PHASES OF THE MOON.

Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 1898

Germany is suffering from a scarcity of beef (writes a Berlin correspondent), and a general rising BEEF FAMINE IX of price to con- GEKMAXY. sumers is threatened. Foot and-raouth d;s ease at home, and a rigid closing of the frontier to foreign cattle, which pre vents the markets being adequately supplied, have so increased the price butchers have to pay, that great num bers of these have become bankrupt. Great meetings of butchers are at present being held m Berlin, Cologne, and Mayence to consider the situatios, and, if possible, to bring about a universal augmentation of price to con sumers. To one section of the com munity, viz., the horse butchers, this is agreeable news. The use of horse flesh as human food has been steadily on the increase m Berlin of late years, especi ally m the form of sausages, and if the proposed augmentation of the price of beef is affected the market for thia comestible will be still further enlarged. The Dutch cattle dealers, who feel severely the strict closure of the Prus sian frontier against them, are urging their Minister for Agriculture to go to Berlin aud try to obtain a relaxation of the strictures against the import ation of their cattle, as no single case of foot-and-mouth disease or any other infectious complaint has occurred dur ing the last tw6 months. The Prussian Government does not, however, move so quickly as that ; it is written m their records that Dutch cattle are infected, and so they must remain, Meanwhile, either the Prussian butchers must look bankruptcy m the face, or dear meat must be added to the numberless griev ances of the Prussian taxpayer.

Local and General.

Claim tor Compensation. — Mr James Moore, of Hinds, is petitioning tor compensa tion for damage caußed by a fire said to hive originated from a passing locomotive. . Probate. — At the Chamber Bitting of the Supreme Court m Christchuroh on Thurs day, His Honor Mr Justice Denniston granted probate of the will of the late Dr Leahy to Mrs Leahy, the executrix, on the motion of Mr Cuthburtson. Mountain, City, and Forest. — We are indebted to Mr A. H. Williams, bookseller, for a copy of a small ppmplilet with the Above title, containing fifty fine photo engravings of New Zealand scenery. The views have all been specially taken for the publishers, the Chrietchurch Engraving Company, and are beautifully engraved, the letterpress notes at the foot of each being brief and to the point. Presentation. — Immediately after the tea at Biriug Square church on Thursday night, Mr Wi'lio McDonald was the recipient of a silver-mounted baton. The presentation was made at a meeting of the teachers, when the superintendent of the Sunday school, and Mr M. Priest, spoke m terms of appreciation of Mr McDonald's services m conducting the anniversary singing ; Mr McDonald making a suitable reply. A Kecord. — At 3 10 on Thursday after noon Mr VV. Edge, of Longbeach, male a start on his Swift, paced by a taniem, to ower the time record for the run to Methven aud buck— a distance of about 45 mile?. Iv spite of the strong, nor'west wind, and loose drift sand on the road at the Methven end, he did the trip there m ! hour 21 minute?, and covered the whole distance m 2 hours 16 minutes 43 seconds, thus 'oweriug the record pub up by Mr W. P. Daly by 14min 32sec. His run from Methveu to Ashburton m 55m in 43sec was a neAt performance, and he finished up strong, Hovr tub Austrian Empress Learned to Talk Jinglish —The late Austrian Em press, who was known aa one of the mo?t intrepid riders and as an excellent English acho'ar, admitted to Lady Bloomfisld, on making her acquaintance at the Viennese Court, now many years ago, that she had first learned English from herfather'agrooms. Then handsome, the Empress was twenty five years ago quite strikingly beautiful. •' Like a vision," writes Indy Bloomfield, "very tall, and had the greatest) profusion of rich brown hair, which she wore down her back ; her eyes were very fine, her complexion brilliant." Ihe World's Oldest Newspaper. — The oldest newspaper m the world is the Tsing- Paitot Pekin I\ r e7os, founded m the year 710 ad. Until quite recently it was supposed that the Mn-Pan, a Chinese journal published m Pekin for the last 1000 yeare, was the oldest newspaper m the world. In a very able work recently published, however, Imbault Huart, the French consul at Canton, shows that this high honour belongs to the I sing-Pan, which' has been published continuously since the year 710, anil is even said to have been founded some 200 years before that date, or early m the sixth century, 800 years before a newspaper was known m Europe. A.A.C. and A.C.— The member* of the A.A..0. and A.C. who enjoyed the run to Lagmhor yesterday reached their destination & few minutes before four o'clock. Mr Buckley made everybody welcome, and vary kindly provided afternoon tea, which was greatly appreciated after the ride against the wind. A look at the stablea, baths, and poultry yards occupied, everybody for a time, after which the inevitable photographer "took" the group. Mr Henry Ztnder then, m a well choaen word?, thanked Mr and Mrs Buckley for the way m which they had entertained the Club, and after Mr Buckley had responded, the party lefr, after giving hearty cheerß for their enter tainers, and reached home about 6.30 p.m., having spent a very enjoyable afternoon. Dead Letter Office —Last year ab the New Zealand Dead Letter Office 1386 m.i n . quiries were received from the public re specting missing artiolea ; 719 of those re ferred to letters, &3., which were subse quently found to have been delivered or were otherwise traced, and 667 were for articles which could nob be traced. The Office dealb with 112 171 letters, 127,313 ?n« qqa 8 V?.. 3( *' 343 newß P a P<*B. Of these 103,926 letters, 126,535 packets and 727 newspapers were returned to the senders ; and 5245 letters, 778 packets, and 35,616 newspapers destroyed. Many of the articles destroyed were refused by 'both address and senders, while othera did not contain information such ac would admit of their return to senders. The SHOW.-For many years we have been rushed with orders prior to the shows anu .^''nays, and late customers have been inevitably disappointed. W« therefore respectfully invite all who will require new suits, &c, for the approaching Bummer to call early. We have jußt opened out our now season's goods, and as we anticipate a further increase of business, our stock of new fashionable, and durable suitings, &., probably the largest ever ehown m Ashbur ton, comprising a'l the latest novelties, and a special line of Fox's celebrated Cheviot aerges, which we are making to measure m the newest styles at three guiucas per suit • ilso troueerß to measure m a big assortment if Scotch, English, and Colonial tweeds and worsteds for 15s 6d per pair (usual prices iin 6d to 25«) ; and m saddle tweeds : Suits £53 10s and trousers to measure 17s sd. Fit ityle, and workmanship m every garment juaranbeed.— OaAjapiup and JJbrrtman ha Leading T,aUgr|j and, P«tßttej:i f £ ? h.

Mrs Bowman Fox — It is satisfactory to I learn that Mrs Bowman Fox haa recovered from the efLcts of her recent accident, and iiaa resumed her teaching duties. Trout Fishing.— The troufc fi3hing season spens co-morrow, but as far as the Ashbur boa river is concerned the outlook for the opening day is not promising. Although bhe river is reported to be well stocked with 5 -h, the north branch is far too muddy at present, bub the south' branch may ufford fair eport. The Co Operative Movement.— The unnua! Co-opsrativo Congress waa held this year ab Peterborough, and the tuccess reported of the co-operative movement still encourages some persous to hope that the day may yet arrive when co-operation will tike the place of trades unioimm. In 1896 the Bales ab the Co-operative stores through out the kingdom realised a total of fifty-seven mi. lions sterling ; last year the figure had increased to sixby-two millions. Everything that was said ab the Congress (says the London correspondent of the Argas) proved the increasing success of the co-operative distribution ; bub the co-opera- ' tive production is an article of alow growth, I and it requires a robust faith to believe that it will ever do away with strikes. At this very Congress a proposal was made that co-operators should join the trades unionists tor the protection of labor. Several members, however, protested against their resources being devoted to such an object, and no resolution was adopted on fche subject. WiLLOWBT Wesleyan Cuorcii Anniver sary.—The anniversary festival m con nection with the Willowby Wesleyan Church was completed on Tuesday evening, and has proved an unqualified success. On Sunday the services were conducted by the Rev. J. Newman Buttle, of Timaru, who preached earnest and practical sermons to the large and appreciative congregations that assem bled to hear onoe more their old minister. In the afternoon a service of song, entitled "The battle of life," vras given m a very fioished style by the choir, under the baton of Mr Joseph Wheeler— Mr Thomas Wheeler being organist. The connective readings were, contrary bo the usual custom with services of song, reoited, and the effeob was most satisfactory. On Tuesday the usual tea meeting was held m the schoolroom, and (the weather being all that cou'd be desired) was largely atbended, representatives from all the surrounding districts— Ashburton, Hinds, Lowcliffd, Lnngbeach, Aahton, and Fiemington— being present. The tables were supplied on the co-operative principle by the ladies of the congregation, and were waited upon by a strong foroe of young ladies. After tea an adj mrnment was made to the church, where a public meeting was held. The Rev. J. J. Mather presided, and addresses were given ijy Mr 8. S. Chapman, Mr Low, and Revs. J. N. Buttle, R. Taylor, and J. Skinner. The treasurer's statement wa9 of a most satisfactory nature. The usual expenditure had been met and several instalments on the parsonage had been paid m advance. Selections of music were rondered during the evening m a very efficient manner by the choir, m charge of Mr Wheeler, solos being taken by Misses Pratley, Hayman, and R. Harding. The passing of votes of thanks closed the pro cfdiuga. The proceeds amounted to about £17.

COMMERCIAL.

United Press Association — By Pilectrio Telegraph— Copyright. Lonbon, September 28 At the woql sales there was good compe tition, but prices are unchanged.

MET HVEN STOCK MARKET.

The usual monthly Bale of sheep, cat Up, etc., was held at the Methven yards on Thursday. There was 8. good attendance of farmers, but business was not over brisk, owing uo doubt to the damage all sorts of feed had retained by the late gale. The yarding for the day was small, totalling only about 700 sheep, 7 head of cattle, and a lot of sundries, The following prices were recorded j— Fat Ejikkp. — Merino ewes, 9a 6d ; merino vetturs, 10s 6d. Store Shkkp.— Croaabrod wethers, 225 at 9i 7d ; crossbred ewes and wethers, 10a 2d ; crossbred hoggets, 9j 6J ; crossbred ewes *nd lambs, 5s 3d. Fat Cattle — 2 steers £5 2s 6d each. Store Cattle —3 ab £1 B<, 1 at ss; 1 dairy cow £5 10s. Houses. — 1 hack £3. Produce aj^d Sundriks.— l roller £10 ; potatoes, 10s per sack ; damaged wheat, 3s 6i per sack. Messrs Friedlauder Bros., Ltd, report the sale by private treaty of a team of draught horses at £125.

M. DE ROUGEMONTS STORY.

United Press Association— By Electric Telegraph— Copyright Sydnbv, September 2g With reference to M. Rougemont's statements, Mr Tietkins says that it was impossible for M. Rougement to reach the interior of Australia on foot and alone, and highly improbable that Gibson traversed the desert from the place where he was lost to where Rougemont ia alleged to have found him.

THE CHURCH CONGRESS.

United Presß Association — By Eleotrio Telegraph— Copyright. London, September 29 Great interest is beiug manifested m the Ohurch Congress now sitting at Bradford, Dr Boyd Carpenter, Bishop of Ripon, who presided, declared that extremities were not wanted m the Ohurcb. The religion of the future would be neither Protestant nor Catholic, but simple Christian. Dr Mac Lagan, Archbishop of York, suggested a committee of experts m Ohurch services. Dr Templp, Archbishop of Canter bury, said it was necessary to take some nieaßures to stop much of what was was going on, but he thought it was better to leave the Bishops to act quietly;

Mr Kensit, who recently played a prominent part m the anti-ritualistic crusade, spoke, but he was greatly interrupted. Viscount Halifax, President of the English Church Union, urged confi dence m the High a.id Low Church authorities to settle bqrning questions. Received Wakapuaka Sept 30, 8 46 a-m, Guarpian Ofsoe IQ-51 a-m At the Church Congress, Bishop Barry, ex primate of Austral;*, dis cussed the relations of Great Britain to har subjects, and said the church must ohristianise these races if Bhe was to be a real imperial power.

CORRESPONDENCE.

(We do not hold ourselves responsible for tho I opinions expressed by our corespondents,

THE DOMAIN CYCLING TRACK.

• TO THE EDITOR. nomde-phtmc as « Oue who knows " has t done » your issua of Sopbember 29. . Let « him come straight out and any what he h M I has done, with the feeling that it has pleased ' no one. It is certainly not the way to get anything done another time. On April 21 last, I was present at the cycling apotts ' ab the Friendly Societies' Gardens, Mcl- < bourne, and there were 170 competitors, ] including the besfe, such as Wai lie. The truck, which is asphalted, is three lapß to the « mile, and la banked up the whole way round to seven or eight feet, except m front of the « grand stand and judge'a box. This part is level ground, therefore almost immediately i after passing the judge they have to take the turn and fly up the bank During the day there were over twenty heats with fifteen ; men m each, and though there were a large number of terrible smashes, the stretcher being often used, nob one occurred ab the turn which is ao nearly like the one complained of by "One who knows"— 1 am, etc., ... ,  Almrbd Harrison. Ashburton, September 29, 1898,

THE NEW RACING CLUB.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir,— A circular has to-day been placed m my handa signed by Mr D. Thorns, con vening "an initial meeting of the new County Racing Club " for Saturday, October 1, to elect officers, adopt rules, and any other general business. I think it just as well to call attention to one or two matters m this oircular. First of all, I Bhould like to point out that although the circular is dated 26th mat. Ib does Dot appear to have been generally circulated yet m Ashburton among many interested m the matter referred to m it. Secondly, does it not appear that a matter, , which under present circumstances (I speak advisedly) wants very careful handling to bring it to a successful issue, requires somewhat longer notice? Unless country residents have had their circulars already posted to them, they can hardly receive them m time to attenil the meeting, and if their notices have already been posted I should much like to know why those to likely town members should not have been sent at the same time. Now it appears to me that there i& only one straightforward way of bringing this move ment for formation of a new club about, and that is by acting m concert with the members of the Ashburton Racing Club. They have practically given the Colonial Secretary an understanding that they will move without delay m that direction and have m return for that assurance been promised a permit. The action they have taken enables them to promise to trainers that meantime at all events we are sure of one meeting, and what is of more importance it enables the proper steps for forming a new club to be considered m a thorough going and leisurely manner instead of rushing the ' business through without proper consider ation and at a m'eetiug, which is m my opinion likely to lack the attendance of many, who would be sure to be a very material assistance to the new club. I think the position with regard to the grunting of the permits has been pretty clearly stated m the papers, but it may be as well to raiterate It. The Colonial Secretary has promised that the Ashburtou Raoing Club shall at all events have one permit, and expects that prior to a second one being asked for, tbapa shall betaken to reconstruct the present Ashburton Club "or te form o, new one. This being so it follows that until the Ashburton Racing Club has had a chance to oirry out its promise, the Colonial Secretary is very unlikely to issue a permit to any new racing club formed without the co-operalion of the Ashburton Club. 1 miy add that it is only bftoau^e of Sir G. Cl fiord's absence from Christchurch until next week that he has nob been inter viewed l.y those appointed by tho Ashburton Racing Club. Why under tho above circum stances, which have been fully reported and are no doubt well known by those who have interested themselves m the matter, there should be such unseemly hurry to oil the propoaed meeting, I fail to understand.— I am, etc., S. H. Graves. Ashburton, September 29, 1898.

GIRLS FRIENDLY SOCIETY.

The annual gathering and sale of work m connection with too Ashburton branch of the Girls' Friendly Society was held m St. Stephen's schoolroom on Thursday. There was a very good attendances m the afternooD, and daring the eveniug the room was packed. The admission was extremely low— in facb a modest sixpence — and ib is therefore gratify iuc to find that the affair nebted a sum of £14. The room w*s very prettily deoorated with flags (kindly lenb by Mr Patching), evergreens and flowers, and festooned with liberty muslin, also lent by Messrs Shrimp ton and Collier. Mrs McFarland and the Misses Purnell (3) designed and carried out the decorations. There were four stallß, viz —(1) fliwer, (2) produce, (3) apron, (A)lollie stall. The«e were presided over by Mesdames Hamilton and Watson and tho Misßeß Danb, Hamilton, Le Meroier, Hosken, Betta, and M. Wilkie. The tea table wag under the management of Mrs Bland, assisted by the Misses T*ylor, Neville, and Baker (2). Miss Compton as usual gave her invaluable services m superintending the making of the tea and coffee. A Christmas tree, presided over by Mrs H. Gates, and the Misses Wilkie, Cotton, and Griffin, looked exceed ingly pratty. The tree itself was a hand some birch, kindly sent from Staveley by Mrs Nell. A doll competition furnished six entries, the prise winner being Miss Lottie Fook«, the second place being taken by Miss May Griffin. The judges were Mesdamea Hardie and H. Gates, During the evening exhibitions of olub exercises were given by the Mißses Bebts, Sage, and Hunt (2), the accompaniments being played by Miss Hamilton. A quartet, consisting of Mrs Claridge (piano), Master Claridge (violin), Mr Gates (double bass), and Mr Leitch (cornet), gave several pleasing selections, which were much appreciated. Th.c whole affair was a great sucqgss, a,nd the happy smiling faqes of the people testified to the gathering being aooiable m the true3b sense, and also to the harmony existing m the •ongregation of St. Stephen's Church. The members of the Girls' Friendly Society desire to thank all contributors aqd helpers especially the Dresden Piano Company for the use of an excellent piano, and Mr A. Wilkie for his services at the door, Mr W. Mills m supplying the hob water, and Mr George Hosken for erecting the stalls.

UNSOLICITED TESTIMONIAL.

Ashburton, September 21, 1898. T. Messrs Milner and Thompson, Chriatchurcb. —Dear Sirs,— Your favor of the ?Qih in'sfc. duly to hand, and contents noted. This ia the sixth '■' Haa^e " piano the writer has been party to. the purchase of through your looal agent, Mr H. M. Jones— one for self, three for private friends, one for the Wesleyan school, and" one for the Hampsfcead school and although you have never allowed me commission (neither do I ask it) I have much pleasure m stating that the ll Haake " piano you sold me m ffanuary, 1892, haa given entire satisfaction $ its tone, etc., is as good now as when new. I have every reason to believe that the other five pianos have given equal satisfaction. In reference to the 0 model lam now ordering for my friend I might say that another firm offered him a great concession m price, but hia musical friends and the write? having more con fidence m the « Haake » inatruments, he haa decided m favor of the more popular piano, because those referred to have proved to be thoroughly reliable.— Yours truly, 9 260 Henry G. Berryman.

PARLIAMENTARY.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

United Proas Association — By Electric Telegraph Wellington, September 29 Tho Council nv:t at 2.30 p m PREBEUYATION CF NATIVE GAME On tho motion of Mr Tomoana, a resolu ion waa passed affirming the desirability of letting anAe certain reserves m Waiapn, rlawke'a Bay, for the preservation of native ;ame. .vokkmen's compensation for accidents BILL The debate on the second reading of the Workmen's Compensation for Accidents Bill svaa continued by Mr Twomey, who sup ported the Bill. Mr Eerr aaid that he should oppose sertain clauses, as he thought thab they would place an insupportable burden on 3oal mine owners, Mr Macgregor defended the Bill ab some length, but asserted that clause 17, making payment of compensation a first oharge on properly, was calculated to do irreparable injury. He would oppose the third reading if this were retained, bub would support the remainder of the Bill, whose objects had his entire sympathy. After the Minister had briefly replied, the motion for the second reading was carried ob the voices. The Council rose at 5 p.m.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Wellington, September 29 The House met at 2.30 p m. BEPLIES TO QUESTIONS. In reply to questions, Ministers stated that a soheme for the clasaifioabion of prison offioers was being prepared, and when ready would receive consideration ; that the reason for not disclosing the names of the valuers who had tendered, and of those whose tenders were accepted under the Govern ment Land Valuation Act, was that m many oases the lowest tender was not that of a capable valuer, and that the difference m the amounts paid to tenderers if published would cause dissension between the various tenderers ; that complaints had been made againsb the Stipendiary Magistrate at Wellington, but the Law Society did not wish the matter proceeded with ; that the Burveyor-General and the Commissioner of Crown Lands for Wellington would during the recess visit the bush districts m Wel lington and Taranaki, to take the evidence of settlers as to the legislation necessary for the protection of settlers from bush fires and burns ; that the Government did nob pro pose to give notioe prior to November, 1899, under the agreement with the Maua watu Railway Company, to acquire the railway as the company had nob evidenced any desire to part with their line, and the Government did nob see why they should interfere. Captain Russell moved the adjournment of the Honse, as ho considered that the reply respecting the Manawatu railway W!»s unsatisfactory. He did nob think that it would be unwise on the part of the Govern ment to enter into negotiations for the pur ohise of the Ike. The motion was discussed till the 530 p m. adjournment. The House resumed at 7.30. THE OLD AGE TENSIONS BILL. The Old Age Pensions Bill was further considered m Committee. Clause 13— General rules for computing income. Considerable disoussioa ensued on the signification of sub-section 1, providing that there Bhall be deducted from income asy income derived from accumulated property. Ultimately cub-section 1 was retained by 41 to 18. 0 jection was taken to the nexb sub section, providing that where, inraddition tc wages or personal earnings, a peraor received board and lodging-, the cost ol such nob exceeding £26 per annum, shall bt inouded ia the computation of yearly iucome. Mr RoUssLon contended that it waß a blot on the Bill, and would lead to collusioE between the employer anl employee. Mr O'Rdcjan moved that the sub-section bo struck out. .\-'r Buchanan moved to amend it to make it apply to caeca ia which board and lodging are received for services rendered. After a short discussion MrO'Regan with drew hia motion. A lengthy discussion ensued on the amendment proposed by Mr Buchanan, which was ultimately negatived. The Premier moved to strike out sub clause 4. which provided that income accru ing bub not actually received during a year shall be deemed to be apportioned and to be received month by month duriDg the year. Mr Duthie suggested that, as the provision was nob clear, progress should be reported m order that this and other provisions of the Bill could be brought down m an intelligible form. The Premier's motion was agreed to, and the olau3e was agreed to. Clause 14, pensions payable monthly. Mr Herries moved an amendment to pro vide for pensions being paid weekly. It was argued egvinab the payment of pensions monthly that some of the pensioners when they got their monthly instalment would spend it m a few days afterwards and would apply for relief to the Charitable Aid Boards. In support of monthly payments it was pointed put that m Borne cases the amount of pension for the year would be small. Mr Smith, aa a prior amendment, moved that penaion.9 amounting to £12 and over shall be paid weekly, all below that amount monthly. The Premier said that members had no right to assume the»t the majority of recipients of pensions would spend their pensions m drink,' and pointed out that weekly payments would mean four occasions instead of one occasion of falling into temptation, After discussion Mr Smith's amendment was negatived by 44 to 19. Mr Herriea withdrew his amendment, and the clause passed unaltered. Clause 15, 16 and 17 passed unaltered. Clause 18— Magistrate to investigate pension olaim, was amended on the motion at Mr Brown to provide that investigation 3hail take place m open Courb. The clause waa further amended to provide thab the person.ul attendance of *n applicanb ociuld be dispensed with m JaBQ of physical disability, or where other jood cause is shown, and the clause was igreed to. Clause 19.— Witnesses and evidence on >ath. At 1 15 a.m. M> B^oore moved to report Jrogresa. Negatived by 59 to 18. The olauße was agreed to. Clause 20 passed unaltered,, Clause 21 meb with elighb amendment. After discussion clauses 22 to 34 inclusive, i vith the exception of clauses 26, 29, and 31, ?hich were postponed, were agreed to. i Progress was reported and th.c Houae djourned at 2,30.

THE EASTERN SITUATION.

United Press Association— By Eleotrio Telegraph— Copyright Phangijai, September 29 The Kwangei rebellion has become of a widespread character despite a number of executions. The uncle of Yung-Lu, Kweichun, has been appointed Viceroy of Se ohuan, The British Consul at Canton protects Kang-Yu -Wei's family. London, September 59 The Pekin correspondent of The Times states that an edict just ssued regrets the Emperor's increasing 11-health, and recommends the jovenorg of all the provinces to send iheir best physicians to his assistance.

BARING SQUARE SUNDAY SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY.

.» The annual tea meeting and festival con cart connected with the Wesleyan Sunday School took place on Thursday evening. Tea was laid m the church for adults, and a large number of children were provided for m ttfe adj >ining school. Both sections of the building were prettily dtcorated, and tables, which were plentifully adorned with spring fbwers, had quite a gay appearance, lhe ladies who presided were kept busiy engaged, and it was nearly eight o'olock be fore the church was put m order, and ready for the concert and speeches. After the large choir had aung a spirit; d melody, prayer was offered by the Rev G. b. Inglia ; and then the Chairman (Rev. R. Taylor) gave an opening addreaa, m which he referred to the important BubjeoD to be brought before the meeting. He hoped that, as a result of the speeches to be given that evening, something might) be done to stop the leak between Buuday School and | Church, and refuted the statement that the Sunday School was not a divine institution, i concluding m a most hopeful strain of tha work being done. Mr J. E. Purchase (Secretary), read the annual report and balance sheet. There are twelve male and eleven femala teachers engaged, with an average attendance of twenty ; ninety-three male and ninety-six female scholars, with an average attendance of 129, the measles epidemic of the winter materially affecting the averages. The school has undertaken the support of a native teacher at one ot the Sonth Sea Island mission BCationa, and the Horns mission department is also receiving practi cal help. Various other matters were Bpoken of, and the report concluded with a reference to the spirit of comradeship prevailing amongst the school staff, and a desire for increased spiritual success. A sum of £15 has been Bet apart as a nucleus for building purposes, and the balance sheet showed the school to be m a sound financial condition. Tne Rev. G. B. Inglis was then called on. to open the subject set down for the speakers' consideration. He admitted the Borrowf ul fant that leakage between Sunday School and Church did exist— sorrowful, be cause the Church of God was the bulwark of sound government and good living. In hia opiuion the main cause of leakage was the irreligion of parents, who had a vague desira that the children should live m a respectable kind of way, but the parents did not promote this by their own example. The abeenoe of family prayer ; frequenting the racecourse, public houses and clubs, on the part of heads of the family, with loose views of religion and of ministers of the Gospel did not tend to spirituality on the part of children, who never pray because they never see their father on hia knees. Evil companionship, inordinate love of pleasure and excitement were other causes, the latest bicycle race, and who got first place often being the topic of Sunday conversation. Thus the Sunday School and Church become too slow for young people. The Church, through preaching •• pleasant nothings " — blank • irtrid^es— theinter-nationaherieaoflesEorj' and the neglect of teachers to recognise and* take an interest iv the scholars during the week were further reasonß for leakage, and Mr Inglis concluded by stating that the matter was very much m the hands of the te?.chers, who should have the power to. make the scholars reluctant to leave Sunday School. * The Rey. J. J. Mather, m speaking of some results of the leakage, said the subject had been given to the wrong man, as from an experimental knowledge, he did not know of the leakage. In all the churches he had been associated with there had not been the leakage referred to. When it did exist, indifference to the claims of Christianity waa one of the results. Some old scholars were to be found m billiard rooms, and public house bars, and it was the duty cf teachers to go after these, and bring to their memory the experiences of days gone by. Rev. G. Mann said he did nob think the leak could be stopped so long as human nature and the world is what it is. This was illustrated by Jesus Christ himself m the parable of the sower and the seed, only a portion of the seed grew, and the whole of Scripture recognised that oaly a portion brought forth the intended result. Thero was leakage among the twelve apostles, and it was not aurptising that after Christian workers had dona their best there should be an element of i*i!ure, but this ought not to dishearten. The leakage could be rednced by Sunday school teachers being deeply pious and enthusiastic, pracisias total abstinence, with a hatred oi dancing and like amueemants. Eximple speaks louder than precept, and the life from Monday morning to Saturday night would have aa abiding effect). The teacher's regular attendance at the means of grace, his personal and private appeal to the scholars, praying fathers and nrothers, iwere elements which would help to minimise the leakage, and the young people themselves could do their cart m choosing only good companions and devot ing themselves to God. A number of festival hyrana were sune during the evening, Miss E\ Parson* and Miss Ethel Andrews presiding at the piano and organ respectively. This, report would be incomplete without reference to the successful manner m which Misa Amy Steel had trained a small choic of eight girls, who took a prominent part m the concert and whose rendering of their selections evoked no little applauae. In addition to the erdinary orchestra, Messrs Simmonds, E. Hosken, Maradeu, and Miss Simmonds gavo excellent help, while Messrs Edwin Craig head and Kersel were acceptable vocal auxiliaries. As a wholo the anniversary celebration has been most successful, and a great deal of enthusiasm has been evinced.

METHVEN.

From Out Own Corrosponrtnnt* THE STORM. We have heard of thi P .g B being under a cloud, bub the cloud that reifned over Methven and the abounding districts on Friday last was very much ont of the ordinary The whole place was covered with soil and dust, cne paddock of wheati ' if n i gr t. a9B see(l bein B b^wn entirely away by the howling nor'wester, which raged all day from 9 am. till late at nighb. The prospect* of a good harvest m this district 1 were better than they had been for yeart/ and the Highbank aettlera were beginning to reckon on a little recompense for theffl past two years' labor. Now, bare P addock 4 are all that meet the eye, fences teingV ooyered up nrsoil aud water races level?} All avaUable labor is absorbed m the effort ' back to thew u 3 ual condition. Most of the farmers are ploughing or grubbing up the blown pieces, and flowing manure, rape and turnipa. * THINGS IS OEMERAL. The Highbank bachelors gave their ball on Tuesday last, and it was a great Buccesß Methven ia starting a Brass Bind, under the ab!e supervision of Mr E A JLock, and we hope soon to be listening to their aweeb strains. Thia is sale day (Thuraday), bob another nor wester makes it very unpleasant for all concerned.

THE LATE MR BYRNES.

United Press Association— By Electrio^ Telegraph— Copyright Brisbane, September 29 In both branches of the Legislature jympatnetic reference were made to ■he deceased Premier's family, and a esolution of condolence was carried > fter which the Houses adjourned* ut of roapecb to the memory fMr Byrnes. Messages of sympathy aye been received from the Premiers deluding Mr Seddon, and from all arts of the colony. The funeral cortege took an hour Dd a half passing a given point. The rovernor and Sir William Macgregor ere among those present. Business as suspended all day.

SHJiUH'IUJS GUARDIAN : FBIOaI, SEPTEMBER 30, 1898.



September, ] _, „ D H M ' Full muon .» .„ 1 021 a.m ' Last quarter .„ ... alO 2L a.m New moon ... ... 16 11 40 a m ' « - First quarter., ._ 23 2 9 p. m | •MBMBUI ■■«!_■_■■ HI || III.III.!I;i»jj !1 ..u I j ,



Bsnok» New Ven.^



Slow* Rename I



aoziE tjk^ is pure



Man's Ingratitude.— We have it on Shakespeare's authority that tjjp wioter wind is not more unkind than man^s ingrati- fcude. In many cases this is unfortunately only too truo. There are times, however, When tho benefit received is so groat that Ingratitude becomes impossible. When life ia rendered a burden to us by sickness, and someone ooraeß and restores us to health, we should be baeo indeed to feol UDgrateful. l'hus millions are today grateful to ETolloway'a PiUs <"» d Ointment, which have Hired them of all stomaoh and liver troubles, Vanished headache, flitueuoy, indigestion md low spirits, and oleared their system of , ou t rheumatism, Boiatici> and all eimilar lilmentß.-(Advb.) Smokf *w Vmty



THE Ai Friedlander Bros., Limited. ' ~ FOH'SALE, ' 11/IOLASSES FOR FEEDING STOCK Also — AGEIOULTUKAL SALT, CHEAP. FRIEDLANDKR BROS., Lld. Qr\ ACRE SE< TION AT METHVEN. VX^E HAVE FOR PRIVATE SALE, 20 Acres of First-class Land, with Dwelling House, Stable, and other conveniences, situated m MoUiven. This property is well fenced and sub-divided. ,Full particulars on application to FRIEDLANDER BROS.,gLTD. "VFO T HAVING,, DISPOSED OF MR HENRY BUTTERICK'S FARM AT SHERWOOD, by Auction, we are prepared to treat privately with intendingTpurchasera FRIEDLANDER BROS., Ltd. X O R j* A L E- SEED " barley; PERFECTLY CLEAN 5 FRIEDLANDER BROS., Ltd. BELFAST MANURES. TTTTE offer to nupply these celebrated Fertilisers at liat prices less tha usual discounts, for quantities of five tons and over, and extra reductions to Freezing clientH We have;large Stccks on hand, and can deliver ex our Stores or direct from the Factory. FRIEDLANDER Bros. Ltd^ VTTE HAVK FOR Danish Oats, Long Tartarian Oat?, Black Tartar Oats, Canadian Oats, Alljmachine dressed and"grown ia'tLs Oatnaru district. TUSCAN WHEAT, perfectly*clean and grown at the Forks. A GRAND CHANGE n ALSO— Double machine dreastd Rygraes, Colonial Cowpraes and Red Ctover, White Clover, Alslke, Timothy, and Cocksfoot. These Seeds arc all machine cleaned, of finest quality, and* highest germinating power. We are p -Tpiredjto give'ourJJOlientsJvery lowest quotations. FRIEDLANDER BROS., LIMITED. ■ ■■■'» ' —^ Insist upon having" onr Fore Teas. Don't be put npon. They are the Best and Cheapest. Absolutely pure, Copied tout never equalled, WONDERFUL Guaranteed Ulcer and Better Value than any at 4d per lt>. more money. Compare our 2/- Tea with any at 2/4, and our 2/4 with any at 3/- per Ib, TEAS uuim, FTEAD QUARTERS FOR CYCLING Racing Suits Singlets Sweaters Shoes Hose, CapPp Etc. TENNIS Trouserti Shirts Hats, Caps, <fc Sashes Bills (Sl&Z3ngerß) Shoes (Kenßhawe,) CRICKETING Trouserg Shirts Hats, P-ips, Belts, Etc. RUNNING Trunks Singletß : Shoes, Etc. I 1 SWIMMING 1 Trunks < Costumes j i^iogleip. '<■ ■ _—^_ i A. Q. BARTON, * Manner, t



JOHN ORR & Co. Ironmongers and General Merchants. WITNESS Taylor's Celebrated Cutlery. BEAUTIFUL SHOW NOW IN OUR WINDOWS. PRICES LOWER THAN EVER. "New Easy," "F. & N., M "Colutnbia. 9 LAWN MOWERS. AT bT^RTLING PRICES. SPADES, RAKES, [HOES, FORKS, and all Garden Toola by Besb Makers. The Largest Assortment and Lowest Piices of any firm m Ashburton. 0 000 YARDS FOWL NETTING to be Sold CHEAP. FISHING L&ii TACKLE. WE HAVE Jmt Opened our New 8. asou'a .Supp'y o< FISHING-TACKLE, and requeßt an early inspection. LIOENiES M^Y BE OBTAINED FROM T JS WE CLAIM FOR THE WAYERLEY BICYCLE F JLL EQUALITY WITH ANY BICYCLE BUILT, AT ANY PRICE, AND BY ANY MAKER. Our Third Shipment this Season 13 Just Landing, and^wej will be able tojjsupply Customers without delay. MILNEE, & THOMPSON Tj^VE much pleasme in^announcing thab they willjhold a Great Sale of Pianos & Organs THEJNSTRUMENTB WILL. BE ;ON VIEW AT Mr U. M. Jones's, East Street, AND MR C. D. LIGHTBAND will be m attendance to show Intending Customer* and to Canvass the District, and can be consulted at the Somerset Hote\ after 6 p,m; THE HAAKE PIANO, S^ecially Manufactured for Milner and Thompson, is undoubtedly the best Rvalue 1 Tone, Q lality, apd Fiuish, obtainable m the Colonies. A Shipment of JOHN BRINSMSA.D AND SONS Pianos just opened up. LOWEST CASH PRICES, Oil ON EASY TIME PAYMENTS? Ifor one, tw.\ or three yearß. ORGANS frora monthly-payments of 10s each. PIANOS from>ontby"payment*;oi 20j each. ■ LAKGBjVARIETY OF SHEET MUSIC 4J£eaoh or 3j dozen. Now is the time to buy. Inspection invited. XT- M. JONEs7"aGBNT. " ""^njRc^TScR^iCKS. __ J Public Notices. gr«j^rnHH3 o, j lONBY , M Money,_ ey , monet , Friday 30ih— Short Service 730 p.m., and T" HAVE MONFY m any sums to lend Choir Practice 8p m. " ••*- on approved fnehold security at lowest Saturday— Confirmation Class 2.30 p.m. r^tea of interest. Alao small auma for short periods. SUNDAY SKRVICES. CHAS. J. STYCHE, Arcade October 2. 10 15 a m. — Dion^san HxwiiniHioa C'ass. FOR SALlll. Comm nn Vo D r M ° rniDg Pra7Bf ftDd B ° ly A BARGAIN.-Owner leaving the District. 3 0 p m.— GreenetTPft'. TJ OUSE of five Roomß, Scullery, Wash, 630 p.m— EveaU'g Prayer IJL house, etc., J acre land, well panted REV. T. A. HAMILTON. witn * ruit tree8 i situate m Tancred Street V B^ m ?P m^^^ m^^!f m^^^^ mm^^^^ Also— Several Houses to be LET. • 1 '