THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

Trains leave Ashburton daily for— (JHRISTUHUROH—at 7.20 am, 11 am 3.15 p m, 7 5 p m (express) TIMARU—at 10 55 am,350 pm DUNKDIN—at 12 54 pm (express) SPRINGBURN-at 4.25 p m Trains arrive daily at Ashburton from— CHKISTOHUP.OH—at 10.45 am, 12.48 p m (express), 8 pm TIMARO—at 10.35 am,255 pm DUNEDIN—at 6.57 p m (express) SPRINGBURN-at 9,45 a m

EPHEMERIS

Phases of Mood for December

SUN.

Commercial.

United Press Association—By Electrio Telegraph—Copyright London, December 23 Mutton—Lamb, all sorbs unchanged-

MR D THOMAS' WOOL SALE

At Mr D Thomaß' wool sale en Monday the following pries were obtained ;—Halfbred sd, merino 6fd, rams 4£d, merino bellies and pieces 4£4, blacks 3£d, deads 4£d, locks 2|i, bellies 4|l, pieces 3d. There was a fair attendance of buyers from Cbristchurch, and the prices obtained com pared favorably with the last auction sale.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1900 BARBARIC SEVERITY

While we have been commenting upon the extraordinary leniency shown towards the Boprs, who, in the coarse of the present campaign, have com mitted all sorts of outrages in defiance of the usages of war, and the dictates of humanit}, no one bas been able to accuse the British military authorities of having been unduly lenient to the rank and fie of our army, who may hare contravened any of the articles of war or failed in the smallest part of their military duties. It is needless to specify more than one of these cases, since everybody who has kept himself informed as to the progress of events must be able to call many to mind. The case we shall refer to is a remark ab'e one, since it exhibits in a very striking manner the difference between the treatment by the military authori ties of the mistakes made by Tommy Atkina and those made by his leaders, A corporal of the Gordon Highlanders the t oopship at Capetown in which tiome of the colonial soldiers were returning to Australia, and he man* aged to stay below until too late to get ashore again. He was therefore carried on to Melbourne, but at his own request was sent back to South Africa as soon afterwards as possible, and he immediately reported himself. Of course he was at once placed under arrest, as he had left without leave and in tim 3 of war: That is

technically desertion, but it was not contended for a moment in the prose cution which followed, that Corpora! Fuller intended to desert. There appears to have been abandant evidence that he was carried away quite against his will, and that he retu -'■-'■' is early as possible, of his own accord. And yet he was sentenced to two years* imprisonment with hard labour ! The Oommander-in-Chief certainly did commute the sentence to one year's imprisonment, but even that is an extraordinary decision. In faob we are at a loss to understand' what the punishment is really for. The man most have deserted of bis own free will, or he was carried off against it. If he did desert he should have received the fall sentence of death, which might have been com muted, if mitigating circumstances coaid be shown. Bat if he did not desert he should have been acquitted of the charges brought against him. Had there been any suspicious circum stances in the case, we could have understood that the Oourt considered some punishment was necessary. But | there were none Cc rporal Fuller—-who was not on active servicf, but was invalided—could be charged with 'nothing worse than carelessness, but seeing he was not at the front at the time his fault could not possibly have affected the safety of any position of the army. To the lay mind ifc irould geeai as reasonable to punish our sol diers on their return from captivity by the Boers, as to punish one carried off *8 Corporal Fuller wag carried off. There does not appear to be any semblance of even handed justice in a system that practically rains a brave soldier, who has shed his blood for his country, because of such a. trifling acfc of carelessness, and yet permits some of his superior officers to escape, when their carelessness has cost the lives of so many of oar brave sol oiers What is " sauce for the goose 1 should be sauce for the gander," and if such barbaric strictness is necessary in time of war, and we do not venture to say it is not, it should at least be impartially applied. But to judge from the history of the present war we fahould imagine that the superior offi cers of the British army do not come tinder the Dracouiin code, which governs their subordinates. There is another point in connection with this case of Fuller's, which must strike the ordinary observer of eventa in South Africa, and that is the ex traordinary contrast there is between the treatment of offences by British soldiers, and the offences of the rebel Dutch. We can better understand why there is such wide-spread disatisfaction throughout Oape Colony and Natal, when we read of cases like that we have been commenting upon. There is still another aspect of this case, which is of

considerable interest to the members of our Contingents and their friends in the colonies, which is that already more than one of them have—if the decision in Puller's case ii correct committed technical acts of desertion. It will be remembered that one of the Bough Riders while in the convales cent camp, got lost for five days, at the end of which time he struck a Hritish post So too, Lieutenant Seddon whilf actually on active service lose himself for a day or two. According to the decision in the Fuller case they were both liable to a long term of imprison ment with hard labour.

Local and General.

Co-opebativb Works.—ln November there were 4030 men employed oo co-opera tive works In the colony. A Sucokssfdi. Meeting.—The net pro6t made at tho recent Austral cycling meeting in Melbourne amounted to about £1500. . Dootob For Methvhn. — The Methven district haß at last secured the services of a resident) doctor, Dr Hamilton having taken up his residence at Methvan. Arrest—A man was arrested en Monday at Ash burton on a charge of having stol«a £19, and he wai taken to Ohristchuroh by the evening's express. Bank Holidays.—The local Banks will close &s follows for the New Year holidays, vis :—Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the 31st December, 1900, and Ist and 2nd January, 1901; per advertisement herein. Property Sale—The large grain store on Strathallan street, Timaru, now in the j occupation of Mr John Mcc, and belonging to the estate of Messrs Milea aad Co., has been sold for £5700 to Mr Turnbull. Victorian Bush Fires.—lt is roughly estimated that the direct damage dove by the reseat bush fires at Thoona (Vie) is about £20,000, and the indirect damage very much larger. Many persons hs.d narrow escapes. A C ood Usa For I*.—Mr W W Collins MHR has banded over to the lad Barns, who lost his arm at the Exhibition, the £40 received as sessional allowance from the Government. This action is the more credit able able as Mr Collins is far from being a wealthy man.

A. Royal Match—The betrothal of fyiean Wilheimma to Duke Henry of Mecklenburg Schworin is real'y a piece of the German Emperor's diplomacy, atd at Berlin the match i« regaided as & personal triumph for His Majesty. Some interesting particular* of the courtship are given on page 1.

QoiGK Worji—Referring to a telegram in another column, stating that Ministers have received an important communication from South Africa, it> may be mentioned that Trooper LeGranjje, of rjongbeaob, who re turned to his home on Thursday, goes back to South Africa immediately.

Pigeon Flying.—The Timaru Pigeon Flying Olub got < S a race on Tuesday from Pdlmerston South, for a trophy presented by the cub. (Twenty-four birds competed, representing 12 owners. The winner, Mr 8 R Burns' Oheat, flew the distance, 88 miles 992 yarde, in lhr 45min, or a velocity of 1551 yds per minute<

Thb Beach—A number of people visited the beach from Ashburton yesterday, and were rewarded by witnessing a heavy sea. As a strong wind was blowing in from the sea the visitors obtained almost as much benffit. as by a set trip, without the unplea sant sensations of the latter.

Thb CROPS—Altbough the rain to a great •xtent spoiled the Christmas holidays, the oropa throuphouc the district have greatly bantfi'ed by the wet weather, and are now looking particularly well, in a few cises the oat crop, where exceptionally heavy, has been Uid by the wet, but so far as we can learn the dunnage fiom this cause will not be great.

The Bic Tonnei,.— It la stated (nyn tlie West Coiut Times) that the Public Works department will arrange for the tunnel work at the Otira G>rge at en early date, and will also extend the railway lirseto th* the Otira as soon aa the plans are complete. They contemplate emp'ojirg from 200 to 300 men at the various works, whio'i should be vigorously at work early in the New Year. Ihe Hospital—A party of musicians, as mentioned in our last issue, visited the Hospital on Christmas Day, and gave some excellent muai • for the benefit of the patients and stuff Amongst *he items rendered were three Christmas hymns; two qaintetts,* Arthur Claridge (viclir),. Miss Ethel Gates (violin); H Gates (viola); Mits Ada Gates (cel'o) ; Mr Claridge (piano). ?Misß Ada Gates sang * Promise of Life,' and Mr Herbert Moss (of Dnnedia) sang ' Nrzireth ' and ' Cilvary.' Mies McAndrew, the matron, thanked the members of the party for their kind contributions, and reciprocated the good wishes tendered on behalf of the patients and staff of the Hospital. Montgomery's Kinematograph—Despite the unf&vorabl« weather, there was a fair attendance <tt Montgomery's kinematograpb show laßt evenicg. The performance was much better than most of the recent sbow ef a similar character in this town, a notloei able feature being that every picture shown

was a hita fide illustration of what was actually occurring when the photos were taken. The proprietor has gob the sole right to exhibit in New Zealand the "Pio tur a of Army Life," and as the New Zealand Government has just deoldtd to send a sixth contingent to South Afrioa, these views should be of gruat interest to every person in the colony, and we strongly advise all of our readers who can go to the last performance in Ashburton, to be given in the Oddfellows' Ball this evening, not to miss the opportunity.

The Weather—The weather for the last Christmas of the century was the wont experienced in Ashburton for years, A drizz'ing rain set in on Monday afternoon, and continued intermittently until next morning, when the shower* were muoh heavier. On Christmas Day there appeared some prospects of the weather clearing, bat during \hc night torrents of rain, with occasional hail, fell, and this sort of thing continued throughout the morning of yester day, when it again cleared a little Bub » fierce south-west wind blew all the afternoon i; and to-day has been as oold and bleak as* any winter's d*y. The thermometer h»s ranged from 46 to 50 degrees, ml the baron •',er has been standing about 29.75. It will re seen by our wires that the bad weather ii pretty general. Captain Edwin was a little astray on Monday last when forecasting • North-west wind.' Our R>ka;a correspondent writes that the, weather still continues cole 5, whdy, end wet.

Old Mess Home—The Ohristtms cele brations at the O!d Men's Home were very complete, and afforded the inmates an opportunity of realisine; that they were not forgotten by their time honored friends. Special fare was provided by the cash donation* received from the trustees of the late Hyman Marks, per Mr F D Kegteven, £2 2*; Mr John MoLacfalao £1 la, and was expended, by Mr Harper's instructions, in procuring Christmas puddings from Free man's (Uhristchurob), cake from Haorahan Bros., pens from Mrs Kandell, hams from Mr Rule, etc. Gifts were also received from Messrs Ward and Co, Christohuroh, ale ; Mr Siloock, sausages ; Mr Drummond, Somerset Hotel, geese Mr GAM Buckley's usual Christmas present of a box of Judo tobacco for distribution, and a new pipe for each inmate, was received with special honours,' three hearty cheers being given for the donor. The tobacco provided two and a half sticks for each one.

THE DUKE OF MANCHESTER

HIS FATHER-IN-LAW'S CHKI6TMAS

PRESENT

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Paris, Dec 25 The millionaire Mr Zimmerman made his son-in-law, the Duke of Manchester, a Christmas present of £26,000 sterling, cover ing his debts.

Temuka Caledonian Sports.

The Temuka Caledonian Society held it* annual gathering yesterday. The weather was cold, bub much better than it was in Ashburton. The only Aehburton competitor was C C Willis, but there were a good many visitors from here. The following account '.f the ptiacipal event is from the Terouke Leader :—

1 bmuka Caledonian Wheel Race, han dicap, open, 2 miiee.—First heat: G Suther land, scr, 1; O O Willie, 80yds 2 j J Orr, 120 yds, 3. J Connell 100 yds, J Major 246 yde, and C R James 290 yds, also pedalled. A good race, won by about three yards. Time—4min 54«ec. Second heat: R Cor nell, 6y<ls, 1; A White, 245 yds, 2 ; G Joyce, 245 yds, 3. A R Barker 25yds, E Wood 165 yds, also pedalled. At tha sixth lap Barker caught up, and the lot) bunched. At the seventh lap Onnnell was leading by about half a wheel, and maintaining his position won. Barker tried hard to get through on the inside, but was unable to do to, and finished 4th ; about a foot separated thn 2nd and 3rd nan. Time—Smln 3aeo Flb»' heat : G Sutherland, sor, 1 ; O O Willis, 80yds, 2; A White, 245 yds, 3. J Orr 120 yds, R Connell 60yds, and O Joyce 245 yds, also rode. At the 6th lap the riders had clustered, Joyce leading, with OonntH 2nd, and Sutherland 3rd. This order wm maintained through the lap, bob Orr ran into fourth place. Just after passing the post, with a lap to go, Connell fell, through the men closing in. Orr came over him, and received a nasty fa'l. This disorganised the race, which resulted as above. Time— smin 3"6 c.

Willis also competed in the five mile ev6nt. which resulted : Sutherland 1, Oon nell 2, Willis 3.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES.

St. Stephen's Church.

The Christmas services at St. Stephen's Ghuroh on Christmas 'Day, in spite of the inolfltnent weather, were fairly attended. The church was vt ry tastefully deoorated with evergreens and white lowers, the altar looking exceedingly beautiful with its white frontal, The pulpit* and the font were abo conspicuous by the neatness of their decora tions The services both morning and evening were heartily rendered, the oanbioles and the special hymns being sung to the familiar Christmas chants and tunes. In the morning, the Vicar preached from John 1., v 14, "The Word wag made flesh, and dwelt amongst us." He said that to-day we commemora'ei the birth of the bast and wisest man of our race—One to whom we are indebted for s"tne of the highest ideals thit rule our modern life of civilisation* There have been others for whom men have gladly laid down their lives, but Jesus Christ has drawn to Himself throughout the centuries the adoration and devotion of millions of men and women, whose intellectual attain ments have compelled attention, and whose characters have inspired respect. Now, however great a man may be in oar genera tion, he would soon be forgotten Id the next, if |it were not for" memorials in soulptured utone or written tradition. But Jesus Christ has a more enduring witness. He lives in the mind and conscience of His church. The ohoroh founded by Himself is a progressive society whioh persists through all changes, and In spite of all obstacles. It is also the central force in our modern civilisationj and the mere fact that we continue to date our era as 1900 years from the Incarnation of the Son of God is an unooneoious witness to the truth that in the belief of the civilised races of the world the birth of Jesus Christ is the most important fact of human history. The witness then of the Incarnation is to be found In the miraculous expansion of Christ's Kingdom and in the elevation of the ideals of human brotherhood. Tho preacher also pointed out how the principle of continuity and the modern method of viewing nature as a unity and a progressive order had made it easier for us than for our fathers to gra<p the great belief of the Incarnation. The belief that in the perfect mind and spotlean character of Jesus Christ there has been histnrioilly disclosed the Word or " Eternal Reason "of God is one that iOn harmpDV .».■ rcTuis'um m« nu oeen re&dnea by the mind in the study of nature and the history of human life. The thoughtful and devout Christian believed that the Incarna lion was the key to all difficulties, whether in the world of thought) or the realm of rraotical life. The difference between the Christian and non.Christian nations was one of ideals, and the best hopes for tht> future, and the highest inspiration for the best interests of humanity, are the outcome of a thoughtful and earnest devotion to our Blessed Redeemer. In the evening,, the Vioar preached from Gal. IV., v 4, •• But when the fulnsos of the rime was com<», God sent forth His Son, made of a woman*'

Church of the Holy Name.

At the Church of the Holy Name on Christmas Day there was a good congrega tion. The Masses at 8 o'clock, 9 o'clock, and 11 o'clock were all well attended. At the 11 o'clock High Mass the celebrant wan Father Crotty. Farmer's Mass in B flit, under the baton of Mr MoSherry, was w$U •ung by the ohoir.

The Commonwealth

PREPARING FOR SIGHTSEERS

" United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Stbnet, Dec 24 Every available space on the ronteof the procession haa been secured, Many roofa have been transformed into stands for sightseers. Some of these are capable of holding thousands, and fancy prices are being asked. Already over forty smaller stands have been con demned as unsafe. The city is lively to night, the usual Christmas crowds being largely aug raented by Commonwealth visitors. The city resembles a garrison town with its large sprinkling of Imperial troops, whose brilliant uniforms form tya attractive feature.

December 25 The Tutaneka?, from Welliogton, arrived this afternoon

There was glorious weather for the holiday. The chief attractions were the camps of the imperial and Indian troops, where a small charge was made for admission, and the landing of the < Tutanekai's troops. A big crowd gave the latter a hearty welcome; The smart soldierly appearance of the New Zoalanders and the striking costumes of the Southland pipers were much admired. The Tutanekat came to an anchorage amidst the skirling of the , pipers, who had a good oppor [ tunity of displaying their masicianly skill, consequent on the long delay in landing. The Maoris made a decided impression, giving their war cry m j they stepped ashore. A Bpecial train took the troops to the Centennial Park, where they joined their comrades under canvas. The South Australian and tfTeatralian Commonwealth Contingents, about 250 officers and men, arrived by special train, and marched to the camp in Centennial Park. The crowds in the streets welcomed them heartily.

Colonel Pole-Penton, Captain Hay burst, and a couple of New South Wales officers officially welcomed the Tutanekai's troops. i Brisbane, December 25 ! Lord LamingtOD; at the request of ! Ministers, attends the local Common wealth celebrations inntsad of going to Sydney.

MOUNT SOMERS SPORTS AND RACING CLUB.

Patron —J MoLacblan, Esq. M.H.R. President—A E Peache, Eeq. Vice presidents—James Harrison, J P Peter, J M Furze, D Cameron, T 8 Johttßtor, WT Smith, D Wright, G MoMillan, W Noswortby, and E Herring, Esq», Judge—A E Peaohe, • Esq. Starter — C Morrison, Eeq, Clerk of Course—Mr Charles Green, Clerk of Scales — Mr John Hood. Timekeeper—Mr W Hitohell. Handi cappers — Messrs Doak, Morrison, and Goldsmith. Treasurer—Mr J Hood. Secretary—Mr W J Bennett. The annual sports in connection with the Mount Somers Sports and Racing Club took place on the Mount Somers Domain yester day. Owing to the threatening appearance of the weather in the morning only a few people went from Ashburton, but a consider able number were picked up between Ash* burtnn and Mount Bomers, and under the circumstances the Club had a very fair attendance. A oold south-westerly wind blew all day, whioh made things very nnpleaiant for the public, and do doubt interfered earioualy with the day's enjoy ment. The racing throughout the day proved most Interesting, and several of the finishes reflected the highest credit on the Club's handioappers. In the trotting events Traoey G showed her superiority over her opponents, winning both events rery easily. Daring the day several athletio events were j decided, for whioh big fields competed, and ! an Ashburton sprinter named Hewson secured thr c events in handsome style. The publioan's booth was in the hands of Mr R. D. Petrie, of Rangitata, who evidently appeared u> bt doing a good business. In connection with the refreshment booth we may state that owing to an accident that happened to Mr Goldsmith, who had Surchased the rights for a booth from the, lab and as a oonscquenoe of the accident could not carry out bis contract, the Club, with very short time at their disposal, had to carry on tr.e booth themselves, which they did to the evident satisfaction of everybody, Much credit is due to the Club's starter, Mr Morrison, for the manner in which ho despatched his fields in the various horse events, while Mr C Beckley soored equal success in the athletio events. Great praise is due to the officials of the Club for the way in which they managed the proceedings, every event coming off well up to time and cot a hitch occurred dnring the meeting. Mr , W J Bennett, the Secretary of the Club, was kept) busy during the day, and proved himself to be a capable and energetic official, and a large share of the success of the meet ing is due to him. The Methven Brass Band contributed selections dnring the day, whioh were highly appreciated by the public The following are results t— HORSE EVENTS

Maiden Plate Handicap, of 7 soys; 1 iov. from the stake for second horse. Three quarters of a mile. Mr S Miller's b g Nutoraeker, 6yra, by Perkin Warbeok ll—Viper, list 71b (Rainey) 1 Mr E Bell's bg Barney, 6yrs, 10st 7ib (L Tillet) 2 Mr W. Gilham'fl br g Glendevon, 3yrs t tOat Olb ... ... (P Green) 3 Orphan Girl, lOit, also started.

Nutcracker was rather restless at the poit, bat eventually the field got off together; Nutcracker took the lead from the jump and maintained bis position to the finish, winning easily by a length from Barney. Time— 1.24§.

Maidbn Trot Handicap (saddle or har ness), of 7 sots ; 1 soy from the stake for second hone. 1£ mile Mr W Grieves' b m Tracey G, 6yrs, by , General Traoey, 2secß.« (F Aogu«) 1 Mr James Fittook's gr m Gipsy Girl, aged eoratsh ... .. (OSharplin) 2 Mr C Beokley's b m Berth*, 6yrs, Ssees (Owner) 3 Jubilee Plunger «or, eh g by Libertine scr, Abdallah Shales 2secs, Black Angel Sseoe, Phem safioi, Silver Queen ssfc, also started. The order passing the pout the first timi round was IVaoey G leading.followed closely by Phem, From this out, Tracey G had the race at her mercy, and trotting steadily won by over a chain from Gipsy Girl, a lencf*' uStwcen second anu infra. Time~4rnin 24fsees

Cavendish Plate (for three year oWs), of 8 soys; 1 soy from the stake for second horse ; minimum weight 9st; one mile Mr H T Smith's oh g Artilleryman, 3yrs, by Artilleur, 9st .. (Owner) 1 Mr S Carleton't eh h Bangle, 3yrs, 9st (W Woods) 2 Mr F Warren's br g Tenderfoot, 3yrs, 9st (Ownor) 3 The T)art and Glendevon Also started From an exceUent start Artilleryman and Bangle got away from thn field. The race was practically her.wean this pair all the way, Artilleryman eventually winning com fortably by a length. Time—2mins Mount Somrhs Cup Handicap, of 12sovs; 2 soya from the stake for second horse. 1| mile Mr D Fergus' b m Goldfinch, 7yrs, by Pcrkin Warbeok 11, lOat 121b

(Wood*) 1 Mr W T Smith's, janr, br g Number Nine, syr«, !0«t 51b ... (H Bmith) 2 Mr U B&H'b b g Barney, 6yrs, lOst (Tillett) 3

Flyaway lOst also started This proved the most) interesting race of the day. From an even start Number Nine assumed eom*and, followed by Barney, Goldfinoh lying handy. At the mile pest Goldfinch pub in her claim, and after a tussle with Number Nine won by a ooup'e of lengths. Time—2mins 46seoa. The win was a most popnlar one.

Handicap Trot (saddle or harness), of 9 bots ; 1 iot from the stake for second horse. Two miles Mr W Grieves' b m Traoey 6,6yr«, 20seo (F Angus) 1 Mr 0 Beckley'a bm Bertha, syrs, 2Sseos (Owner) 2 Mr H T Smith* rr> m Diploma, syrs, 25secs... .. .. (Owner) 3 Pefton tor, Ambition Sseos, feottie 15a«o«, Black Angel 25seos, also started Black Angel led the first two rounds, but Traoy G Boon took command, and trotting nicely won by over 80 yards from Bartba, Diploma three lengths off third. Time— Stnin 53§ssos. The winner received a great ovation

Springbubn Weltib Handicap, of 8 soys; 1 Boy from the stake for aeoond hone. 1| mile Mr W T Smith's br « Number Nine, syrs by Perkln Warbeck 11, llati

(H Smith) 1 Mr D Fergus' b m Goldfinch, 7yrs, list (Woods) 2 Mr A Wilson's eh g Village Lad, aged, 12»t 4ib .. ... (Rainey) 3 The three runners ware tegether on enter ing the straight, and after an exciting race Number Nine won by a length from Gold finch, with Village Lad oloie up, Time— 2mio 26f *co Hurry Soorry, of 3§ aova ; 10* from the stake for second horse. Half a mile. Chestnut .„ ... ,„ 1 Roagc-et-Noir ,«. . ._ 2 Lucy Glitters ... .„ ... 3 Nellie, Forest Girl, Lord Antrim, Danty, Jip, Corry, and Silverine also ttarted. This race produced the largest field of the day, some ten hones facing the starter. The field were together till entering the straight when the placed horses drew oat and a desperate finish np the straight resulted in Chestnut securing the verdict by half a length from Ronge-etNoir. Time—s7f. tfoNsoLAiioN Handicap, of 4| sovsj 10* from the stake for second horse. Throe quarters of a mile Village L*d, 10»t 91b   1 Barney, lo*fc 31b ... ... 2 Bangle, lOat Sib ... ...  3 I Lucy Glitters and Flyaway also started. I Barney out out the running till the straight was reached, where Village Lad got on terms, and won a hardjought race by it length. Time—l.23§.

ATHLETIC STINT ! The athletic events resulted at ander :<— ICO Yards Maiden Race--A Hewson 1, B Skeiton 2 100 Yard! Open Haadioap—A Hewton, 3yds, 1; B Bkelton, 3yds, 2. Time—l2sece. 220 Yards Handicap— A Hewion, »or, 1; J Stephens, 4yds, 2. Time—2Bseos 440 Yardi Handicap—J Stephen*, 12jii, 1; R Bennison, syd*, 2 Half Mile—R Benntion 1, D McKeczie 2 Bicycle Race, on* mile—Small 1, Bates 2, Hood 3

Sporting.

AUCKLAND SUMMER MEETING.

United Pi ess Assooiatlon—By Electric T«legraph

1 Auckland, December 26 The Auckland Racing Club's Summer ' Meeting began to-day. The weather was fine and the attendance large. £20,160 pawed through the totalizator during the day. Results :— Tbial Handicap, 7 furlongs—Rosella 1, St Ursula 2, Honesty and Peerage dead hear 3. Time—l.sl. Dividend—£2 16s. Ngktjhkrn Foal Stakes, 6 furlocgs— Msnobikoff 1, Field Battery 3, Sparkling WaterS- Time—l.l 6. Dividend—£l 2< : Auckland Cop, 2 miles—Blue Jacket 1, Ideal2,Skobeloff3. Time—3.33. Dividend £5 3. HumDLM—Bellman 1. Oannongate 2, Time -3.52. Dividend—£4 14s. Railwat Handicap, 6 furlonge—Renown 1, Formula 2, TakapuHa 3. Time—lH6J. Dividend—£3. Ncrsebt Handicap, 5 furlongs—Creisy 1, Sparkling Water 2, Rattler 3. Time— 1.6. Dividena—£3 2s. Po»T Cw—Lady Avon 1, Cuisine 2, Okange 3. Dividend—£3 2s. Chbistmas Baitdioap, 1 mi? '—"*■ Ursula 1, Cavalierio 2, Peerage 3. lime—l,44 Dividend-£2 4s

Rakaia Annual Sports and Races.

Judges—(Horse Races) Messrs L Oxley; {athletics) Messrs T Blackley, A McDonald, and T Austin. Starters— (Horse raoes) E W Osborne, (athletics) Mr H J Harrison. Olerk of the course —Mr Walter Street. Clerk of the scales—Mr D Bruce. Stewards— Messrs W Cromie, G 8 Hardy, A J Magson, Denis Reilly, Jas Wilkinson. Treasurer—Mr L Oxley. Seoretary— Mr J R Sharp.

The Soutb Bakala Boxing Day sports and races were held in the Domain yesterday in extremely unpleasant weather, which very much reduced the attendance. The officers worked well and kept things going. The events were well contested, both in horsa and athletic events. Mr Nelligan conducted the publican's booth and Mr Shelloek the refreshment booth. The Burnhatn Band was in attendance and played some excellent items; A namber of games were also on the ground. The following are the results '.—

HORSK KTBNTS. District Flat Racb, of 8 soys; second borse 1 soy from the stake. About \ mile. Mr A T Richard's eh g Carlo, 3yrs, 9sb 71bs ,_ ... (G W Hardwick) 1 Mr J Nee's oh g Kaiser, aged, lOsb 71bs (W Fox) • 2 Mr D O'Reilly's b g Rawmore, 4yrs, 9st 7lbs (J O'Reilly) 3 Kuloina also competed, A good race, but an easy win for Carlo.

District Maiden Trot (saddle or harness), of 8 soys, second horse 1 iov from the stake. 1£ miles. Mr W Gordon's Might-a«-Well, aged, sor, (Owner) 1 Mr A 0 Cameron's b tn Moina, 6yrs, scr (Owner) 2 Mr A Stewart's oh m Collins, aged, sseo (Owner) 3 Darby, Simple Harry, and Daisy Bell also started Ladies' Bracelet (open), of 15 soys ; aeoond horse2iovs from the Bake, About 1J

mile?. Mrs Richmis 1 eh g Carlo, 3yrs, 9st 7lbi (G W Hardwick) 1 Mrs Parsons' b m Gloaming, aged, list (MeConachie) 2 Mm Grange's b g Latboard Watch, aged, 9atßb (Mcllroy) 3 AH Saints, Lord Stansbury, Merrie Maid, and Amazement also competed. A splendid race from start to fialsh. Woo by a neok. OtXtt Thot fjaddla or harness), of 11 soys ; second horse 1 soy from the stake, lj miles.

Mr a a Cumfcron'e b pony KimWltiy, aged, ziteo .. ... (Owner) 1 Mr A V Richard* b m May, aged, 20sec (A Stewart) 2 Mr J Stewart's blk m Zeta, 7yrs, 20aeo (Owner) 3 Macaroni, Mist Cheviot, Hamlet, Simple Harry, and Ratpakai alto competed Won easily; Farmxbs' Plats, of 11 soys ; second horae I soy from the stake. 1$ milt>«. Mr T N Grange's b g Larboard Watch, aged, 9it 51b _ ... {H Mcllroj) 1 Mr Barry Parsons' b m Gloaming, aged, i lOit 121b (W Fox) 2 Mr G W Hardwick's b m Soubriquet. 6yrs, 9afc 111b (Owner) 3 Merrie Maid and Fairy Maid also com peted, A good raoe. Won by half alength. Orsv Trot (saddle or harness), of 15 soys; ■eoond hone 2 soys from the stake. 2\ mile*. Mr A V Richard's b m May, aged, 28aec (A Stewart) 1 Mr 0 BsoneU'a g g Wharfdale, aged (McOonaohie) 2 Mr J Stewart'* blk tn Zet»,7yrt (Owner) 3 Skiff, Moms, Kapaktti, Miss Cheviot, and Hamlet also competed. A splendid raoe throughout between the first three. Hvrb7 Scobbt, of 5 soys. About I mile. Mr J Nee's oh gAH Saints (W Fox) 1 Mr Bennett'* b g Actor (Smlthel) 2 Amazement; Sorubdaaher, Knloina, Ruby, and Merry Maid alto started. A splendid race. ATHLETIC IVENTS Amateur 100 Yards Handicap—lib prize, trophy, valnn £1 Is; second, Mr John Irwin'* trophy, value 12s 6d—H MoNiooll, syds, 1; W Sturgefs. 6yds, 2 ; Cecil May, 2yds, 3. 6 8 Hardy, scr, also started• Won easily 250 Yards Handicap—lot prize, trophy, value £1 Is; second, trophy, value 10a 6d— A W MoNiooll, 9yds, 1; GS Hardy, scr, 2; O May, 4yds, 3. Won easily Cash

Boya (under 16), 200 Y»rds Handicap; vrfaw, 10s, sa, 2s 6d—Q Cromie 1, J Brown 2, T Sanley 3. Stven competed Girls' Race (under 16), 100 yards; 10*. 5», 2a 6d-H Lemon 1, H IrwinZ, M Bread- JDgS

Boy»' Race (tinder 12 years), 90 yards ; 7a 6d, 4s, It—A Manlon 1, F Alexander 2, A Shannon and D Sheehan (dead heat) 5. Eight started

100 Yards Handioap (Men), £1 5s and 10j —>J G MoConnell, 6yds, 1 ; John Shannon, 4yds, 2; P Cronin, 9yds, 3. Four others also started

Girls' Race (under 12 years*, 60 yards ; 7s 6cl, 4s, Is—D Lemot 1, M Murphy 2, A Shannon 3

Old Men's Handicap (over 50 years), 75 yard?, £1-B O'Reilly (asp 68), M Shee han 2, J Gibson 3. Four started

220 Yards Handicap, £1 10s and 10s— H McConnell, 6f ds. 1; M MoAnulty, 10yds, 2; T Noian, sor, 3, A well contested race

Boys' Raoe (under 19 years), 60 yards j sb, 2s 6d, Is—L Alexander 1, D Sheehao 2, £ Bryant 3

Giria' Rico (under 10 years), 50 yards; ss, 2s 6d, Is—E Saunders 1, E Brown 2, X Harvey 3

Oae Mile Handicap, £2 and £I—Jerry Ooffey, 21yds, 1; George Shipley, 20yds, 3. M Mc&aalty and O Irwin also started, A good raoe

The gate money was over £36 and £13 was taken at the danoe In the evening which was well attended.

Willis Street, Wellington, MB M Impet 31st July, 1900 Dear Sir,—Please tend me three more bottles of your •• Max Aptlk." I cannot ■peak too highly of it. It hM entirely relievod me from the headaches which used to distress me on busy days; and a member of my family who need to suffer from chronic palpitation and indigestion has been restored to perfect health through taking IMHCT'S * MAT Attlm.'—! am, yours grate fully, E W Wilton, Batcher

The Royal Visit.

Unibed Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright London, December 24. Lord Wenlock will be the Chief of Steff of the Duke of York in big visit to Australia. ' * (Lord Weniock was Governor of Madras from 1891 till 1896. He is son of the second B&ron, whom he succeeded in 1880. Hie wife is daughter of the Earl of Harewoods Lord Wenlcck was M P for Chester in 1880. He is 51 years of age.)

CRICKET.

NEW SOUTH WALES v. VICTORIA

United Press Assooiatlon—By Eltottio Telegraph —Copyright Mklbourub, December 24 In the crioket matob, New South Walee <r Victoria, the former in the first lnnlngf rcored 153 (Gregory not ost 66, Tiunper 26). Victoria lost six wickstt for 104 (Armstrong 50, MoLeod not out 30). Mklbournb, December 2<» Victoria's first innings produced 154— MoLeod 46, Stnokey, not oat 26. New Sooth Wales made 126 In their seoonsl innings—Trumper 26, Noble 65< Victoria, In the second innings have - lost fire wloketi for 45—Graham 14.

CANTERBURY v. OTAGO.

DuNBDiK, Deoember 26 The interprovincial match, Canterbury ▼. Otago, was oonoladed to day. Canterbury won by 125 runs. The heavy rain of the) previous 24 hoars made the wicket one essentially for bowlers. Following are the scores j—

Otago.—First Innings—Baker 25, 8!ed«« berg 15, Mills 15, Austin 1, Geddis 11, Johnston 1, Fisher 6, Downei 1, Webb 8, Williams 4, Harknets not out 9; extras 10— total 97. Second innings—-Baker 32, Siede berg 1, Downei 14, Mills 0, Johnstons 1, Fisher 8, Geddes 0, Austin 6, Wtbb 3, Williams 5, Harkneis not oat 0; extras 3— total 73.

Cantkbbvrt—Firsh innings—l 99. Seoond inniDga — Kirns 19, Pearce 4, Galloway 2, Orchard 4. Wigley 9, Recce 7, Barry 0, Ridley 7, Harman 5, BoxuhaU 25, Malone 5 % extras 9—total 96.

South Africa.

THE INVASION OF OAWJ COLONY.

THE BOERS CHECKED.

LORD KITCHENER'S OPERA TION&

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright London, December 24 The Boers who cat the railway south of De Aar are now being pursued. Lord Kitchener has formed a new column to operate in Gape Colony. Generals French and Clements Me pursuing the broken forces of Com mandants Beyers and De La Bey towards Potchefstrootn. General French has captured Commandant Krause and other prisoners. De Wet is reported to be in the vicinity of Senekal. December 25 Lord Kitchener is at De Aar, directing operations against the raiders. There are sixty thousand horses belonging to Dutch residents within the districts proclaimed under martial hw, and these have been the source,of De Wet's supplies. The raid wat intended to remove tbtm

The Msgaliesberg bills have been cleared of Boera.

A small mobile detachment shelled three hundred Boers south of Stander ton, and rooted another, force to the eastward, inflicting heavy loss.

Mr W. T. Stead, commenting on the war in South Africa, says:—•• It is impossible to say 'God defend the right* without praying for the dig* comfiture of our troops, because the war is indefensible."

The First Dragoon Guardi have betn ordered to the Cape, and will embark on January Btb.

The British War Office has purchased fifty thousand horses and mules in Kansas for South Africa.

The newspapers, commenting on the statements that additional contingent! for service in South Africa could be raised in Australia, express partioolar gratification at the invaluable services further Australian contingents could render in extinguishing the embers of war.

It is officially announced that the invasion of Cape Colony has been checked. The invaders received little assistance from the inhabitants. Some colonists armed and are assisting the British.

LoKtoir, Dec 25 The Boers destroyed a railway bridge ninety feet loDg, sooth of De Aar

H Major Oolville's column •nootratered a commando at Moddersfontein

The enemy tried to envelop the Bri« tub, who quickly took op a balt-moosv formation on the kopjee, and nwd a pompom. The Boers wavered, and the infantry charged and routed the enemy with heavy loss

The British had four wounded

The Daily Mail states that a force at Heidelberg destroyed thirty seven Boer farms, and removed the stock

Free State Boers shot, daring a re cent raid, a farmer who previously tar* rendered to the BrKsh at Kl|a Rlfer, for refusing to rejoin the enemy AH the available cavalry in tbt Bd* fast district have been warned to hold themselves in readiness for Sooth Africa Notwithstanding his apology and the severe castiga>tion he received through the Press, Mr Bryn Robert*, M P. is unrepentant, and intend* to reopen the question of the conduct of the South African oolonials to 90011 at Parliament meets next session The Parliaments of Switierland, Bel giunj, and the Grand Duchy of Hetto Darmstadt have shelved resolations in favour of arbitration on behalf of the Boers Prisoners confess that the Boers' object in capturing isolated detach ments was to secure arms and a«un«ni» tion. Commandant Beyers panisbei the 6rst offence of using ammunition needleeily by a fine of lOt, the second I offence by a fine of £10, the third with dt*th. A thousand Canadians are enrolling for Baden-Powell's new polios force. The damage recently reported to have been done to the Cape railway? was chiefly caused by floods, and if being rapidly repaired. Lord Kitchener bat gone to Nta«w> poort,

THE ASHBURTON GUAItiHAIY t TfIDRSUAY^ DECEMBER 27, I9OC



'ull moon ,»st quarter Jew moon 'irst quarter

6 22 29

10 8 pi 10 12 ri 11 31 * i I 18 pi



Date • •eoernber >• f> M II

27 28 29 30 31

Ri»es 4 22 4 23 4 23 4 24 25

Beta 7 41 7 41 7 41 7 42 7 42



Polypathio Medical Institute. Corner o£ Gloucester Street and Larimer Square, CHRISTCHURCH, (Immediately behind the Exhibition Buildings). FIFTH VISIT TO" ASHBURTON. FEIDAY APTKBNOON, JANUAUY i, 1901. 2 o'clock pm unfil 8 p ra BATUKDaY, JANUARY 5, 9am until 1 o'clock p to CONSULTATION FRE*.—GRANGE'S HOTEL. sJk POLYPATTiY, the New Method of Healing, 18 the *mJklm t* surest snd irn.-at ripid '-y*tem, &b if cures with absolute ***(&. *&L&£m*]iLil% certainty fauoh diseases as Cancer, Epilepsy and ABthma, W?WBMs&!W£Be&BB§k incurable under the old system, ftß wei us all Ohronic and Nervous Complaints of Women and Men. MoRB Cvnrs made m POLYPATHY than any other system m lh° OF TFSTIMONIALS j^^F^^j^^^S^ Epiliptio Fits Fob Eight Years ; also heart r Yo-r Medicines have done me a greab deal of good. I \SJBl^SS^^tll^ttt^B^t feel better in every way, and the pains at the heart) hare gffijSsJ^Hßs^H^Bffrrß en tin !y left me. I have not had one fit since taking y°ur Medioine-I remain, yours truly, r'DNG »*SBASE AND EXTREME DBBIHTY I have much pleasure in sending this letter, thanking !lOSilii!i!l^ffii»^tt-» you very much for the benefit I have derived from your medicine, which I have been using ••**■»{■• I was WmklflSS&SMnM ieduced in weight from 12st Vb down to Bit 71b, and I ; S&fl^SjfiSraKslw had quite given myself up to my Maker ; but thank God mJ W^flffiWif after I had been under yonr treatment nine days my \V± $'«€, t^dffiO&£ fn.nds could see a change in me, and I could feellit rri tJiM?j [- irVj.riigjijML^' myself, and have been improving ever since, xon can *aw_ "*****" ft use this letter for a testimonial, or refer anybody to me •»B«*sgto,^e22T£r-* Wiahioa you every prospsrity-Yours respeeifnlly, 12 (47 Jong KigHlOjC_ ABSOLUTELY THE BEST EVER MADE BURNETT STREET, ENORM* 'US Stock of Sundries just to hand, including Latest Lamps, Luggage Oarriere, Saddle Chains, Alarm Belle, etc Inspection Invited The Equitable Life Assurance Society, of US Head Office for New Zealand—Wellington. DIRECTORS, with power to issue Policies and pay claims = tt n TUtt Fso Chairman. I Peikjy M Thomson, luspector of Agencies. LbSIbS; %l M D. \_J Tbwob Go*u>, Re.id.at Secretary, STRONGEST LIFE ASBUBANCE SOCIETY IN THE WOKLD Financial Position. r>,or,,,rv, c . . £>giQ 670 058 I Surplus over liabilities ... £1<4,711,a70 iTmlVedS/'" *" fiKtfWlßs Annual income ... .. £11.286,145 Accumulated^,.^ *o .^ fQ Send for particular of the Guaranteed Cash Valuo Policy. NICOLL BROS, Agents, Aahburton. 1«^«



FOX SALE ■"TTALtJABLE Building A'lotments, situ V ated at the comer of Cass and Moore St.eets, andbeiDg part cf Town Section", 00 """°' TBPUOCK, GOVERNMENT LIFE INSURANCE DEPARTMENT. Established 1870. EVERY POLICY GUARANTEED BY THE STATE. The two prime reasons which have led to the extraordinary bonuses which this office has been able to declare have been its ECONOMICAL MANAGEMENT and its HE MAKKABLY FAVOURABLE MORTALITY EXPERIENCE. " The Australasian Insurance and Banking Record" says,—"lt [the N.Z. Government office] possesses the splendid advantage of operating in perhaps the health iest country in the world." To this, coupled ■.with rigid care in the selection of lives, has been due the unprecedentedly km rats of mortality which the office has en joyed. Year by year the actual deaths have fallen far short of what -was anticipated, and the funds thereby saved h«,ve all gone to swell the profits, which at tho valuation in,,-. 1836 (for three years) amounted in CASH to £225,000 Sterling. Present Funds amount to over THREE MILLION POUNDS. Annual Income exceeds £100,000. J. H. IUCHARDSON, 3] Commissioner. FOR SALE, 1 Wood's Side lielivery,equal to new, price £16 10a F. FEBRIMAN. FOR B&LE, - J Grain and Manure Drill F FKRKIMAN FOB SALE, 1 Wood's Beapor and Binder that bag only done 1 year's work F, FBRRIMAN. FOX SALF OH TO LET fipHE Bnngalow recently vacated by X Whs Rica maw containing sevtn rooms <*nd offices, and situated facing the Domain at ibe junction of .North Ea3t Town Belt and West Stieet. Xle >ibove should prove a desirable Propeny bosh as an investment for capital tend a comfortable hoa*e, F. FKKJ WAN. LAND AND ESTATE AGENT, Ashburton, FOR SALF. A GOOD House of live rooms with 2| acres of land in a localty where two or three cows may be kept Within quarter of a mile of Town Belt, The owner ie leaving the distrcfr. Any reasonable terms can be arranged. Apply F. FERRIMAN, •LAND AND ESTATE AGEKT, Ashburton WANTED Known—That our Oilcloths and Linoleumr are bought direct from the British Mills, and stand unrivalled for variety and values—Mitchell wad Tureer,



) | rrO Farmer? purohasiDfir Halfbred PIGS. We are prepared to b iy them for Bacon, provided they are fattened on grain or Peai. FARMERB' MEAT SUPPLY CO. 12 5 J H Rulk. """ FOB iSALIf, WELL Cured Prime quality HAMS and BACON. Cheaper than Beef r Mutton. Guaranteed grain fed by ifarmore of this district. FARMERS' MEAT SUPPLY CO. 2 55 JHJ cle REMBMBERi rriHE SHOP will be OPEN every Night this week until 8 u'olook foe the tale of Christmas and New Year Cards. A. H, WILLIAMS, Tancred Street MASK FOR .■ c NEW TARIFF^ ..J CHAMPION BLEND W OTHER PRICES.* t> YeVa Vio 2/2 2/4 a/8 1 ?KQ CHINA TEA USED BY US/ | ; SPECIAL BANK HOLIDAYS PURSUANT to the term? of the 'Banks and Bankers Act, 1880,' and the , Bsnks and Sinkers Acb Amecdmeab Act, 1882/ MONDAY and WEDNESDAY the 31at Dcember, 19C0. and the 2nd January, 1901. are hereby appointed Special Bank HolH&ys, at the Athburton Ofibes of the undermontiened Bink*: — The Union Bank of Australia, Ltd— G E Tolhurst, Inspector The Bank of New South Wales— E J Finch, Inspector The Bank of Australasia'— 0 Winter, Inspector The Bank of New Zealand— James Embling, General Manager TUESDAY, the let January, is a Statute Holiday in terms of above Acts 12 213 BIG Bargain Sale at DuNOAN & Go's Tancred Street. Drapery and cloth log cheaper than ever—Note as folloWß— Turkish towels, samples, 3£d each; art mualins 2|d ; cretonne 2|d ; prints from 3£d; large stock tucked muslins, wide widths 10£ d ; nainsooks 6£d ; linen tabling lljd ; Crewdson's and HorrolkeeB 1 oaliooes 4s 9d dczyards ; muslin aprons 10^d; toilet covers 7|d; antimaocasseru t% i; 72 inch wide twill sheeting 10|d ; large and varied lot laoe curtains, astonishingly low prices, from Is6d pair, la lid, 2* 3d upwards; ladies' silk suarveß 9|l; job line silk and lisle gloves 6d pair ; oaßhmere ribbed hose Is, — Duncan & Co, Cheap Oath Df»Pe™i_____ XT OLIDAYB UlTtf—l have ia large stock XX of Men's, Youtha', and Boys' Snits, made to my orders, special finish ; for wear, style, and appearance equal to anything procursbier Suitß made to measure in betst -tyle, fib guaranteed. Geatm', Ladies' and Children's Bceii atfd Shoe* in greab variety, , »i Bo bbjAlcokns



TO SUBSCRIBERS & ADYERTISERB NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS. " THE GUARDIAN " fT7 ILL NOT be issued on TUESDAY, January Ist.



You can depend on ridding your children of worms with Wade's Worm figs, the wonderful Worm Worriers ; Is timoke Mew Venae



Wade 8 Worm Figs, the wonderful Worm Worries, never fail for adults or children Price U



CONSULTING OPIIOIAN | MrEraeab M. Sandsteiß, DBOAJ.FB, MO, who ha* lately returned after tiz ywn 1 special study in England and Con tinent, may be consulted on all eases of defective eyesight. Daylight not necessary, arti6oial light being nsed. Doctors'pre seriptions prepared. Feet moderate. Con raiting room*, Oathel Street W;, over M Bandstein, jeweller, Christohun*. 930 to J, ? to 6 daily