Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1899.

Discussing the attitude of Europe m relation to the war m South Africa, M de Blowitz, the ENGLAND'S IN well-informed Pa-is FLUE\CE AND correspondent of THE BOER WAR. the London Times, says that it. was hoped among those anxious to form a European combination against England that this would be brought about by the Boera inflicting serious reverses upon the British at the outset. " All that was desired and hoped," he writes, " was that the first successes obtained by the Boers, through the foreseen slowntss of the English preparations, would carry away public opinion, excite the nations m favour of the victim, and force the Governments to intervene. The disappointment, how ever, has speedily arrived. The most thoughtful portion of the German press begins to comprehend that England, if embarrassed and incapable of influenc ing the latent questions of peace or war m Europe, would pit the Dual Alliance against the Triple Alliance, thus rendering at least uncertain the issue for herself. This was a theory which the Times advocated as long ago as 1891, and ever since that time I have ventured to maintain, despite some raillery, that the Franco -Russian Alli ance was very fortunate for Eng land, because, although possibly it hampered her m certain details, she could, m case of conflict, decidedly turn the scale m favour either of the Dual or of the Triple Alliance. This is a truism which reflecting Germans, the Emperor m particular, have not overlooked. This is why, leaving the Leydist press to its declamation?, he will go to England, thus showing that his supreme duty and that of his ad visers towards themselves and towards peace is net to weaken England or estrange her powerful friendship. Those who have been dreaming of a general uprising, of a crusade ngainst England, must renounce their antici pated pleasure. They must reflect that, whatever the issue of this war— ■ even if it b 8 the most probable issue— England will not emerge weakened, but that even reverses would not impair her influence on the Continent or else where, or the salutary effect of her character and liberal principles on the whole civilised world "

Local and General.

£** On the first page to-day will be found a report of the Military Tournament, and the Meteorological report. Personal—Miss Esther Gites, who for somo months was on the nursing staff at the Sunnyfcide Asylum, lift Ashburton yesterday to join the nursing staff at the Timaru Hos pital. The VoLUNTEERS.'~At the Dunedin military tournament on Boxing Day the tent pitching competition was won by the Aahburton Riflse, tne Dunedin Navals being second, and th>i Ashburton Guards third. There were thirteen competitors. Ckickkt—The Ashburton Cricket Club will play a ma eh on their own ground on New Years Day against the Wiaden 0. C. (Chri3tchurch). Players able to take p*rt m the match must "notify the secretary at one • as the team will be chosen on Friday even'ng. The ex-Premier of New South Wales. —Mr Keid, ex-Prtmier of New vSouth Wales, and his wife, arrived at the Bluff by the Mokoia, from Melbourne. They were wel comed to the colony by Mr Ward, on behalf of the Government. The Waipara-Cheviot Kailway—Mr Jack, the surveyor of the WaipararUheviot railway, concluded the work of pegging out the route of the line over a week ago, and as g.-oon as the holidays are over he will commence writing up the detaiia. After thia ia accomplished the work of construc tion will be put m hand. Tub Birthplaces op Legislators. —Tak ing the numbers of the New Z aland House according to the countries of their birth, it is f und that about 20 of them were born m England, 16 m New Zealand, 14 m Ireland, 10 m Scotland, 4 m Victoria, 2 m India, 1 m Tasmania, and 1 m South Australia, Drunkenness —A. man with a very Celtic Bound aboub both Christian and surname pleaded guilty this morning to having been found drunk m the street the previous even ing. As he had not been m the hands of the police for some years previously Mr Aloorn, J.P., treated him as a first offender, con victed him and let him off. Incandescent Lights For Oj?en Air Gatherings.—A trial of the new installation of incandescent Sights was held at) Lancaster Park, Chriatohureh, recently. Thirty arc lamps, with a power of 20,000 candle-power, have been erected, and the brilliant effect was much admired. The Freezing Company—At the annual meeting of the Canterbury Frrzen Meat Company yesterday, the Chairman, Mr VV. Ghrystall, stated that, after making due provision for dividend and for writing off, the Directors hud decided to give a rebate each year to their freezing ciiente. The recent rice m the price of wool as evidenced at tha local wool sales was also referred to as tending to the prosperity of the Company by the increased breeding of crossbred sheep suitable for freezing. Tree Spraying F xpemments —The De partment of Agriculture intend to conduct treo^praying experiments m the various centres throughout the colony, and have communicated with the Canterbury Horti cultural Society on the subject. The De partment intend to lease one or more orchards m this district for the purpose. v Qwnera are to communicate with Mr E. C. Dann, apoing ho:■. sec. of the Horticultural Society, who will forward all information to the Departraeeb. Au exhaustive series of tests of the various remedies being con ducted locally should b 3of immease benefit to our fiuib-growerp, and it is hoped that suitable orchards will be procured. Photography.—Mr D, Jon'e.», a photo grapher <.f lengthened experience, and, as bis wpik shows, of skill and taste, has taken over Mtb Bobottom's Btudioin Moore street, and announces his intention of carrying on business m those premises. He makes a specialty of enlargements, and a further apecmlty of photographing homestead?, villas, and cottage home 3, and claims special facility In reproducing group-. Farmers and owners of live stock have frequently a desire to haye anything good thab they posseßß preserved m photograph, and m this Mr Jones claims ability to suit their wishes by the latest instantaneous process. As a means of introducing himself to the people he will for fourteen days take the portraits free of children under five yeara of age at the studio. Catholic Literary Society.—-The usual weekly meeting of the Ashburtoa Catholic Literary was held m the Boys' School on Wednesday evening. There was a large attendance of members, and the President (Mr L. Hanrahan), occupied the chair. A considerable amount of minor business having been dealb with the programme for the evening was proceeded with. The programme set down took the form of a card tournament, towards which one of the members had generously off-red a prizj for the'wiuner. As there were a large num ber of contestants m the tournament it took till a late hour m the evening to decide the winner, bub fcfter several closely contested games Mr P. MoDonngll was declared the winner. The resulb was received with applause by the members, and a most (enjoyable evening's entertainment) wai fought to » oloie m the usual manner.

"*Fat lambs from ihr Ilains.—Ninety , lamb* out of a mob of 130 w<re killed afc the Fan field Works on December 19 for Mr fc. TaibofctoD, Hinds, which averaged 42g ba — good quality. Twenty- evm of them went 48£' b». The sheep were <f the L< c >ln breed. Temperance and Patriotism—Th« Gler kenwell Town Hall was, on the 6th Novem ber, filled with people, and hung with banners, on the oocasion of the Juliilae meet ing of the Sons of Temp«rano3 (London Grand Division). V.so .unt Morpett (-.he chairman), C*non Barker, and oMior speikers gave details of the fifty years' work. It was announced, amid cheers, that the London . division had decided to keep good on its ' book", |md m fu'i beutfit, all an mbera oalkd upon to join the colors as reservists. The cost will be bor^e by the interest on the surplus funds, which amount to nearly £12,000. There was also great applause when (J^non Barker declared that the title of patriot should not be monopolised by the | | man who went abroad to acquire new ter ritory, for it could often ba worthily be- \ stowed on the man who tried to improve the ! conditions of life m countries already ac quired. The chairman stated that there is no recorded case of a total abstainer being found m the workhouse.— Daily News.

GOOD-BYE TO THE CONTINGENT.

Good-bye, brave boys of New Zealand ; God fortune attend your endeavour To join with the forces of Homeland, With a love that nothing can sever, | To fight for the right With glorious might- New Zealand and Britain for ever ! Fair braczsa blow aa forward you go To the place where the battle is waging, To fight for the colours, for well we know 'Tit* for thin your heart-blood ia raging. So 6ght for the right With glorious might— , New Ze\l«»l and Britain for ever! ' (Shoulder to shoulder, with brave British cheers, Stout victories win from the insolent Boer, , Throwing behind you all doubts and all fears Whilst fighting hard battles and winning the war. So fight for the right With glorious mi^ht — New Zealand and Britain f r ever ! On then to glory and to fame, And never let your thoughts forgot That you still bear New Zealand's name, And that her eves are on you yet. So fight'for the right With glorious might- New Zealand and Britain for ever ! And so you'll return, with lanrels entwined Round your brows, as New Zealand heroes. With valorous acts m her recorda enshrined That shall tell the deeds of brave fel'ows. So fight for the right With glorious might— New Zealand and Britain for ever ! G. S. Oamaru, October 21.

News in Brief.

Train arrangements for January 1, m connection with the Lyttelton regatta, Metbven sports, and Tinwald raoes, are advertised m thia issue.

LAWN TENNIS.

The lawn tennis match Linwood v. Ash burton, which should have taken place on Anniversary Day, and had to ba abandoned owing to the rain, took place on Boxing Day on the new grass courts m the Domain, and resulted m au easy victory for the visiting team by 190 to 156 gamee* The victory was mainly due to the vastly superior play c-f the visiting ladies, Miss Simpson's hard driving and placing being greatly admired. The Ashburton men more than held their own against their opponent?. Mrs Cox and Mias Shury supplied afternoon tea, The individual scorfs were : — COMBINED DOUBLES. Miss Simpson and Mr Barlotv, 5—5, 6—4, 5—6, v Miss A. Orr and Mr Salmond Misa River and Mr Bribed, 4—6, 4-6, 4-6, v Mrs P. Zander and Mr Cox Mrs Bristed and Mr Gobs, 6—l, 6—2, 4—6, v MiBS Shury and Mr Upton ladies' singles. Miss Simpson, 9—2, v Cdias A Orr Miss Kiver, 9—4, v Mrs D. Zander Miss Howard, 9—2, v Miss Shury Mrs Bristed, 9—2, v Miss K. Orr LADIBS' DOUBLES. MiBS Simpson and Misa River, 6—l, 6—o, 6—o, v Mies A, Orr and Mrs Zander Mrs B*rlow and Misa Howard, 9—2, v Miss Shury and Miss R, Orr BIEN S SINGLE?. Mr Barlow 3— 6, I—6, Mr Salmond Mr Goss 6—5, 6—2, 6—4, Mr Upton Mr Bristed 2-6,4-6,2—6, Mr Cox Mr Wither 5 -6, 6—3, 4—6, Mr Steward MEN DOUBLES. Meaers Barlow and Bristed 3—6, 5~6, I—6, v Messrs Salmond and Cox Messrs Wither aod Owen 6—4, 6—l, 2—6, V Messrs Jackson and Steward Messrs Goss and Owen 6—5,6-4, 3—6, v Messrs Upton and Johnston

MOUNT SOMERS RACES.

A Patriotic Committee. President—A E Peache, Esq ; Vioe-Pres:= den ta—James Harrison and J P Peter, Etqa ; Judge—A fi Peaohe, Esq ; Starter -~C Morrison, Eeq ; Clerk of Course—Mr Charles Green ; Clerk of Scales—Mr John Hood s Handioappers—Messrs Doak, Mor risoD, and Goldsmith 5 Treasurer—Mr John Hood j Secretary—Mr W. Jamea Bennett. For a number of years races and sports have been held annually on Boxing Day at Mount Somers. This year the meeting was held as usual, and m perfect weather. A spec al excursion train from Aehburfcon was ran to Mount Homers and the bush, which was well freighted indeed with holiday makers, and when the first race was run the course swarmed with people. Some idea of the attendance may be gained when it is stated that when the gatekeeper came to hand over his "tally" U, the secretary, Mr W J Bennett, he was astonished to find that his satchel oontained the handsome sum of £30 odd. This is the record "gate' 5 for the district. The entertainment provided was very enjoyable. The day was warm cer tainly, but a heavy rain had fallen the previous day, that had had thu effect of keeping down the dust, and only a slight breeze blew, just enough to temper things , to the comfortable poiat. The clear atmos phere showed the mountains beautifully lined pub against the western sky, and altogether the picture presented to the visitor from the plains was attractive m the highest degree, and the whole gathering was one giving every evidence of being well pleased and perfectly satisfied with itself. The officers and committee worked very hard, and allowed no one an opportunity to complain of delay. The arrangements were admirable and were carried out m a bu*i j ness like way. They engaged the Methven brass band, and the playing of that body of | musicians was quite a revelation to Ashbur^ ton people. The band is fifteen strong, and is under the mastership of Mr Lock, a capable musician himself, a good cornet player besides, and has just the personal qualities nepessary to incite young players to study hard and practice assiduously. The ex cellent playipg of the band was the subject of much remark by the many visitors who had the pleasure of listening to it. It was also remarked that the bind is a teetotal one, a most unusual thing, considering that J the blowing of wind instruments ia rather thirsty work. The oourse was very well laid cff, and the going was excellent. The new fence inclosing a portion of the straight ia a very substantial affair of dressed timber nicely painted, An office for the secretary has been built as well as a dressing room, but as yet the saddling paddock is enclosed by the always useful and available hurdles. Mr Powell, of the Mount Somers Hotel, had charge of the refreshment booths, or more properly speaking he placed their charge m the hands of perhaps the most capable man for that work that could be found m the county—Mr Robert Hill—whose lieutenants were Mr Thomas Topping m the publican's booth, and Mr and Mrs H H Capon m the luncheon booth, »nd of the latter it may be

said that the table was well furuishe.l m- ; deed, ih; following ar« th«j results of the | tiorse events :— ! Hurdle Race Handicap, of 7| soya; 1^ ! Bovtt frrm the stake for secoaciTiioise 0 f. j and a quarter mil-. Mr W S Smith's Lapwing, 11a 6 b .. 1 Mr JNee's Pohio, 10it 6 l> ?. ) Mr J Sharplin'a Alucrhy, 10 b „« .„ 3 There was good j imping shown, an.l tie; race was a good one. I Maiden Plvte Handicap, cf ssovs; 1 soy I from the sUke for second horse. Three-j quarters of a nii'e. I Mr H Smih's K-uawuru, 11 ih ... 1 i Mr E MoKae'a Whildaw, list 6!b .. 2 ; Mr X Viacent'B Flyaway, lQst 9 b .. 3 j Dainty, Burlington Jock, and Batdona j also ran m an (xming race, which was won I by a length, with all whips out. Maidun Trot Handicap (saddle or harness), of 4 BOVB ; 1 soy from the stake for eecond horse ; 1£ mile. Minimum weight list. Mr Archie McOormack's Ambitios, scr 1 Mr S Baird'e Sefton .„ , .„ 2 Mr J.Diyle's My Jewel  3 Black Angel, MisaStaveley, Doppelganger, Silvei Queen, Templar, and Lexia also ran. The race was a gifb to the scratch horse, and farmers who know Mr McCormack will understand what weight Ambition had to oarry, for if Archie rides a pound !:e rides sixteen stone, bat the grand horse came through his hoises easily and won with a iot m hand. It was said, however, that only Arohie could have got the work out of the horse Mount Somers Cup Handicap, of 9 soys ; 2 sove from the stake for seoond horse ; one mile. Minimum weight 9st Mr H Sharplin's Inchoape, IGst 61b ♦« 1 Mr S Millar's Nutcracker, lOst 91b .. 2 Mr D Fergus's Goldfinch ..3 Kaiser and Lapwing also rap. Inohcape won from the jump, and there was never anything m it but Inchcape Handicap Thot (saddle or harness), of 6 Bova ; 1 soy from the stake for second horse ; two mile?. Minimum weight list Mr S Baird's Sefton, 15aec  .. 1 Mr A McOormack'a Ambition, tcr  2 Mr Goldsmith's Miss Sta,veley .. ..3 Phem 25: ec, Ladysmith 45aec, Black Angel ear, My Jewel scr, Scottish Lasa ecr, a'flo ran> An easy win Springburn Welter Handicap, of 5 soys ; 1 soy from the stake for second horse ; one mile. Minimum weight, 10at 7ib Mr D Fergus's Goldfinch, list 3ib .. 1 Mr F. Mcßae'a Whitelaw, lOdfc 9lb .. 2 Mr V7T Smith's Lapwing, 12at 61b .. 3 Kaiawaru lOat 61b and Kaiser 12st 21b aleo ran. A popular win of a close race. The Hurry Scurry m which eleven ran, and a Consolation Race closed the horse events The athletic events were as follows :— 100 Yards Maiden-J Brown 1,1 Lewis 2., Six started 100 Yards Handicap—H Millichamp 3yds 1; W Campbell, 6yds, 2; J Stevens 3. Seven started 220 Yards Handicap—H Millichamp, scr, 1 ; E Beckley, scr, 2 ; J Brown, 4yds, 3. Five started 440 Yards Handicap—J Stevens 1, H Millichamp 2. Five ran Bicycle Race (68 chains actual measure ment, over a grass course, not of the smoothest)—W Cook, 40yds, 1; A Beckley, 120 yds, 2. Six started. After the races were over, the public were oalled round the Secretary's office, and Mr Alexander Hf»rrey, m an eloquent but modest speech, announced that the Com mittee had decided to give £10 of their gate mouey to the Transvaal Fund. The announce ment was received with cheers, as was also Mr Mac Lean's acknowledgment for the Mayor of Ashburton of the handsome gift.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright I ondon, December 26 The steamer Ariosfo, from Galveston to Hamburg, stranded at Ocracoke Inlet, North Carolina. Twenty-one of her crew perished, and the captain and eight others were swed. A breeches buoy was worked from the ship to the shore. St Petersburg Dee 27 Hasfcy reinforcements for the East are leaving Odessa, Sydney, December 26 A number of the hands at the Momba Company's station, White Cliffs, have been poisoned, and one man named Simson and his wife died. It is supposed that there was poison m the water tank. !

BUSH FIRES.

Melbourne, December 27 Rain has checked the bush firea, but immense damage has been done. Thousands of acres of grass have been destroyed by bush fires ;"n the Bairnsdale district. j

CRICKET.

United Press Association—By Eleotric Telegraph—Copyrighb Melbourne, December 27 In the match Victoria v New South Wales, the wicket played badly to-day. The first innings of New South Wales closed for 520 (Hopkins 44, Iredale 91). Victoria m the firßt innings scored 151 (Worrall 19, Graham 39), and m the second innings they have |oompiled 35 without the loss of a wicket (Worrall29).

THE BUBONIC PLAGUE.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph — Copy rights Sydney, December 27 In consequence of the plague the French warship Eure and the steamer Pacifique, from Noumea^ have been isolated. The Pacifique brought a large number of time expired soldiera and a number of passengers. The majority left for Melbourne before action could be taken, and efforts are being made to find those landed m Sydney. In view of the plague, the munici pal authorities are cleansing the slums. The Board of Health has a supply of prophylactic against the disease, which it obtained from India some time ago The British Consul at Noumea cables that the disease exists m a severe form. Noumea, Dec 27 Eight more cases have occurred, There were five deaths since yesterday. There have been no deaths amongst the whites, who are progressing favour ably. The buildings m the affected quarter are being demolished. Busi ness is at a standstill. (Received Wakapuaka Deo. 28, 9.5 a.m, This Office 9 45 a.m) Sydney, December 28 The vessels which arrived at New castle and Melbourne from Noumea via Sydney have been quarantined. The strictest precautions are being taken against the plague.

TRANSVAAL WAR.

Colonial Loyalty

i Recognition by '< The limes," I The Hluation at the Tugela I General Buller's Narrow Escape Cape Dutch Join the * nemy. New Zealand Contingent. British Occupation of I'ord . recht United Press Association —By Eleotric Telegraph—Copyright. Capetown, December 27 Commandant Oronje notifies that he declines to hold communication with Lord Methuen until the end of the war. The enemy's disappearing harasses Lord Methuen's right. Fever and "pink-eye" have made their appearance m the Boer camp. " Pink eye" has also broken out at De Aar and Sterkstroom. During the fight on the 15th in<st. bullets grazed G?neral Buller's ribs and Mftjor-General Clery's aria. Bradford, the wounded New Zea lander, is likely to recover. The Gape Police occupied Dord recht. The Boera retreated during the fight, London Dec 27 The Times, cooamesting on the Modder river situation, says it m difficult to overestimate the effect of the Australian and Canadian loyalty. The Colonial detachments are ex tremely popular. The New South Wales troops have proved their cour age and discipline. Their enthusiasm is encouraging all fighters, and shames many waverers into loyalty, . and imposes a heavy debt of gratitude on the Motherland. Durban, December 27 A thousand Cape Dutch have reiu forced the Boers at the Tugela.

News from Besieged Towns

Ladysmith and Eimberley Can Hold Cut Disaffection m Cape Colony. Afrikander Bond Unanimously Disloyal. Alleged Boer Reserve Durban, December 27 Ladysmith sent a message by heliograph—"Can hold out indefinitely. The casualties on the 22nd were nine killed and fifteen wounded." Capetown, December 27 Kimberley has six months' pro visions. Members of the Boad at Capetown report that 8000 officers and men, skilled m tactics and artillery, are held m reserve at Pretoria, A set of Marconi instruments in tended for the Boers was captured at Capetown. Tr, yielded perfect com munication from the Orange River station to De Aar. London, December 27 The correspondent of The Times at Sterkstroom cays that fear, not loyalty, prevents a general rising of the mem bers of the Afrikander Bond, who are unanimously disloyal. Eighteen hun* dred and fifty disloyalists fought against General Gatacre at Stormberg. Lord Kitchener has arrived at Gibraltar. The, Vienna correspondent of The Times states that nervousness is dis played m Yieana diplomatic circles since the British reverses, which implioa a reluctant admission of the strength of the British Empire, and that Great Britain alone has inspired the Continent with a robust faith m the maintenance of peace. The Hon. Thomas Brassey, eldest son of Lord Brassey has volunteered for the Transvaal. Sydney, December 27 The Premier has received a cable from the Imperial authorities acceding to the request that the New South Wales troops will, as far as possible, be attached to similar arms of the Imperial forces.

Uses of Barbed Wire.

The Captured €ims liocr Tactics at the Modder. Location of the Colonial Troops. Lord Kitchener. Received Wakapuaka Deo 28, 9 5 a.m This Offioa 9 45 a.m.) Durban, December 27 Barbed wire has been placed across the bottom of the fords at Tugela river. The guns captured by the Boers at the' battle on the 15th were thrown into the Tugela river. Capetown, December 27 The Boers at Modeler river do not reply to Methuen's shells, fearing to disclose the positions of their guns. London Dec 27 The Daily Chronicle's correspondent states that the Australian infantry and Canadian riflemen are at Belmont, and the Queensland mounted infantry at the Orange river. Lord Kitchener joined Lord Roberts aboard the Dunottar Castle at Gibral tar.

A Capture.

Arrival of Reinforcements Mules for the Front, General Joubert. Kruger Suspicious. British Spies m the Boer Ranks. Charges of Sedition. Received Wakapuaka Dec. 28, 9 5 a-m This Office 9,45 m.m London, Dec. 27 A British cruiser has captured a cargo of stretchers and railway sleepers

at Delagoa Bay, intended for the Bonn Capetown, December 27 The second batmiious of «bh Middle sex and Koyal Lancaster regiments have arrived &' Oapou wn wish strong d: afts for other region ns. 'f h> usanda of mules are aWo fmi\i g. Tie mules greatly ficilitate transport. Generftl Joobert has again gon« to the front. Kruger is su--picious that British spies are m the Boer ranks. Three members of the' Gape Assem bly are implicated m the charges cf sedition.

The Nicholson's Nek Affair.

The 16th Lancers Twenty Thousand Men for the Imperial Yeomanry. (Received Wakapuaka Dec 28, 9 5 a.m This Office 9.45 a.m) Lqndon, December 27 The Daily News states that it was Colonel Adye, General White's ataff officer accompanying Garleton's bri gade, wbo hoisted the white flag at Nicholson's Nek, and not a subordin ate officer as previously reported Before leaving England Lord Rob erts obtained a promise that the 16th Lancers, stationed m the Punjaub, should ba sent to South Africa Twenty thousand men have volun teered for the Imperial Yeomanry Regiment, Sydney, December 28 Gorernment, with consent of the Imperial authorities, accepted Major- General French's offer to volunteer far the Transvaal. Melbourne, December 27 Mr Percy Ohirnaide has offered to re-establish the Werribee battery, and expend £500 m equipping it, if Govern ment will accept it for the Transvaal.

Another Handsome Offer.

£1000 to the Patriotic Fund A Hundred More from Tasrnanh (Received Wakapuaka Deo 20, 9 5 a.m This Office 9.45 a. m,) Bbisbane, December 28 John Ferguson, a member of the Oouncil, has donated £1000 to the Patriotic Fund. Hobart, Dec 28 Government has decided to offer a hundred mounted men for the - Transvaal if required.

Grasspan and Relmont.

Battle of Grasspan. Received Wftkapu&ka Deo. 28, 10 a.m Thiß Office 10.56 a.m) Sydney, December 28 At the battle of Grasspan, the eneaiy had the kopjes studded with trenches and the distances carefully marked to enable the artillery to find the range without difficulty, At six o'clock m the morning an artillery duel began; The enemy occupied long range kopjes, where four cannon were posted m excellent position. The Boers bad thfi ex*cfc range, their shells bursting risht over our men shrapnel was falling iacessantly, but our men stuck gallantly to their guns and returned the fire wish interest After an hour the British guns were taken back a thousand yards to give the enpmy diffi culty m finding the range. After three hours' severe work the enemy showed no signs of vacating their stronghold, and the infantry advanced The Boers sent a scathing fire into them, but the infantry replied and forced the enemy from their first position, and the cavalry charging, caught a party of Boers rushing for shelter. The Lanoers came op the face of one kopje, but found it alive with the enemy, and had to re treat, as the Boers occupied almost each side. The engagement then became general along the face of the kopjes, and a fearful - engagement took place The marines bore the brunt of it, and rushed gallantly. Officer after officer fell, but still oar men clambered over the boulders undaunted. The Boers used their rifles with good effect, but nothing human could stop the rush of the infantry. Detachments of all the regiments helped the marines, and after four hours fightiDg the enemy were forced from their last position. However, they resumed the fire from the eastern kopje, but were soon silenced. A few thousand Boers left cover and fled, but owing to their horses being exhausted the Lancers were unable to follow. The artillery, 1 however, poured shells into the retreat* ing enemy, The battle of Belmonr, two dayi previously was characterised by a brilliant charge by the Scots Guards, who took the first position after an hour's combat. The Coldstreama, Northumberland^, and Northamptons were exposed to a death dealing fire. The Boers at first held their position and the British advanced at a great sacrifice, but the Boers, outflanked, i retired to their second position, where another desperate conflict began. The naval gun drove them out, and they retired on their laager. The Lancer* subsequently destroyed the Boer ammu nition and rendered the guns useless.

West Australian Contingent.

I A Clergyman Enlists as a | Private. (Received Wakapuak* Deo 28, 11.35 a.m This Office 12.20 a.m) ! Perth, December 28 Government is prepared to raiae the mounted contingent to a hundred. Some volunteers have offered to pay £50 each towards their expenses if allowed to join. Rev. Mr Reid, Pres byterian minister at Boulder, has en listed as a private m the contingent.

Ranfurly's Gift

Dungaxmoa, Castle Of ored as a Military Hospital United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Wellington December 28 Lord Ranfurly has cabled Home, offering his house and park at Dungannon for nse of the sick and wounded soldiers, more es pecially those belonging to the Irish regi ments. The house hM about 100 rooms, and could accommodate at least 400 men. The park, of about 1000 acres, stands on high ground, and altogether the Governor's seat is very suitable for such purpose* Dunganoon is about forty milei from Belf»it|

THE ABHJSUKTOH GOABDIAN ; THUKSDiiY, D£C£MBEB 28, iB9S



A Card of Thank* I wish to say that I feel under lasting obligations for what Chamberlain's Cough Remedy has done for our family. We have uaed it m so many cases of coughs, lung troubles and whooping cough, and it has always given the moat perfecb satisfaction, we feel greatly indebted to the manufacturers of this remedy and wish them to please accepb our hearty thanks—Respectfully, Mrs S Dots', Des Moines, lowa. For sale j by Ashburtox Drug Company | Unequalled and Invincible Woods' Great 4 Peppermint Cure for (Jought and Qolda,ls 6d



! CHkISTMAS, 1899. we have now m stock and arriving fob our CBRbTMAS TRADE LARGE SUPPLIES New Currants and Raisins, new Sul tanas and Candid Peels, new Muscatels Hiid Almonds, now D >s.-.icated Cocoanut and Silk-drcssfd Icelng Sugar, new kinds Fruits, including Apricot s, Pears, Peaches, Pine Apple, and Table Plums. The Finest TEAS and SUGARS m Town. NOW LANDING. A SHIPMENT of high-class English i China direct from >ha Potteries. All. the '< latest Pa.terns. , ALSO— A [SHIPMENT CHOICE CHRISTMAS NOYFLTIES, Direob from Japan, Please Bend your Orders early and oblige We are Agents for COLUMBIA, B.S.A. and LOVELL DIAMOND, BICYCLES. CARSON & C 0.,! TEA MERCHANTS AND BLENDERS, GROCERS, AND IRONMONGERS. Importers of Bicycles, Ironmongery, Glaaa and China. Tanobed Stbeet, Aahburton. H£ J. WILSON, (Established 1878), BURNETT STREET, opposite Mail Office Employs upwards of 18 hands. DECORATOR & SIGN-WRITER. I WISH to notify that I have secured the services of Mb Chas. Chapman, as Sign wrioer, who, m addition to his home training has had a large amount of experi ence m our citiefi. LARGE STOCK OF ARTISTIC wall papers, I have jest received—direct from the manufacturers —a few thousand feeb of Picture Frame Mouldings. Personß desirous of having Pictures framed would do well to call and see them. Telephone 65 BIG DISPLAY GOODS IN ALL DEPARTMENTS FOR XHH CHRISTMAS SEASON. SPECIAL Line Drees Goods at Is 9d per yard A Grand Choice of Prints aud Muslins Litest m Ladies' Hats Newest Goods iv Ties and Collars for Ladies Very Special—Tan Kid Gloves at 2s lid per pair, worth 4s lid Cycling White Lisle Gloves Big Variety Hosiery -^-Special value G^ntlcai n'e Tie?, Shirts, Collars, ar.d Underwear SprcM line Gentlemen's Suite at 29i 6d—Grflnd value In Boots and Shoes our prices are very low Dressmaking 10a 6d ; fit and style guaranteed Trading Stamps to all Cash Customers ASHBDKTON DRAPERY COMPANY. BOOTS 7 BOOTS i Gigantic Sale Now On TUST arrived and opened up a grand assortment of up-to-date ! BOOTS AND SHOES FOR THEJ HOLIDAY AND SUMMEB SEASON Special Lines Women's Button Shoes 7s 6d Women's Kid Lace Shoo 3, only 6s lid TAN GOODS IN GREAT VARIETY. itrong School Boots from 5s Sd, Good Bluchers, nailed, 5s 6d. LARGEST STOCK IN TOWN TO CHOOSE FROM. REPAIRS done Promptly and afe Moderate Charges. FRED NOKES. CASH BOO!' SHOP, Next Door Bank of New Zealand, EAST STREET, ASHBURTQN, CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAK HOLIDAYS. ■EVERYTHING A Cyclist requires from 6d worth of Graphite to a 1900 Zealandia Bicycle. Price <£31, DATES, LOWRY AND CO BURNETT STREET, heapesb and best stock m Ashburton. IMPORTANT to Cash Buyers of Drapery, Clothing, Boots, &c. Early Summer Clearance Sale of Seasonable and Reliable Goods. Cash discount at the rate of one ling m the pound to every Buyer of epence worth and over. Inspection in d.-—H C B bkeit, late Barrett Broß , [The Hall, Ssafc Btreeb. 11 20 j



I WAVERLEY WHS ON BOXING DAY.) ■ (X) ) ASHBURTON. Ist and 2nd — — Half Mile Ist und nd — — One Mile Ist and 2nd —- — Two Mile Ist and 2nd — — WHEEL B^OE KAIAPOI. Wheel Pace  „ First and Second Five Mile „ „ First GLENTUNNEL. Wheel Face v  First and Second 1 Mile ' ,- Fint and Second JMile 5> „ First 5 Mile „ „ liret and Second TEMUKA. 2 Mi'e „ „ Second 5 Mile „ „ Second J OHN ORR & CO.. ASHBOBION, SOLE NEW ZEALAND AGENTS aud at Waverley Oycle Depot 217 Colombo street-,°Cbristcharch, JOHN ORR AND GO'S REVISED LIST* B . »\r • . H . IIIIIIMI . , m WE OUim to bathe Leading Firm of G- ooors. Ironmongers, and Crockery Merchants m Ashburton. We imp irt .-ill our Stock from the Homo Markets for Spot Cash and are therefore m the best position oo supply the public with only genuine goods afe the lowest possible price for cash. We guarantao all our jfiods fuH weight and fiti>)9C quality. We never charge for picking aad dalivjry, all go Ha at tin Railwty bt.ii m free. Any poraon leaving an order *i'<h vi ovi get a p*re>al ticket, an I th >rofor.i alwiya be sure of having their gojis afc tha station m time, No charge for ticket. TUT r\TTT> «8 5s p«rToa-| I? -L*U UXV PER SACK. 13^. — BUGAU- SJJd per lib witu Tea /~\ ! MARA VILLA GARDEN TEA— Is 10d, §28, 2a 4d] per 1b 61b Box .- ... ... 8* 9d, 9a 7d, lie 101 b Box ... .- .... 16s B<J, 18a 4d, 2lßjßd| KOZIE TEA — 101 b Box, |18s 4d ; 51b, 9b 7d GOLD LEAF TEA 101 b Box, |13s 4d; s!b, 9a 7d -PEOVISIONS - FACTORY BUTTER—Fern Leaf and Button's always m stock. CHEESE—FineBt Factory, 8d per 1b BACON AND HAMS —•' Lewis'," " Morepork," »D. Medium. Mild Curud Hams, Sides and Rolls, 7Jd, GORE OATMFAL—2SIb Bag, 2s 6d Van Honten's Cocoa, £lb» lid ; |lb, Is Oarraway Seeds 8d per 1b 9d ; lib, as 3d Pimento, whole ... ...| 1 8 „.„ Fry's Cocoa, |lb, B^d ; lib, Is 4£d Pimento, jrround Is2d „ „ tlealGood Dandles, 4^dperlb; 8s $& Mixfd Spice ... ...l^dperpackeb per box PlCKLES—Hayward's Mixed, lOd per Parafine Candles, plain and flufced, 6|d bottle, 9s 6d per dozen per lb ; 12s 6d per box Cross and Blackwell's, Is 3d par Fairy Night Lights la 2d per box bottle Flake Tapioca, 7lba for la Captain White's, 2s 3d par bottle Pear', 61bs for Is Carry Powder ... ...Hd per bottle «ago, 71bs fo» Is Borax 8d per lb Mixed Peel, L^mou, Orange and Cit- Alum 6d „ „ ron, Sdperlb Saltpetre 6d „ „ Lemon Peel, 71b tins, 3a 6d Tartaric Acid lslOd „ „ lib Tins Assorted Jams, 5d per lb ;4a Carbonate Soda, 3d per lb, 2s per doz lbs 9d per doz Whole Linseed 3d per lb 21b Jars Assorted Jams, 14s 6i per doz Linseed Meal 4d „ Lea ard Perrin's Sauce, large, 2a 6d MATOHES-Plaids, 4£d per ddt, 4a per bottle per gross Mellor's Sauce, Is 31 per bottlo 250 s Is 6d per dozen Worcester Sauce, small, 5d ; large, 9d 1000's 5d per box, 4s lOd per Brown's Corn Flour, 3d per lb dozen Mazina *M per dozen 5s fid Bryant and May's Safeties, 83 per Whiting / b for Is douen Morton's Cream of Tartar, Is 3d per lb Yarmoutn Bloaters, 9 for la Preserved Fruit, 2£lb tins, 8d per tin, Waconochie'a Fresh Herrings, 6£d per 7s 6d per doz tin JfcngUbh Cut Loaf Sugar, 3|d per lb „ Herrings In Tomato, 10J Tomato Sauce, 9d per bottle per tin Golden Syrup, 2lb 6d, 41b Is, 561 b 11s „ Herrings m Shrimp, 10i 3d P er tin Treacle, 21b 6d, 41b Is, 71b Is 9d  Kippered Herrings, lOd Fiwst Kaisins 6idperlb per tin j Fineßt Sultanas 7|d „ „ „ Preserved Bloaters, lOd Finest Corranr-s 5d   per tin per cafe 440t „  Auckland Mullett 7d per tin Stewing Fi s s » 7|d „ „ Oysters ... 8d „ „ Fiench Pk'ns (choice) ... If   Sardines, large Alberts ... Is „ „ Stewing Plams ... ... dd   Sardines, large 8d „ „ FinPßt Mu,-catela 16 'd  „ Sardines, small 4d „ „ C»lifornian Mnscatele ... Is „ „ Salmon, Holly leaf ... lOd „ „ Dates, extra fine, 31b boxes, Is 9i ppr Salmon, other Brands ... 8d „ „ box OlL—Lucca, 2a 4d per bottle Almonds, Jordan -2a 4d per lb Salad, | pint sd, 1 pine lOd AlmondH, Valencia ... Is 6d  „ Castor, \ pint sd, 1 pint 10<i Alfonds, Sicily 1& 4d   Sheeps Tongues, lib Is, 21b Is lOd Barce' >na 3Suts 8d  Corned Beef, Mutton, Spiced Beef, 2lb Shell Almonds 1(M   tin, Is Day and Mar'in's Paste Blacking, r»Jd Crosse and Blaokwell's assorted Pastes, per doz Is 3d per bottle, 14s 6d per dozen and Martin's Jar Blacking, 6d per Potted Meats, assorted, 6d per tin bottle Bovril, 2055, Is lOd. ;BEch Blacking, 2d per tin, Is 9d per Leiberg's extract, Is 9d per bottle doz Patent Groats, Robineon's, lOd ; Har *3tey'B Blaoklead, Id jize, -3d per do?, per's, 9d per tin ; amea' Dome s ßlackkad l!t 6d per dnz j Mellina'^ood, l<£Bd per tin