MAIL NOTICES.

Maila close for the following places as \ under, eubjecb to the necessary alter ations : — WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30. For Northern Ports, South America and specially addressed correspondence for United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, per lonic, via Rio de Janeiro ( lue London, May 11), Fiji, Hawaii, also British Colum bia, Canada, United States, United King dom and Continent of Europo, (per War rimoo via Vancouver (due London May 4), per Westralia as follow 3 :— Money orders, at 3 p.m. ; registered letters, at 5 pm. ; books and newspapers, at 6.15 p.m. ; ordin ary letters, 6.30 p.m.

DEATH.

Twhtoit. — On March 29, at tho residence of William Turton. Haveloek Street, Ash burton, Mary, the beloved wife of William Robert Turton, Mount Somera, and second daughter of James and Mary Johnston, Springburh. Aged 37. After a ahert and painful illness. Deeply regretted.

Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 1898. THE EASTERN SITUATION.

TtHE cable news that has reached us during the last twenty-four hours is far from comforting. I'or some time the situation as regards the eastern question has been see-sawing between probable peace and possible war. We have had the British authorities announcing with considerable parade that at all hazards Great Britain would stand out for the ports of China | being free to the world for trade, and that no dismemberment of China would be permitted that wps at all likely to be followed by any monopoly of trade by any power. But while this parade of Britain's intention was being made Russia was busy intriguing with China, and securing concessions that were equivalent to cessions of the ports m connection with which the conces sions have been made. France, too, has been making demands that Britain, m face of her previous announcements, could not possibly accede to, and was reported to have been backed up m these demands by the Great Northern Power. And while all this has been going on, m open defiance as it were of Britain's avowed intentions, Lord Salisbury' Government have become suddenly silent on the eastern question. It may be that Lord Salisbury's illness may account for tbe silence, and that Mr A. J. Balfour, who is m charge of the Foreign Office during Lord Salis bury's retirement does not care to do or say anything while there is a possi bility of his chief's absence being only temporary. But whatever the cause the reticence of the Government is drawing forth comments from the leading press of the country that are not complimentary to the Salisbury administration, The Times is rery outspokeD, and accuses Lord Salisbury of having by his vacillation assisted the rivalß of Britain to effect a political and economic revolution ia China. The news, as sent by cable, is necessarily brief, and much is left for the reader, who is supposed to be following events, to supply. But reading between the lines it is easy to see that The Times means that the trade and commerce of Great Britain with China will suffer, to the benefit of those rivals referred to. The paper urges Britain to at once reestablish her influ ence at Pekin, and, to ftid ia doing so, urges that a strong naval demon stration be made m the Gulf of Pechili. The Standard writes also m a tone of alarm, and sees great gravity m the situation, while the press of Britain generally complain of the weakness of Lord Salisbury's foreign policy. And then we find influential London merchants joining m tlie chorus of condemnation, and urging the taking of practical steps to safeguard British interests m the valley of the Yang-tse- Kiang. Altogether the situation is grave m the extreme, out of which at any moment may arise complications that only the clash of arms can unravel. Still the Government are silent, and while they are so the empire must bear with what patience it can and await developments. Let us trust that those developments will make for " Peace, with honor."

An American paper gives two columns of an account of a new illuminant dis covered by a United A NEW LIGHT. States inventor. The illuminant of the future, we are told, has absolutely ■ nothing to do with electricity, oil, or gas. It needs no wires, no batteries, no machines of any kind. It is the result of chemical action heretofore unsuspected. These elements are placed m a glass globe of any size from which the air has been extracted, *nd the vessel is then hermetically sealed. The light glows at once, and its intensity is eueh that if the vacuum were perfect the human eye could no more gaze upon is rays than upon those of the noonday sun. In fact, ie is almost identical, so far as eftects are conc3rned, with imprisoned sunshine. The globe can be carried about with the greatest freedom m one's pocket or black bag, and the brilliancy, the hue, and the power of the new light can be regulated by the siza and colour of the glass globe and the amount of chemicals employed. The only drawback to this invention is thafe the light cannot be extinguished without wholly destroying it, nor can its power, once fixed, be afterwards modified or regulated. Globes have, it js stated; already been made m sizes varying from an prdinary breakfast egg to the lamp that surrounds a large arc light, some of them glowing with a soft mild Bheen, while others dazzle with the brilliancy of their blind ing rays. A globe will burn for about one thousand hours, and the estimated cost of one whiph sheds a light of about sixteen-candle power would be about ninepenee. If it were the rigid custom of inventors to adhere strictly to history when describing their " epoch making " discoveries, instead of launch ing into lyrical poetry, we should have no hesitation m hailing this new chemical light ag one of the greatest of the numerous boons which, modern science has bestowed upon latter-day man; To be able, when taking one's seat at night jn one of the wretchedly lighted carriages of a rail way train, to open oners newspaper and pull put a globe pf, " imprisoned

suoshine," say of thirfcy-two candle power, and to read comfortably with out injuring one's eyesight, is a luxury which people of all countries would welcome with joy. No imagination can picture the delight of the belated clubman, wbose efforts to find the key hole are periodically baffled by the impenetrable darkness of the night, at the possibility of carrying ready-made light m his overcoat pocket. During the Cimmerian darkness of a London fog, almost every foot passengor m Regent 'street, Piccadilly, and other crowded thoroughfares might be rea sonably expected to hang a sixteen candle globe round his or her neck. Every horse, every bicycle, and every crossing sweeper would be provided with the chemical illuminaat. Doubt less, the waste would be woful, seeing that there is no possibility of turning off the rays at will, and economising them during the day. But on the other hand this drawback would be more than compensated for by the cheapness of production. For all this, we cannot agree with our contempor ary that the days of gas and electricity are numbered. It is possible to lay m a supply of both those illuminants, and to feel independent, for a considerable time, at least, of strikes and other Boeh, awkward hitches m the supply. But if the workmen employed m manufac turing glass globes for the " imprisoned sunshine" were to strike, m one thousand hours the world would be plunged m Egyptian darkness. It will, however, be time enough to criti cise tbe invention when it has received a local habitation and a name. The latter half of the nineteenth century is rich m splendid discoveries that have come to nothing, and most of these are rightly claimed by our American ! cousins. It is not yet impossible that the new illuminant may prove a mere will-o'-the-wisp.

The market reports of Mr David Thomas appear on the first page ; the fourth page contains items from our We3terfield corres pondent and a report of the meeting of the Rangitata Road Board.

Local and General.

Friday, April Bth, Saturday, 9th, and Monday, 11th, are declared public holidays for the Government offices.

The Telegraph Department has received advice that the Lorenzo Marques-Durban cable has been restored.

The attendance at the Industrial Exhibi tion at Dunedin for the first week has been 35,000. Ihe takings at the door . so far amount to £1295.

Mr A. C. MacLaren, the well-known English batsman, was married last week to Miss Power, daughter of Mr Herbert Power, well-known m Victorian racing circles.

At the monthly meeting of the Linooln School Committee on Friday, Mr A. c Cook son of Templeton, was appointed head master. Mr Cookson is well and favorably known m Ashburtou,

The returns of the rainfall of the colony for February show that the heaviest fall was at Puysegur Point, 18in. In Canterbury the heaviest was ab Akaroa, 2.73in. The least rainfall m the colony was 0.07 m, Te Aute.

Mr Richard Smith, of Christchurch, has presented the Public Library with the whole of the third edition of the Encyclopedia Britannica. The College Board of Governors ou Monday passed Mr Smith a hearty vote of thanks for the gift.

Messrs Fiemiug and Hedley, the well known Oamaru auctioneers, notify m our advertising columns that they will offer on Saturday, April 2, at the Commercial Yards, Cxmaru, a firat-class lot of draught horses from Sydney, m tip-top coadition.

Readers are reminded that the great sale of Fernyside farm, tho beich farm, and the stock, etc., on both, as well as the house hold furniture at E'ernyaide, cmes off on Friday next. The aale is m the hands of Messrs Hanmer aad Graves, m conjunction with Messrs Friedlander Bros., Ltd.

The Press says :— We were shown on Monday a copy of a telegram received from Auckland, stating that the Northern Roller Milh were to-day landing, ex Mararoa, 1000 sacks of prime wheat from Sydney. The post was 43 5d per bushel, duty paid and sacks included. More wheat is following by sailer.

At the meeting of the Canterbury College Board of Governors yesterday it was resolved to advertise m Great Britain and the Australian colonies for applications for the chair of English language, literature, and history, m succession to Pro.fessor Mathew, resigned. The salary is £600 a year, without fees, and the duties have to be taken ab the beginning of the first term of next year.

The eminent violinist M. Ovide Musin, who gave several concerts m Australia and New Zealand last year, has been appointed head professor of the violin at the Liege Conservatoire, Belgium, m succession to M. Cesar Thomson. The position at this in stitution has been made famous by its illus trious chief, M. Cesar Thomson, and Liege is now a great centre for instruction on the violin, students coming from all parts of the world to enjoy the advantages it offers.

A meeting m Christchurch yesterday of persons interested m meat freezing resolved to form a New Zealand Frozen Trade Asso ciation, to promote and protect the in terests of the trade, to afford such assistance to members of the Association as may be considered advisable, m supporting or op posing any matter affecting the general wel fare of the trade, and to make such rules and regulations for the benefit of the Associa tion as may be considered necessary. A sub-committee was appointed ta draw up a circular to be sent to the Chambers of Com merce and Frozen Meat Companies, and also to act as an organising and extension com mittee, and to confer with delegates from other centres.

It may be only a coincidence that several different persona have picked up good sized tacka with clout heads m various parts of Aehburtou frequented by cyclists, but it is nevertheless a faob calculated tp create uneasiness amongst the owners of these machines, and even the Domain track has not escaped, one cyclist having had his tyre punctured last evening whilst training. It may not be out of place here to remind the public that any person found guilty of wilfully scattering tacks, or anything equally destructive to pneumatic tyres, would be liable to a pretty heavy penalty, and m view of the number of persons now interested m bicycles, it may be taken for granted that the full punishment would be iniioted.

The following are the names of those who will represent the Methven and Melrose Tennis Clubs m the match to be played at Methyen on Thursday next ; — Methvon — Ladies' singles, Mrs Trutnper and Miaa Clark ; ladies' doubles, Mrß Tcumper and Miss Clark, Mrs Young and Mrs Morgan ; gentlemen's singles, Messrs Dart, Walker and iilley ; doubles, Dart and Walker, Clark and Tilley, Davis and Stewart ; combined, Miss Clark and Mr Dart, Mrs Trumper and Mr Walker. Melrose— Singles, Miss Gates and Miss Potter, Messrs Alcorn, Shearman, and Meyenberg ; doubles, Missea Gates and Potter, B. Cookson and E. Potter, Messrs Alcorn and Purchase, Perm and Shearman, Meyenberg and Barton j combined, Misa Potter and Mr W. Purchase, Miss Gates and Mr Perm. The Melrose representatives will leave for Methven at 10 a.m. eharp. '

Rev. E. Edwards, pastor of tho English Baptist Church at Minersville, Pa,, when suffering with rheumatism, was advised to try jbhamberlain'a Pain Balm. He says : " A few applications of this liniment proved of great service to me. It subdued the in flammation and relieved the pain. Should any sufferer profib by giving Pain Balm a trial it will please me." Foe Dale by the Aahburton £rug Company,

Intending competitors for the Ashburfcon Amateur Cycling and Athletic Club's Bastef Monday sports are reminded that entries close with the Secretary, Mr W. J. Palmer, this (Tuesday) evening at ten o'clock.

The Spoaker of the Legislative Council has refused to allow the Women's National Council to use the Council Chamber for the annual convention. In reply to the Premier, the Hon. H. J. Miller stated that ib would b 8 contrary to constitutional practice to permit the Chamber to be put bo such a purpose.

Mr G. K. Askin, engineer and cyoling mechanic, informs the public through our advertising columns that he is agent for the famous Beeston-Humber bicycles, and has a stock of these machines on hand. His plaae of business is m Tailored Street, nearly op posite St. Stephen's Church.

A Press Association telegram from Wel lington says : — Shipping circles are begin ning to get uneasy about the ship Margaret Galbraith, which was off the heads last .Monday, and was blown away by heavy northerly gales. She was very light and probably had to run before the wind.

j An Auckland telegram announces the death of a Maori chief-, named Hake Wanga Wanga at Pehaweia. He was aged 100 years. He celebrated his centenary birth day last Christmas, and he remembered i Heke'e raidß perfectly.

A very pleasant evening's dancing was j enjoyed by tbe young people of Ruapnna on the evening of March 25. The catering was m the hands of Mesdames T>. Sewell and Howden, and, needless to say, gave every satisfaction. The music was supplied by Mr J. MoLeod, and to his merry lilb dancing was kept up until an early hour. « At a meeting of the Chertsey Sports Com mittee held last evening the Secretary re* ported that all matters as far as possible were m readiness ; that the entries and subscriptions were coming m beyond their expectation. The tenders of Messrs R. D. Petrie, Rakaia, and W, Jewitt, Ashburton, for refreshment booth and fish and fruit were accepted.

We regret to have to announce the death of Mrs W. R. Turton, who died this morning at the residence of Mr William Turton, Havelock street, Aahburton. The deceased lady had not been long ill, having came to town to nurse her daughter. The family have the empathy of a large circle of friends m their bereavement. The Masterton Borough Council will not present an address to his Excellency the Governor on his visit to that town. This course has been resolved upon at the sug gestion of the Mayor, Mr Pownall, who said that the presentation of an address only bored the recipient. He thought a few words of welcome on the occasion would be better, and the Council agreed with him. In a letter to the New Zealand Herald Dr Bakewell offers the novel suggestion that the extension of total abstinence from all intoxicating liquors, " involving as it does the entire disuse of the wine, which,, to use Biblical phraseology, ' maketh glad the heart of man,' may have a very potent influence " on the present increase of cancer m New Zealand. The Harbour Board of Wellington has ! adopted a new scale of payment for casual labour, which the secretary estimates will entail an increased expenditure of £1660 per annum Amongst other changes, an increase is to be made m the pay to wool pressing hands, who will receive Is 3d and Is 4£d per hour m place of Is l.Jd and Is 3d as at present. The Board's permanent labourers will be paid at the race of £2 5b per week m place of £2 2a as heretofore, and atoremen will receive an increase of 4d and wool clerks of 6d per day. A sensational accident happened at St. Mary's Cathedral, at Sydney, on the 21st ulb., and was, unfortunately, attended by f&ttl results. For some time past workmen have been employed building the tower to the top of the Cathedral, the materials for their use being swung up to them by a crane, a distance of 120 feet. So far the work has been carried out without accident, but on the morning m question the coupling of the ' cage employed to carry the material to the scaffolding afoft became dis connected when ib had reached a height of seventy feet. Two men were riding ia the cage ab the time, and they, with bricks, stone, and mortar, were precipitated m a confused mass to the ground. One of them, Leslie, was killed instantly, but the second, Drury, escaped with a broken leg and severe contusions and cuts about the body and face. It is thought that he will survive It i 3 somewhat remarkable that Drury was very badly injured some months ago, when working at the new markets m Sydney.

An interesting gathering of the 16th Lancers took place recently at the Holborn Restaurant. General Dickaon had invited a number of officers, non-commisbioned officers, and men of the regiment, including veterans who fought m the Sikh War of 1846, m order to commemorate the battle of Alivral, to celebrate the gallant host's jubilee m the regiment and to inaugurate an annual dinner. The object which General Dickson has m view is to bring comradeß together once a year— officers and men — and at the same time specially to associate with the gathering memories of the glorious victory of Jan. 28, 1846, m which the 16th Lancera took so conspicuous a part, Tho distinguished regiment was raised m 1760, and shared m many engagements m American, Napoleonic, and Indian wars. It was the first Lancer regiment to go to our Eastern Empire,' and took part there m various actions from Bhurtpore m 1825 to Sobraon m 1846. In the desperate fighting at Aliwal it lost fifty seven killed. The regiment is now stationed ab Umballa, and the following telegram was despatched to Colonel Aylmer, commanding ; " Veteran comrades drink health of old corps, — Diokson."

CHERTSEY SPORTS.

Handicaps.

Maiden Trot.— -CamelißQ icr., Might-as well scr., G.P.D. 2seca, Actress ssecs, Camelford 7Becs, Chester 9secs, Storekeeper 9aecs, Every Time 9geoß.

Two-Mile Trot. — Wenlock scr, Came line Baecß, Might-as-well Baeca, Actress 12sec8, Eyery Time 16secs, Chester 163ecs, Tracey Lee 17secs, Toby 22aecs.

Two-AND-A-HALF-Miiiß Trot.— Wenlock aor, Might-as-Well 9aec3, Actress 153ecs, Every Time 20ae03, Taso 20s8cs, Storekeeper 20iecB, Chester 20secs, Tracey Lee 21secs.

Ohbrtsey Cup.— Village Lad 103t 91b, Tesßa 10.2, Cabin Boy lOsb, Gorse Prick 93b.

Farmers' Plate. — Village Lad list, Tessa 10.7, Nor'-Wester 10.7, Cabin Boy 10.7, Tit 10.3.

THE UNIVERSITY BOAT RACE.

ROWED UNDER DIFFICULTIES.

Press Association — By Electric Telegrarh Copyright.

London, March 27

On the occasion of the University boat race a strong north easterly wind was blow ing and the river was terribly rough. A postponement of the race seemed probable until at last the boat was filled with air bladders to prevent it being swamped, Oxford won the toss and selected the Middle sex side, which was more sheltered. Cam bridge was first away, and led by a quarter fof a length at Duke's Head. The boats | were level at Clasper's sheds, and Oxford then began to draw out, and led by three lengths at Crabtree, which was increased to four lengths at Hammersmith Bridge. The Light Blues were now m difficulties, and suffered from the heavy water, their boat rolling considerably. The race from Chis wick resolved itself into a procession. Ox ford led by ten lengths at Thorneycroft'a and fourteen lengths at Devonshire Meadows and passed Barnes's bridge 45 seconds ahead. The Cambridge boat was nearly full of water, and the crew stopped m an exhausted condition off the Ship. The Oxford boat, which shipped less water, passed the winning post twelve lengths ahead m 22min 153ec.

You are the jury ; iv your hands I place my fate, I'll stand or fall by your decision ; all I ask for is a fair trial of Woods' Great Peppermint Cure for coughs and colds, it is easily procured, grocers and chemists keep it, the price is within the reach of all, Is 6d and 2.1 6(3,

CABLE NEWS.

Home and Foreign.

Press Association — By Eleotrio Telegraph, — Copyright Antarctic Exploration. London, March 27 Herr Borchgreviok, who visited the Antarctic a few years ago, sails m July m command of Sir George Newnea' expedition to the South Pole. Parliamentary Election. Mr Cornallis, Conservative candi date, has been elected for Maidstone by a majority of 158 votes. Obituary. Mra Parnell, mother of the late Mr Charles Stuart Parnell, has died at Avonda)e, Ireland, through being severely burned, the result of an accident. German Navy Bill. Berlin, March 27 In the Reichstag the Navy Bill was read a second time. ' The Gape. Capetown, March 27 The Legislative Council elections have concluded. They give Cecil Rhodes a majority of four votes.

Fire.

Australian.

A fire m Prell's Buildings melted a water pipe on the upper floor, but the fiamea were extinguished before they got a secure hold on the building.

THE CUBAN DIFFICULTY.

Press ABBooiation— By Electric Telegraph —

Copyright.

Received Wakapuaka March 29, 9.30 a.m, Guardian Office, 10.1 a.m. . London, March 28 The Standard says that popular feeling m favor of intervention m Cuba on humanitarian grounds is growing strongly.

Madrid, March 28.

Spain is trying to stay American action m Cuba, alleging that the re ports published m reference to starva tion amongst the population are inaccurate. The Spanish Government will not admit of any encroachment on its sovereign rights m regard to Ouba.

The general elections m Spain have resulted , m a great victory for the Sagasta Government.

Washington, March 28

Mr McKinley has requested Congress to appropriate half a million dollars for the immediate relief of distress m Cuba.

The official report o£ the naval court of enquiry into the Maine disaster has been published. It finds that the mine was exploded underneath the Maine, but fixes no responsibility.

Received Wakapuaka March 29, 10.15 a.m.,

Guabdian Office 10.54 a.m

Washington, March 28.

Senor Bernabe, Spanish Minister at Washington, has asked the American Government to delay action m regard to intervention m Cuba, stating that Spain was prepared to offer terms so liberal as to satisfy both Ouba and America. Mr McKinley is resisting the tremendous pressure brought by the Jingoes. Congress generally is disposed to assist Mr McKinley m the stand he has taken.

THE EASTERN SITUATION.

Another Treaty to be Opened.

Protection of British Commerce.

Defence of Coaling 1 Stations.

Presa Association— By Electric Telegraph- Copyright.

London, March 27

A Reuter's telegram states that China will open B'uming-Fu, near Foochow, as a treaty port, but will retain sovereign rights at Port Arthur and Ta lien-wun, both of which will be open to the warships of all nations.

Kinchau remains ia the hands of the Chinese. Kussia, however, will establish a small station m its environs.

March 28

Sir Thomas Sutherland, Chairman of the P. and 0. Company, has convened a conference of shipowners, members of the House of Commons and Admiralty officials, to consider means to protect the mercantile marine m the eveDt of an outbreak of war.

The Times says that the opinion is expressed that many of the coaling stations are defenceless, but it is be lieved that the Government contem plates making provision m the matter at an early date.

All the cargo shipped to the East is paying war rates.

Reoeived Wakapuaka March 29, 9 50 a.m., Guarbian Office, 10 39 a.m.

Sydnet, March 29.

In view of the unsettled condition of affairs m the East, the Admiralty authorities are largely increasing the stores of coal at Thursday Island naval depot. It is officially stated that the local squadron is kept ready for sea and could be dispatched within an hour if necessary.

Received Wakapuaka March 29, 10.15 a.m.

Guardian Office 10.54 a.m.

London, March 28

The Times, commenting on Lord Salisbury's depapfcure says he ought to surrender the portfolio of Foreign Affairs. The same paper favours the appointment of Hon. A. 3, Balfour as his succeasor.

H»x« Kong, March 28

The Russian flag has been hoisted at Port Arthur and Talienwun. The Chinese forces have been withdrawn from these positions.

Reoeived Wakapuaka March 2§, 10.15 a.m.. Guardian Office 11.3 a.m. London, March 2$ The stock exchanges generally are depressed m consequence of the serious international outlook. Consols have fallen three-sixteenths. Under medical advice Lord Salisbury has started for Beaulieu, his seat m South Prance. Mr Ourzon now attends the meetings of the Cabinet, Twenty million cartridges have been ' issued to the British volunteer forow. i

THE LATEST.

Australian.

Press Association — By Elecfcrio Telegaph— Copyright.

Received Wakapuaka March 29, 9 60 a. m, Gwabdian Office 10.39 a.m. The Ralgoorlie Riot. Perth, March 29 Four men concerned m the Kal goorlie riot were sentenced to six months' imprisonment. The Commonwealth Bill. Launceston, March 29 Sir E. C. N. Braddon addressed a large meeting, strongly advocating the adoption of the Commonwealth Bill. Resolutions m favour of the measure were carried with enthusiasm.

FEDERATION.

Speech by Mr G, H. Reid.

Freaa Assooiabiwj— By Eleotrio Telegraph- Copyright.

Sydney, March 28 Mr G. H. Reid, Premier of New South Wales, delivered a speech on the federation question to-night m the Town Hall before an audience num bering 6000. He said that while there was muoh m the Bill he could not approve, he would not turn traitor to federation. He urged the electors, after giving due consideration to the i Federal Bill, to vote for it.

RUSSIA AND CRETE.

Press Aaaooiation— By Electric Telegraph- Copyright.

Constantinople, March 27, The Porte suggests that Prince Karatheodori, formerly Greek Min ister at . Constantinople, should be appointed Governor of Crete.

March 28.

Russia declines to consider the proposal of the Porte to appoint Karatheodori Pasha to the Governor ship of Crete.

THE MINING DISASTER.

Press Association— By felectrlo Telegraph.— Copyright

Sydney, March 28.

Latest reports regarding the Dudley colliery fire show that there are slight signs of it decreasing.

The memorial services m connection with the victims were largely attended, and the relief fund is rapidly increas ing.

British and Gorman Trade.

Press Association— By Electric Telegraph- Copyright

London, March 27

British imports during 1897 in creased m value by six million pounds, and the exports decreased by bix millions. Germany's imports during the same period increased by fourteen, millions, while the exports increased by two millions.

THE SOUDAN.

Press Association — By Electric Telegraph. Copyright.

Received Wakapuaka March 29, 10.15 a.m., Guardian office 11.3 a.m.

London, March 28 Latest advices from the Soudan state that Mahmud, the Dervish leader, hesitates to attack the British. In the evening he orders an advance, but next morning countermands it, alleging that he fears the Turks are approaching to annihilate his forces. The Times states the Dervishes will soon be compelled to retire upon Shendy, or fight tha British.

CRICKET.

Ashburtou v Watertou.

A match was played at Ashburton on March 24 between Ashburton and Watertou, resulting m a win for Ashburtou by 12 runs on the first innings, though had time per mitted the poaition would most likely have been reversed, as Waterton only wanted 19 runs to win, with atill six wickets to fall. Ashburton first innings, 59— Marsden 19; second innings, 32— Maraden 12. Waterton firat innings, 47— W. C. Smith 13 not out, J. McLauchlan 8 ; second innings 25 for four wicketa— J. Smith not out 7. Percy bowled best for Ashburton, m the first innings getting seven wickets for 21 runs, and Percy, and Marsden divided the wickets m the second. W. Timms and Norrish bowled for Waterton, getting five wickets each m Ashburton'a first innings ; W. C. Smith and Norrish m the second — the latter getting six wickets for 10 runs. At the close of the match the visitors ■ were entertained at Mrs HuftWs.

COMMERCIAL.

Press Association— By Electric Telegraph—

Copyright.

London, March 27*

At the wool sales competition continues spirited and prioeß firm, th 9 Home buyers securing a fair proportion ab top prices. Since the opening of the series 135,930 bales have been catalogued, of which 128,730 bales have been Bold.

Mutton — Crossbred wethers and maiden ewes, Canterbury 3§d, Dunedin and South land 3 3-16 d, North Island 2 15-16. Lamb —-Prime Canterbury 4£d ; fair average, including Dunedin, Southland, Wellington, and secondary Canterbury, 4£d. River Plate crossbred or merino wethers, heavy 2fd, light 2f d.

CHAMBERLAIN'S COUGH REMEDY

! This remedy is intended especially for coughs, colds, croup, whooping cough and nfluenza. Ib has become famous for its ourea of these diseases, over a large part of the civilized world. The most flattering testimonials have been received, giving ac counts of its good works ; of the aggravating and persistent coughs it has cured ; of severe colds that have yielded promptly to its aoothing effects, and of the dangerous attacks of croup ib has cured, often saving the life of the child. ' The extensive use of it for whooping cough ha 9 shown that it robs that disease of all dangerous consequences. Sold by the Ashburton Drug Company.

I have been afflicted with rheumatism for fourteen years and nothing seemed to give any relief. I was able to be around all the time, but constantly Buffering. I had tried everything I could hear of and at last was told to try Chamberlain's Pain Balm, which I did, and was immediately relieved and m a short time cured, lam happy to say that it has not since returned. —Josh. E»qah, Germantown, Cal. For sale by the Ash* barton Drug Company.

K-OZIJE TLE^ Beat* AM

THE ASHBURTON QUARDIAfI : TOESDAY, MARCH 29, 1898.

Melbourne, March 28.



We have also a now line to this district — HOWARD'S DIAMOND CHILLED PLOUGH SHARES For Reid and Gray Ploughs. j These Shares are specially chilled and one i of them is eq«al to two of the Colonial j arbiole. I



PLATED WARE OF ALL KINDS. SOLE PROPRIETORS OF THE CELE- BRATED— "KODAK" SPOONS AND FORKS, Warranted to wear white. CUPS AND SAUCERS, TOILET SETS, DINNER & TEA SETS, FANCY CROCKERY & GLASSWARE.



WE have just landed over SIX HUNDRED LAMPS, and oan quote wonderful prices. HORSE CLIPPERS Martin's Knowles', Oxford and Cambridge, Lee Bank, Clark's etc. CHEAPEST HOUE IN CANTERBURY FOR THESE.



The following are a few of the many lines that we have reduced the prioe of :— SAUCEPANS, KETTLES, AND HOLLOW- WARE OF ALL KINDS. GAL- VANISED BUCKETS, AND BATHS, ENAMELWA.RE, SHEEP NETTING, BROOMS AND BRUSH- WARE, TINWARE, MAN- GLES, WRINGERS, BEDSTEADS AND BEDDING, BARB AND PLAIN FENCING WIRE, STAPLES, NAILS, ETC., CARPENTERS, & MECHANICS, TOOLS, TABLE AND POCKET CULTERY, GUNS, CARTRIDGES AND AMMUNITION, REGI- STER GRATES, STOVES AND RANGES, LAMPS AND LAMPWARE.



During the past week we have made some STARTLING REDUCTIONS, and have decided to REDUCE very LARGELY the prices of FURNISHING AND GENERAL HARDWARE.



SOLE AGENTS- TOR TUB WAVERLEY BICYCLE, I- -9 1 John Orr & Co. 1 ABHBURTON.



John Orr & Co. John Qyy & 00. XTTE HATE BEEN FOR SOME TIME CUTTING THE PRICE OF GKOCERIES AND GLASSWARE, AND ABE STILL DOING SO.



G. K. ASKIN, OYCLE MECHANIC, TANCRED STREET. Near Tuoker and Bean, ASHBURTON. AGENT FOR— AUSTRAt. CYCLE AGENCY Co. (BEESTON HUMBERS ) MACHINES ALWAYS ON HAND. 3 207 JUBILEE RESTAURANT. BURNEIT STREET. TTAVING taken over the above Res« taurant, lately conducted by Miss Suther- land, I respectfully solicit a continuance of the liberal patron ago extended to my predecessor. MEALS AT ALL HOUBS. HELEN MARGARET SHEEHANr" AehburU n, March 25, 1898.



Church Services ST. STEPHEN'S CHURCH ABhburtoc. WEDNESDAY— G.F.S , 7.30 p.m. FRIDAY— Short Service, 7 30 p.m. j ohoir praotice, 8 p.m. PALM SUNDAY-(April 3). 11 a.m.— Morning Prayer and Holy Com- munion. 3 p.m.— Greenstreet— Rev J. IE. Black- burne. 6.3o— Evening Prayer. The Services m St. Stephen's Church will be conducted by the Rev J. E. Blackburne. EAWTHORNDEN HIGH SCHOOL i FOR, GIRL-, BOAIiDERS AND DAY PUPILS} Principal .„ Mrs DAVID McKEE. HAW 1 HORNDEN is Healthily Situated m Upper Fendalton, about four miles from Chriatchurch. Pupils have the advant- age of pure country air. The Grounds are extensive, and contain a Gymnasium and Tennis Lawn ; and Riding LeßSons can be arranged for under oareful supervision. The different subjects are taught; by Trained and Certificated Teachers ; ani special olasses are held for the Matriculation and Junior Scholarship Examinations at the University. Farther information as to terms, eta, can be obtained on »ppli«tion to the frinoipa'. M 9



EXCURSION WASHER. 1,000,000 HIGH CLASS .TOWELS GIVEN [AWAY TO P URCHASE.BS OP EXCURSION WASHER, j The Best Washing Powder m the World. to* * ' ' A Large HONEYCOMB TOWEL given wibb; Three Packet.. A TURKISH ROLLER TOWEL or a Largo HANB or BATH TURKISH UQWEL given. with^OJweWe'j. Packets. — — :o:— — SHEARMAN BROS., FAMILY GROCERS, IRONMONGERS, & WINE AND SPIRITf MERCHANTS) JIABKET HOUSE, BUBHETT STREET, ASBBUETON. Telephone No. 63, . _ 21 CASES 8 BALES. ' V M. & T. / EX TOKAMABU NOW OPENING. MITCHELL & TURNER. "THE CORNER" HAVING now Completed the Shipments of New Goods for the Autumn and Winter, the Stock stands one of the Moßt Complete m New Zealand. Every article has been eeleated by the Homo Buyer with the greatest care from the actual manufacturers, thus saving intermediate profits and securing all discounts and concessions which every ' purchaser at « X'HLJEJ COBNUU " participates m. J/vdiea' Tartan Belts, Ribbons, Piuihes, White Muslin' and Holland Aprons, Is Choice Trimmel and Untrimmei Hats, upwards; New Coating Serges, all shades, Large Vatisty Combinations, Divided Skirts, from la 6J per yud; New Dress Tweeds, Best Selection Cipea and Jackets, Now Merinos, Habit Clotha, Fancy Braids, Waterproofs for Lndies and Girls, Plain and Silks and Pluahes, Fancy Flannelettes for Fmbraidered Chiffona, Our Famous Kid Blouses BJd per yard, Molletona m Newest G ove?, Brown 2i 6d per pair. Black 2j lid Floral Designs for Dressiog Gowns lOJd per P"r pair. Ladies' Far L : ned Kid Gloves 2< yard, Flannelettes m Stripes and Self Colors 11J. 3d 6>l, 4a 6 J per pur, Novelties io Side 4£i, 6d, 7jd, lOd, Blankets, Grey and Comb*, Hair Frames, Fall Nets, Gossimr White, 9j 6d per pair upwards, Under Caflfa and Collars. Blankets 2s lid each and 4? 9J each. CARPETS, FLOORCLOTHS, LINOLEUMS, IN ALL WIDTHS. MEN'S AND BOYS' READY MADE OLOTHING, WOOLLEN UNDERCLOTHING. NEWEST* SHAPES IN HATS, TIES, AND COLLARS. BOOTS AND SHOES BY THE BEST MAKERS. PRICES THAT WILL SUIT ALL POCKETS. ORDERS BY POST WILL RECEIVE PROMPT ATTENTION. W< H. COLLIER, "THE CORNER."