Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1899. Local and General.

*.* On the first page to-day will be found , oon mercial news, Alfoid Forest weather report, Messrs Shearman Br.ia.' new business J advertisement, with others ; on the fourth ■ p>.g?, a report of the Show luncheon and t.iio ! c inmexcemect of our report of Mr 0. A. C , Hardy's political Bpeech at K.tkaia, and i aeA'oral important busiueas advertisements, j Mind Youk Pocket,--Oa arrival of as. (rain ofc the Ashburtoti railway station oa Friday a lady passenger, on alighting amongst the crowd, was promptly relieved of her purse. The shows, races, etc, are apparently j well patronised by expert pick-pookets thia season. The Waikato—Captain W6Bton wires to Wellington from Freemantle that the Wai kato's Btern tube intact, and that he is fitting the shaft. The vessel will leave on November 7. The Waikato is to proceed to Port Chalmers, at which port sha ia due about November 20. Live Weight Judging—Ab the weight guessing competition at s the Timaru Show, the weight of a bullock, 11151 b, was nob guessed exactly, but two persona divided first and second prizes with guesses of 1117ib. The total weight of five sheep of different breeds and sizes was correctly guessed afc 357i1b, by Mr W. McCully, and three other competitors were within l£'.b of the correcb weight. Drawing Pensions—Those who have seen some of the rocipients of old aga pensions going to the various Post Offices for their money must have often wondered why it ia made almost compulsory for those poor old people to go m person. Many of them are so iufirm that they can hardly get about anyhow, and travelling long distances as some have to do must shake them up a good deal, and may possibly shorten their days. [ It would be well if the Government made some provision to meet oases such as we have referred to. A Nareow Escaps—Last evening a lad who was working at the tew brick buildings m Burnett Street had a miraculous escape from a very serious accident, if not death. A sling of bricks that had reached the plat form aloft, suddenly descended, and landed all round him on the pavement. It is hardly I safe for foot passengers fo traverse that part of the path, while building is m progress, as there is no boarding round the part of the street fronting the building as is usual m other towns. An Admirable Paper,—The Christmas number of the Canterbwy Times —of which an advance copy has been forwarded to vs— shows that our contemporary is fully de termined to keep well m the van of pro gressive journalism' The leading feature of the ornamental part of the paper is the admirable manner m which it is got up and illustrated, the pictorial part being of special excellence. Ihe literary portion is very attractive, there being an illustrated story by Miss Jessie Mack ay, a charming writer whose tales have already won her a great reputation. The statement that her present effort surpaesea any of her previous achievements will probably be endorsed by everybody who may read the ttory. The Henry Dramatic Company—The final performance of this Company on Satur day waa very well rVended, as might have been expected seeing that Mra Woods'thrill ing drama •' Eaat Lynne " was the piece staged. It is enough to say that those who attended were well rewarded, the acting of the leading characters being admirable, as the effect upon a large number of the auriienco testified more particularly m the final act. In this connection it may not be out of pace to remark that persona who can giggle aud talk while scenes of human sorrow and suffering are being portrayed— have no business to go where their manner of exposing their insensibility to the fi'ier feelings of humanity, makes them a nuisanca to other people. . Six Gnu's Sewing Machine. — In our description of the Aahburton Agricultural and Pastoral Show held on Friday last, owing to want of space we cculd give but a pissing word respecting the Singer Manufacturing Company's handsome prize, and the name of the successful winner of the same 'the Company waa represented on the Show Ground by the Canterbury manager (ilr Jno. Murray), Miss Malloek (expert) Mr Thompson (Uhristchurch) and Mr D C Stock (Ashburton Agent.) The display of their exhibit was tru'y the best of its kind ever seen m Aahburton. The exhibits were neatly and artistically grouped atone end of the produce marques and consisted of picture I*,1*, bannarettas, cushion, curtains, drapes, and a hoat of other pieceß of work, the who'o surmounted by the Company's large sign aud the fl.gs of England and America united, which h;id a pretty effects. The exhibit was very attractive, and % continual stream of ladies and gentlemen compli mented the company on their enterprise, and the lades were lavish m their praiae of the work they saw, and wished the Company the success they deserve, as they have yoarly patronised the show, and have eot a good example to others m presenting such a valuable prize for competition. Be Kind to the Little Ones.—There ia no tyranny so hard to bear as the tyranny of parents who, without meaning to be cruel, do not understand their children. How continually do we End a child punished because it is fretful, ft does not seem to occur to so.Tie parents that m nine pases out of ten $ child's fretfulness arises from ill health of from Bojfte temporary ailment 1 **"«* this JP isapredly true, and, instead of iJ" v- "-*»t efiildj?en f parents will 4° we" punishing i,,. ihm healthy and to Cake steps to keep J<ffi*iilfc if strong. They will not find thia v.... - they take care to keep Holloway's Pills ana Ointment always by "them. These are remedies which never fail.

News in Brief

A Sign of the Times—During the past week a musical spirit has been awakened m Ashburton. When people can afford to buy pianos and organs their prospects must be fairly good. 'J he Dresden Piano Com pany's representative, Mr A Jackson, in forms us that the business dona during the past week ha 3 been quite up to his expecta tions. Mr Henry Stephenson'a local Agency haa presented quite a busy appear ance during the last few days, with pianos going m and coming out-. At the Auckland Bicycle Sports on Satur day last, the celebrated Waverley Bicycle was again to the front, J Chalmera mounted on this easy running wheel was first m the Federal Scratch Rice defeating Wail, Reynolds and others. Chalmera also came second m the Auckland Wheel Race.

SPORTS ASSOCIATION.

A meeting of delegates to the Ashburton Sporta Association waa held m the Arcade Chambers ou Monday evening. Present— Messrs P. H. Cox (chairman), Hobbs, Orr, Snodgrass, F. Clark, Willis, Symonds, Mc- Sherry, and Watson. A. letter was received from the Domain Board, stating that they could nob approve of the hours for bathiug for the ÜBe of club members only, suggested by the Association. Messrs Cox and Orr were given authority to make the best arrangements they could with the Board on behalf of the Association regarding the matter. The programme for the Associa tion's first annual carnival, to be held on December 16, was adopted, subject to altera tions considered necessary by the Executive. The following is a summary of the events proposed: —Cricket match, 10 a. m, to con clude ab 2 p.m.; tennis match; croquet match. Cash cycle events—Half mile handi cap, two mile handicap g cish running events —100, 220, and 440 yards handicap. Amateur events—Cycling, Half mile handi cap, two mile handicap; running—loo, 220, 880 yards handicap. Football Club members — Amateurs, 110 yards handicap; opeD, 110 yards handicap. Swimming events— 50 and 75 yards handicap. Tug of war- Ten men each side (for aluba affiliated to the Association). Best decorated bicycle (lady's or gentleman's).

Mr C J. Harper at Wakanui.

Mr Ohas. J. Harper addressed a crowded meeting of electors m tha Wakanui school last evening, the building being packed. M r i'eter Stewart, the chairm m of the School Committee, having aent a letter apologising for his absence through illness, Mr Maxwell was voted to the chair, and briefly intro duced the candidate, whose address, which was on the lines of his Ashburton speech, was listened to with close attention and appeared to make a favourable impression, applause being frequent. After several questions had baen asked and answered, & voie of thanks, moved by Mr J. Bob:fant and s conded by Mr CcXjWas oairied by acclamation. Mr Harper speaks at Ruapuna on Monday, 6ih November.

CORRESPONDENCE

(We do not hold oursoives responsible for tbt opinions expressed by oar correspondents)

THE ASHBURTON SEAT

TO THE EDITOR.

Sib,—Now that we have a pretty good idea who will bs the candidates for the Ash burton Beat at the general election it would be well if the electors made up their minds whom to vote for, and do their level best to get their man m. The position appears to baas under :—The Opposition will have Mr C J Harper to do battle for them ; a good colonist, an honest man, and a local farmer. The Government patty can vote for Mr John McLauchlan, odos the representative of Ashburton, and if they are not satisfied with him they may perhaps think they have Mr W. Maslin, also a former member. Mr McKeagua is mentioned au a candidate, bub ias some people think his candidature is meant as a joke I will pase him over. My object m writiDg this letter is to advise the electors nob to be led by any outside in fluences or associations, Progressive Liberal, Prohibition, or otherwise, buo to go for the man whose career amongst them best eutitlea him to their support; They may depend upon it that such a m*n is the only one likely to rnako a good representative.—l am, etc., Eleciob,

BOROUGH COUNCIL.

The ordinary meeting of the Ashburton Borough Council was held on Monday even* ing. Present—His Worship the Mayor (Mr Hugo Friedlander), m the ohair, and Ore. Maynard, Davis, Jones, Thomas and dolliffe. FINANCB, The Mayor reported the debit balance at the bank aa £1733 6s Bd, and the income received from all sources since last meet* ing £214 33 9d. CHARITABLE AID. The Mayor was appointed to represent the Borough Council at the meeting on November 22 to elect members of the Charitable Aid Board. RESERTES Mr J R Hart applied for a twenty-one years' lease of reserve 1052. The reserve was ordered to be advertised m the usual way, bo that tenders be obtained—the Reserve Committee to fix the upset price. The transfer of a reserve from R McCal lum to P Gourdie was sanctioned, and tha latter waa granted liberty to place a Bhed on the reserve. VALUATION BOLL. Several applications for enrolment on the burgess list were granted. WATER SUPPLY. Mr George Harper, who hag been acting as solicitor to the Borough Council m con nection with the water supply, wrote, stat ing that he had taken exception to a proviso m the agreement with the Oounty Council, which proviEO he considered unnecessary. He had arracged for a meeting with the County Council solicitor this week. It was stated by several Councillors that the matter had been arranged. REFUSE The Works Committee were instructed to provide it possible a suitable depot for the use of the scavengers for dumping refuse, THE LOAN The Special Committee tet up to take charge of the raising of the loaa reported as follows :—Your Committee beg to report that a prospectus for tha Borough special loan has been prepared find the draft submitted to the Borouah solicitor for his approval. Tha solicitor's opinion advising certain amend ments is appended hereto. Your Committee recommend that tenders ha advertised for the loan m Chriistchuroh, Dunedln, Timaru, and Ashburton* The matter of bringing the prospectus into Hue with the solicitor's opinion was left m the hands of the Mayor, and the report was adopted, the prospectus and debentures behg ordered to be printed. ENGINEERS' REPORT The engineers reported as follows :— Hydrants.—The two hydrants m East Street at the Moore Street and Tancred Street crossings were tried on Monday last with a length of the fire engine hose and the controlling nczzle. Several members of the Council were present. No formal resolution was passed, but the general opinion seemed to be that there was insufficient pressure and an additional water cart would prove more efficient and economical. Tarring Streets.—This work is making 1 progress, but we have had some difficulty about the tar. We oomtnnnicated with the i manager of the Gas Company, who is making i efforts to remedy the defects complained of. Building Regulations.—We gave Mr J. Orr notice as instructed by the Council, and have received smother letter from Mr Orr which we append, Labour Gang.—The men have been engaged during the past two weeks m preparing foot paths for tarring, and tarring same, plough ing grass and carting same from streets to sections, forming and metalling footpath on j B.E. Bait, repairing road on N.W. Belt, watering streeto, making and fixing bridges and culverts, carting rubbish off streets, j attending to the water supply and general maintenance works. The report was adopted, and it was decided to give effect to the resolution of last meeting requiring Mr John Orr to remove the building referred to. inspector's report The inspector's report was generally satis factory. He said the medical men reported the town m a healthy 'condition, bus there were three oases oil diphtheria m the hos pital from Winslow, and one from Ash burton, He had inspected the schools grounds, and recommended some improve ments. The inspector was instructed to inspect the sanitary condition of the grounds of one particular school. The report was adopted^ SSEHD A3! CROSSING^ The question of a by-law to regulate the speed of vehicles at crossings was referred to the By-Saws Committee. holidays The holidays for the Borough offices were fiyed as from November 7 to IQ. LICENSER The following licenses were granted: — Carriage—Mileß, Bailey, Williams. Crooks, Lindsay, McConnell, and Compton; carriers —Dilley, Miles, Williams, Crooks, and CanniDg j drivers—Miles, Bailey, Williamß, Crooks, MoConnell, fij. Compton, and Canning. ACCOUNTS Accounts to the amount of £56 17s 5d were passed for payment ani the Council resolved itself into a DOMAIN BOARD. Messrs Cox and Orr waited upon the Board, m regard to the hours that had been asked to be allotted to the Swimming Club, bub refused by the Board. The Chairman said the hours had been refused by the Board, because they wou'd have the effect of excluding workiag men from the privilege of using the baths. Mr Cox said the subscription to the Club waa nominal—2a 6d for adults and Is for boys. The Club would be willing to aocepli seven o'clock aa the limit) instead of six. Mr Davis waa of opinion that the hours asked for would have the effect of excluding every working man who did not choose to become a member of the Ciub. Mr Thomas said the working men were as much ratepayers as others, and the hours suggested would exclude them. Me Scaly micl the hours that) b»d been (q

say, bub one thing I am certain of, a change m tiie government of our country would be fo tho advantage of all. The Premier's friends say he is worked to death* Well, it is a pity to kili a good man. Tho people aay the Opposition ia weak, 'inrt my proposal is to reverse the position of the parties, give Mr Soddon a rest, and you may reiy on it that the man who has been hep.d and tail of hia puty for so many ye^rs will so conserve its interests, that the new government will not dare (even if they desired it) to be caught tripping. More c*re shou'd aUo be given to prevent the hastj legislation and mistakes m our statutes which occur at every session of Parliament. Party government is one of the curses of our system, but I do nob know what we are going to do without it, and for all that, I thick it is not an unmixed evil, and tends to keep down the abominable traffic m political patronage, and instead of the whole House working together for mutual good the personal feeling of party often up sets wise and true measures. CIVIL SERVICE REFORM. Civil Service reform is a much needed work indeed, .and one which will receive the approval of every thinking elector. I would do away with political patronage and elect or appoint aa independent Board cf two or three members who should be experts and well able to analyse the qualifications of the candidates. All appointments should be made on competitive examination lines and should be graded m classes according to ability and the kind of work to bo done. The present unevennesa m pay should be adjusted, as I see no reason why the Poat Office officials should be more favourably treated than the men employed m the rail ways, especially as they are doing more responsible work. This "may be due to the fact that a late member of the ministry worked heart and soul for his old depart, merits ; and I would not blame him for that, if he had noD neglectfid the othor branches of the service: THE LANS SYSTEM OT THE COLONY. The Land System of the colony has been made fairly free and easy; but I, for my part, will only be too pleased to have an opportunity of making it still easier, aa I consider it of vital importance that the people should be placed m a position to better themselves. Look around you and see the number of young people who want to settle down m life and are desirous of making homes for themselves. By all means let our legislation go forward m this direc tion, but not to stop after that settlement Is made. Let there be the hope of reward which at all times sweetens labour, and gives the leaseholders as soon aa they have improved thoir properties, the right of pur chase, care being taken that the titles are earmarked m such a way that the intention of close settlement is not to be frustrated. All honour to the originators of land reiorm, and talking of that reminds me of a great and good man, a fellow countryman of my own, now m his grave. I mean the late Hon. John Ballance. He visited Canterbury some years ago, and while driving round to see the village settlement at Rakaia looked over the corner of one of the prettiest little homes m New Zealand, and then exclaimed, * Well done, Mr Rolleston. To you belongs the honour of this land settlement, and it will be a monument to your memory as long aa the colony exists." This is a freehold property and the man is happy and contented on it. I am of opinion that the leasehold system, if carried to excesß, will be as great a curse m New Zealand as the absentee landlords m Ireland ; and if we go on, piling million after million on our public debt, we will have absentee landlords m the form of English bondholders. It haß been said than the landlords are game with an open season all the year round, and I now dread the consequences of having the Ministry of the day shot at like land agents. Yea, place the people on the land, encouraging them to improve their properties and afterwards advancing them money at a low rate of interest aay 4 per cent, for the purpose of buying out their homes. Surely we canuot do better than follow the footsteps of the Government of England, and advance money to the tenants to make their properties their owq. Ihis is what is goirg on day by day m Old Ireland. Thia would tend to encourage an md' pendant race ot freeholders. ADVANCES TO SETTIEES I would encourage these on a business b.isis, and aeo no reason why the advances should be restricted to £2500 aa at present, for if the security be good, the Government, with a strong finance, should be able to cope with all applications and the charge should not be more than 4 per cent The country is now borrowing at 3per cen<-,and the margin should be sufficient fir working expenses and profit. Bear m mind lam opposed to heavy borrowing, except under special circum stances, aa we have got aa much debt as we cm honestly carry. BANKING LEGISLATION Banking legislation requires to be dealt with very carefully;. I believe the govern menfc, m order to cave financial ruin to rniny, was justified m purchasing the Bank of New Zaaland, but why ovr legislators should lend themselves to the Colonial B»nk purchase is more than I can understand. Just fancy the colony paying £75,000 for the goodwill of a weak trading concern, and about £100,000 for the properties which, m moat instances, aro still on hand and will be difficult to dispose of. All 1 can say is, it was a monstrous piece of bad business. Ido not think the colony will lose anything by the Bank of New Zea land, which under judicious management will come out right; but to strengthen its finance I would do away with the Assets Board and place all the properties under the Bank Directors, who of nepesßity require money to carry on their work, and would see that the assests were disposed of to the best possible advantage. The proposal would. b,e a wise measure and a saving to the Colony. After this has baen effected and the **-Kk's position doubly assured, I would place it' nn .h^r'tet and get rid of this as well i oi2joth«tr«::r" "wwwwbiflinhp; colony is running. THE COLONIAL PUBLIC DEBT Our public dfibt is growing, and just now it is over forty-six millions, or on an average of £61 14a 4d per head of population. The assets certainly have increased, but not m proportion to the debt; and if this sort of government goes on we shall ultimately be ruined. The late Mr Ballance entered power on a non-borrowing policy, and at hia death his mantle fell on the broad shoulders pf a popular man who was co s'rong m his own convictions that ho reversed his predecessor's policy and without asking the country whether it was a good one or not he plunges the colony into the debt whioh he now makes so light of. The miljion loan which is to be placed on the market gives us the handsome expenditure for Canterbury of about 195 th of the whole. The railways are not run m the interests of the country people; For m I stance, m the carriage of sheep, a single decker is the came cost as a double, and m the event of a farmer trucking 80 or 90 sheep he has to pay for two trucks instead of one i and a half. This is bad treatment a»d should be rectified. The charge for class A from Dun,3din to Oamaru ia 12s 6d per toa and for the same distance m Canterbury ia ' 43s 6d. This may be considered business, 1 but we must not lose sight of the fact that 'we are paying for it. Artificial manure ! should be placed on the same footing as | agricultural lime; both are used largely for I the improvement of land. The former costs 6a 9d per ton for feO miiee s with heavy charges for demurrage, and m small quantities the charge ia considerably more j whilst the latter, which is used very largely m South land and Otago, ia carried up to 100 miles free. This is moat unfair. These are only a j few of the many instances of bad manage ment m the adtmnisfcntkm of our public affairs. I find that under the Stock Act i there is a charge on sheep of 2a per 100. This should be altered to make the payment more equitable, and only charge for the fractional part of the hundred, J would recommend an increase of taxation In the form of reduction of the ex«mption m the income tax from £300 to £200. This will reach the pockets of m>vny men who are receiving good salaries, aud are well able to bear their fair share of the burden and are now exempb. I would advocate as far as possible the taxing of luxuries and the < reduction of the duties on the necessaries I of life. For instance take the half-penny per pound daty off sugar, 4d per pound off tea, and 21 per pound off dried fruits, and care fully r&vise the tariff, which bears heavily on many, and could well have its inequalities adjusted jn order that! the fei?rd.w> sbPU,ld bo

, carr ed on the ah ulJors of those best able to i be a it. [ FKDEEATION I Federation is one of the b;g subjects which must be faced iv the near future. It is r diving a great deal of attention from the • loading men of hrge centres, bub they judge it very otrong'y from their own Btß,L>dpoint , Many of thtm say it will ruin the oo!<-><-v, i but i doubt this very much, as I think New : Zealand is able to hold its own anywhere ; | and I, for my part, have great faith m (he rrsources of my adopted land. Sir John ; Ha:l, io a recent interview on this subject | aaya, " In some canes it is alleged that our i manufactures would be injuriously affected, ; but m others no apprehension is felfc. I find ' it difficult to understand why with the ; Bupcrior climate and other natural advanb i ages of this colony, and the physical^charac \ ter of our population wa should not be able to compete successfully with any industries |m Australia." At the same time, I agree | with him that the matter is one of the moat I vital importance to this oniony, and that we | must proceed with the utmost caution, leat I we find ourselves marrying m haste and I repenting at leisure. I also fully agree with j him when he says, " That as the whole { question has so recently come before this colony as one of practical politics, I do not think it would be wise or reasonable to ask the electors to at once arrive at a decision upon it. I confess that I sympathise with the idea of a federated Australasia, of which New Zealand would form a part. I would | rather be a citizen of a large and powerful ' state than of a small and weak one; The larger the state, the larger and broader th 9 consideration and ideas by which its policy is likely to be influenced, and the less liable is its legislation and administration to be at the mercy of narrow, parochial viewa, and mere personal ambitions, which often exer cise a dominant influence m small communi ties. But. as already stated, there appears to me m the proposal to join the Australian commonwealth on the terms offered many serious consequences possible for our finance and our industries, which should be thoroughly investigated bofore we are asked to commit ourselves to a step so important and irretraceable. If we are to join at all it should, m the words of the conference of 1890, be on terms to be agreed upon rather than on the rigid conditions prescribed m the present Commonwealth Bill, and those terms cannot be fairly determined until we have more light." DEFENCE. All honor to the brave volunteers who have gone to fight for the old fhg, and may they return covered with glory. We hear some say that England is not justified m the action she has taken, but X have sufficient faith m the rulers of the empire to know that no step was taken that could have been avoided, and now that she is protecting her rights we join with her as loyal subjects, and shoulder to shoulder we will prove to the world our unity and our love of Fatherland. I am certain that if the Beers should get the upper hand it wilj baa dark day for Old England, as her prestige would suffer, Russia might attack her m China and India, France m Egypt, and the whole empire would be m danger of disintegration. Con sidering the price paid by the colony for defence, about 3s per head of the population, the results cannot be deemed satisfactory. During the "piping time of peice" our responsible Ministers are completely apathe tic regarding our defence, and it is only when the war clouds begin to lower and | when spurred on by public opinion that the Government wake up to the necessity of giving some attention to this important question, and m their z^al to propitiate the same public opinion, a period of lavish and useless expenditure sets m to foster an en thusiasm which only retains its glamour for a year or two. New companies are accepted whenever offering, m spite of past experience that country corps and an undue prepon derance of town corps cannot be maintained undor the existing circumstances of our constantly shifting population, at a standard of even fourth rate efficiency and discipline. The public have a right to expect that at all times our dsfeucoß should be m such a state of preparedness that if it were necessary at any time to call cub the militia the means for arming, officering, dr lling, and disciplin ing them should be m existence. ThisoLjs>ct c»n be obtained at a much lower coat to the community by the maintenance of a highly trained skeleton volunteer force m each of the principal centres of the colony ; and by the establishment of rifla clubs to carry thi-i out, leas than one third of our present foice would be ample, and a more careful selection would ba made m enrolling volunteers. Men of high intelligence and good physique should alone be accepted, and each private should be trained to saah a standard that he could undertake the duties of a non commissioned officer should it be necessary to call out the militia. This system would necessitate every man enrolled m the volun teers obtaining within, say, one year a sergeant's certificate of proficiency. Proper encouragement is necessary m the way of higher capitatioa allowance. Drillshed accommodation, gymnasium material, better facilities for instruction, and special grants for proficiency m muaketry and drill would act aa an inducement for the best men to I offer. Officers have qualified yearly m New 1 Zealand for commissions m the Imperial service, and m spite of that fact it. is astonish ing to find that no encouragement is given to our volunteer officers to qualify for per manent appointments m New Zealand. When such vacancies occur we send Home to the Imperial authorities. If a high standard of examination were fixed m the colony there can be no doubt; that equally good men could be found m New Zealand. The recent appointment of Major Robin as cavalry instructor ia a proof of this state-: ment, and a step ip the right direction, but it should be carried further, and all such permanent appointments filled m the colony. A system of exchange with India would from time to time give our officers the best practical experience, and the inherent know ledge they possess of the difference between a purely volunteer service and a regular force is one of the strongest reasons why our volunteer officers are best fitted for Bueh appointments. Similar encouragement should be given to our noncommissioned ofSosrs to qualify for imtructora, and if every man m the volunteer force under stood that suoh appointments were open to him, that incentive alone would enormously raise the standard of efficiency. R fle clubs should be established m the towns and country districts, and enocuraged as a national pastime, provided the material of our volunteer forces is sufficiently high trained. The members of rifta clubs, i together with the militia, could be absorbed ia time of war until the riflemen m each centre reached SOflO or 50QP. The value of Btraighb shooting would then be demon strated. Men of ordinary intelligence can, under capable instruotors, be trained to take the field m ft few weeks, but) good rifle i shots are only to be obtained by years of regular prictice. Encouragement for rifle clubs should be m the direction of free issue of rifies, an annual allowance of ammunition, limited number of railway passes for rifje matoheß, eto. Under this system our defence force would be somewhat as follows, viz:—Permanent militia to take charge of the guns at the most important commercial and ooaling por^.g. Garrison and naval artillery and submarine mjojng gorps to acb m conjunction with the permaneab miiita. In each of the chief centres and other ports j of strategical importance—viz, Auckland, | We'linfctoD, Chriatchurch and Dunedin— there should be one battery of field artillery, one compnny of engineers, and a skeleton battalion of rifles, consisting ojc four gpm panies of say sixty-three men, with cycle bearer section, etc. Country districts could furnish sections of light oayalry and mounted rifles, not to exceed two troops foe eaph province. These numbers could be maintained at a high standard of efficiency at all times at a much lower coat to the people of New Zealand than the present conditions of comparative dis organisation. In conclusion he said he was opposed to class legislation ; that men and women should combine to improve their position, bub when trades unionism became unbearable it waa time to ease up a bit j and that the tariff generally should be revised. Jq answer to questions, he said he did nofc wish to be returned unless he represented a majority j that was to Bay, that if 30Q0 electors recorded their votes ha secured 1501. If elected he would support the Opposition, which he hoped he would be able to strengthen. He, however, did not adopt the policy of Captain Russell, of Mr Rolleston, or of Mr Seddon } he adopted his owu, and he would nob be a "left winger." He did not think the railways were as well managed under the Commissioners as under the Governpient|

A vote o: tli nka ua-- uuumtiiously hcO -r ded to Mr Hardy tor hia address, and the usual compl-rnent to the chairman closed the wetting*

THE d-HB TON GfUARDfAH i TUESDAY, jOOTOBER 3i, |x 899

HIE SELWYN ELECTORATE. ♦ —„„—. Sir f. A. C. Hardy nt Maltaia,

Continued fien page 4.



For Bronchial Coughs take Woods'; Great; Peppermint Cura—is £d »nd2s 6d



i ifOK iSALE. I ti |||||B||| rXT ATERTON SECTIONS. Nos. 9, 18, 29,130, 31, 38, 39, 59, 60, 62, 76,.77, 73, 90, 92, 93, 94. QEVERAL Building Sections et F*irtcn. Prices from £8 to £18 /~*i OOD Family House and | acre; ecu. VX venient to the railway and schools. /"\NE Acre, well fenced, Wesb Town Belt, For particulars and prices apply H. W. BARRETT, AKO/VPB). ASHBURTON HIGH SCHOOL. mHB BOARD OF GOVERNORS offer JL for competition SIX Scholarships, open to all Children bona fide residents m tho County of Ashburton, except) those m attendance at a High School The Scholarships will entitle the holders to free education m the Ashburton High School for two years Candidates must not be more than 14 years of age on the Ist December, 1899 The KxamiDation papers aeb will be baßed on the programme of the Public School ] work Candidates' notices, stating date of birth . and name of head teacher, must be sent to the Secretary nob later than THURSDAY, the 30th November The Examination will be hold m tho Ash burton High School on FRIDAY and SAIURDAY, the Bth and 9th December, commencing at 10 a.m. each day CHARLES BRADDELL, Secretary Ashburtoa, 12th October, 1899 10 87 FINEST Strain Mangold Seed, 9.1 per lb; finest selected Carrob Seed from ]?A 6d per lb; Turnip Seed from 7d per Ibj, at) Fletcher Bvos., Cash Supply Btorea



; : -7- ' | ;/^ o -5 |2 s O !> 1 -s » m l-> k- d kS gPh &* & Ph § I Oil $ & i ass*? o wto --g td



BOOTS. BOOTS Gigantic Sale Now On TU3T arrived and opened up a grand asßortmenb of up-to-date BOOTS AND SHOES FOR THE HOLIDAY AND SDMMSB SEASON Special Lines Women's Button Shoes 7s 6d Women's Kid Lace Shoes, only 6a lid TAN GOODS IN GREAT VARIETY. Strong School Boobs from 5a 6d. Good Bluchers, nailed, 5s 6d. L\RGEST STOCK TN TOWN TO CHOOSE FROM. REPAIRS done Promptly and ab Moderate Charges. FEED NOKES, CASH JBOOf SHOP, Next Door Bank of New Zealand, EASI STRSET, ASHBURTON. 10 196



OHI7RCH SERVICES: ] ST. STEPHEN'S CHURCH, Aahburton. I WEDNESDAY (November 1)-A1I Saintts 1 D.y 7 30 a m—Holy Communion 2 p m —Ladies' Working Society Bpm—Choral Evensong at.d Sermon TH U K8 DA V- 7 30 p m, .Bible Ulat s FHIDAY— 7 15 p m, Evening Prayer 8 pm, Choir Practice 23rd SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY (November 5) 11 a m—Matins, Holy Communion, and Sermon 3pm -OREKNSTREET 6 30 p m—Evening Prayer and Sermon X A WOOPTHQRPE, M A., Vicar "WILSON^ NEW BEASONS WALL PAPERS HAVE^ ARRIVED' /"^ALL Earlyjand choose your deal s from the full stock of new Goods.



I HVVB a sum of £10.000 to lend on mortgage of Freehold Firm Lands, m stinn to sait borrowers. a< 4| to 5 per cent. Also a sum of £20 000 to invest m one sum on a security showing an ex ceptionally good margin at 4 pc: cent-. F. FERRIMAN. FOR SALE, HALING. I HAVE for sale a farm of 586 acres at Kaling, well fenced, good theep country, F. FERRIMAN. BBKGBh'S : US <2 COMPOSITION. IN THREE COLORS BLACK, RED, BLUM The fiaesfc and most economical Sheep- Branding oil m the Market. Re>id the opinions of leading Sheep-Farmers m Otago : WE INTEND USING IT AGAIN From N.Z' Agriccltdbal Co , Waimea House, Gore, May 22, 1897. Dear Sirs,—We have found Behgkr's Marking Oil to be a good and durable sheep, branding material and intend using is again 0.8 being cheaper than the preparation formerly usad for the purpose. — P. J. Patersoh, Stat. Mgr. UNDOUBTEDLY MORE EC JNOMICIL THAK OIL AND LAMPBLACK From J. M. McKenzie, Bushy Park Eatate, Pa!m@rston. May 19, 1897. Dear Sibs,~l have great pleasure m BtatiDg that Bergeb's Sheep Branding Com pound that I received from you has given me every satisfaction, apd ia undoubtedly more economical than oil and lampblack. I MAKR A POINT Of KECOMMENDING II From Robert Logan, Maritanga, Hyde, May 19, 1897. I>eab t-iBS,—I have used Bergers Branding oil for some years, and have found it bo satisfactory that I make a point '•f recommending it. The liquid m the drums ia °f fche Bame c°nßistency r'Bnt *rom top to bottom, *n(* rf 4uirea B 0 Btirrin S' ONLY TO Bis USED TO BB APPBEOUf ED. From James Taylor, WairunJ, Uluton< May 15, 1897, Dear Sias, —J used Bbrger's Branding oil, black and red, last season on my flock, ; and lam perfeotly satisfied with the results To sheep farmers tho preparation is invalu. able, being always ready and highly eco nomical. It has onlvto be used to be appre ciated, GIVEN EVKRY SATISFACTION FOB. SEVERAL YEARS. From John Elliot, Gladbrook Station, Middlemarch. May 18, 1897. My Eear Sirs,—ln reply to your inquiry regarding Merger's Sheep Marking Com pound. We have used this Compound on all our fioeks for several years and it has given every satisfaction. It is of even quality and is ready for use. I find it lasts well, being quite legible on full woolled skins, Iv ia much more economical than brand made with the old materials (lamp, black and oil), ts owing to us even quality, there is no waste. Always ready for use. Guaranteed not to injure the wool. Will w&Bh off on scouring without leaving a stain. Sold by F. FERRIMAN. ASHBU RTON, N.Z. FOX SALE AT TKEVOIiTOJS, /CORNER Section, containing f of an v^ sere, well fenced and stocked with fruit tree?, 'i here ia also a pump with a good supply of water. Price—£4o. F. FERRIMAN. JHAVE for sale on the Beach Road, Corner Section, containing \ acre of good land, apon which is erected a five roomed house. Fall particulars en ap plicition. {F. FERRIMAN. FOB bALE, OXFORD STREET, HAMPSTEAD.I HALF-ACRE of Frst Claaa Land, lots 69 and 70. P. FERRIMAN. F. FERRIMAN. [A CARD,] TV/TIBS H. FRIEDLANDER, MANICURIST, Abcade Chambers, Ashburton. Hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 10 19g 'A SHBURTON VIEWS. — The best J\ souvenir to send to your friends at Hojne for Ohristmaß and N&w Year ia my j Album of Ashburton Views, containing 40 I views of the town and district. Also Christ- / mao and new rnotto.—lJ M Jones. I



FO& bALE, CAMERON STREET I have for Sale—A very Comfortable Dwelling of seven rooms, wiih convenient Offices, together wiih quarter acre of good Jand, well kid out m lawn and garden The buildings are constructed of the very best material, and the workmanship is unequalled Full particulars on application to P. PERRIMAN. ~~ forTsale^ ~~ A CAPITAL Sec ion m Havelock Street, adjoining the properly of Mr E. Jeffs. The section is well tencad, has a sunny aspect, and is a vory desir able site for a dwelling. F. FERRIMA N. FOR SAL"E~Al rT7Y'IsUHUKsr. -" AAQ ACRES of Good Inrd, with 4tUO _ Dwelling Homa, Stabhs, etc , and Growing Crops. A.n early inspection invited. Particulars on appli ation F. FERIUMAN.



F. FERRIMAN. for sTlbl ALFORD FOREST KOAD. I have for Sale—Half an acre of land upon which la erected a d mfortable House of five rooms and Scullery, which for style, comfort, and position only needs an inspection to eff eta sale Pull particulars on application to P. FKRRIM.iN. _______ BONEDUST—The very best Manure which can be applied to the soil. GUAKO — Whlch has given great satis faction throughout; the District, the last three seasons. BRANDING OILS — Manufactured by Lewes, Berger and Sons, England., The very best article on the markot allbntonT" ~~ FOR SALE"oR TO LET, IN THIS FAVORITE SUBURB. A SUBSTANTIALLY-BUILT Modern Ol Villa Residence and five acres of good land, well planted with fruit trees Immediate occupation. F. PERRIMAN.



... 7d per tin



JOHN ORR AND GO'S REVISED LIST^ WE Ohim to be the Leading Firm of Grocers, Iron mongers, Tand Crockery Merchants m Ashburton. We Import all our Stock from the Home Markets for Spot Cash and are therefore m the beat position tio supply the public with only genaine goods at the lowest possible price for cash. We guarantee all oar goods faU weight and finest quality. We never charge for mckins and delivery, all goods at the Railway Station free. Any person leaving an order with tn c%n get a parcel ticket, and therefore always be sure of having their goods at the station m time. No charge for ticket. T7*T ATTT) 5m per Ton —(. Jj JLjU U Xt/ VER SACK 13 3 . — SUGAU — per Lt> with T©a I&IARAVILLA GARDEN TEA— la 10<3, »2a, 2a 4d per lb slb Box 8s 9d, 9 3 7d, 11s lOibßox .- ~ ~ 16s Bd, 18a 4d, 21s 8d KOZIE TEA — 101 b Box, 18s 4d ; slb, 9a 7d GOLD LEAF TEA 101 b Box, 18s 4dj s!b, 9a 7d —PROVISIONS - FACTORY BUTTER—Fern Leaf and Satton's alwayß m stock. CHEESE—FIuent Factory, U per lb BAOON AND HAMS —•• Lewis'," " Morepork," "D. Mc^allum." Mild Cured Bams, Sides and Rolls, 7£d. GORE OATM¥AL-251b Bag, 2a 6d Van Honten's Coco^, |lb, lid jj|lb, Is Carratray Seeds 8d per Ib 9d ; lib, as 3d Pimento, whole la „ „ Fry's Cocoa, £lb, Bjd ; lib, Is 4&d Pimento, jrround Is2d „ „ Beal Good Oandles, 4|d per lb ; 8s 6d Mix^d Spice l£d per packet per b ox PlCKLES—Hayward's Mixed, lOd per Parafine Candles, plain and fluted, 6£d bottle, 9a 6d per dozen per lb; 12s 6d per box Oroes and Blackwell's, Is 3d p3r Fairy Night Lights Is 2d per box bottle Flake Tapioca, 71bs for Is Oaptam White's, 2s 31 per bottle Pearl 6lbs for Is Carry Powder lid per bottle s ßgo , 71bs for la Borax 8d per lb Mixed Peel, L^mon, Orange and Oit- Alum 6d „ „ ron,Bdperlb J;«Upe re ... 6d „ „ Lemon Peel, 7ib tins, 83 6d Tartaric Acid ..IslOd „ , lib Tins Assorted Jams, 5d per lb ;4s Carbonate Soda, 3d per lb, 2s per doz lbs 9d per doz Whole Linseed ... ... 3d per lb 21b Tars Assorted Jams, 14s 6i per doz Linseed Meal 4d „ „ Lea aTd Perrin's Sauce, large, 2a 6d MATOHES-Plaids, 4^d per do*, 4 3 per bottle OK a t«i a per grOBS Mellor's Saace, Is 3d per bottle 250 s Is 6d per dozen Worcester Saace, small, 5d ; large, 9d 1000 s 5d per box, 4s lOd per Brown's Corn Floor, 3d per lb r°J c? iß o , Mazlna <M per dozen 5a 6d Bryant and May a Safeties, 83 per Morton^ Creamrof BT»rt»r, Is 3d per Ib Yarmouth Bloaters, 9for la Preserved Fruit, 2|lb tins, 8d per tin, Maconoehiee Fresh Herrings, 6|d per 7s 6d per doz _ t{a English Cut Loaf Sugar, 3|d per lb  Herrings In Tomato, lOd Tomato Sauce, 9d per bottle per tin Golden Syrap, 21b 6d, 4lb Is, 561 b 11s „ Herrings m Shrimp, lOd g^ per tin Treacle, 21b 6d. 41b Is, 71b Is 9d „ Kippered Herringa, 10d Fii.Mt fiaisina 6|dperlb per^ tin Finest Sultanas 7|d „ „ „ Preserved Bloaters, lOd Finest Currants 5d „ „ JM n,<.pc »* tt per case 4M „  Auckland Mullett 7d per tin Stewing Pks 7-|d „ „ Oysters 8d „ „ French PIBTnB (choice) ... 1« .. »> Sardines, large Alberts ... la „ „ Sowing Ploios ... ... 9*l »»> Sardines, large ... . 8d „ „ mSSKTcSei.::: ... u^ » .. . «„ „ Californian Muscatels ... Is .. .. Sa mon, Holly leaf ... lOd „ „ SMMTestr. fine, 31b boxes, la 91 per Salmon other Brands 8d „ „ h x OlL—Lucca, 2a 4d per bottle Almnnda Jordan 2a 4d per lb Salad, | pint sd, 1 pint lOd A mond"' Vale "c a ... Ib 6d „ „ Ctotor, i pint 6d, 1 pint lOd A monds' Sic Iy !. ... Ib 4d , „ Sheepa Tongues, lib Is, 21b Is lOd Bam^naNute ... ... 8d "" „ Corned Beef, Mutton, Spiced Beef, 2lb D«vlnd IMart*n's'paste"Blacking/4^d Crosse and Blackwell's assorted Pastes, ocr doe ls 3d per bobtle» 14s 6d Per dozen Day and Martin's Jar Blacking, 6d per Potted Meats, assorted, 6d per tin * bott j e Bovril, 2oz, la lOd. French Blacking, 2d per tin, Is 9d per Leiberg's extract. Is 9d perlbottle 08 Patent Groats, Robinsons, 10d ; ;i Har- Nlxey'a Blacklead, Id dize, 9d per doz per"s, 9d per tin J»meß';Dome|Blackkad,t6d per doz J Welllns Food, Xa Bdper tin



WAVERLEY CYCLES. TVT BW SHIPMENT JUST T^O HA N^D ALL LATEST IMPEOVEMENTS M Two or turee 98 Ladies Models yet on hand, will sell at £20 A few good second-hand machines for sale at prices from £5 up. SOLE AGENTS FOR NEW ZEALAND. JOHN ORR & CO., ASHBURTON,