabreeze 10-3, Sb. Hiko 9-13, South Pacific and Slaiden 911 ; St. Vincent 9-9, Izal 9-8, Powder Monkey and Kowai 9-7, Guide and Rata 9-0. : En field Steeplechase Handicap of 100 i 80T3 ; about two miles. — St. Hiko 11 5, Coastguard 10-12, Kuku 10-7, Dundonald, Seabreeze, Conscript), Stanley 10 5 ; Fleet wood 10 2, Huntingdon 10-0, Supplejack 9-12 ; Puketoi, Powder Monkey, ftn<J Guide 9 7. Winter Handicap of 120 aova ; one mile. — Mauser 11-7, St. Ki'da 11-3, Maremma 1013, Moonraker 10-9, Titoki 10 8, Strathbraan, Castashore, and Missfire 10 5 ; Sing Song 104, Ilex 10 3, Seabrook 10-2; Liberator, Double Event, and Remorse 11. 10 10 ; Bloomer and Whario 9-13 ; Magazine 9-6, Rangefiader 9-8; Wedlock and Female Franchise 97 ; Swordfish, Alceßtis, Liukshot, Lapidary, and Off Chance 9 0. SINAL PAYMENTS. The following are the final payments for the same meeting : — New Zealand Grand National Steeple chase HANDICAP, of 650 sovs ; three miles and a half. — Rhino 11-5, Oummv and JMor'west 10-13. Muscatel 10-12, Robin 10-5, j Moras 10-2, Booties 10-0, Magpie 9-11, j Claymore 9-9, Dromedary and Huntingdon 9-7. New Zealand Grand National Handi cap Hurdle Race, of 500 sovs ; about two miles.— Missfire 12 2, Opui 11-13, Ilex 11-8, Social Pest 10-13, Muscatel 10 7, Magazine 10-5; Headford, Dundee and Nicholas 9-11 ; Kanaka 9-10, Hussar 9-8, Napoleon 9-3, South Pacific, Izal, and Slaideu 9-0. The Grand National Meeting commences at Kiccarton on Thursday next, and at the present time there is every appearance of liue weather. The field for the National is not a large one, but it nevertheless com prises some good cross-country horses. Several winners of recent steeplechases are to bo found in the list, and taken altogether the cross-country blue riband of '98 ought to be an interesting contest. The following may be the result: — Dummy 1, who may encounter most opposition in Nor'west and Rhino. The following may run forward in the other events : — First Hunters' Hurdles — Windermere and Crescent. Maiden Hurdle Handicap — Hussar 1, I Oastashore next best. Enfield Steeplechase— Coastguard or St | Hiko. ' 1 Ladies' Bracelet— St Cyr. i Winter Handicap — A very open race ; ' probably Titoki, Wedlock, and S6 Kilda : will ba handy at the finish. '

i flagrant and refreshing— New Venn* 1 1 \ r.

WAR NEWS. AMERICA AND SPAIN.

The Army at Santiago.

United Press Association — By Electric Telegraph— Copyright. Washington, August 8 AH the energies of the War Depart ment are concentrated on bringing General Shatter's army away from Santiago. General Ames reports that the army is incapable of marching, except to transports, Spain Accepts taa Peace Pro posals and Stiffly Bows to the Force of Circumstances. Received Wakapuaka August 9, 9.50 a.m, Guabdian Office 10.18 a.m. Madrid, August 8 The Queen of Spain has approved of the reply drawn up by the Cabinet to the American peace proposals. The reply, in guarded and dignified language, accepts the preliminary con ditions imposed by America, stating that Spain bows to the force of circum stances without having done anything to provoke the war. It suggests that the future of the Philippines be decided by a Oom mission, and asks for the suspension of hostilities pending a definite conclusion of peace ; and also that Puerto Rico should be left in the hands of Spain. Senor Sagas ta, as a result of a consultation with the leaders of the various political parties, states that he has found a large j majority of the prominent politicoes I desire peace. ! Washington, August 8 It is reported that Mr McKinley has refused the suggestion of the Spanish Government.

Captured Troops Shipping for Europe.

Fever in the American Camps- Trouble With the Cubans- The Carlists Active. Received Wakapuaka August 9, 11 a. m., Guardian Office 11.22 a.m. Washington. August 8. A Spanish transport has arrived at Santiago, and has commenced shipping the troops of the captured garrisons to Europe. General Shafter reports 3681 cases of sickness amongst the American troops in Cuba, including 2638 casea of fever. T<.e New York World states that Garcia has stopped drawing rations for 1200 Cubans under his leadership from the Americans. It is expected he will join Gomez, who threatened a guerilla war because General Shafter refused to allow the Cubans'to rule the conquered districts. Madrid, August 8 A Oarlist agent is making heavy purchases of war munitions in Eng land. He is said to have bought 20,000 rifles and a million cartridges.

CABLE NEWS.

united Press Association — By Electric Telegraph— Copyright London, August 7 The Kauri Freehold Gold Estates Company, Limited, is offering for sub scription 7 per cent debentures to the amount of £33,860. August 8 Sir Thomas Lipton has handed £700,000 to the Princess of Wales for the Alexandra Tru&fc, for the purpose of establishing dining-rooms for work men and women. New York, August 8 It is reported that the Indians h&ve massacred forty Government officials and a number of women and children in a village in Western Guatemala. Vienna, August 8 A mail train collided with another at Omunden, in Bohemia. Seven people were killed and twenty-five injured. Sydney, August 8 Justice Manning is dead. The two women Byrne and Short have been found guilty of man slaughter and sentenced to five years' imprisonment each. Melbourne, August 8 The Australasian United Steam Navigation Company has floated a £300,000 4 per cent loan in London, and propose extending the service on the Australian coast. The ke ch Secret has been lost afe Port Albert, and two of the crew drowned. Adelaide, August 8 An armed man visited a house occupied by Mr Krurap at Brighton. Under threa's of shootiDg them, he tied Mrs Krump and a servant to chairs, and then ransacked the place, but got only ss.

THE EASTERN SITUATION.

» The Railways in China.

United Press Association — By Eleotrio Telegraph— Copyright Shanghai, August 8 The French Admiral has asked for reinforcements at Kwang-Ohuan, on the grounds that the natives have taken up a hostile attitude. The Shanghai-Woosung railway ha3 been completed. It is stated that the Tsung-LiYamen has ordered the Commissioner to return to the Kirinxdhtrict to purchase land for the railway and to allow the Russians to acfc\conjointly with the local officials in settling the matter.

THE ABH!3uaTON GUABDIaN ; TUESDAY, AUGDbT 9, 18ys.



August d h m Full moon  ... 2 359 pm Lust quarter 9 5 43 pm New moon ... .„ 17 10 5 pm Fit at, quarter ._ ._ 25 8 2am



Wheels in your head, ungreaaed. That's awkward. Not drink ? No. Flu, Fin, you know what that is? lufluenzs, that's nob brought on by swallowing a box of dominoes. It's a very severe cold in every part of the . , body ; the treatmeut is pure, simple, and aftective. Take Woods' Great Peppermint Cure ; it kaooks it out every time, P*etg thia on the kitQbeu glooki



1 NO OLD STOCK OR C<ENSATIONAL CLEARING SALES, BUT Up-to-date Goods AND SOLID VALUE ALL THE YEAR BOUND. miim, A. 6. BARTON, MANAGER



F. FERRIMAJS. CHEMICAL LABATOItY, COLONIAL MUTUAL BUILDINGS, Priuccßß Street. Duncdin, June 11, 1898. F. FERRIMAN, Ashburton. Sir, — I have the honor to report on Sample of Ground Manure forwarded to me for analysis. I have made analysis with the following result : — Moisture .. 6 'Bo [Organic Matter 36 60 -(containing Nitrogen equal to 5 4 I per cent, of Ammonia 3 40 Iron AlumiDa .. •• •• o'4o Phosphate of Lime as Bone Phos- phate 48-16 Carbonate of Lime .. .. 464 100 00 Theße resultß show the Sample to be of ABSOLUTE PURITY, the large percentage both of Phosphate of Lime and Ammonia showing this, In fact the Composition can be classed as a Typical Sample, which can- not be excelled. Your obedient"Bervant, (Signed) A. G. KIDSTOK HUNTEE, M.P.S., City Analyst, Dunedin. After reading the above the main pointa to bear in mind are, the quality is Al, the quantity ia limited, and that orders will be executed promptly, to enable farmers to sow with their spring wheat. It is a well known fact that Boiie Dust obtained from gresn bones is the most valuable and lasting manure that can be applied to the soil. Of this fact both science and practice afford abundant proof. F. FfRRIiYJAN FO E 6A.L B, COMPLETE THRESHING PLANT. IH A VJffi for" private S*!o a Complete Threshing Plact, iu splendid order, consisting of — 1 Eighb horse-power Aveling and Porter Entitle, 1201ba certificate, worked three sea?o>s; Combine, by iaofnsby, sft"drum, with all the latest improvements, including Oliver's Patent Feeder ; Elevators, by P. and D. Duncan, 26ft long ; four-wheeled Whate, Scales, end.all necessary Belting in perfect order. Full pivit culars c.\n be obtained on i pp'i- cation; F. FEBBIMAN. | i __ , i THE GABDEN. FOR TOP-DRESSING TBE LAWN, BORDERS, OR ViiGKTABLE GARDEN IHAVK FOR. SALE in 1 and 2 cwt Bags a Special Mixture, consisting of Super- phosphate an I Honedust, bovh of which are excellent fertilisers. The one gives the plant an early start, the other puts a lasting stamina into it, which results in a large and profitable yield. F. FERRIMAN- F. FERRIMAN, HAS FOR SALE, FOOT_ ! LEVJ3R COPYING PEES3, (Capel and GiskiUV,Pateat). SIMPLE. CONVENIENT. CLEAN. p&KFi'Xrr copies. tjme saving. KO BREAKAGE. In this Ago of High-pressure in business an easy and rapid means of Copying Letters, Invoices, etc., is of great importance, OHURCH SERVICES. ST. STEPHEN'S CHURCH. Ashburtoc. TUESDAY— Teachers' Meeting, 7.30 p.m WF.DNKSDAY— G.K.S., 7.30 p.m. FRIDAY— Short Service, 7.30 p.m. Choir Practice 8 pm CONFIRMATION CLASSES. WEDNF.SPAY—For Women, in St. Stephen's Church, 7 30 pm THURSDAY— For Men, in Sb Stephen's Church, 7 30 pm SATUKDAY — Special Class, Sb Stephen's Church, 2 30 pm SUNDAY SERVICES. , August 14. B.3l— Holy Communion. II a.m. — Morning Prayer 3 p m— Dromore, Rev T. A. Hamilton. 6.50 — Kveuing Prayer. JREV, T. A, HAMILTON.



JOHN ORR & Co. Genuine Sale of Hardware. "r?INDING Ourselves largely overstocked in Builders' and general Hardware, and in order to f flhet a speedy clearance, we have decided to hold a Genuine Sale for ONE MONTH, when great reductions wi'l be cfF-r^d in all lines. Holding as we do by far the largest and beat selected Slock in Ashburton, we are in the best position to cater for the wants of the general pullic. Below, we summarise a few of the leading lines in which big reductions are made. |lffllillj| -LAMPS. sI-V^tl LAMPS. II '-ii lil - M — '■■A.. Wk * JL, JL Fn w -' 0 ' \ tE^fei / REDUCTION We fcave landed four Dozen iflf:^^^H^^^S^ta Sf^tf Wrir f erF> rnd Bre dctermined gili BEGIbTER GPATES, Spßi EAKGES, COCEISG & BEATING i #|S4^iW=?^^^^Tr=s^^^^^^^^ i STOVES. fJl^P^l'^^^^tt pi!^^^^^^^^' |{ I We hav3 over 20 patterns of ftl^liil^^3i|ili^^i^ Cooking Eaiißes in ttcck> so can jt-^i iS? j £|*J ljii'.^^^^^^^^^^^J^fM^^ibr^n>^^^^^S3E£Ei offer a ge'ecticn rot to be obtained »>c*£ ! ?i-:j^^ prices. Fdi.dpr.--, Fire Iron?, Fire Brasses — Briss Curbs. We are giving n reduction of 25 per cent on these lines. FOWL NKTTIXG. Just landed, 10,003 Yards ia 50 yard rolls ; to be sold Obeip. 200 jJozen Plough Shares — R N.F. and Hornsby's ; also Howard's Diamond Chilled Shares for Keid and Gray PI ughs. enamSEwabe, Wo have just opened 20 cues of Enamel ware from the best English Makers, and are selling at immense reductions. 00 Doxen Enamelled Pie Dishes 6 Dozen Enamelled Mincers 10 Dozen Enamelled Saucepans 12 Dozen Enamelled Teapots C Dozen Enamelled O.jflVo Pots 10 Dozen Enamelled Jugs 60 Dozen Enamelled Bisins 20 Doz^n Enamelled Cups & Saucers 30 Dczen Enamelled Mujjs 3 Dozen Enamelled Cullenders And every article now made ia this popular material. -• ELECTROPLATE, b,y the "Best Makers, at 25 per cent reduction. Cur assortment is fie largest in Ashburton, and we invite inspection. ■H|i^_. '" ENGINEERS', BLACKSMITHS', JjKr I : CARPENTERS' TOOLS ViUV LOWEST r RICE'S. JOHN OKU AND CO.,