SECOND EDITION Mail Notices.

Mails cone for the following places as under, subject to the necessary alterations:— SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 For Northern Ports and Westport, per Tar&werft, at 6 30 p m* MONDAY, OCTOBER 8 For Tasmania, Australian Colonies (due at Melbourne October 15), Ceylon, India, China, Straits Settlement, and tfouth Africa also United Kingdom, (duo in London on Nev 18), Continent of Europe via Naples, per express to conneob with W»ikare at Bluff ab 12 30 pm

Commercial.

ASHBURTON GRAIN MARKET

The Ashburton Agency of the New Zealand Farmers' Uo-operative Association of Canter bury, Ltd, quote as follows on October 6, 1900:— Wheat- Prime milling Pearl .-t 2a 3d>2s4d „ „ Tuscan..* 2a 3d fco 2a 4d „  Hunter's 2a 2d{to 2s 3d Oats —Duns " , m Is 6d Danish Is 6d Canadians ■ la 8d Sparrowbills Is 7d Barley—Malting, prime| 2s Inferior la 6d Peas—Partridge, 2b 3d tihaff—Good oatsheaf 47« 6d to 50a Grass Seed—Old pasture, 2a to 2s 3d New „ Is 6d to la 9d The above are prices current paid to farmers on tracks at Ashburton.

CHRISTCHURCH GRAIN AND PRODUCE MARKETS.

Quotations are us follows :~ 'J?heat—Hunter's, pearl, and velvet 2s scl, and Tuscan 2s 6d Oats (nominal )Canadian Is 9d to la 10d,shcrt feed la B£d to Is 9d, Duns la Bd, and Danish Is 7<l to Is Bd. Barley (nominal)— Prime malting 2a to 2s 3d delivered -" Beans-~2n 4d to 2a 5d Peas—Prussian Blues and partridge 2s to to 2a 3d Flour (millers' quotations nominal)— Roller £7, stone £6. Sharps—£4 Bran—£3 10s. Oatmeal—£lo Potatoes — Decwentß, October deliverjl 25s at connitry stations Oatsheaf Chaff.— 45s to 47a 6d at near country stations. Hay—£3 5s to £3 10a, delivered ; primeet baled £4, fob Seeda—Ryegrasa, farmers' lota Is 9J to 2% prime heavy, town dressed 2* 6cl to 3a 3d, Cocksfoot 2|d to 2-f d for bright) seed, to 3 1 for extra Rood, town machine dressed 161b to 17ib seed, 3Jd to 4d, cow grass 51 to 6d, extra choloa 6£d, white olover 6d to 7&d Dairy Produce—Cheese, dairy 5d to s£d, fautory scl to 6d. Butter— factory local lid, be 4 daiiy 8d to 9.1, salt, in boxes, 6d to 7d for prime. Bacon and hams s|d to 6:1, factory |d per 1b higher. The above prices, except whe:e otherwise stated, are those paid to farmtra, f.0,b., Lyttelton.

CLEARING SALE AT RANGITATA

The Canterbury Farmer^' Co-operative Association, limited, report a successful clearing gale of stock, implements, and house hold furniture on account of Mr J»me« Bhaw at his farm Riverside, " Rangitara, lately purchased by Mr Anthony Metoalf An exoellent attendance of people from all parts of the dis'riot—meaning business—resulted in a satisfactory clearance of every lot iub mifcted The eiook sold particularly well, as the following quotations show:—Bay mare Bobs, 8 yeart, £53; black mare, 3 years £55 ; bay mare 7 years, £51; chesnut gelding 6yoars £48 ; harnt-Ba mare, £17 10s The sheep consisting ef 4 5 and 8 tooth evoea with !amh<! at, foot, all counted, 9s» 9 7d 9i lid, 103 to 10s 41 ; cwas jaat on lambing 18a ; dry ewes, 10<weth«--ra andesvoß,l3j 7i; halfbred hoggots, 12 101; Shropshire rams 1£ to 2 ens Dun oats made Is 6i per buahel and oateheaf ohoff Is 101 per sack The implements, harness aul furniture were correspondingly well competed for.

TIMARU GRAIN MARKETS

The pact week is reported to have been the quietest for a long time so far as grain tr&nsucUoDS are concerned. Shipping han baen unnsutVy q'liet, and there have been very few sales. Quotations are unchanged and are; as follows:—Wheat.—Tuscan and valvet in good lines, 2i &\ I ; red chaff 2s 4d. Lons o*tf>, 117 i Ito Is 81, and short oats, Is 8 \ Ito Is 91. All the quotations are fob

Meeaers Palgety and Co London, wire muler d*teOotob3r 3rd:—"Mutton tallow is firm »:d3d higher thau last week's quotationp/'

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6, 1900. OBLATIONS.

The offer of the Chinese Emperor to recompense the countrymen of the more prominent victims of the Boxer outrages by ordering funeral oblations strikes a good many people as being ridiculous. The Kaiser especially re gards the proposal as savouring of insult, and scouts thb idea of accept ing this kind of atonement. He is not taking any oblations But the celes tial Kmperor evidently means thn offer of his as a great and complete ex piation. The practice of exacting atonement of this sort for murder and outrages, .where it is ioapracticable or inconvenient to give up the real culprit is not confined to China or Eastern nations, Peace offerings are accepted by many nations in satisfaction of taking life, or inflicting personal in jury. The custom was enjoined upon the Hebrews by the Mosaic law, as any one can see by referring to Deuter onomy, xxi Chapter, where a peace offering is enjoined as the expiation of a murder, when the slayor is unknown. It may therefore be taken for granted that the Chinese Emperor made his offer in all sincerity believing that even a X foreign devil" would understand its significance. There are some amongst those who have commented upon the apparent attitude of the Emperor of China, who profess to think that be is trifling with the allied Powers. But we believe be looks upon the position of his country as being much too critical, to practise anything of that sort upon the Powers, lie is probably very sincere in hie desire to appease the justly incensed Christian nations, if he can do so in the

way usoal in his part of the world. However bigotted he ruay be on the subject of the inferiority of the methods of the " foreign devils," there is no doubt he has a pretty fair notion of the meaning of a money indemnity, and of the two he would probably prefer giving an oblation to giving an indem nity. It ia much the more impressive, and al«o much cheaper. The Kaiser's ruthless denunciation however, will doubtless shock the feelings of His Majesty of Obina, and set him thinking what manner of men are these who scornfully ignore the sacred law of compensation, which has been part of eastern creeds for thomanda of yean,

Local and General.

* # * Interesting reading matter will be found n the first and fourbh pages of this issue

Bank Holiday—The various local Banks will be closed on Wednesday next, Labour Day

Church Parade—The Aehburtoa Rifles and Guards parade to-morrow morning at 10.30 a.m., for the purpose of attending the morning service at the Wesleyan Church. Scarcity of Totara* — We understand that there is a great scarcity of to tar a timber at; the present time, and that contractors are greatly delayed with their work in consequence Tournament—-A grand cavalry tourna ment ib to take place to-day on the Show grounds, Addington, in which the O.Y.C and the Aahburton Mounted Rifles will aob in conjunction with the Pioneer Athletio Olub. Sale of a Stallion—The draught) stallion •• General White," by " King of Quality," wai sold yesterday by Mr D. Thomas. We have nob heard the particulars yet, beyond the f&ob that tho price was very satisfactory to the seller, being a considerable advanoe on the cost Telegraphic Interruption—As a result of the stormy weather, the telegraph lines north of Kaiapoi and south of Timaru are interrupted* Near Timaru quite a number of pales have been snapped by the gale Travelling Music—A large hand organ from which good music has been discoursed in the northern towns reached Ashburton from Rakaia last night, and played at several places in the suburbs during the evening. The show travels overland, being carted round by horse and conveyance. Sale Of Runs—The Ardlui and New stead Runs, consisting of 4300 acres, the property of Mr D G Mathestoo, of Springfield, have again changed hands, the purchaser being Mr EBoulnoie, M P Middle* sex, .England The sale was effected by Mr Charles Hill, and the price is stated at £6000. Ds Wet a Bbitish Renegade — In British naval and military circles it is regarded as a settled fact that Commandant) De Wet ia a renegade Biitisher who was formerly a Major in the Royal Marines. His true name, it is said, is Black, and he was dismissed from the service in disgrace for assaulting a subaltern in his regiment. The Close of the War—The proposal of the Premier to proclaim November 9 as the day far celebrating the practical close of the war, is not favorably regarded in Christ church or Auckland. In the former city the Show is considered quite enough for that day, and in Auckland there is an important racing fixture. These matters were brought under the Premier's notice, but he declined to alter his plans i he Municipal Corporations Biil—The new Bill juet passing through Parliament providing for certain municipal reforms, provides that all Mayors »■ d councillors go out of office in April 1901. To save expense the Bill has been amended bo as 10 enable all present Mayors to remain in office until April, thus passing over the usual election which should have been held in November next.

Who Was He?—'"For goodness Bake, men, don't move till you hear the last sound of the order," is a frequent exhortation of Borne more or less irate drill instructor. At the Addington camp, the other morning, the drowsy troopers were disturbed by the unwelcome reveille, and as the last sound died away the wag of the Ashburton Mounted Rifles raised a laugh by repeating in loud, clear tones the drill sergeani'j formula. Anniversary Services —The rehearsal of festive! hymns, which took place lasb nighb ab the Wesleyan Church, was in every way gratifying, and gave promise of some really good singing ab the services to be held at Baring Square Church to-morrow. The hymns selected are mainly those which the men and womoq of be-dl&y were acquainted with in their early day*, and memories of a remote pasb will possibly be revived. A Freak of Nature.—The other day Mr Copeland, farmer, of Ghertsey, when cutting and tailing his lambs, found a well developed healthy lamb with only three limb?. The two hind lega were perfectly developed and well formed, but the forepart of the body had only one limb on which the little creature hopped along quite nimbly. The little animal was treated in the same mariner as the other lambs of the dick, and has every appearance of doing well.

Indian Famine Relief-—The Bombay Guar dian poiDts out that the Americans giving grain instead of money to relieve the Indian fumioe, showed more sense than any of the countries which render'd help to the starv ing millions ot that country. By bo doing they did not increase the competition in the market and raise the prices. In fact, by selling grain a*; lower prices the American missionaries lowered the prices in many places, and thuw gave immense relief and cent the money to Ameriffa for more grain. The Guardian adds : " It is questionab'e whether in many placns the mor-ey rraliy produced relief, for it increased the competi tion for foodstuff in the market, and caused prices to rise, ami so it made ib impossible for many to purchase. Australia should send grain if sho sends more relief, and it will be wanted. ASHBORTON High School Board— The usual monthly meeting of the Ashburton High .School Board was held yesterday afternoon. Present:—Messrs Andrew Orr (ohairman), 8 H Chapman, M Btitt, W B Denshire and D Williamson. Mr Btiti>, reporting on reserve 1211, said that the fence was in a bad condition, and in the reserve is a good deal of goree. It was resolved that the solicitor write to Mr Oorbitt requesting him to clear the gorse out of the reserve within 14 days and pub the section in good order, according to terms of lease. It was resolved not to let the reserve just now. The visiting committee reported that the wood work round the school pump had fallen through, and pare of the fence required repairing: Its was decided to fill up the where the pump is at present. Messrs Williamson and Denshire were appointed a visiting committee for the ensuing month and the meeting adjourned. A shburton Bowling Olwb—The annual funeral meeting of the A-hburfcon Bawling Club was held in Mr Thomas's office on Thursday a'-'-d was well attended. The re port of balance sheet a» read was adopted, a debit balance of £21 2<< lOd being more than accounted for by the large amount) spent in improvements during the year, £37 13a 3d. It was decided to open the green for play on Thursday, October 18, with a match President v Vice-President, sWeg to be chosen on the green. Prizes were pre sented to the winners of the Club for events during the year ; Mr H Craighead (Handi cap tingle?), Dr Hunter and Mr D Zander, (Champion doubles), and Mr G F Dodds (Yankee tournament). The election of 'officers resulted »s follows :—President—Mr D Thomas. Vice-President—Mr G Oolemon Secretary—Mr C D Hardie. Treasurer—Mr C Norbhoobe. Committee —Messrs Snod grass, Dodds, Sorint, Urummond and Davi son. Delegates to Sports Association— Messrs Snodgrass, Dodds, and Drummond. Auditor—Mr C Jennings. I'our new mem bers were elected and votes of thanks passed to the retiring officers for their zeal and assiduity in tha club's interests. On the motion of Mr Coleman ib was unanimously decided to writs to the Sport's Association submitting alternative schemes for the maintenance of the green in order during the year A Reminder —We wish to remind al who may require new suits &c, "before the Show," that we have already opened out a large variety of New Goods for the Spring and Summer seasons, comprising the most " up to date " best quality worsted suitings, &o, imported direct from the manufacturers. For a number of years we have always had such a " Rush " of orders just before the holidays, that wa found it impossible to execute all by the required time. We would therefore respectfully urge all our friend (both old and new) to kindly call and favour us with their esteemed orders as early as possible to prevent disappointment, and oblige Craighhad & Bbbryman, the leading Tailors and Outfitters, Ashburton You can depend on ridding your children of worms with Wade's Worm Figs, the wonderful Worm Worriers, la. ffIHOSE who desire a convenient house X and uprto-date, should consult Hard liEV Beos., for ocsd supply of hot »nd 00l water TAKE your repair to the Jubilee 800 Shop, 9 200

{Whose Was It ?—Some of fche detectives , In Sydney, Bays a Sydney paper, are search ing for a mistting diamond, which weighs 10£ carats, and is valued at not lees than £200. The diamond was set in a gentle man's ring, and is the property of a racing man in New Zealand, who, having lost it, has written to some members of the local detective force, intimating that he is willing to pay a reward of £50 for its recovery. J This is probably the stone which was lost in I 1 Chriatchurch during the Grand National week.

Pottino It Ptrongly.—The annual report of the Aahburton Bowling Club, which was read ab the meeting the other evening on* oluded as followi:—-" If the basinets men of Ashburton would only look upon the matter in its proper light, lay aside for an hour or two a week, the cares and worries of exis tence, and stroll up to the bowling green, there to enjoy the friendly intercourse, wholesome reoreati'm and innocent amuse ment) that) this grand old British game affords, the advantages to themselves and those areund them would soon b3 ao great, that it would be the exception rather than the rule for a loyal and true Ashburtonite, not to belong to she Ashburton Bowling Club

A Sad Horse Story—At the meeting of Allenton resident* on Thursday evening Mr Davis a Borough Councillor wu endeav ouring to show the danger of open water races He asked Mr A Hewson " what about the hone drowned ia »k« race ? ' Oh,' promptly replied the latter, "'He committed suicide, he was just tired of hia life" " Then what about the other horse that the Borough had to pay for ? " Well he was dying anyhow, and as the raoe was the' softest place to die ia he naturally ohoie it.' Mr Davis is generally pretty quick in reply, but it took him some little time to digest this touching story

Rakaia Sports.

A meeting of those interested \n the Rftkaia annual Boxing Day sports and races was held in the Pubiic Library, Bakaia, on Thursday evening. There was a good attendance. Mr William Cromie was voted to the chair. Ib was resolved that the sports be held as usual on Boxing Day in the Domain. The following officers wee» elected : —Patron—Mr D G Hojmes ; President—Mr C Hardy, M.H.R. ; Vice-Presidents -Messrs T Blaokley, D Brick* A Craighead, P Doig, sen., H J Harmon, John Irwin, John Lambie, R Mulligan, T Morlano*, A D Mcllraith, J McLachlan. M.H R, F Nelligan, E Richards, J Stringfellow, sea, T E Upton, L White ; Judge (horse racis)—Mr L Oxley ; Starter (horse races)—Mr E W Osborne; Clerk of the Course—Mr Walter Street; Clerk of fcue Scales—Mr D Bruce; Judges (athletic)-Messrs T Bl&ckley, F A Mac donald, T Austin ; Starter (athletics)—Mr H J Harrison ; Stewards—Messrs W Cromie (chairman), G J Hardy, A J Magson, D Reilly, J Wilkinson, and Secretary and Treasurer j H»ndic*pperß--The Stewards; Treasurer—Mr L Oxlej ; Secretary—Mr J Sharp (re-elected). It was arranged that the stewards draw up a programme to submit to a general meeting on Thursday, 11th bat., recommendations being that a number of open events be inoluded in horse races, that athletic events for professionals be open to all comers, and that the priza money be increased. It was'decided to obtain the services of the Burnham Band, if possible, and that a publican's booth be applied for.

HIGHBANK

The weather for the past month has been the most winter like of all the win'er months, cold and wet, and very severe on the young lambs, as well as preventing farmers getting the balance of their seed oats aud grass and clover sown. Bat this month has commenced with oar old acquaintance the nor' -wester in fall force and straw stacks that were nobsecure were blown about. Little damage has been done by the gronnd being blown aa the land is to wet to blow much. GRASS GRUB We, however, prefer the nor'-wester to the grass grub, which has done bo mnch damage in other parts of the district, but it hes not troubled as here much yet, though there are a few paddocka that they have worked more or less This should anke every firmer do his best when the time comes for the beetle to make his appearance to open fire on them with plenty of straw fires dating the few evenings they ate on the wing* As we turn over the land now either with plough or spade we see that the ground is full of them. They are at present just on the change from the grub to the beetle. The head is jusb leaving the grub and the new head and wings of the beetle are showing, and in another month they will be full blown beetles. It Is Interesting to watch these insects. If they are pot in a glass bottle they pass the various stages of life —death and resurrection to life again, CRICKET On Saturday last a cricket match was played between married and single and resulted in an easy win for the latter. The game was marred by an accidenb to one of the members of the singles team, Mr C. Cleaves, who when in the aot of catching a ball slipped, and the ball caught him fall ja the face, catting bis lip through so badly that he had to ab onoe go to Ash carton and get it sown op. A Cricket Club has been formed with a membership of over thirty. Mr H Ward wa9 elected president, Mr X Stoat vice-president, Mr P Drummond jnr., captain, Mr D McOonnell vice-captain, Mr H Hood secretary, Mr 6 Roberts treasurer, and a committee of Messrs Davis, Spray, Crawford, Anderson, and | Grow. The opening of the new club will j be haid on the d smain grounds on \ Saturday, October 13, at 2 p.m., with a match between sides chosen on the ground by the captain and vice-president, piano. The Piano Trustees met on Monday evening and reported that the sum of £31 Is 9 i had been pud on the instrument. There is aluo £5 in hand, leaving a debit I balance of £12 odd to pay. The company j are demanding payment at once, and as the trustees are getting little support j from the settlers in the paying for the piano, it was decided to adjourn the meeting t'll Monday, November 5, and if the trustees got no further assistance, to pay off their liabilities, and then consider the advisability of disposing of the piano. Ib will be a pity if the district should now loose &ach a fine instrument, and it is to be hoped that the settlers will make an effort that) wili assist the trustees financially Mr Davis is chairman of the trustees, and I am sure would be glad at the next meeting to rep rt that he had received the required amoanb to pay off the debt on the piano iDOMAItf BOARD The new /Domain Board met on the lab. Mr W C Davis was elected chairman, Mr Driscoll seoietary, and Mr Callaghan treasurer. Several small accounts were passed for payment' A committee was appointed to confer with the new Cricket Club, re pitch, etc, Resolved to have a new wicket gate fixed at the corner of the domain near the school. ;' SCHOOL COMMITTEE' The School Committee met last evening. Present—Messrs Drlscoli (in the chair), Davis, Smith Ward, Bond and Watkins. The master's reporb was received, showing 57 on the roll. The chairman was granted leave of absence, as he will be away for some time, and the committee preferred this to his resigning, aa he has made a good chairman, One of the committee was appointed to act as chairman in Mr Driscoll's . absence. Several small accounts were passed for payment. The tender of Mr L Pluck was accepted for work required to be done for the committee; Mr Driscoll and Ward was appointed as delegates to School Committee's Association.

VOLUNTEERS.

Tbe Local Camp.

The local battalion of Volunteers com-1 menced their annual camp on the drill shed f ground on Thursday evenings Evidently I profiting by the expeiience of the rough ■ weather at the previous camp, the street) of J bell tents have been placed with a better shelter from the north-west winds, and are located at tho north end of the reserve, the officers' quarters being directly facing the ' men's quarters. C&ptain W E Dolman is in charge of the camp. The duration of the camp will be six days. The oommisariat arrangements are under Sergeant Willers and ' Private Wellman,of the Rifles, and altogether the men seem to ba thoroughly comfortable. The Rifles supplied the guards for Thurs* day evening from 9 till 12 p m Yesterday operations commenced at 5,45 a m, with a battalion parade for squad drill under seotion commanders The officer for the day was Captain Sparrow (H, company), with Sergeant Dorm, orderly sergeant, and Bugler Leitcb, also of H. company Ab 7 p m the battalion paraded for company drill, under their respective officers The orders for to-day are:—Officer for the day, Lieutenant T Hayes, C company; next for doty, Lieutenant E F Nicoll, H. I company; Orderly Sergeant, D Grant, H ! company ; bugler, B Simpson, H company j The C. company will furnish a guard of nine men from 8 to 10 p m ; H. company, a relief guard, of same strength, from 10 to 12pm; the relief guard to report themselves to the officers of the day at 12 p m The battalion parade at 5.45 a m, drill order, for physical drill and bayonet exercise under aection commanders, at 7 pm, drill order, for drill in extended order The battalion will assemble at 10 30 a.m. I to-morrow for ohuroh parade. j

COUNTY COUNCIL.

Ihe following concludes our report :— THE HEAD WOBKS.

A discussion ensued, in which the chair man and Messrs Johnston and Lambie took part, and Mr Frledlander having asked for information as to how the works affected the Ashburton-Rakala water supply, the Engineer explained the whole water race system of the county. SLAUGHTERHOUSES The monthly report of Mr Kennedy, Inspector of Slaughterhouses, was read :— Ib Btatod that the writer had accompanied Dr Symes on his visit of inspection, aid generally confirmed the favorable remarks of the doctor, which have already been pub lished. The chairman said the reporb was satisfac tory, ab anyrate, so far as two slaughter houses were concerned. FINANCE Accounts were passed for payment. Referring to Mr Purnell's account, te the intake dispute, Mr Fried land or said he was under the impression that the mill pro prietors had paid their account He thought this uccount should be held over for further enquiry. Beveral members agreed that the late | chairman had nude a Btrong poinb of the | Council coming out of the difference with | the mill owners without having to pay any thing. It was decided to make further enquiry into the matter. Mr Frledlander drew attention to the fact that the annual balance sheet showed all the aocounts to be in credit except the Bank account. He would however like some information on the sutijeob of the accounts connected with the head works of the water supply, and that was his reason for asking I his question previously. The Chairman had to bring under the notice of members the fact that it had be«*n impossible to obtain payment from the Anama Road Board for an amount that had been due for several years connected with the water pupply system In 1892 the then chairman of t.hab Board, Mr B. G. Wright, had applied to the Council for sotrta work to be done in his district which was urgent, and ! it had been dose, and the indebtedness of the | Board had nob yet been paid. He advtßed i thafc the Government be requested nob to pay any more subsidy to that Board until this amount had been paid. Ib had been standing over for a number of years, and ho moved " That this payment must, be mado, and failing compliance that the Commißsioner of Crown Lands be written to, asking him nob to pay any more thirds to that) Board till the amount be paid.'

Mr Lambie thought it would be as well to ascertain the Council.* legal position before taking such a step. Mr Johnston thought the amount shotfd have been paid long ago, if ib was justly due.

Mr Friedlander said he took it that the Council's water supply i coounb had a claim against tbe Annma Road Board for £42 15a, and the Board hud a olai.n against the Council's general account for thirds, bub the aocounbs could not be set against each other, therefore they had better summons the Board, It was time ib was settled.

The Chairman read a letter written in 1892, asking the Council to execute certain work connected with the water supply. The Council wenb to work and spenb £68, and only £26 had been paid so far. He read correspondence, also a letter in which he had explained the position to the Atiama, Road Board and asking for payment, and this he would submit to the Council before sending. The Chairman of the Road Board had been written bo repeatedly, bub he disclaimed liability, and saii his Board had taken legal advice and considered bhab the Council had no claim as the Council held the Board's subsidy for thirds. Mr Chapman aeked for an explanation* Did the Council get the thirds subsidy ? The Chairman said thab the Board was nob entitled to the subsidy, which wae paid on the rate struck by the Council and nob by the Board', which had struck no rate consequently the Council had been paid » double subsidy; A dissuasion ensued, and eventually Mr Chapman urged that a solicitor's opinion be taken bo ascertain the legal position.

The Chairman strongly opposed this, con tending thab the case was clear enough. Mr Johnston said there would be no expense connected with the letter proposed to be sent, and he favored thab course. The Chairman said the Chairman of the Anama Road Board was Chairman of the Council for some years, and he naturally took no steps to obtain payment from his own Board.

Mr Fried lander took it that, in the absence of special conditions, the body that Btrikes the rate is entitled to the subsidy. Mr Chapman, still thought that it would be more prudent to assure themselves of their posit lon before proceeding further. It was finally agreed that the letter drafted be forwarded to the Government, subject to the solicitor's opinion as to the legality of fche claim NOTICm OF MOTION Mr Lambie said that Mr Wright, who was absent in Wellington, had asked that his notice of motion should be postponed till next ordinary meeting Mr Friedlander objected, and thought it should be proceeded wibh. The request waa agreed to CORRESPONDENCE! Messrs Nicoll Bros, wrote regarding the Council's proposal and policy to insure em ployees, and it was agreed that the Chair man be authorised to insure according to Mr PurneU'a advice From Rangitata Road Board asking that road on Reserve 2567 bo altered. Resolved that Government be asked to alter as requested. From same re clearing races by contract. —Received. i. From Coldstream Road Board with refer enoe to clearing water races by contracted stating the Board's intention to call a public meeting to deal with the matter. • STEAM ROLLER. The Upper Ash burton, Mt. Somers, and Rangitata Road Board wrote asking the Council to reconsider its decision not to purchase a steam roller. The Mount Somers Board forwarded a number of reports, etc., in connection with this matter. A long letter from a manufacturing fiim was also read, pointing out the great advantages of a steam rpller and giving a list of prices. The Chairman asked if any member desired to move in che direction of acting on the letters received. No doubt more Boards would write, Mr Chapman did oob see that the position

Wat altered, as no guarantees were offered by the Road Boards.

Several members thought delay was desirable, and the matter was allowed to stand over.

MISCEIXANFOtrs From manager Union Bank re formalities as to bank account, which wag attended to. From Mr Pure ell re prosecution of Meaclem for driving traction engine on the bridge, and advising action taken in that matter.—Received From same re Ellery contract ~16 waa decided that the Chairman and Mr Chapman sign the contract. From A F Roberts, Westetfield, re reserves 2243-4, offering to rent same for another year.-—Agreed to. I A letter was read concerning the Mayfield telephone office, stating that the working of this office left a deficiency of £42 9s Id. The Chairman gave the history of this office and said the person in charge was allowed so much per message. He thought the Council ought to make a profit out of it. From Rangitata Road Board re fence across riverbed. i , Mr Friedlander moved that a. copy of letter be sent to owner of fence requesting ita removal.—Agrsed to. i From Mr McClymonb asking for a grant of ! £25 towards making a siding on the Mount Somers tramway. Mr Friedlander read a letter concerning this matter, and said he did not see why the Council should upend any money on this badness. The Chairman said their ate chairman had committed them to it. It was decided that the Council could nob see its way to grant the request* APOLOGY. ... The Chairman eaid that) he had received an apology from Mr Wright for son-attend* anoe, and leave ot absence waa granted ! aoordingly. MISCELLANEOUS. An application from Mr W Wilkinson for permission to flush a drain waa considered, and it was decided that it could cob be entertained. Five applications for pond cervices were granted. j An application from Mr P Chalmers for an j alteration in a water race was granted. The resolution re legal limit of bank over draft) was confirmed. Ib was decided that the nexb ordinary meeting should be held on November 2. ALVOBD J-ORBST WAT«B BAOE A deputation consisting of Messrs W J Siloock, John Orr, H Turner, and A Hewson waited on the Council, asking for a re arrangement of the Borough water race through AHenton. The Council decided that the Engineer should look into the matter, take level*, etc, and report at next meeting of the Council, when the request of the deputation would be dealt with. SPECIAL MEETING. A special meeting of the Council was held immediately after the ordinary meeting to adopt a special order re rato for Ashburton Forks River district, when it was resolved that a special order be adopted.

ROAD BOARD

South Raksia

The usual monthly meeting was held on Thursday and all the members were present. It was decided to shingle & further length of the Kyle road and about fifty chains of Jones road.

The Clerk was instructed to report on other places requiring shingle. It was resolved to purchase small birds' eggs and heads as usual, and to ask the Council to subsidise the amount by one chilling per hundred. Tenders for the thinning of a number of plantations were accepted and others left) on the hands of the Uleik to dispose of.

Correspondence was dealt with, and after passing accounts, the Board rose, and decided to hold the next meeting at 10 a,m on Thursday, November 1.

CORRESPONDENCE

We do not bulrt ourselves responsible for opinions oxpressed by our correspondents

HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT

TO THE EDITOR Sir.—Br McGregor reported to Parliament that "Many nursing and sanitary reforms were needed at the Aahburton hospital." How is it that for years past his periodical reports have been most favourable, Has he only found it out after the pressure of pubiic opinions demanded and obtained reform in < the nursing ? Now that Br Symes trenohenb report of the terrib'y insanitary conditions existing so long has resulted in the appoint ment of three of the most suitable members of the Hospital Board to report thereon, ib is expected that though reforms will place matters in euch a state that " Miss McAndrew and her staff will make this an up to date little hospital." I agree with Dr Symea' remarks that the visiting committee had been exceedingly slack in their duties for some years past. The same committee appointed year after year like oft used brooms become ineff etivj. What ia wanted is not a diminution of the members constitu ting the Hospital Board, for "in the midst of counsellors there is wisdom," which for half of the 25 years time neglected their duty, but in changing the members of the Visiting , Committee annually so that every Councillor in tarn should have an opportunity of becoming acquainted with the working of our moßfc valuable institution, and thus be in a position to d'acass matters from actual knowledge at the meetings of the Hospital Board. With no thanks to the highly paid Government Inspector wa shaU ere long have cause to be proud of our 'little hospital.' —•I am, etc., Reformer,

THE LONDON WATER SUPPLY.

TO THB EDITOR

Fir,—l am sorry Mr Harrison has so ungraciously retreated at this stage in hie discussions. Facts, doubtless, could be elioited, which possibly would be of service to us. At all events, the London water supply ,is the greatest) and most complete water supply system known to the ancient or modern world. The work of supplying London with water is in the hands of eight companies The New River and the Bast London obtain their supply chiefly from the Lea, and to a less extent, from deep welle sunk in the chalk along the Lea valley. The East London holds the right to draw ten million gallons daily, from the Thames at) Sunbury. The total drawn from the Thames by the eight companies daily, is 120.000,000 gallons, one-eleventh of the aver age flow of the national river. These are facts which even Mr Harrison will hardly dare to dispute. The public are adequately promoted. Sir E. Prankland, K.L.B, acting under the local Government Board, teats water baotenologioally and chemically, and publishes monthly returns of the results. Sir William Crookes, F.R.S, and Professor Dewar, F.R'S, on behalf of the Water Com panies, make similar 1 examinations daily. Lord Balfour's Royal Commission of 1892-3 reported " We are strongly of opinion that the water, as supplied to the cocsamors in London ie of a very high standard of excel lence and purity, and that it is suitable in quality for all household purposes."—l am, •to.,

Symon Goodboy. [Thia letter has been unavoidably held over. Ed.]

FEDERATED AUSTRALIA.

A SPLENDID POEM BY KIPLING. London, Oct i The Times has published a splendid poem by Rudyard Kipling on the birth of the Australian Commonwealth Sydney, October i Tee Earl of Hopetoun has replied as follows to Sir W J Lyne's congratula tory message ;— 4< Please advise Pre- 1 miers how valuable is the expression of united opinion." BrubanK, Oot 5 A proposal has been mooted to allow the Chief Justice, Sir Samuel Griffith, to retire on a pension of £1750 per

annum to enable him to take part in Federal politics. The Labour party in the Assembly and some of the Gover# menfc supporters strongly oppose the proposal

THE ADDINGTON CAMP.

Good work was done yesterday by the mounted corps now in camp at Addington. la the lorenoon there was mounted drill In the park, when the corps were practised in battalion movements by Captain Lindsay. Lunch waa over early, and at 2 45 the corpa paraded in the park for inspection by Colonel Gordon. They marched past in company divisions, at) the trot, and ranked patt in columns of section, after which Captain Lindsay joined up the corps as a battalion and put them through a Dumber of bittalion movements. Owing to the half gile of wind blowing the officers fonnd much difficulty in making themselves heard, and the men were frequently in the dark m to the order giveo, bat nobwithttaading all the drawbacks ezoellent work was done, and Colonel Gordon expressed himself as vary highly pleated with the smarbnesi and intelligence, the drill was some of the beat mounted work he had seen. After the inspection the C.T.C. returned to camp, and the Ashburton Moanted Rifles under Captain Buckley, were pat through ft number of movements by thud omoeri concluding with some skirmishing drill in extended order, with blank cartridge. This corps has won golden opinions from all who have seen is on parade. The men's physique is good, and their mounting exceptionally fine. After the parade the corps was formed up and Captain Backely addressed both officers and men, thanking them for the assiduous manner in which they had fulfilled their duties and done their btsfc to promote the welfare of the corpi at a whole* Three cheerß were given for Captain and Mr« Buckley, and the men were marched back to e&mpf I D. brook, of the Christohuroh hospital, has been acting surgeon of the Ashburbon Moanted Rifles during the camp. W&l Captain Buckley has made the fallowing promotions in the, Aahburtcn Mounted Riflas:—Corporal Todd to be sergeant, Lauae-corporals Cow and Garbett to be oorporals, Troopers Roberts, Rale and Ironside to be lance-corporals, Tomorrow a church parade will be held at the camp.

INQUEST.

An Inquest was htld at the residence of Mr Geo Hefford this forenoon on the body of Wm Cecil Hefford, aged six months, ba fore R Alcorn Esq. and a jury comprising Messrs Sohwariz, W Hodgson, Jos. Wright, Alfred Peters, Jno. Haslets, and H Maokay {foreman), Constable Ede coadncted tha enquiry . Geo. Htfford, draper, father of the ohild stated hie two children were attended to by the doctor {for whooping cough. The ohild had not been very strong, although fairly bright. About a week ago it oontraoted a freah coid, but the illness did flot appear to be a serious on", and the child was cheerful up to 12 o'clock on Thursday evening, when it appeared to become worse and during the night was sleeping and crying alternative. At seven o'clock next morning it took its food, but at eight o'clock appearing no better Dr, Maude was Rent for, and the child died about a quarter to nine, and before the doctor arrived.

Mrs Hefford, mother of the child, gave evidence corroborating the above. Dr 0 E Maude stated that he wh called between eight) and nine o'clock on Friday morning last to Bee the child, and on arriva! found it dead. Had formerly Attended the child two months ago *or whooping cough and bronchitis, from which it then recovered, and he had not seen it until tbe time of death. The child was a delicate one, judging from the history of the case. In his opinion the cause of death was bronohitli and pneumonia, At the stage the child was in when the father called for me am Bstie fied nothing could have been done for it.

The jury decided that a pott mortem was unnecessary, and returned a verdict) thftfc the cause of death was a natural one;

THE ENGLISH ELECTIONS

Per United Press Association—By ' Electric Telegraph.

London, October 5 The following Unionists have been 'elected ;— Greenock, Mr James Reid. Bristol, North, Sir F Wills. Halifax (two members), Sir Saville Orossleywitb Mr W Wiuteley (Libe ral), who ousted Mr Billson (Liberal). The Edinburgh South election resulted;— Sir A A gnew (Unionist), 5766; Mr A Dewar (Radical), 5655. The polling in the Blsckfriars and Hutoheson town division of Glasgow was as follows—Mr A Law,4140 ; Mr A D Provand (Roseberyite, 3140.

The election of a member for the Bridgeton Division of Glasgow resulted —Mr O 8 Dickson (Conservative), 5032; Professor Murison (Radical), 4041

In the St Rollox Division of GUs gow, Mr J" Wilson (Liberal Unionist) polled 6282 votes, defeating Mr J McKinnon Wood (Radical), 6049. In the Haggerston Division of Shoreditch Mr W E Creuer (Liberal) defeated Mr J Lowles, (Conservative) by 27 votes. At Stockport (two members), Sir J Leigh (Liberal), 5666, and Mr B V Melville (Conservative), 5377, one of the members of the last Parliament, were elected.

In the election for the College Green Division of Dublin, Mr .Nanette (Nationalist), defeated Mr Oarew, (Farneilite). . The polling in the St Stephen's Green Division,, Dublin, resulted in the return of Mr McOann (Nationalist), who defeated Mr J II M Campbell (Conservative) The following members have been re-elected: — St Paocras East, Mr T Wright son (Cosservative) St Pancras West, West, Mr H R Graham (Conservative)

St Pancras North, Mr B R P Moon (Conservative)

Whitech&pel Division, Tower Ham lets, Mr S Montsgn (Liberal) Finebury East, Mr H 0 Richards (Oooeervative) Pinsbury Central, Hon W T B Mas eey-Mainwaring (Oonasrvative) LimehtsuHe Division, Tower Hamlets Mr H S Samuel (Conservative) Mile End Division, Tower Hamle+s, Mr 8 Charrington (Conservative) ■ Bethnftl Green, North-east, Mr Bhowoaggree (Conservative) Wandswortb, Mr H Kimber (Con servative) Peckham Division, Oamberwell, Mr F G Banbury (Conservative) Marylebone Eaat, Mr Edmund Boulnois (Coneervative). j Maryiebone West, Sir S»muel Scott (Conservative); Bow and Bromley, Tower Hamlets, Mr W M Guthrie (Conservative), Hammersmith, Major-Oeneral Golds worthy (Conservative).

Keunington Division, Lambeth, Mr F L Cook (Conservative), Rotherhithe Division, South wark, Mr J 0 Macdona (Conservative) Poplar Division, Tower Hamlets, Mr bidney Buxton (Liberal). Kirkdale Division, Liverpool } Mr J)

THE. ASHBUHTOtf GUABDIAN: SATtfBDAt, OOTOBEB fyfl i&OC



XSargfains lit BICYCLES. Highest Quality, Latest Designs. For One Month Only OATEB, LOWRY & CO., Zealand!* Cycle Works, Burnutt Street, Ash barton, with tha view of popularising the Zealand ia and Atalsata Bicycles in the Aabburton District, have decided to offer 20 Gyoles at. the following very great) reductions in price fur one month only. Lot 1 — GENTLEMEN' 3 ZKALANDIA ROADSTER, 22 inch frame, 80 gear, Twin Roller chain, Weitwood «teel rime, Dunlop tyres, Brook's saddle, enamelled black with gold lines. Regular cash price £21. Sale price £16 iOe. 12 months guarantee* Lot 2—LADY'S, 22 inch frame, 66 gear, adjustable handles, spring eeab pillar, flexible saddle, Westwood steel rims, Dunlop tyres. Regular oaah price £20. Sale price £15. 12 month* guarantee. Lot 3 — GENT'S ATALANTA LIGHT ROADSTER, 24 inch frame, 80 gear, Brook* 823 saddle, We«twood ate el rims, Dunlop tyres, enamelled black with gold lines. Regular cub price £31. Sale price £15. 12 moafchi guarantee. Lot 4-LADY'S ATALANTA, 22 inch frame. 64 gear, leather gear oase, Brook's saddle, Wesfewood ateel rims, Dunlop tyres. Regular cash price £22. Sale price £16 10s. 12 months guarantee. Lob 5 — GENT'B LIGHT ROADSTER, 22 inch frame, 80 gear, Kelly adjustable handlebar, Sager flexible saddle, Westwood steel rims, Dunlop tyros. Regular cash price £20. Sale price £15. 12 months guarantee. Lot) 6-LADY'S ZEALANDIA, 20 inch frame, 63 gear, Wesbwood steel rims, Dunlop tyres, Brook's latest saddle, enamelled dark green with gold lines and decorations. Regular cash price £22. Sa'e price £17. 12 months guarantee. Lot 7 — GENT'S ATALANTA ROAD RAOER. 24 inch frame, Twin roller chain, 84 gear, Weatwood steel rims, Duulop tyres, Brook's 810 saddle, enamelled black with gold linee: Regular oash price £21. Sale price £16. 12 months guarantee. Lot B—LADY'S, 22 inch frame, 68 gear, adjustable handles, spring se»t pillar, flexible Bftddle, Westwood steel rims, Dunlop tyres, enamelled maroon with gold it'.&s. Regular cash price £20. Sale pric« £15. 12 months gnarantee. Lot 9 - GENT'S ATALANTA, 24inch frame, Twin Roller chain, 80 gear, Westwood rime Dunlop tyres, Brook's 810 saddle, enamelled black with gold licea. Regular cash price £21. Sale price £16. 12 months guarantee- Lot 10 — GENT'S ZEALANDIA ROAD EAGER, 24 inch frame, twin roller chain, 80 gear, Westwood steel rims, Dunlop tjres, Brook's 810 saddle, enamelled black. Regular cash prioe £21 j Sale price £16 10a. Also,— 10 other high class BICYCLES, similar to the above EASY TFRMS CAN BE ARRANGED. All the above Machines are fitted with Duolop Tyres and Weetwood Bteel Rim?. Rbmbmbbir the Sale is fob One jMLontJh OfLir.



urn uwn & CO Largest Makers of Cyc'ea in New Zaal&ad. Asbbnrton Branch, Burnett Street—- W« A. SCHWARTZ. 10 00 Manager. SPECIAL DISPLAY OF SPBING FASHIONS _ I New Dresses, Hew Millinery, New Hats and Trimming, New Prints, Zephyrs Muslins, etc. NEW GOODS AND NOVELTIES IN ALL DEPARTMENTS. YOU ARE INVITED TO INSPECT. ASHBURTON DRAPERY CO. NEW ZEALAND | INSURANCE COMPANY. ESTABLISHED 1859, CAPITAL—ONE MILLION fipHE Premier and Wealthiest Colonial J_ Company, Noted for Promptness and Liberality Paid-up Capital and Reserves, £400,000. Mre and Marine Bisks, Also,— Bisks on Growing Crops. Threshing Machines! etc, accepted at lowest current rates, E. W. Hanmer, AGENT ATIONAL MORTGAGE & AGEJSCY CO. OF N.Z, LTD.; TIMAEU IMPROVED FARMS FOR SALE. 530 acres Rangitata, 250 acres Claretnoeb, 250 acres Waitotis, 200 ocrea Waibao, 250 aorss Kingsdowo, 1000 aoree Otaio, 600 acres Totara, And others of various sizer in South Canter bury Improved Farms for lease, with right of purchase 1170 serea Fairlie, 505 acres Totara, and 265 actee Totara Also unimproved agricultural and grazing farms of various eizes or; the Baincliffe and Levels Estates, ar»d two well improved ! Statiou properties of 7000 acres each



John Orr & Co. ~Yrr E DO NOT STOCK ELEPHANTS 1 But hf.vs a very varied and naeful seleobion I OF ! TRUNKS i And Travelling Boxet, which we »ra quot , ing at extremely Low Prioei, »nd will be glad to show to any of oar customer*. I JOHN ORR & CO- Have a large Stock of LAWN MOWERS fOR CUTTING all kinds of grata. Our Vast patterns, ylike THEB->ERS, move very rapidly over the ground when pushed a little. The grass is cub DOWN like maglo. Prices from SSOs. JOHN ORE & 00., Ashburtoo. THE MOST WONDERFUL BABY IN THE WORLD Certainly deserves ft Good l^eramtmintor OR Mnil Onrt, euch as may be obtained from JOHN OHR & CO. ASHBURTON, 10 45



MRS ALCORN is now showing a beautiful assortment of new Millinery new Mantles, new Dreas Goods, now Silks etc., in the enlarged premises. Ladies and childrens Pinafores, Aprons, and Under* clothing in stock, and made to order



MOTHERS ! Have you delicate children who kve ways taking cold and sub ect lo croup? II sr-, try Tonking's Linseed Emulsion, which wiil cure where all other medicines fail. Sold by local rhemiols and racers in bottles, Is 6d and 2s 6d. 246



GONE TO THE FEOSTT. MR RACING CYCLIST,—Now that the raoinp, Benson is at hand,, it ia. ABSOLUT ELY necessary that you should have the bbst bicycle. Notice how the riders of RTJLHjUf- WHITWOKTHS have been faring. At the 1900 New Zealand Championship Meeting nine out of ten championships fell to riders | of the Kbdgb-Whitworth. Did these riders ever meet with such phenomenal success on any other wheel T Aek them how the Rtjdgk-Whitwoeth stood on the bumpy j track at Wellington, and they will tell you i that their mounts were full of life when the final struggle came. The Rudgb-Whitworth has only been on the path a few months, yet it now stands alone as the racing man's wheel. Are you still satisfied to be &a "alto started,; or will you lead on a Rudoe-Whitworth RUDGE - WHITWORTH RECORD AT OHAMPIONSHIP| MEETING,— W AW, ONE, THBEI!, JIVK AND TE MILK CASH CHAMPIONSHIPS. WON HALF, SHREK, FIVE AND T»N MILS AMATEUB CHAMPIONSHIPS. MR TOURIST,—You want a wheel that is not too heavy, bat strong enough to carry y< v over the bumpy streets and rough roads, and, at the aame time, can show pace when the going is good. The Roraß-WHMWOBTH answers this description What is England b experience ? Tfes battle of the hi^h-grade wheels has endvJ in a complete victory for i ho Rudob-Whitworth, which ie now tight on top in the O d Country. Inspection Invited. GiTY CYCLE WORKS, BURNETT STRJBET. AKT PICTUSES OP THE GENERALS, &c, TRANSVAAL WAR Including IMPERIAL HORBE, CANADIAN DRAGOONS, &c. THE above are Works of Art and far snrpass anything of the kind yet Im ported into this Colonyi Persons desirous of Securing a memento of tha present) Ww will find the above eogravings very suitable. Price 2s 6d each. I have also to hand an assortmenb of ARTISTS COPIES. which will be leb out to for any number of days. J. WTLSON, Sign-Writer and Decorator, : BURNETT STREET. j FOR Your Spring Costume try our f Dressmaking Department under new mac oernent, B>yle and fit guaraateed—- Nokthootb & Hefford, " The Corner.' j 13 UILDERS will find it to their advantage JL> to gt-ti estimates for Ironmongery fro Habdley Bros*



Smoke New Venus