Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, MAY 8, 1900. GRAVE POSSIBILITIES.

Refbbbing to the illness of the Pre mier, the Dunedin Star says :— Rumours have for some time been prevalent in well-informed circles thnfc Mr Seddon, notwithstanding his fine physique and sound constitution, in finding the strain of his onerous and multifarious duties tcrious'y » fleeting his health, and thatj like his predeces sor, Sir Harry Atkinson, he will be constrained before long to seek com parative retirement. The warning note, we now h:\vo good reason to be lieve, ha 3 been eonnded, and much against hte will he tinds that he has to renounce temporarily the enormous responsibilities of his position as Pre mier. We have not been able to sup port much of his policy, and have unreservedly condemned,his par iamen tary and electoral methods; but we heartily concrde that, according to his light, he has been faithful to the people, and has been especially distin guished by patriotism of a high order. There ia no question as to his ability, and in all matters outside party con siderations he has shown eminent common sense and an innate knowledge of statecraft which have been remark able. He is essentially a strong man, and it will be difficult indeed to fill his place as Leader of the present domin ant party in the House and in the country. The probabilities, we con ceive are that when the term of 'the Agent-General expires the right honourable gentleman will succeed to the officp, and that during the ensuing session he may retain Ministerial office, aiding his colleagues in the difficult work of framing and giving effect to a policy which will be assimilated to the i views of the now Parliament. The Hod. J. G, Ward is to be for the time Acting-Premier, and this, indeed, seems to be the only practicable ar rangement, since the Minister of Lands, to whom the office would naturally fall, 'is through* the unfortunate failure of bis health, incapacitated from under taking the Leadership of the House or the departmental work which neces sarily falls on the Premier. Thecouc t try will, we believe; be quite satisfied to see Mr Ward at the bead of the Government. He has proved him self a singularly able administra tor, whilst hia broad views on political, social, and economic ques tions generally commend themselves to the intelligence of the people. As leader of the House we believe he will be a success, being tactful, good tempered, raady in debate, and most conciliatory lin manner. The comparative break down of Mr Seddon, following close in parliamentary sequeuce the retirement and death of S'r Harry Atkinson, points very distinctly to the desirability of the c uree we have frequently advo cated—viz., the appointment of Parlia mer.tary Undersecretaries, who could relieve Ministers in their departmental work and the conduct of business in th House, enabling them to devote their best energies to Cabinet duties. The functions of such Uuder-Secretaries would be excellent training for Minis, terial office in the futur9, and it would no longer be necessary for a new P r p_ mier, in forming a Government, to rj s k rash experiments by th*e appointm en t of men whose capacities, administrative and otherwise, were unknown.

Local and General.

%* On tone first page to-day will be found Commercial, and on the fourth page a short story. Meeting of Creditors—A meeting of the creditors of Edward McKee was called for 3 pm. yesterday. At the hour ap pointed the debtor and his solicitor, Mr R, M. Cuihbertßon, were present, but no quorum of creditors, and the meeting was ttdjourned. The debtor's statement showed liabilities £107 33, assets nil. The only secured creditor was W. Bryant, £62, secured by bill of Bale over furniture. ' Indian Famine Funb—ln response to the Premier's enquiry to members of Parliament t£ & donation to this fund, Mr John McLach lan, M.H.R for Ashburton, has sent follow ing reply: " For the famine fund of 1886, iSew Zealand responded liberally. The present famine is quite as bad, and we are j better able to contribute. Whatever you in your wisdom, with your knowledge of our financial position think fii to give, I will loyally support." Football—The following will represent Springburn P in the match against Winch more at the latter place on Saturday:—B Sharplin, B Gillman. D Fergus, Moses, Woods, Gundry, McGregor, W Fergus, J Ohapmin, J Sharplin, N Sharplin, Gold smith (2), Hioks and Duke.—With the ob ject of getting the football season fairly started, a oombined practice of the ABhbur ton and Pirates Football Giubs, will be held on the ground of the latter club on Thurs day afternoon, when it is hoped there will be a good muster of players to again start this popular winter pastime.

Forestry.—A meeting of Court Aehburton, was hold last evening, the O.R. in the chair, and a good attendance of members, A lot of routine business was transacted, including consideration of the report; of the business done afc the District] mooting. The Dintriot Offioera reported great satisfaction at their recent visit to this Conrt. Arrangements were made to hold the annual social and danoe at an early date. The o<>urb was closed in the usual manner by the C.R.

U.A.O.D.— Star of Ashburton Lodge held its usual fortnightly meeting last evening. There was a fair attendance. Five candi dates were proposer! for membership, Tho oommittee appointed to arrange details in connection with the annual social, reported having,made very satisfactory progress^ and having secured the Oddfellows' Hall for the 24th May, and intimated the tickets would be Issued in a few days. Three brothers were reported on the siok list. It was decided to open the Lodge oti mutilation night at 7.30 instead of 8 o'clock. After aoroo members contributed songs the Lo 'ge wiih olosod ab tho usual hour by the V,A. Uro Johnson*

Double Banking and its Result—At midday on Monday two luda narrowly mumped neriou» injury or perhaps worße, in Wiliu fesiroet;, near the entrance to the 'Domain. A lad named Mahoney was riding a big upstanding horse, when he was stopped by another boy named Wonnaootte, the latter after parleying, against the wish of the youngofcor attempted to mount behind, to do which ha made use of the near side ! etirrup. It; was sonn seen that the horse wiih going to huve a Buy in the matter, and l)(<for« the lad could gain a seat it bolted. Tdct result) was the (kali named soon oame off, and about a hundred yards further on tho Animal stopped short and no doubt intended to make thing* lively for Wonna cotte, who hung on at the side. At this point the girth gave way and the saddle and boy slipped under the horse, which made a spring forward and came to a stand & fow yards further on. How tho lads esoarad Borloua injury ia little short of a imraole"J They are not likely to try double banking on that horse again In a hurry. Smoke New Venus

Cables to New Zealand Troopers— rl he( rate for cablegrams to members of ihe New Zealand Contingents in Africa has now been further reduced to two shillings per word. Alleged Pun jury. —It i currently re^ ported that a charge of perjury, said to have arisen out of the recent licensing prosecution, will occupy the attention of tho Ashburton Court on Thursday. Winslow Spoots and Backs—The fol lowing entries wore omitted from the list published yesterday 1:—-General Luck, Pub lican I Trot; Transit Royal, Publicans'Trol; Transit Royal, Maiden Trot.; Jemina, Pufc- Hcani' I r t ; Jemina, Maiden i'rot- KviStY Day I aw.—At the meeting of the Hoapi nI Committee yesterday the suLj^cl of agoa cine up, nnd Mr JollifFe mentioned that a married woman of 18, or a m«ried man of 19, were conaideied of age for the purpose of making a will, but a single man or woman must be the full age of 21.

The Indian Famine Fund, — Iho Hon. W. J. Steward, M.H.R. for Wai taki, has cent the following telegram to the Pr< miar :— " lie your mtnio Indian Famine.—l connkler the colony should contribute to the relit f fund. Aa the Government has decided to Bend £5000 to Canada, I think we should give nob leas a eutn to India I would, personally, support a, vote of £10,000. lOO.F , M.U.—The Liyal Ashburton Lodge, No. 6003, hold its ordinary fort nightly meeting on Friday evening last, at which the N.G, BroH. Thompson, presided. There wab a fair attendance of mambora, also a number of visiting brethren. Sick pay was panned to four members of the lodge, and also to four members of ether lodges living in the town. After the routine buai noßß had been disposed of, the N.G. declared the lodge open for harmony, whan aome excellent songs were given, and games of oirda and some ohat saw a most enjoyable hour paas. The members expressed their pleasure at having been present, and as the lodge officers intend to mike the lodge meetings as entertaining as possible, mem bars who can possibly attend odge meetings would find it to their advancement, in the business of the Order, and also socially, to be present). Visiting brethren are cordi ally invited to attend the meetings. The D.P.G.M, Bro A. Paterson, stated that the Past Grands Lodge for Asbburton would be opened next month.

Government Life Instjbanoh Dap art mkni—The following flattering testimony to the liberality of one of our colony's institutions, viz , the Government Insurance Department, hns been received by the Resident Agent, N»pier, from the widow of the late Mr George Mulinder, of Kaikora North :—" Dear Sir, —Kindly allow me to express to you the gratitude of my fami'y for the very liberal tieUment of your department in connection with tha policy of insurance on the life of my late husband. This policy waa dated 12th August), 1876,

and aithough net a penny in premiums was paid after May, 1891, and an advance had also previou ly been granted upon the policy, your department has kept the risk covered right up to the date of Mr Mu'ioder'e recent death, and has paid to us the full Bum assured, with bonuses, after deducting only the loan and premium arrears. Buch liberal treatment should et courage many otherß to deal with you, and you are at liberty to uae this letter in any way to this end." " Ourselves ah Others See Us."—Our friends are generally too polite to tell us our faults; but they seldom fail to observe the fit and style of our clothes. YouDg men who want to mike good impressions, must bear in mind that "appearance goes a long w&y." An jl'-fitting suit is uncomfortable, and an " eye sore" to your friends. Don't risk it ! If you are a stranger here, the 6rat well dressed citizen you meet will gladly direct jou to "The Leading Tailors" where you will always find a large assort ment of "Up to date' 1 suitingß to select from, and where you can al ways depend or. getting satisfaction. The large and still increasing business done by MESSRS Craig- Head & Hkkryman epeaka volumes. This firm has jsst imported probably the finest stock of new Seasons tailoring goods ever shown in Ashburton, includiug a beautiful range of tho new rain-proof Beavers and Meltona for Covert coats and Chosterfleld overcoats, both fashionable and durable.

News in Brief.

Fxcimion fares and train arrangements for the Ashburton sohools' sporba, to be held on Thursday next, are advertised in this iisue.

CABLE NEWS.

Uuited Pressi Associition—By Eleotri Telegraph—Copyright -1 ondon, May 6 The War Office has decided to form a volunteer reserve. The Queen has eubscribed 500 guineas, and the Prince of Wales 250 guineas to tho Ottawa Fire Relief Fund. New York, May 6 The Presbyterian minister against whom Miss Olga Nethersole, actress, issued a writ for libel in connection with the anti« Sappho crusade, has from his pulpit apologised to Miss Netheraole. Melbourne, May 7 Out of the thirty Imperial army commissions offered to Victoria, it has been decided to reserve ten for those serving In South Africa. The test will be allotted in the colony. Hobart, May 7 The importation of swine from New Zealand has been prohibited for twelve months.

FIGHTING IN ASHANTI.

ROUT OF THE REBELS.

THE SITUATION BE ASSURING.

United Press Association—By Eleotrlo Telegraph—Oopj right London, May 7 Ten thousand Ashantis surrounded Sir Frederick Hodgson at Kumassi Fort on the 29fch. Desperate fighting occurred, the rebels being routed with great 1038. Several guns were abandoned. Some of the natives used arms with great precision. Two of the constabulary were killed, and 183 wounded. The situation on the 3rd waa re assuring.

AUSTRALIAN FEDERA TION.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright Brisbane, May 7 The Chamber of Commerce has cabled to Mr Chamberlain expressing the desire to retain the appeal of the Privy Council subject to the amended tribunal.

A WAR STORY

An Exciting- Adventure.

rj k» North Olago limes publishes a. very interesting letter from Trumpeter JobEEtone, from which we'extract, the 'ollowing interest ing and exciting account of the recovery of v, trooper's horße :—"Trooper Fordham cume to grief as he was galloping out of rnnge, his horse turned a somersault with him. He had to leave it behind, as he thought it had broken its leg After we had ali retired out j of eusy raige wo book tip a position on a small kopje which waß right iv front of (heir trench ami still in'range of the Boer rifhs, for thfiy kept sniping away at us all the time, the bnlleta spattering on the rocka, bat everybody escaped uninjured. While we were watching them with the glasses we saw Fordham's horse walking about with the saddle under his belly. Ha was about half way between us and the enemy. Three of the boys volunteered to go out and bring it in, bub the Oaptaln would not hear of it at first, but at last he let) Trooper Smythe go out and bring it in. He rode right out to it I without getting a shot fired at him, bub just, as he put hib hand out to get a hold of the reins they opened a regular fusiiade on him, ao he had to clear out and leave the horse behind. He lost his baton the way back, which was nothing, for we expected him to fall every second. None of ua thought he would gat back through such a heavy 6re without getting hit and everyone was gad when he got back to the Hneß ; but his escape did nob daunt the courage of the boys, for he waa no sooner back than three or four more wanted to go out and try and get the horse. Trooper Holroyd was allowed to go. He went out on foot and ma>.le straight for the horse, When he was about inlf way one of the Boers sniped at him. An soon as the shot was fired he fell down aa if he was hit, and orawled the rest) of the way to the horse, reaching it allrighr. After securing the horse he orawled baok till he was out of easy range, then stood up for he had a rough time of it crawling over the rough ground. He waa no sooner on his feet then they started a regular fusilade on him. He at once got down again and orawled the rest of the way baok to the camp. He was compli mented by Captain Madooks and all the boys for the plucky way he went and brought the horse in, also for the cleverness he showed at beating the Boers at their own game."

Sporting.

ASHBURTON COUNTY RACING CLUB

A full meeting of the Committee (Mr T B Upton, chairman) of the Ashburton County Racing Club was held on Saturday evening. The obtaining of the services of a band was left in the hands of the chairman. The Ground Committee are to meet on the ground, for the purpose of making improve ments. Mr R M Cuthbertson resigned his position on the Committee, as he wan about to leave Ashburton, and Mr E. Gates was unanimously elected in his piece. It was agreed to charge bookmakers £5 per day, and that persons trespassing on the Tinwald course with horses, without permit, would be dirqualiSed from running at a,ny of the Club's meetings Stewards' duties for the Autumn meeting were allotted. Final arrangements were made for carrying out the meeting.

RIKAIA.

A bsztar and Church gift auction were held in the Town Hall> Rakaia, on Thursday last, in aid of a fund for the extinction of the balance of ihe mortgage debt on the Manse of St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Rakaia. 'the weather was all that could be desired and the attendance p»r' iculnrly good; After Mr 0 A C Hardy, M HR, ia a racy speech had declared the bszaar open, the stallholders commenced business, and a brisk I trade was done 5 the di play of pHin and [fancy work being a more thun ordinarily attractive one. The refreshment fetal! was well patronised, ai-d the numerous f»rmer» who were in town for the stock market were treated to a sumptuous rnpast, while in the 1 afternoon and evening Mr W W Morten, of the N.Z. Loan and M.A.C., who kindly came up from Christohiirch for the purpose, aold a large quantity of live atook, produce, etc ,by public auction The following were the prizj takers in the various competitions held —Cookery, (bread)—lst, Mias 0 Wake ham ; 2nd, Miss H. Oakley. Scones—lst, MiesJH Oakley; 2nd, Miss A H-irrison P;um Cake—lst, Misa J Boyd ; 2nd, Miss 0 Oakley. Sponge sandwiches—lst, Miss O Oakley; 2nd, Misa M McLean. Doll dress ing (under 12), Misa N McLean and Misa A McClive, equal; over 12, Misa B Clark, 1 ; Misa E Duustan 2' The ladies'nail driving competition was well patronised and caused much merriment, Mrs Pye taking Ist prize and Mrs Geo. Clark second. The young ladiea in charge of the flower stall did a thriving trade. The various amusements provided were well patronised, and comprised fish pond, comio picture gallery, galvanic battery and , weighing machine, and shooting gallery. At the close of the bsziar the Rev. J Riddle thanked 3U who had assisted towards making the baz\ar a success, and intimated that the result of the effort would bring in a net total of about £170. Credit ia particularly due to the ladies' of the congregation for their untiring efforts towards the further? anoe of their object and the results secured must be exceedingly gratifying to them. Mrs W Boag acted as secretary and Mr J Kollo Sharp as Treasurer.

HIGH SCHOOL BOARD.

A meeting of the Ashburbon High School Board was held yesterday afternoon. Present) —Messrs A Orr (chairman), D Williamson, Hugo Friedlander, M Stitt, G Denshire, and Hon W J Steward. MATRICULATION EXAMINATION. A circular waa received from the South Canterbury Board of Education asking the Board to co-operate with the Sou h Canter bury Board in endeavoring to induce the University Senate of New Zealand to rescind* the regulation proposed, namely to Abolish the holding of matriculation examinations in the smaller centres throughout the colony. After some discussion, Major Steward proposed and Mr Williamson seconded the ollowing resolution* That this Board desires respectfully to represent to the Senate of the New Zealand University that it is in expedient) to require all candidates for matriculation to proceed to the large centres of population for examination, and supports the resolution passed by the South Canter bury Board in favor of the continuance of the local examination at Timaru, O&maru, and elsewhere, as has been the procedure heretofore. The motion was oarried unanimously. headmaster's report

The Headmaster's report was read as follows:—The average attendance for the month has been 36, roil number : boy« 27, girls 12; total, 39. Two new pupils were admitted during the month. As our advanced chemistry class is doing praobieal work the want of a chemical balance ia much felt. I would like the Board bo authorise the procuring of one. The combined sphools of the county are holding their firab sports meeting on Thursday next. It haa come rather soon after our own, but as I think the object worthy of support I ask your sanotion to close the school on Thursday afternoon. Permission to close the school was granted ; the balance asked for to be procured. DBAFT LBASE The sub-Committee appointed to look into the matter recommended the preparation of a new draft lease, to be ready by ne^t meeting. REPAIRS, KTO Mr Denshire reported on several matters. The borough scavengers had been asked to attend to the urinal cvet flow, but had nob done so Mr Denshire was authorised to see the work was done at once. Ib was decided to paint the fence. ACCOUNTS Accounts amounting to £53 13s 6d were passed for payment and the Board adjourned.

Transvaal War.

The Capture of Brandfort

Magnificent Fire of the British

The Retreat of the Enemy

.A Commandant Captured-

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, May 7 Lord Roberts, from a kopje at Karee aiding, he:iographed instructions for the co-ordination of the British move ments. Four thousand Boers held a strong line of defences. Colonels Brace and Hamilton followed the line of kopjes to the east, while General Tucker advanced nearer to the line of com munication, and General Pole Oarew moved to the centre. General Hutton, with the colonial i division, making a wide detour, arriv ing unexpectedly east of Brandfort, seized the unoccupied kopjes, and opened with a raking fire from the 9th Field Battery, driving the Boers on the plains towards the hills over-looking the town.

Several shells were placed magnifi cently in the midst of the enemy. Himington's Guides seized the hill when the enemy evacuated the town, General Maxwell meanwhile forcing the position eastwards The whole Bectinn streamed north, nearly losipg their convoy and guns. The commandant of the town, re turning to destroy the telegraph instru ments, was captured. A Pouter's correspondent states that the Irish-American Brigade were in a state of riot. They refused to fight, and merely manned the kopjes near the town.

A Oape Colony trooper named Smythe was recently intercepted and disarmed by the Boers at Donkerpont, and then told to go. As he attempted to do so, the enemy fired at and shot him \n the head, shoulder and leg. He immediately dropped, and feigned that he was dead, whfm the enemy, after kicking bis prostrate body, left him. He was ultimately rescued and taken to Mafeking.

The Hautnek casualties include among the killed Trooper F. Smith, and wounded Troopers Lewier, Max well and Tweedie, all of New South Wales.

Of those wounded at Thabanchu, Lieutenant T.iiley's wound in the head is » serious one.

Private Couzhlan, of Warrnambool, is a prisoner with his leg broken.

Private James F.<hpy, of the New Zealsnd Mounted Infantry, was-also dangerously wounded.

Mr W. T. Stead accompanied the Boer delegates through the Channel for Boulogne.

CAPTURE OF WINBERG BY THE BRITISH.

Boers in Full Retreat-

[EXTRAORDINARY]

United Press Association—By Blectrlo Telegraph—Copyright

(Received Wakapuaka'May 8, 915 a.m, 1 his Office 9 25 a.m London, May 7 General lan Hamilton has captured Winberg. The Boers are in full retreat to Kroonstad.

Brilliant Operations.

Dash of tfco i oloaials.

Received Wakapuaka May 3, 9,20 am, This Office 10 a m

London, May 7 General Hutton found the enemy with two long range and four other guns holding a strong position at the Vet River, The 84th and 85th Batteries engaged the enemy. Twenty six Weatralians became temporarily separated from the main body and captured a kopje, holding it until reinforced. The enemy north of the Vet River retreated during the night. General JDundenald dislodged the Boers right flank under cover of the blue jackets naval guns.

The Black Watch rendered dis tinguished aervice.

Lord Roberts cabled that the Canadian, New South Wales, New Zealand Mounted Rifles, and Queens land Mounted Rifles vied with each other in the determination to close with the enemy. On Friday at the Vet River they captured a Maxim and 25 prisoners.

The British casualties were fifteen wounded, one killed and three missing, General lan Hamilton, on Friday, prevented the junction of two Boer forces. The Household Cavalry, 12fch Lancers, and Kitchener's Horse charged between the Boers, inflicting heavy loss upon them. The enemy abandoned their dead and wounded. The British then marched to Winberg and captured guns and Maxims there.

A Severe Engagement

Colonel Barton's Brigade Engage 3000 Boers-

Received Wakapu&ka May 8, 8.45 a.m, This Office 10.31 a.m)

London, May 7 After crossing the Vaal River, General Hunter sent Colonel Barton to dislodge three thousand Boera from I£Jip Dam, Wind.sorton. After a severe engagement the Boers retired, as their retreat was threatened. Thirteen B,oer« were killed, and a number were taken prisoners. Five British were killed and 25 were wounded. The Imperial Yeomanry chased the enemy for miles northwards.

Lord Roberts' Movements

Sotrs Leaving Natal

Honoring the Defenders of Ladysmith-

(Received Wakapuaka May 8, 10-5 a.m. This Office 10 39 am) London, May 7 lord Roberts has reached Smaldell, The Boers are rapidly leaving Natal. It is estimated that five thousand now confront General Buller. The Prince of Wales reviewed the Ladyamith Contingents and the Blue Jackets from H.M.S, Powerful, at

White Hall. Tho men afterward marched through the city araidfu immense enthusiasm.

The Doornspruit Disaster.

An Inexplicable Muddlo.

United Press Association—By Electrio Telegraph.—Copyright. Sydney, May 7 Particulars of the disaster to Broacl- -wood?a column afc Uoornapruit, a* given by the News correspondent, shows the whole affiir is inexplicable. The merest neophyte in the art of war o ;e would imagine would taka the trouble to find out if an enemy were in the neighborhood before cam pin &; in hostile country, and the youngest subaltern would have been cashiered if guilty of bivouacltig without throwing out pickets. Ihe Boers came down without warning. One hundred suddenly emerged from a donga and demanded the surrender of the batteries and wagon?, and a few minutes afterwards 800 more rushed on the scene and the entire force was practically sur rounded. * Throw down your arms' wag i the next order, and many did so, utterly demoralised by the suddenness, bat a portion of Roberts' Horse ani others made a dash for freedom, being literally cut to pieces, losing about ninety. The artillerymen fought bravely, but had no chance. Out of "*< U " battery it is said only the Major, Sergeant Major, Corporal, and 14 men were left to tell the tale. On the left I flank the New Zealand Mouoted In fantry, with a portion of Robert*' Horse, opened up a retreat to Boes man's Kop, towards which, by a very circuitous routp, the remains of the I battered brigade made its way. One I of the New Zealanders' waggons wai captured. The driver, Pitt, was lent | with a wounded attache to a house near where the battle took place, and ' in the hurry and turmoil of the scrim mage he was apparently forgotten, for he found his way back to his company without further mishap. Sixteen New Zealanders were taken prisoners. All, with the exception of ihe Quarter- Master Sergeant Borland, are supposed to be badly wounded

THE NEW ZEALAND CONTINGENT.

United Frees Association—By Electric Telegraph— Wbllinqioh, May 7 Extracts from the reports by the officers commanding the contingents are being printed by the Government lor public in formation. They are, so far, of a' very satisfactory nature. Letters are being publishd in tha local papers from members of the First Contingent, strongly condemning the exaggerated state* mente and bombastic language seen published in the New Zealand papers, and expressing a wonder that they have not been toned down. The Agent-General cables to the Premier confirming the Press message re Lord Robert's and General French's commendatioßi of the No. 1 New Zealand Contingent Private But berry, of the Kaiapoi Rifles, who was accepted for the Ist New Zealand Contingent and then rejected, and went to Africa on his own account-, is now one of General Buller's orderlies, and was at the relief of Lidyemith.

The Fourth Contingent.

| Praise for New Zealanders.

United Press Association—By Eieotrio Telegraph Wellington, May 8 The Premier has received the following cable from Major Francis, in charge of tha Fourth New Zealand Contingent), on board the Monowai, dated Beira, 7th:— "All quite well; remain here another week, then go to Marendalla, near Salisbury

The Agent-General wires, under date London, 7ih:—"Lord Roberts' reports state that the New Zealand Mounted Hit') distinguished themselves in the turning movement crossing the Vet River/

The Plague.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Copyright. Sydney, May 7 The fresh cases of plague are : A : child named McKinnon, of Redfern, I and Margaret Laurence, of Oamper down (both dead). Edmunds died in quarantine, Brisbane, May 7 A second patient from the Ointrsv died, it is stated, of typhoid. The steward of the Ointra died of plague. Received Wakapnaka May 8, 10 25 a.m This Office 10.56 a.m) Adelaide, May 8 A wharf labourer working at ft Sydney steamer, has been seized with plague at Fort Adelaide.

Wellington, May t The Wellington City Council has paid for over 2000 rats.

Dr Baldwin, Sanitary Commissioner, Auckland, now wires the Colonial Score. tary with regard ho the boy bitten by a rat: —"I am glad to be able to say the rabjeeted case has been decided aot to be plague. The honorary staff, of the Hospital called in Dr Lloyd Smith, as an export* I was not asked to be present at the consultation, bub Dr Woodward says he admitted the bacillus to be like plague, though not plague. I feel that the precautions taken were in the public interest, bo that if further examination had shown the case to be true plague, every thing possible to be done to conserve the public health would have been done. I may say that the Btaff have left the case in an isolated ward, though not in quarantine, and that one member thought it necessary to leave his coat to be burned. It should be noted thab the case has been under treat* ment in the Hospital since the 24th Apr}!, and was ordered into isolation by » member of the staff. (Signed), G. Pkabce B^LDWXS.'*

THE LATEST.

Australian.

United Press Association—By Eleotn'o Telegraph—Copyright

(Received Wakapuaka May 8, 10.26] am This Office 10 56 a.m) TUe Mysterious Signals Adelaide, May 8 The barque Oakburst has arrived. The signals which mystified the Benareg have been cleared up. The captain merely wished to convey that he bad picked up a boat belonging to » Ger man barque. On March 13 he sighed a boat containing the captain, leoood mate, and six of the crew of the German barque Undine, bound from Selena Oruz to Falmoutb. They had abandoned the vessel owing to a heavy gale a few days previously. A report brought by a recent arrival that the barque Sita, bound front Brisbane bad I signalled, picking up the boat's crew, most likely refers to the missiDg boat.

T,E A'HbURTON QQAKDUX \ TUE3L>a*, MAY 8, 1900



J. WILSON, SIGN-WUirEK. LARGE STOCK OF WAIL P^P3R-j WINDOW QL\.vS, mix ki». Paints, PICTURE IIOULPINGS, ARTIST'S MATERIAL, &o. BUPNETT STREET, opposite Mail C-ffioe Telephone 65 ► £ ' si- << g 1 fe « EH .02, % & i P . J THE New Zealand DL9THING FAGTOBY HAS received a Special Consignment of Men's ;uid Boys' Tweed Overcoats and Capc-p, which they are marking at Ridiculous Pricsß to clear. sbb them at onob. don't miss this opportunity. Men's Ovtrc ■•U? ansl C ipoa 25a 6d, for 19, 6 ' ; B 'ys' ditto 11s 61, for 6a 6J. Men'a OvercoitH and Ope* 265, for 21s ; Boys 1 ciit o 12^ 6*l, for 7a 6d. Men'B ov:>rcna>B and Capes 32s 61, for 25b 6d ; Boys' ditto 15', for 9*. Men's Overcoats and Capes 35', for 27a 61 ; Biys' dito 16s 6.1, for 10a. Men's Ovcrco.'s an 1 C.rm 37s 6>l, fur 29^ 6.1 ; Boya' Reefers 10s 6 \, for 7a 61. Mou'e New Shi: c CheaUrfie'd Wiierproof Coiit.B ma!e lo order. A fcry la rge selfction of pfittrr.B. Ladies' Waterproof Cloaks made lo ovder. See our patternF. rs *-i w riC w.■> x. afn 13 jLOTHING FACTORY. F. H. BKOKTNGSAILK, Manager "R.~T. CLARK7 GRAIN AND PRODUCE BROKER. '* ancbed Street, (Next McOaQell & Oompton'e Stables.) AGENT for Biilingo and Knowle'd Spray lumps a»:d Famous lQßectici:i'>* Spray Patnpa, comp!ete .. £2 Knowlos 1 "Bweet Nicotine" 2a per bottle.  Kill 'Km Quick Is 9d per boitle. „ Paris Gre<n 2i 6d per Hi „ Hekbore Powder 2« per Ib. i INFORMATION GRATIS It cannot be aaid of the American Blight) That to the Orohardisb id gives delight, So Spray it well without compulsion With Fienoh "Kesosknk Emulsion." Che cherries and pev b are covered with elugß, The Vines are infested with naughty wee Bugs. But never »ay die, have you nob seen There's death in the epray of " Swuet Nicotine." The Aphis black and the Aphia green Are the very woiafc pests the peach has peon They allow neilher fruit nor Iree to grow, Then why no'give "Sweet Nicotine " a Bhow. Your fruit trees will soon be nothing but t atumpa If you've not got the sense to use "Knowles* Pomps." tThe S*tn Jose Soile is coming your way, And your o;y then will be "Let us Spray," *' Lot us Spray." If you wish to destroy the San Jose Scale Pub a pioch of Saltpetre on the tip of hia tail, One of fioe Charcoal, another of Sulphur, Touch with a lighted match—Oh, Lor S What a buster ? Catch,hold of hia throat and open hia throttle, And dose him with " Bordhaux " out of a bottle, When he's swallowed a pint or a quart at the most, He'll be dead as a nail, or quail upon toast The larva of bhe Codlin Moth la more destrucu c tha-i the Goth. So tike my urfvice as soon as h«'s sesn Give him a spray of " Paris Grekn." We have peats by the millions, Which give ub the I)ump3. They are cming in Billions, Thank " QfiA'RK " for hia Pumps, MhiS J'jliNsilUN fVIKAOSJEa of the Pianoforte and BlQßlGfc'* Savelock Street. Second Term oommenoea oa the 7th insti*



FIFTY-FIVE YEARS Ufl- INTEHftUPTED SUCCESS. fFHIS Ohemloal Preparation h OAR BOLISED as a remedy against the ravages of Birds, Runks, or other Pests taking ihe seed dressed with It. This Preparai ion is now BEING USED EXTENSIVELY In t? c Colonies of NEW ZEALAND, AUSTRALIA, AND CENTRAL AFRICA. Wheat Sowing 1 Best and Cheipest Dressing for Seed Wheat, Carboliaod. Patronised by thousands of the First Practical Farmer* in *ha Kingdom. PBUBIfiOT B'RRKDOM FROM. SMUT. D.CLARKE'S OAKBOLISED WHEAT PROTECTOR (Name and Label Registered under Trade Marks Act, No. 13,796 and 158,143) HAS BEEN USED FIFTY-FIVE YEARS WITH UNDEVIATING SUCCESS, IMEO^TANT TESTIMONIAL.



GEORGE DUNCAN & Co. BEADY MONLY DBAPBBS, TAN OR ED STREET, ASH BURTON. Winter Fust Approaching /"^ ' \ i? / * i~\ WKIIE fortunate in securing their stock of \JT» ' • O£v-.V/*f Hiank*'ti and Fliinuola prior to the com.idor able rise in price of wool, and al! purchasers will get the full benefit thereof. Lnrce stock of Winter O*pf:B nnd Jackets at rock bottom prices. Flannelettes, Calicos, Sheetings, Dress Stuffs, and other lines in General Drapery are quoted at lowes' cash prices, Please call and judge for yourselves, and the verdict will be that you siive money in purchasing from G. DUNCAN & CO., CASH DBA PRBB, __ Notice to farmers. yy B abe 0 A H BUYERS o ? PRIME MILLING WHEAT IN ANY QUANTITY Please take your Samples to the Mill We can supply Oomsucks^ut coat price. CANTERBURY ROLLER FLOUR MILLS, (ROLLITT AND C 0.,) J. B, HOBART, Manager 17th iffaiMh. 1900 I THE AFFLICTED REJOICE! j x \_ THE POLYPATHS HA.VK CAPTURED the HKIABTS of the PEOPLE of CANTERBURY. COMING FROM ALI/ OVJBR THE COLONY TO THE POLYPATHIC MEDICAL INSTITUTE N.Z. BRANCH- Corner of Latimer Square & Gloucester Street, CHRISTCHUItCEI POLIPATHIO, the NEW MKTHOD OF HEAIIKGr, is the surest and most rapid System, as *m "^S&s{j* cureß with absolute certain y such diseases as ®4^f*s^^^K^tl^MKf% Cancer, Epilepsy, and Astbma, incurable under the f^^^^^^^^^^^^al old system, as well as all Chron'c JNcrvous i^^p^^^p^^^^S Complaints of Women and Men. MORE CURES fiSBNSfSPSP^I MADK BY POLYPATBY than any OTHER s^^^^^^^3^3 SYSTEM IW THE WORLD. wj T^e wisest t eßfc educated, and most enlightened $M3v¥P~cSag&^^*3an petple are daily becoming converts to those new o% "^S^^^tl^l^^Sl I'^i'-ciples and methods which areaupported by such i * rnSV-^S^SSeSSSSi ovui whelmirg evidence, by the public, X wca^^^^^Sfp!|^gP^ Jb who b^ve had an opportunity of testing the '.W^^^^SB^S^Wm remarkable euccees <i ihe POLYPATHIC SYS liM. I^^^SJ^^^s^* J2* Their «oadeifal tucc-s& has spread like wildfire : H i^^^M^^^^i ~ffl t'-101gl1 aa e'.l'glvmed community, and amongst '■fflz -&^ iho«e «lio had g.>ei> up all hopes of ever being weli i fI of tho P- 'LYPATBIO SYSTEM of treating Chronic f-isiasH;-. wi.ich has proved to be the surest, quickest, Ol^^^j^^l^l&^i *r-1 nKBt relirble means of Cure ever offered an 0* '^Ij!-^'^^^^^^^^?'?'^ ' ftlicte'.i people. When kick, Is the time we need the | fp^liif^li v^?v3 t" t-tt ac^vl"ce arj<^ treatment. Therefore wa say: I fy s&§sjnt43rjfa!jrt^?^J sr Inform yourselves, you who are isick, write to tho ~2™Z^^^~^ S7.tr J' c POLYPATHIO INSTITUTE, and then accept proofs i!r o the mysterious skill—more convincing than words ■ that is possessed by the Polypaths. j Tiuy traat all Female Ailments i y tie Polypathic Method, which does away with ! *li txHiuination and all local treatmen 1 • rjhcy also desire to impress up v all mea who are suffering thafc they have fche i us; y celebrated Hindoo Keinedy, so wi 11 and favourably known In the Old World M.sth"e. " Atiti-Agnechal Tabloid Mo b< d.' All desiring to test the system will ha^e huc'n opportunity. lfy< v ri.nnot Visit, WRITE for Question List to Chrlstchurch, with Stamped ICnvolope an r you will receive an immediate reply. Medicine pack d Free from Observation Carriage Paid Parcel Post, THOUSANDS CURED ANNUALLY BY LETTER.



Vool Pifcfci, Ledbury, Herefordshira, October 23 1889. Pear Sir, —I am pleased to testify to she efficacy of your "Oarbolised Wheat Protector,' having used! your Protector for 40 ye*rs and never having grown a Smutty Ear of Corn in my Life ; therefore Dan confidently recommend your " Wheat Protector as a cure preventative far Snoot, &c>— I am, yonrs trnly, Mr G B Clarke. G B JONES. PREPARED BY Q B CLAKKE, MP.B,, MANUFACTURING CHEMIST, VVobum, Beda., England. (Proprietor cf the Sheep Dipping Com position). In Packets containing Sofiicient to drebß eight bushels of seed Wheat), Barley, O»(s, or other Oorn. AGEiMT FOR ASHBURION : F. FERRJMAN. ZBALANDIAB" at thk PKONT BTILL BOOMING. riIHICY uro almply marvelloum. For Bpeed, I. KigiiHty, and Comfort they cannot bo beaten. Beautifully cDumoliud in fancy colora Gkntlbman'b j}Bl. Lady'b 5J»5. ; A large «tock of Latest Novolbica to hand. Lamps from 4a 6d, Graphite for chain from | 6d, Toe Clips from Is 6d, Dunlop outfits Sd, Elastic ankleta 2a 6d t Fancy handlos from 2s. Inspection invitmd. OATEB LOWBY AND CO. Burnett Street.



Herr Andrea went in his balloon To try and find the pole, He must, have perished all too eeon Before he reached his goa'. If he had only known the way Cold regions to endure, He mighb have been alive to-day, On Woods' Great Peppermint Oure Woods' Great Peppermint (Jure for Coughs and Golds never ails—ls 63 and 2s 6d Don't Cough—Belief oan be obtained im mediately. Use KEATINQ'S COUGH LOZENGES—woI! known as the utterly un rivalled Oough Remedy. Strongly recom mended by the many eminent physicians. They at onoe chook the oough and remove he cause—without any after effect j the most delicate oan therefore take them. One Lozenge alone gives ease—one or two at j bedtime ensures rest, Sold everywhere in ins 13£ d each] !



• Unequalled and Invincible, Woods' Great Peppermint Oure for Coughs and Golds, Is 6d and 2s &d The reliable Family Remedy Woods'Grea Peppermint Oure for Coughs and Colds- Is 6d and 2s 6d



MEN'S Tweed vSuita, heavy wint« line* 39a 6d at "The Corner,"