EPHEMERIS

Phases of Moon for Deotmber

SUN.

THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

Trains leave Ashburton daily for— CHRISTOHUROH—at 7.20 am, 11 a m 3.15 p m, 7 5 p m (express) TTMARU—ab 10 55 am, 3.50 pm DUNEDIN—at 12.54 p m (express) SPRtNGBURN—at 4.25 p m Trains arrive daily at Aahburton from— CHRISTOHUROH—at 10.45 am, 12.48 p m (express), 8 pm Tf M ARCT—at 10.35 am, 255 pm DUNEDIN—at 6.57 p m (express) SPRINGBURN-ab 9.45 a mf

Mail Notices.

Mails close for the following places a s under, subject to the necessary alterations FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14 For Northern Ports, Wesbport, Australia, (due Sydney December 20th), per Weatralia, at 6 30 p m SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15. For Northern Ports per Waihora, at 10 30 a m For Northern Ports and Weatporb, per Rotomahana at 6 30 p m aT^'H Note—Persons poßiing Christmas cards at book rates are reminded of the necessity for keeping the coy rs r>pcn for examination. If the packets are cea'ed up, so that contents cannot be examined, letter rates will be charged. Express delivery and special messenger services will be established at Ashburton as from Ist January 1901. Fxpress delivery will cover letters and parcels not) exceeding three lbs in weight, for which an exrra fee of g;xponce has been paid. The special mes senger service means placing a messenger ab the disposal of any telephone exchange subscriber on request being made, and a fee of sixpence for the first mile and threepence saoh additional mile up to two miles or time payment being made

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 1900. Local and General.

Tbain Servioe —The running of the special expre*R trains to overtake the holiday passenger troffic commenced today.

Ihe Octward Mail3.—The Federal mails by the Oosona (Melbourne, November 7) atrivod in London on December 8, one day early.

BowxiKG —At a recent meeting of the Australian Bowling Association, on the motion of the chairman, it was decided to send a team to England next April.

Thi Lat* Sia A. Sullivan—From a chill oaughb is Switzerland, during September, which resulted-in a partial loss of voice, was attributed the death of Sir A Sullivan, the eminent composer.

A Touch Stkcggle—An Oxford boy of 15 years, recently, after a desperate straggle, which almost exhausted him, landed a 22ib eel. It measured 4ft 2n, and fonefht desperately, nearly palling tbe lad Into the creek.

He Paid Up—The Otago Daily Times understands that the nonsuit: r>nt^t lathe recent breach of promiie cate lu.uiaonv. Mnrcott has not been proceeded with, and that the amount) of tbe verdict (£275; has been paid, with costs.

Acclimatisation—Mr W W Smith, bhe curator, has transferred tbe big trout and perch from the breeding pond to the lower lake in the Domain, and liberated 1100 rain bow trout into the breeding pond* The lower pond ia bow fairly well atooked with fish, and several boya have been plying the rod there with much success of late.

Thm Half Holidat.—Yesterday after noon the Domain presented an unusually animated scene, cricket, croquet, bowling, and lawn tennis, being in full awing, apart from the chief attraction, the A.A.C. and A.O. sports. The sohool excursionists irom Ohriatchurch were interested onlookers tb the various games and »porbs. The weather was delightful.

France and Britain ~ The relations between France and Great Britain have on : various occasions during the past few years been strained, insomuch, that ao iojadioious word uttered by * responsible Minister of either Power, might he^e precipitated war. ' Max O'Reil has written to the Daily Mail giving his opinion for the existence of this undesirable state of affairs. His article appears on our fourth page. Mr J. C. WjlSOK—lt has been reserved for a New Ze^lander to bring the British Genere! election to a glorious conclusion as regarded from a Ministerial view-point. Mr J. Cathcart Wason has won the Orkney and Shetland seat by a mapriy of 40 over Sir Leonard Lyell, the Radical candidate Mr Wason polled no fewer than 2057 votes, bat his victory over so strong an opponent, whom both sides regarded as virtually safe, has been a great and pleas ant surprise for the Ministerialists, espec ially coming as it did a fortnight after the other elections were over

Botjb IyjPBKD By Gbnpowdbb.—-On Wed* neaday morniDg three boys, Joseph Carney. Light, sad Milne, aged respeotirely about 18,13,10 years, were playing with a quantity of gunpowder behind ths cricket pavilion in the Sydenham Park, Chjrinhchurch, when one of them accidentally dropped a match into the tin containing it. The three boys were considerably singed by the explosion which followed, and rushed out from behind the pavilion, Carney temporarily blinded and with his ciothea on fire- They were taken to (he Hospital, where ib was found that the burnt of Light and Milne, though painful, were merely superficial. Theae boys were sent home in a cabs Carney was partially blinded, and was kept at) the insti tution, whero he will have to remain for a few days.

CiRGO-BiwuraiKG—A typical Instance of cargo-broaching has jaat oocared, ears Truth. Me J. Bates had received from the Delphic a case of valuable cutlery, which at first light showed co signs of having been tampered with. On opening it, how ever, It was found tint part of the content* valued at£ls, on which£6djatjrand freight had been paid, was missing. Somebody had removed the hoopiron, prised open tbe bottom of the box, .slit thejzlne lining, and abstracted part of the contents. There was only the cat lining luelde to i show how lt> h»d b«n d#ne P

Thi Frisoo Mail—TheFriMo mill arrived by tbe first train from the North this morn* ing and was quickly sorted wish the private boxes.

To VoLFKTBiSs.—The attention of volun" teers ia directed to an advertisement in this issue giving details of a district order regard 1 ing tbe parade at Cbrißteburoh on Monday next

Swimming—Ab the Sydney swimming airnival on December Ut the half mile championship of the colony was won by Richard Cavil! in 12min 43 2-Sseo.

The Fedbbal Cabinet.—lb ia announced on nndoubted authority, that Mr Edmund Barbon has informally received intimation thab he will be commissioned to form the first Federal Uabinet.

Donald MAcDoNALD-The Hobarb • Mer cury ' states thab owing to bhe revival of a South African complaint, Mr Donald Mac- Donald, the war correspondent, has, on the advice of his medioal advisers, been reluct ant ly compelled to canoel all hia lecturing eogagementt, and proceeds direct to Melb ourne, with the objf.ct of taking a brief rest

A Dumping Ground—A Fiji merchant wribes to a Wellington friend :—"One thing tbab ia good mlghb oome oub of federation wibh New Zealand. There are a lot of New Zealand runaway bankrupts, wife deserters and bad eggs generally down here, who would have to clear out."

Hb Mians Busm«B»—Mr E. Barney Young, manager of the South Australian wine depot In London, in his annual report rf commends the spending of £20,000 a year during the next four or five years in erecting large central cellars near Adelaide for matur ing wines, and a further £10,000 > year in London for advertising. '""

Troopbb Hxasubt—The Troopers for the South Island who came by the Harleoh Cattle to Australia and thence by Moana, arrived at Lyttehon this morning It it expeoted that Trooper Heasley will reach Ashburton by the last train this evening

IXWet I scapes Again- A cablegram published in another column informs us thab the slippery Da Web has again eluded capture and has bobbed np in the Lbdybrand district, that is one of the most thickly settled portion of the Orange colony.

I Hear tkePibroch—Mr Malc^lmson, manager of the Fairfield Freezing Works, has arranged with the Invercargill Pipe Band to play a tune at the Btatlon here to morrow evening daring the time the express Btops. The Band is enroate for the Federal celebrations in Sydney.

The Amebica Cvt— "lwonld glveevery penny I have and begin again *b the bottom of the laddeE to Hffc the America Cup," said Sit Thomas Lipton reoently to a 'New \ork Herald' interview Sir Thomas claims to have learnt slot daring the Berles of yacht races between the Shamrock and Colombia, and hopes to bring the America Cap back to England with Shamrock 11.

ASHBORTQH BkAUTIJTIHG AS3OOIATION— The following subscriptions have been re ceived :—Ashburton Borough Council £25, Messrs GAM Buokley £5, J O N Grlgg £5, Geo, Coleman £5, Doctor Trevor £3 3s, J McLauchlan £3 3», J Studholme £2 2s, C W Purnell £1 Is, Doctor Bolger £1 Is, W H Collins £1 Is, C Tabateau 10s 6d, Chat Jennings si, Mrs Jennings ss, W W Smith £ss, Working Friend ss. £3 3s will qualify to be a life member. Further donations or subscriptions will be thankfully received by the Honorary Secretary Mr Leohoer, W H Collins or the Editor of the Guardian

Ashburton Amateur Athletic and Cycling Club

A most enjoyable sport b meeting was held on the Domain yesterday nfternoon under tho auspices of the above club. Toe weather was beautiful, but only a moderate number attended although admission was free. The »porfc provided was excellent, the finishes in each event being both keen and exciting, Stephens m<vy be termed the hero of the meeting so f*r n* the cycling events are concerned, for he displayed a turn of speed altogether superior to that shown by any of his op >onente- Anderson won the two principal athletic events. During the after noon a oolleotion was taken up, which resulted in a sum of £3 4* 6J being added to the fund for asphalting the track. All th« events were started punctually to time, the fol'owing bffioUU being responsible for the excellent arrangements :— Judges—Messrs Whittaker and Cox ; Starrer—Mrs DGrant; Timekeepers—Messrs Jeston and Curtis; Pavillion Steward—Mr Reid; Marksmen- Messrs R Shearman, W O Shearman, F Robilliard, M Bruce and C Campbell; Um pires—Meaers L W Hobbs and J Pipe. A word of praise is also due to the Honorary Secretary Mr M J Lyoskey for the energetic manner in which he carried oat the duties a'tached te his position. Following are res ul s :— 109 Yards Flat Handicap— First beat— W Anderson 6yds 1, B Gulverhouse 7yds 2 I Baigent Byds, L Hobbs 4yds, M J Lymkey scr, ali"» started. Time—lOf sees. Second heat—F Robilliard 2yd« 1, P WLlte Byds 2. B Amos 7ydi al«o itarted. Time—lOgieos. Final heat—Anderson 6yds 1, Oulverhouse 7yd« 2 Robilliard Byds 3 Time- 10|«ci. Quarter Milh BiOVCLB Handicap—First hear—B Stephens syds 1, W Leggett ISydi 2, 6 Robinson 18yds 3, W Bowling 20yds, F RobiUiard Byde, also started. Time—37 sees. Second heat—A Anderson 22yds 1, W B Willis syds 2, G Dlokenson sor 3. G King Ifiy^s, P Gray 15yds, also started. Time— 37|<808. Final heat—Robinson 1, Leggetfc 2, Stephens 3. Time—36|seos Boys' Race, 75yds—First heat-J Knight sor 1, Jam«>s Fitzgerald 3yds 2. F Bammers 3yds, B O'Connor 4yds, F O'Connor syds also started. Time-~loaect Second heat— —L Madden 1, 0 Thomas 2. S Whittaker scr also started. Time—lol. Final heat— Knight 1, Thomas 2, Madden 3. Time— 110|«eoj Bore' Raoh, 100yds—First heaU»Knight lyd 1, Madden 3yds 2. F Page 2yds, W Lindsay 3yds, F Hopkins 3yds, C Young Svds, F Morcan 3yds also started. Time— : 1396 C. Second heat—W Bonifant 3yds 1, T Inglis lyd 2. E Williams syds behind sor 3 E Stock 3yds, A Olsen 3vdo, E Thomas 3yds also started. Time—l3^ec. Final heat— Bonifant 1, taglls 2 t Williams 3. Time— 12fseo. It is worthy of note that the three placed lads in this event, are pupili of the High School. 440 Yards Flat Handicap—W Anderson 35yds 1, B Culverhouse 46yds 2, P White 44yds 3 J M Lynekey «cr, L Hobbs 27yds, J Stephens 48yds also started. This was a most exciting event. Anderson took the running from almost the flish of the pistol, and although Culverhouse pushed him considerably on entering the home straight Anderson gamely responded And succeeded in catching the judge's eye, although barely a yard separated him from the second man. Lynskey had no ehanae from the start, the handicapper having set him an almost impossible task, judging by the tim<s in which the race was won. Time—49£aec< OneMjxb Bicycle Handicap—B Stephens 10yds 1, G Dickenson sor 2, G Robinson 40yds 3. W B Willis scr, P Gray 35yds, W Leggett 35yds also started. This was undoubtedly the most interesting event of the afternoon. Gray made the pace for the first two laps when Diokenspn relieved him, taking the field round at a snail's paoe for the third lap. The lap bell having been rung, the riders warmed up to their work and when in the back straight ib was eauy to predict that the struggle for supremacy would be very keen. Dickenson made a break at the north-east corner, and it wes generally thought that he had outgeneralled Stephens, bat the latter made a final effort and by a determined raih gob to the frent and remained there until he passed the winning post. Robinson rode admirably and wai only defeated by a wheel for second place. Gray fell during the seoend lap. Time— 2mln 44fiecs,

Christchurch Wool Sale.

United Press Association—By|Electilo Telegraph Chbistchuroh, Dec 13 I'he sale, so far as, the proportion sold was concerned, was a very satisfactory one, 1 8599 bales oub of 10,448 being disposed of «t auction. The range of prloaa was :— Greasy super merlne 7d to Bd, medium s&d to (fil, super halfbred 7d to B£d, inferior to medium 4d to s£d, bellies and pieces 3£d to 7d, locka l£d to 2|l The market wan topped ia halfbred fry the Allandale clip at 84<i, and in merino by " T " clip ab Bd. Measra IT Mataon and Co. and D Thomas offered 2394 bales, and sold 2170; Messrs Friedlander Bros, Ltd, offered 756 bales, and sold 652.

KRUGER'S CRUSADE

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright

London, Dec 12 Russia requested Mr Krugor to restrain from visiting; St. Petersburg. M Beaufort, Prime Minister of tbe Netherlands, told Mr Kroger that the initiative of arbitration belonged to the Great Powers.

Magisterial

ABHBURTON-THURSDAY.

(Before C A Wray, Eaq, 9.U)

Goodwin v Mitlton, claim £118 7j lOd, and £101 19s 4d. Mr Joynt for plaintiff and Mr Beswick for defendant: This waa a claim for damages resuming to plaintiff, and his wife being thrown out of a trap owing to negligence of the defendant or hia employee. Constable John Dillon depoaed that he remembered speaking to Ch»cles Goodwin aboub the accident; Goodwin told him that hia wheel wenb into a furrow near Million's fence. There were lamps of snow grass on the road, which capsized the trap, and him and his wife wer,e hart. The accident occurred through the state of tbe road. Ib was six o'clock: Had examined the road a day or two after. It was ploughed and looked rough. From hia observation he (witness) should say that the road was dangerous in that particular spot. Cross-examined by Mr Beswiok—Went and looked ab bhe apob in company with Goodwin. Aboub ten or twelve f«eb was ploughed. The road was safe if the best ptrb was used. The depth of the fnrrow was aboub ten inches.

Alberb Henry Davis, called by Mr Joynb, aaid thab he was * shepherd in the employ of Mr Deans, Broom Park. Remembered bhe day of the accidenb. Goodwin was driving an ordinary two-wheeled trap, the horse of which belonged to witness, Good win was used to horses, and th« one he was using waa particularly quiet. While driving in the vicinity of the accident, had taken notice of the condition of the road. The furrow waa six to eight inches, and in some places aearly a foot deep. Saw no snow grass on the atingle part of the road, bub there was plenty on the other parts. Considered the state of the road dangerous. Goodwin was away from work about six weeks. Had no idea whether Goodwin's wages had been stopped —that was Mr Deans' business. Ab the end of the six weeks, Goodwin waa nob as good a man as he was before the accident. Mr Milltoo had ploughed other frontages, and they were apparently safe. By Mr Beswick— 16 waa dark ab aboub spm, in July. It) would be possible to plough right up to, and even under the shingle on the ro*d in question. The ploughing was thirty feat towards the centre of the road.

By Mr Joynt—Tha ploughshare might) have dragged the lumps where they were. They would hardly be dragged there for mischief,

Thomas Matheson, a farmer at Methven, corroborated the evidence «f the previous witnesses iv regard to the state of the road. By Mr Beswick—Killed a cheep after Goodwin passed, consfquently id was not dark. Spoke to the Goodwins afterwards, and they mentioned the accident. Had noticed tbe plnca where the acoideab odcnrrefl, but did not go there specially to examine iti.

Fredeiick Burrrp said that he was a farmer ab Methveiu Remembered the Saturday in July, when the accident hap pened. Saw Goodwin and his wife about five o'clock on the evening of the accident— that would be before ib occurred. Ib was between daylight and dark. Drove down the road afterwards about nine o'clock at night, when his horae took notice of the lumps of snow gr%ts. Gob out of his trap and remove'! some of th=> lumps. After that drove on Matheson's side of the road for safety By Mr Beswick—Was nob aware of the accident when he passed down the road

Dr Peache, duly qualified medical prac titioner, praotising in Christohuroh, saH th%b he saw Goodwin and wife on July 1?. Examined them and found that Goodwin was sunVing from a sprained back and braite* on various parts of the body. Told Goodwin to leave off work. Mrs Goodwin had had a severe illness while in Chriat church. Did not consider Mrs Goodwin a strong woman By Mr Beswiok—Would have advised Mrs Goodwin not to undertake luoh a long journey in ono day Mr Beswiok, for the defence, contended that plaintiff should be non-suited, aa ib was not shown that the defendant's servants bad ploughed the road. No evidence was forth ceming to show that the road was a public one

Mr Joynt replied that the road was one in oommon use by the public. No private road could form a frontage, and to all intents and purposes was a public one For tihs defence, Mr Beswiok then called.

John Whitberg. alias Russian Jaok who gave evidence, but it was not of an important nature

Thomas McCrirr, called by Mr Beswick, said that he was a p'oughmaninMr Millton's employ. Said that ho ploughed the road coder instructions from Mr Million. It was not true that he took the plough out with lumps of snow grass G H Alingtqc, clerk of the Mount Butt Road Board, said that he accompanied the chairman to the scene of the accident, where they found lumpß of bdow grass, which were about nine pr ten inches tbiok did not tbink road was dangerous from whafc he saw of it. Ib was the bsual course to authorise owners of property to plough out the aides of the road.

William Morgan chairman of the Mount F»tt Road Board, gave evidence which in the main corroborated that of tbe previous witness, The defendant, F J Million, in evidence, abated that he owned some land on the Alfprd Forest Boad. Otained permission to plough the road from tha Mount Hufct Road Board, Went along the rptd frequently and aaw nothing to hinder traflSo, After remarks by sounael op both sides, His Worship reserved his deoiaion.

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

London, December 13 Fresh placards posted in China threaten % rising in January to expel foreigner Re'iable Chinese report states that- Li Hang Chang's credentials as a peace negotiator were refused by the Powers on the ground that they could not bear the Emperor's private eeal. Farther delay in thenegotiatlonslsconeequently inevitable.

TRANSVAAL WAR.

Louppif, Deceniber 12 General Knojc ia engaged in a rnnoing igh» with Pc Wet near Helvetia, The enemy are moving towards Redderabarg, where a British force U waiting Uecember J3 A commando of 300, with two guns, destroyed fire miles of railway between Alkmaar and Nelspruib Communication with Barberton ban been

SHOOTING.

The following aoorei are the result) of a match between the Aehbartoa Mounted R fli» eecoDd te»m and the A«hburton Gaardß second team, held at Lagmhor yesterday afternoon, the Mounted Rifias winning by 18 pointi. On the teroiination of the •hooting the men were entertained to afternoon tea by Captain Buckley, and at about 6 p.m. the Athbnrton team left for home, having ppent a most pleasant after aooa both as regards the outirg and other* win.

ABBBUBTON MOUNTKD RULES

ASHBORTON GUABDS

PRIZE DISTRIBUTIONS.

Ashburton Borough School

We continue oar report) of the annual distribution of prizes in connection with the Borough School, which took place on Thurs day afternoon. One of the large room's in the school h d b?en decorated for the occasion, and there was a fairly large gather* ing of parents, member i of the Committee, and friends. The various speeches, etc., were interspersed with songs by the children, a Christmas oarol entitled 'Noel' forming one of the most pleasing item*. Mr 0 D Hardie, B.A , headmaster. In addressing the ohildten spoke aa follows :— Before calling on Mr Woodthorpe to address you this afternoon and present the prizes, there is ju«t a word or two I should like to say. Most of you will remember other prizi days in which you have taken part, but the present one should stand out among the resb in very bold relief. The year bow ending marks the close of the century, a century the most important in the annals of history, a century that has seen more of solid advance, more of aooial and political reform than any of its predecessors, a century that began with the complete federation of the British Isle?, when the Irish Parliament joined its lot with that of Great Britain, and the cross of St. Patrick uniting with those of St. Andrew and St. George, that Union Jack of which we were all bo proud, became the national flag, the fl*g of freedom, of union, and of liberty. The century closes with the federation of the Australian colonies, a federation that must) result in the iooreased progress and prosperity of this great southern land. Before you return to school after the holidays the twentieth century will have been entered on, with all its possibilities for good and evil, for advance or retrogression, and in this twentieth century your own lives will have to be moulded. Hut there is another reason too for remembering the year 1900, for it marks an epoch in the history of our own province: 50 years ago the Oanterbuiy settlement was founded and on Monday nexb we celebrate its Jubilee. With regard to the sohool itself the year hits been a most successful one. At the past sports meeting of the Athburton County schools held on May 10 our boys distinguished th-maelvea by taking a majority of the pr'z <s in the various athletic events and by easily gaining first place in the drill competition, open to eqiuds of boys from the various schools. Some week* back three of our pupils sent the freehand drawing bocka they bad done in ordinary school hours to the Home Industries Se. tion of the (Jhrietohurch Industrial Exhibition, and all, I am pleased to state gained distinction, two winning certificates of merit and one honourable mention. Bub not only in the flWd of athletics and on the { more technical side of school work, have our pupils distinguished them selves. In the 10ßl echolarrhip examination open to all schools in the county, we sue* oeeded in taking the first five out of six scholarships, with higher marks and against greater coinp rtion than Usb year. This makes a total of twenty scholarship! gained by us in the pa«t four years, and representing a value in scholarship money of £378—the school fns for the two years' free tuition which b< long to esoh scholarship, being valued at eighteen guineas. But) while priza takers and scholarship winners thus receive tangible reward for their work, there must of necessity be many who have been disappointed, and to these I should like to say that outward incests is not always the most to be desired. There are victories over the heart and soul, there are brave attempts to conquer self, and after failure to try again, with strength oi will and uciinching forti* tude, which though the world knows not of them, yet serve to mould and determine the future of the life and character. To those who against great odds have honestly tried to do their duty, to do their little best, I would say, ' Persevere and God be with you.' Success must come some day L«t the bells that) ring out the old year, ring out all that is base, cowardly or mean in your own hearts, and let the merry ohimes that ring in the new, ring in also all that is noble and true, so that you may be worthy of the new century that is to coma

The Rev R A Woodthorpe, M.A, gave a most interesting address to the children on the Jubilee, and traced the history of the Canterbury settlement, giving reasons for the success that has always attended England's attempts at colonization. He emphasised the faots that tht Anglo Saxon race with their lofty ideala of duty, justice, and right) now dominate through their various colonies the greater part of the world. Success had come and would come while they held to the faith and traditions of their fathers. The Canterbury settlement was an attempt to found a new England beyond the sea. The early pioneers were distinguished by forti tude, determination and unselfish devotion to duty, and to them we owe 'our churches, our colleges and our schools. Mr Wood' thorpe then congratulated the school on its succeed during the year, and begged the boys and girls on leaving school to neglect: no means of self improvement, but to set apart a small portion of every day for reading and study

Mr Craighead in a few earnest words advised the children to do ail their work with might and main, for that perseverance must in time conquer difficulty Totes of thaßks to the visitor*, Rev R A Woedthorpe, the teaching staff, and the sohool brought to a close one of the moat Buoceusful gatherings of its kind ever held in Aehburton.

ALLENTON SIDE SCHOOL.

The Rev 6 B Inglis ipoke to the children at the Ailenton School yesterday forenoon, aod distributed the prisws. He reminded the little folks that they came to school in order to be fitted for the great business of lite* He urged them to be thorough in all their work, and in all their play, to attend diligently to their leiions. If they were attentive in school, they would soon see the benefit). He wished them alto to be thorough in their play, to aster heartily Into all wholesome outdoor games, and to do their best to excel In them. He asked them to be obedient to their parents and teachers— nothing could free them from that duty. Soldiers and sailors have to obey, even when they know that obedience will be followed by certain death. Life would be impossible unlese every boy was obedient to lawful authority. He *lto urged them to be kind to one another, to avoid teasing, quarrelling, and angry words. Consideration ' for the i feelings of otheri was a sign of good breed*' ibgi and no one could be truly a lady or j gentleman without it. Be advised them to

beware of bad habits, whioh were to easily learned* . * Don't smoke, don't drink, don t swear, (taid Mr Inglis) Don't read bad books, and don't use disrespectful words to parents or teachers. Don't be careless or slovenly or do things in a slip shod way to save trouble. If bad habits once get a start, they grow upon us as surely as weeds grow in a neglected garden. A man was once walking along the Be* shore when bis foot waa caught in the link of a chain. He called for help, but it was unavailing,- and the sea came la and he was drowned. That is what bad habits may be. They hold you fast, and unless them is help from God, there will be death at the end.' They must watch and pray ; they must fear God, and keep his commandment*. If they did they would grow up to be happy and useful men and women. He congratulated the teacher on her work, and wished the children a very happy holiday, with lots of fun and Christ mas presents and sunny memories to carry into the new centuiy, which would be upon them before they returned again to school.; The following is the prize list: — PRIZE MSI. Standard 111-Willie Duobar 1, Bella Monson 2. Special prize—Nellie Edmonds. Standard ll—Gorge Hosken 1, Hillson Monson 2, Olive Upton 5. Special prize- Most popular girl—Bessie Lewis Standard I—Hope Bringing 1, James Rowan 2, Nellie Phaup 3. Special pries- Irene Begg Class lll—Charlie Turner X, Miily Smith 2, Roy Kernel 3. Attendance—'Jessie Phaup Sewing priza*—Rose Hewson 1, Margaret Hudson 2 Every child below Standard I received a book

It Bhould be mentioned that Mrs Fooks and Mrs Silcook were the examiners of the sewing in the Borough Schaol, Mrs Inglis, who was one of those seleoted being unable to attend.

Sacred Heart High School.

The distribution of prizes afc the Sacred Heart High Sohool, Ashburton, took place yesterday afternoon in the pretence of a Urge number of the parents and friends of the pupils. The room was very prettily decorated for the occasion, and in two adjoining rooms there was a large and most interesting display of paintings in oils and water colors, together with art needlework, which reflected the very highest credit on the pupils, and the good titters, who evi dently take the greatest pains to bring out to the best advantage the talents of the children, who are placed under their charge, an.much of the work would rank high in any exhibition. The distribution of the prizes was preceded by a moat enjoyable concert. The rendering of a number of tha items drew forth warm applause. The manner in which the youthful performers executed their various parts was deserving of all 1 praise, and gave evidence of the most careful and competent training. Following is the programme:— i Duet (2 pianos), 'Scotch Blossoms '—Misses Lagan, Dowling, Johnston, and Bournique. Song aud Chorus, 'Happy Days'—Senior pupil*. Quintet (instrumental), ' Kyrie Eleison ' (Mczvrt's 12tb)— Violins—Misses J Brick, W Brick, McKay ; harmoniam—Miss Bournique ; pianos—Mieees Johnston and j Lagan. Kecitation,• A. Troublesome Call '•— Miss A Shrimptnn. Duet) (2 pianos), • Faust'—Misses Johnston, White, McKay, and Paul. Song, 'Sheila of the Sea'— Senior pupils. Solo, * Barcarolle'—Miss J Brick. 'The Fairies and the Flowers'— Fairies—Mistes McKay, 0 Sbrimpton, F Brophy, and A Langley ; fhwera—Misses Devlin, Wal?h, Shrimpton, Danrhire, Han mer, and Kathleen Denshire; Duet (2 pianos and harmonium), ' The Rippling Lake'—Misses Lagan, McKay, Walsh, and M Brick. Song and chorus, ' Only a Dream '—Senior pupils. Solo (violin), • The Mill Whoel'—MissCullen Recitation, • The Daa»h of Winder'—Miss F Brophy. Solo (2 pianos), • The Transvaal Wai'— Mistet Johnston and McKay. Duet (violin), * The Wearing of the Green ' —lat violins, Misses Brick and Cullen; 2o<i violins, Miaies McKay and W Brick. Finale—• 0 Mater AdmirabUis.' At the conclusion of the programme, The Rev i'ath r Q'Donnell addressed a few kindly words to the children, thanking them for the eopyable entertainment they had so ably given, warmly complimenting them on the excellent work which was displayed in the adjoining rootnw, and expressing a hope that they would all en jay their holidays. He further mentioned that the school had this year been inspected by an outside examiner, and though the result was not yet to hand there were very good indications that the children had not been idle.

The prize* were then distributed as follows :—

Good Conduct—(Boarders), Teresa Leddy and Maggie Duncan. Both being equal, lots were drawn, when Miss Duncs?i drew the prize. Day pupils—Mildred Brock and Ha Paul. Regular attendance —Ha Paul, Christian Doctrine—lst pritp, Lena Lagan ; 2nd, Winifred Brick

Seventh Class—Reading and recitation— Violet Johnston r writing—Teresa Leddy ; arithmetic—Annie Dowling; algebra—Annie Dowling ; geography—Margaret Duncan ; history—Violet Johnston ; grammar—Hilda Fried lander ; composition—Teresa Leddy ; drawing-—Teresa Loddy Sixth Glass—Heading and recitation—May McKay ; writing—Ha Paul ; arithmetic— May McKay; algebra—May MoKay ; geo» graphy—May Del via; history—May Delvin ; grammar—May Delvin ; c-imposition—Lena Lagan ; drawing—Ethel Walah

Fifth Class—Reading and recitation— Augusta Stephensou } writing — Evelyn Hanmer ; arithmetic—Augusta Btephemon; algebra—Augusta Stepheneon ; geography- Eva Anderson ; history—Minnie Costello ; grammar—Winifred Brick ; composition— Kathleen Denthire ; drawing-—Evelyn Haa mer

Third Class—Reading and recitation- Florence Brophy ; geography — Madeline Brick

Second Class—Reading and recitation— Alberta Shrimpton j geography and arlth* metie—Hannah Lingley

Extras—Music—Piano, let prkss Mary McKay, 2ud Lena Lagan ; violin, lab Julia Brick, 2nd Winifred Brick ; tinging, Julia Brick and Henrietta Denshire. Fainting (oils)—Annnie Davia ; (water colour*), Ua Paul. Needlework—lSa Paul and Hilda Friedlander equal. Lots were drawn, when the prizj fell to Hilda Friedlander

After the pupils singing •• 0 Mater Admirabiliß," the proceeding*) terminated.

Hampstead School

BREAKING UP CEREMONY,

A large number of parents and friends attended at the Hampstead School this irorning to witness the breaking up for th« Christmas holidays. Among those present were Messrs Cawsey, Crooks, Bland, G M Andrews, the school staff, and the Revs R A Woodthorpe and G B Inglis. Mr Cawsey, chairman of the Committee, in addressing the children, referred to the departure from the customary practice of giving priza books. (This year he said, the committee has thought it advisable to give handsome certificates of merit instead of books He hoped the pupils of the school would preserve their certificates as mementos pf their successes at school. The ne?t speaker, the Rev. R At Wood- Iborpe, M.A., briefly outlined tit history of the province He. said that we were approaching the end of a oentmry of di« coveries and inventions tEhe speaker referred to the hardships which were endured by the pioneers of Canterbury He trusted the children would make good use of their education The children then *ang 'Sons of the Empire' The Rev G B Ihglii also gave an instruc tive address, the texb of which we were ' compelled to hold over. Messrs Andrews, Bland, and Crooks also addressed the school The Chairman then called on Mr G W Andrews to present the certificates, which are very seholastio looking documents got op In Whifcoombe and Tombs' best style. Following is the

Certificate List

Standard YL—General Proficiency: Alex Meßae (with special mention for reading, arithmetics,' and oompo»ition), W Moßae (composition, geography, and attendance); F Hopkins (geography, arithmetic, and attendance); F Page (drawing). Attendance—J Thomas, J Dates (4 yean never absent), Ivy MeKee, Annie MoKengle

(4 j ears), Aonie Armstrong, Maggie Arm* strong

Standard V.—General Proficiency : M Buchanan (r«»dinp, writing, arithmetic and composition) ; Graham Johns (competition and geography); Barry MoConachie (spellirg, dication and composition); Maggie Raw* oliffe (arithmetic) $ William Marsden Standard IT—General proioiency : Leslie Cooch (arithmetic, composition, and reading); Edward E»de (arithmetic, aompoaitfon, and reading); Efsie Terris (*rithm«tio and composition); Ruby Smith (composition and wading); Ruby Betts (writing and compost t<on); J Mcßae (composition) Attendance : AH 3e Thomas, Annie Blair, Peter Tatty Standard HI-General profioienoy: E Leonard (spelling, composition and arith meric); Willie Hyde (reading, spelling, a«d I arithmetic) ;Emma Walker (reading, spelling and drawing); Gladys Wilson (spelling, drawing and geography); Flossie Fergan (tpelhng, composition and geography.) Attendance: Daisy Thomas, Wifiie Inwood- Standard ll—Proficiency: Alice Hnrrell (arithmetic, writing, drawing and attend anoe) ; Bella Blair (reading and arithmetic) j Tdxie Brock (readicg and spelling) j I?y Digby (spelling and writing); Raby Hopkins (reading and arithmetic); Willie Dalley (spelling and drawing). Attendance: B Tilley

standard I—A Parker (spelling, frith* mctio, and writing); R McKeozie (reading, drawing, and attendance); Laila Mouldy (aribhmttio and reading))-Bena Smith (reading and spelling)} Amy Hnrrell (writing and attendance). Attendance: Willie Armstrong, Kate Tatty Infant:—For attendance: Thomas Arm* strong

After the presentation ofeartifioitei, obterf were given for toe speakers, the committee and the teaching staff, after which the child* ren diaperjed for six weeks holidays.

"THE CREATION"

The ninth subscription concert of the Ash' burton Musical Society was Riven in the oJdfellows' Hall last night. The audience was large and appreciative In the extreme. Before the performance of the work Mr Paul, in the absence of the Mayor gave a short retrospect of the progress of music in Ashbnrtan during the last £9 years. When we consider that in the last two or three years we have had presented to as mob works as the' Messiah,'' Daughter of Janrat,' •Erl King's Daughter' 'St Cecelia's D*jr, and < Hear my Prayer:' We may Indeed feel grateful to the Society for their praotioal education of our musical taste. The soprano solos were entrusted to Mrs Denshire and Mrs Steele, the tenor to Mr Johnston if Christ church, and Mr Craighead, and the bass to Mr Snodgrasß and Mr Sobwartg, the trio work being taken by Mrs Dee, Messrs Johnston and Schwartz. Mrs Den shire who was suffering wish a alight cold, revertheless gave a fine rendering *f the favourite solo, • With Verdure Clad,' the floral parts suiting her voice admirably. The solo 'On Mighty Pens' was most artistically sung by Mrs H Steele. This was on* of the most enjoyable items of the evening. The ornamental passages were rendered with great: delicacy. To the gem of the work, •In Native Worth,' Mr John ston did full justice. His expression wtl exceedingly good, and his sympathetic voice was well adapted to the subject. Mr Cralghead't work was ohiefly confined to the reoitatives—the parts.by the way, which are the most difficult. He was perhaps at his best in • In Splendour Bright is rising now the Sun.' To Mr Ssodgrasa was apportioned the difficult recitative • Let the Earth, 1 whioh was given with good dramatic foroe. The air following, «Now Heaven in Fuller Glory,' was particularly good. The other bass solos were finely sung by Mr Schwartz, who excelled in the sir 'Boiling in Foaming Billows,' his rich bass being heard to full advantage. The orchestra, under the leader* ship of Mr McClorg, worked conscientiously throughout the evening. Their work waa particularly good in the opening to the recitative 'In Splendour Bright.' Some fine work was pat in by Mr Manden on the trombone. Mrs Claridge officiated at the piano snd Mr Llewellyn Owen ab the organ, and their work needs no comment. Mr Horace Gates, the conductor, is to be congratulated upon snch a successful per* formanca. We understand the next work to be given is Stainer's Crucifixion

IMPERIAL PARLIAMENT

SIR ALFRED MILKER ATTACKED

[United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, December 13 In the Eocse of Commons, dennncia' tions of Sir Alfred Milner by Sir Robert R«id. member for Dumfries Burghs, and Mr James Bryce, member for Aberdeen South, provoked a stormy scene, Mr Brodrick declared that the speeches were calculated to encourage the Queen's enemies. He complained that Mr Cham' berlain's speech had already been dis. torted in South Africa into -a eonfeolon of weakness and an admission that) Britain was weary of the war and ready to concede anything, whereas the speech wag In the strictest conform? ty to the spirit of Lord Roberta's proclamations.

In the House of Commons Sir M Hicki Beach reiterated his hope that a consider* able portion of the cost of the Transvaal war would be borne by the Transv»aL He intended to send Sir David Miller Barbonr, the well known financial auth' ority, to report upon the assets of the Transvaal Government.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Eleetrio Telegraph—Copyright. Sydney, December 14 The address of the corespondents counsel and Coningham's replj. occupied the greater part of the day. The Judge had not finihed enmnaing up when the Court rose for the day. .. London, December 11 Ihe Irish Nationalists' Convention in Dublin, at Mr William O'Brien's Instance, expelled Mr Tim Healy and Mr J. L. Carew, member /or South Meath,, from the Parliamentary party.

THE COMMONWEALTH

I United Press Association—By Rleotrlo TelographrJ-Oopy right Lowpow, Dec 12 Router's correspondent reports that Hit Wilfred Laurier, of Canada, state* In his reply to the official invitation to be present at the inauguration of the Commonwealth, that if the ceremony were to be postponed to May, Canada will Bend a representative delegation befitting the Importance of the occasion* The Premier himself was delighted i to attend. Sydnhy, December 18 The Royal Arthur reached Jervis Pay, where she remains till early pa Saturday morning. She is timed to reach Fydney at 1Q am. Ja reply to Sir W J Lyne<« enquiries, Lord Hopetoun wired from Jervis Bay that ha was improving in health, but was much crippled with a bad knee. He hoped to be able to bear the heat and fatigue of the procession on Saturday, The Waikare participates in the shipping display, and her departore for New Zealand will consequently be postponed till 8 p m on Saturday Colombo, December 12 Mr Layard, Attorney General of Ceylon, is a passenger for Australia by the steamer v.ome He will act bb the representative of Ceylon at the Commonwealth inauguration Sir J W Bidgay is enable to attend

T E ABHBURTON GUAftDlAtf s *BIl)AV v bECfcMBUR 14, UOOj



Fall moon Last quarter New moon First quarter

D 6 14 22 29

R M 10 8 pm 10 12 am 11 31 • m 1 18 pm



Date Dwmnber ii >i »i »«

11 12 13 14 IS 16

4 IS 4 16 4 16 4 16 4 17 4 17

Fets 7 31 7 32 7 33 734 7 35 7 36



2 Pr. Lamb •» „ Willis ..  Stone  Moore ,„ 3orpl. Christian Cr. ThompßOn.. i, Stringfellow  Brown .„. „ Maokny .„  Bennett *- >rpl Oabqroe Cr. Nelllgau

25 26 26 28 27 24 21 19 20 18 19 2

300ydi 25 20 19 17 18 18 17 15 13 13 li 2

Is

Total 50 46 45 45 45 42 38 34 33 31 30 4



200yd8 Pb. Oourdie ... 28 „ T»it ... 22 Gorpl. Tucker... 26 Ph. Buchanan M 26 Sergt. Donglu 21 L. Corpl. Willis 20 Pb. Gee ... 18 „ Price .„ 14 „ Wathew ... 16 „ McPheraon 11  Cookson .„ 14  Stepbemon 2

5

WOydi 25 19 14 11 13 10 9 12 4 6 2 12

i

Totftl 53 41 40 37 34 30 27 26 20 17 16 14



PARENTS ARE INVITED TO INSPECT OUR STOCK OF B^YS' OLOTHING, T)GYa' Guard Scitß 8s 6d ; Boy a' Bioaseß 4s Boys' Norfolk Snir« 12s 6d j Washing Suits 2< fid 11 Absent-Minded Beggar" Suits 18s 6d Best Value to be obtained anywhere. Men's Sac Suits from 21s to 65s ' Men's Troneers 7s 6d ; T» nnis Trousers 12s 6d. i^nice variety of Summer Goats in Khaiki Serge, Sattein, Alpaca, N.Z. CLOTHING FACTORY* P. H. BEi KINOS VLB. Manager. ZFALANDIA CYCLES. BUILT with Narrow Tread and Overhanging Sprocket, Patent Head Tube, Batted Tabing Throughout. Genuine English Danlop Tyres, and Guaranteed for 12 Month*. Easy Payments Arranged for. BURNBTT STREET, Largest Cycle Manufacturers in the Colony WOOL SEASON 1900-1901 WE SHALL BE REPRESENTED ab the Ohriitohnroh and Timara fixtures, and have made aattsfactory arrangements for disposing of CUPS privately Aabbnrton. Consignments will be received ab oar Asnburton or Tinwatd stores, and sent on to 'Ither Ohrißtcharoh or Timaru, free of all chargas, except railage; Olienti who wish to Bend their Wool direct from their nearest railway station will I Shift consign as follows s — If intended foe sale at ABhburton—Friedlander BroB f, Ltd Siding, Aahburton If intended for tale at Chrißtchurch—Brown and Son's Siding, Aldington If Intended for sale or shipment at Timaru-Mill & Go's Siding, Timaru If intended for ahipmen^at LytteHon-N.ZJBhlpplng Oo'alDumping" Shed, tytlelior WOOLSACKS, TWINE BRANDING OIL, and all other Shearing Requisites supplied at lowest rates. Oar Nest Sale will take place at Ohristchnrch on TBUBBDAY, DECEMBEB 13, 1900 UUIDLANDER BROS, LTD, The Equitable Life Assurance Society, of U.S Hi ad Office for New Zealand—Wellington. DIRECTORS, with power to issue Policies and pay clalmu : II D Eeil FbQ, Chairman. I Pebcy M Thomson, Inspector et Agenelet. Albbbt Mart.n, Esq. MD. 1 E Trbvoe Gould, Retident Secretary; STEONGEST LIFE ASSURANCE SOCIETY IN THE WORLD Financial Position. ««„.,«,- Assurance in fore* fi2l9'SMB I ! UrplU? V lUWlttl" '" SIKS'IS Accumulated furds... .- £58,573,185 | Annu* income ... .- £11,286,145 A Mutual Office. AH surplus belongs to the policy holderi. ' Send for particulars of the Guaranteed Oath Value Polioy. NICOLT BROS, Agent*, Ashbcrton, 1Z47 " foe sale, HARDLEY BROS -1 Woods Side Delivery, equal to new, g as AN d SANITARY ENGINEERS, price £16 10s r F. FKBRIMAN. , o FOB SALE, I | £ I § Ssw 5 & 1 Woods Beaper and Binder that » * g * g has only done 1 year's work fc g < a «*j F. FEBEIMAN. H W g & j •-• p FOB SALE, __^_ & S 1 Grain and Manure Drill IJHE Trade Supplies always in Btook. FOR SALE- OR TO Lftl baths, tanks, sinks, basins, Etc nnHB Bungalow recently vacated by Estimatea^given. X Mbs Kicsman containing seven y.-p-p.r-niv T*TtnQ rooms «*nd offices, and Bituated facing XXAJAiLf LJ.VJ I J3JIHJc«» the Domain at the junction of North _g aßt street, Ashbnrton East Town Belt and Weafe Street. __—— —~ — The above Bhould prove a desirable KiJto bA-Uft, Property both as an investment for PURE & HALFBRED TAMWORTH PIGS capital and » comfortable hoiLe, -—. npo Farmers purchasing Halfbred PIGS. F. tfERPIMAN. 1 a v . . „ ■r h-ktt* atsjt\ ttqtatw AfiWKET We »re prepared to boy them for Bacon, LAND AND ESTAT& AUKJMI, p rov ided they are fattened on grain or Peaa. AshbaTton. FARMERS' MEAT SUPPLY COi 12 54 J H Rtjlb. ASHBURTON OFFICE FOR SALE. «LYTTELTON TIMES" A GOOD HooTof five rooms with " CANTERBURY TIMES • 2i acreß of land in a localty 'sSTiR' where two or three cows may be kf>pt " SPORTSMAN ' Within quarter of a mile of Town tjttheßE Advertisements and Subecrip- Belt, The owner is leaving the distrct. V* tione will be received, and filea can Any reasonable terras can be arranged. inepeoted. K| Apply E. NORDON* FT? \? OT> Tl\/T A "\T M»n»ginß Ageot fot 3outh Canterbury* ♦ JO 111 JVXV IJM All BURNETT STREET, (Entrance to Thomas 1 New Auction Mart)* LAND AND EPTATB AGENT, n 10 A^^L—— THE N.^. FARMERS' 00-OPERATIVB WANTED Koown-Thab what wa do, ASSOCIATION OF CANTERBURY W we try to do well. Bear this in Ltd> mJad, GentlemeD, when ordering- your JE b%m Mvn%l firßt . c i aM Farmi Summer Outfit; wd, Ladlei, wmember it f g , k d f before fitting up your Boy. for the holiday*- J J ohaM woold do 0B M^he^andJL«««[______ ._ H a for partioulara : ""wiSeTWOTBB'FigB. the wondeTful Worn 520 Aorea Rakaia Dlrtrlofe Worrlare, never fail fqp "adulta and ohlldrtn %& » »» •» , 1 8 500 »i Dromore „ P CONSULTING OPTICIAN 1000 „ Lauriaton „ MrEmesb M. Sand.tein, DBOA;,FB, "80 „ s H» D,B b«r, B » MC, who h« late'y "turned after aix 760 .t jT. ftk"ul tf yeara' apecial Btudy in England and Con- }03l „ Oherli. y „ tinent, may be ocnaalted on all caees o WBB „ Urom«e defective eyesighb. Daylight not necessary T. V* UA^«» artificial light being used. Doctors' pre- . ""' : scriptions pr.>pareJ. Fees moderate. Con riddi CM|drtß •nltwg rooma, Caahel 6treeiW., over M Wftdel- Worn p . tbe S«Bd.tein, jeweller, Chmtchurch. 9W.to wondetfa i Worm Worderaj la



STILL ADVANCING CBAIGHEAD & BUKBYMAN HATE ust opened out, ex s.e. Paparoa from London, the largest ahipment of New Goods they have hitherto imported, oompriting the moat up to date Suitings from the beat Manufacturer! aa now worn at Home, Their immense Btock of Fashionable Tailoring (4ooda now affords customers auoh a apiendid range of new materials of] guaranteed quality and stylish patterns to ; choose from aa should please even the most fastidious, and their prices, workmanship, and fit will compare favorably with those of the leading firms in Christohuroh or other citie-t. They are alao showing a grand lot of new Hats, Shirts, Ties, Boots, etc., this seas n. Customers would do well to place their orders e»rly as C. & B. have already a large number of suits on the books promised before Xma». 11 140



FRANELY, AN ADfERTISEM ENT. "May Apple" Is better than pills, oils, talta and other disagreeable medioinea. It Is eatily taken, more gentle in ita action, and, without Irritating or weakening the liver, kidneys or itomaoh, it) overcomes con stipation and many ilia dependent thereon. It acta ganfcly yen promptly. (Ask for Impev'a "May Apple.' Price 2a. New Venus



New Zealand's athletes at the front In cricket, football or the hunt He shines in any sport or game, Hlb prowess has a world, wide fane. But training has Its usual ilia, As over host that canaeachills Thtn don't delay, but health secure By taking Woods! Great Peppermint i : Cure. Wade'a Worm Bigs are most effective and not uopieasa nt; children thrive alter taking tbam Prioe Is