DEATH.

Pearce—On June 29, 1900, William Allen Fkarce, bbloved husband of Klxi Pearee, at Sherwood. Aged 70 yejjrs. Deeply regretted.

Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 1900. Local and General.

• # * Oh the first page to-day will be found an article headed "The Antarfcio." South Bakaia Fchool,—Owinc to the prevasence of whooping cough and scarlitina, the school has been closed and wilt not rc-opea again until July 16. Arrived—Mrs G. Grose, Timaru, has received a letter from Nurse Carston, stating 1 that she and Mips Godfrey arrived at Cape town on May 7, both quite well, Thb Waihemo Seat.—A Press Associ ation telegram says :—ln the House this afternoon the Speaker read the Hon. John McKenzie'd resignation of the VVaihemc seat. [ 'J he Trespassing Case—The fiae icflioted in the trespassing case, heard at the g.M. i I Court yesterday, was 203 and costs—not 10a, j as Btated in our report yesterday I Coursing. — A meeting of members of the Ashburton Coursing Club, and those interested in a good day's sporb, is convened for this evening at; 8 o'clock, ab the Com mercial Hotel. A good gathering is ant:ci pated, as a very important proposal is to be considered. Ambulance Classes—Those of the public who wish to pin are reminded that a Hat for signature of intending members Hob ab the Mail and Guardian Office. As the time j for formation of classes and other details is short, residents and others should apply at onca to ensure their beicg included ai mem bers, VoLUNTEBRi—The Ashburton Gnatdi will on Monday evening nex^parade for company dril'. The aspirants for position of cor* poral will bepractkaMy tested by Captain Dolman On.Tuesday evening Lt.-Oolonel; Bailey will inspect the ABhburton Rifles. Members must attend the above parade. A Doctor For Methven.—The residents of the Methven and Mount Hutt district! have at hut determined to minimise to some extent the risks they run by having no medi cal practitioner in their immediate district. They are advertising for a medical man, to whom they offer £250 a year for three yean with fees. He must reside at Methvtn. Close Tendering—When the tenders for re-forming seventeen chains of West Street were opened at the meeting of the Borough Council, on Monday night, it was found Mr N Fitzgerald had tendered at £32, and Is 4i per yard for shingle, while the only other tender was £32 10s r and Is 4d for shingling, a difference of bub 10a in the whole work.

Skating Carnival.—Full arrangements have now been concluded for carrying out tha proposed carnival on the ioe in Ash burton. On the first appearance of frosts a meeting of the Committee will be held bo arrange the date for the function, and other particulars

The Napier Mtstbry —-What is known as the "Inner Harbour Mystery" hes ad vanced a stage iv a negative direction. Many believed the girl to be Emily Pi'cher, daughter of a Hastings settler, but he declared thab ha had a letter from her in Melbourne. To day the police received authenticated information that the girl had left the colony under an assumed name, and is now employed at the Retreat Hotel, Brunswick, Melbourne

A Child Killed.—Oa Thursday, Eliz- beth vValker, five years of age, was killed in Great King street, Dunedin, by the wheel of an aerated water cart passing over her head. The child waa crossing the street behind a rram car when the cart came np, and the driver did not see the child till the accident occurred

TheN.Z. Cyclist.—The latest copy of this popular journal is to hand. The pro prietors have altered the policy of the paper in the direction of extending Its scope and influence by opening its pages to other sub jects than cycling, Foobball, athletics, hockey, and the stage, all receive attention, while the pietime and fport of cyc'iDg is, as in the past-, dealt with in a thorough manner,

Railway Accident —A mun named James FrancAi, 27 years of »ge, waa found uncon scious on tha railway at Addington od Wednesday sight, and was taken to the hospital, where it was discovered 'that his sknll was fractured. No hopes of his recovery are entertained. Ir. is believed that he was on his way home, walking beside the line, whon he was struck by a passing train.

A Runaway — A pair of greys in a brougham,which had justconveyeda wedding party to the railway station on Thursday afternoon, thoughb the time opportune for a bolt, and galloped down East Street at a furious pace. They had nob allowed, how ever, for the grit of their driver, Mr George Scott, who, pluckily sticking to them, managed to pull the animals up jnst as they reached the bridge. Anything on the bridge, meeting or overtaken by a runaway team, would probably have a bad time

Wesleyan — The quarterly meeting of office-bearers of the Ashburton Wesleyan circuit was held in the Baring Square tchool on Thursday night. Rev T Fee presided, and there were nina otfjgr members present. The roll of membership showed, Ashburton 149, Greenßtreefc 6, Wakanui 12, total, 16?. Consequent on removal expense?, and neoaeeary renovation and requisites ab the parsonage, tha expenditure was larger than usual, and the debt sow stood ab aboub £20. A cordial welcome was extended to Eev T Fee, and in the conversation which followed, various aspects of church life and work received i©arching attention, A meet ing is to be held nexb week, at which the more directly spiritual life of the church will be dealt with, and at which every opportunity in to be given for an interchange of though i op matters of anpreme importance to the circuit's welfare.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio (Telegraph—Copyright; Pabis, June 27 "! Donald Macintosh, the Victorian pigeon shot, won the priSe Ceotenaire de Paris, of 5000 francs &nd a raedal, London, June 27 Lieut J B F Dapice, M New South Wales, and Trooper J Way, of South Australia, have been given commissions in the Ptoyal Artillery, St. Peters»ub«, June 27 The Czar has issued a ukase prohi biting baccarat everywhere in the Em pire, including private bouses.

Sydney, Jane 28

The annual report on prisons shows that there is a considerable reduction in the gaol population, which is claimed to be the result of the extension of the restricted association system.

Arrangements are being made for a good representation of New South Wales wheat at the forthcoming baker's exhibition at Islington, EbbmantiDE, June 28 1 he steamer Time, from Newcastle, had a rough pasßage. She lost fifty* four bullocks and 1000 cheep Brisbane, June 28

There is some doubt whether the

wreck is that of the Confidence or of another vflssel. There la no trace of the crew.

The Trouble in Ashanti

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copy right London, June 27 Rains are delaying the advance of the Kumaesi relief column.

FOOTBALL

AUCTIONEERS v. BANKS AND PROFESSIONS.

Auctioneers (Colour*)— Riokman, Nicoll (2), Woods, Treaton, Oookson, Lyntkey, Moon, Bruce, Amop, Denshire, Buchanan, Seldon, Friedlander (2) " Bankers (Whit»•) — C"X, Johnston, Brock, Bane, Salmond, White, Rickman, Htephecs, Heaeley, Tennanfc, Pilbrow, Crisp, King, Oromie, Dr Maude, This matuh, which was played on the Domain Oval on Thursday afternoon, attracted more than usual attention, somu thing like 400 pecp'e turning out to watch it. They were well repaid for their trouble, as though the first Bpell resulted in no score, the play was interesting, and the remarks of the crowd on the form and play of the men were, to iay the least of ir, entertaining. The oval was greasy, and some of the players had not donned a jeraey fur some years, yet the gnme was made fasb from start to finish, a»»d many a senior club match has provided less interesting football. On the weight and combination of their forwards the Banks should have won, bub they failed to avail themtelvei of the services of theit backs, an they might havo done, 'llm Auctioneers, on the other hand, quickly lealieed the value of Lynskey and made use of him. That player was In the best of form, and proved a tower of strength to his side. His rare turn of speed enabled him to save a score time after time, and his safe handling of the bail, sure tackling and fast following up, were greatly ad mired by the crowd. Shortly after the commencement of the second spell, the Auctioneers gob on a dribbling rush, and by kicking hard and outpacing the fu'l back, got a fluky try,which was not converted. Flay hovered in the centre end then gradually worked down to the Auctioneers line, where for the last fifteen minutes a fierce contest raged, the excitement amongst the spectators working up to the highoab pitch. A try would have equalised the scores, but though it looked as if the Bankers must score, the Auctioneers kept up a most desperate resistance, and eventually had the satisfaction of hearing " no side " with them three points in the lead. For the winners Lynskt-y, Rick man and others distinguished themselves, »nd for the losers Uromie, Tennanb, Saimond and Maude were conspicu ous. The winners were afterwards enter tained by the loserß at a dinner ab the Com merciul Hotel.

THE AGRICULTURAL CON FERENCE.

United Press Association—By Electric (Telegraph Wellington, June 27 The Agricultural Conference decided that the question of consideration of noxious weeds be delayed until Friday. A commit tee was appointed in tee interval to consider the Bill now before Parliament and other mean* of dealing with the pests, to report on Friday, when the whole question will be discussed. The question of taxing dairy factories caused considerable discussion. Ultimately it was resolv<?d that co-operative dairy fac tories and creameries be excepted from taxa tion.

The following motions were agreed to :— That the Government should take more stringent measures in enforcing the condi tions of the Sheep Act on owners in relation to lice and ticks in sheep. That the brand ing regulations be more" strictly enforced. That in view of the serious destruction of sheep in Opotiki and other districts by pricks of useless dogs belonging to the Maori settlements, and as the Act at at prestmt framed seems powerless to cope with the nuisaace, this Conference request the Government to so amend the A<.t thab use less dogs would have to be destroyed or the owners compelled to pay a heavy tax for the privilege of keeping them. The Conference discussed the question of a maggot fly in sheep, and rosolved that the attention of the Agricultural Department be drawn to the matter, with a view to advising as to a remedy ; also as to blood-poisoning •in sheep in woolsheds and shocp yards.; - A proposal that the Government c^ffsr a premium for entiro horses, to travel specific districts at a limited fee was carried.

The question of what rconslitutes a the* roughbred horse and how many strains are required to make a sire eligible for the Stud Book was Sett for the Racing Conference to deal with.

Motion* were passed encouraging the study of veterinary surgery; and asking the Government to indemnify analysts and examiners against the publication of names of vendors of seeds and manures.

The Conference discussed the questions of anthrax, swine fever and compensation for dettruction of diseased cattle, but no resolu tions were passed.

A debate took place on the rabbit laws, in the oourse of which a number of speakers highly approved the work of the Government in keeping the pesb uuder. Motions for amending the law were lost, excepting one thab a rabbit proof fence should be made a legal fence.

A motion was passed condemning the practice of "trotting" or bogus bidding at auction, and asking the Government to interfere. .

Mr Brydone read an extract from a letter from M»jor Robin, dated from Winberg, stating that the New Zealand horses were so well thought of in South Afrioa that the Imperial remount authorities intended watch iog and encouraging horse-breeding in the colony. He mentioned thab hit horse Tommy was standing work extremely well, and advises farmers to breed more horses of Tommy's stamp> The Conference adjaurned till to-morrow night. The delegates are to be entertained by the frotz ng company to-morrow.

Wellington, June 28 The Agricultural Conference rejected a motion in favour of appointing expert lecturers to visit farmers' associations, and passed resolutions asking the Government to ascertain tha varieties of grasses, fodder plants, and grain most suitablo to the colony, and offer special inducements to plant trees of economic value ; also recommending the Education Department to introduce in State schools a text book on elementary agricul tural science

WjE^WK(STON, June 2$ The Agricultural Conference closed to day, A resojution was carried, expressing regret thab the gon. John McKenzie had been rtujmred to resign the position of Miuister of Lands. The Noxious Weeds Bill was approved, with some immaterial amendments, aud ib has been recommended thab if Government cannot geb the Bill through, that a Bill on a similar principle* dealing only with the Californian thistle, be introduced. It was decided to hold the nexb Conference two years hence, iv the South Island

AUSTRALIAN FEDERA TION.

London, June 27

The Earl of Selbourne moves the first reading of the Commonwealth Bill in the House of Lords on Friday,

Magisterial

ASHBURQDON-THURSDAY.

(Before C A. Wray, Esq., S.M.)

A Peculiar Cash—B. Phelan was charged with assaulting Daniel Briok on the Aihbur ton-Rakaia road, on the evening of Juue 8 —Mr Fisher appeared for Mr Briok. Mr Wilding for defendant -—There was a cross action asainsb D Brick for assaulting B Phelaa. Both cases were taken together. —Daniel Brick "s'^id he knew Phelan, who was a butcher residing' ab Rakaia, Was formerly a customer of Pheian's, but' ceased bo b* a customer on January 14 last. Qn June 8 wan driving to Rakaia in a four wheeled buggy. At the Junction of the Rakaia and Kyle road saw a Garb corrn oat about three chains in front and turn towards Rakaia. Drove on, and aboub six chains beyond the junction passed the cart on the right side. Thsre was plenty of room. It was aboub 5.30 or 6 o'clock, and fairly dark. Neither of them had lights. Did not know who v»b i# the c»rt when he passe' 1. After going about a p^aia he*rd Phelan call oub, 11 Hallo, Brick, you ——- f is that you ?" Complainant made bo reply, and phelan whipped up hia horse and got tide by Bide with the buggy. Witness then uked him

what was the matter with him. Phelan endeavoured to drive into him, and said, *' I'll let you tee," and kept using moib vile ephuhetp. He said "You ami Strnunt told lies of me," and continued to use moat insulting language. Phelan drove past, turned his horse round towards Ashburton, and put his horse and trap in front of complainant's horse. He thtn got our of the trap. Complainant waa then ten feet from the fence. Defendant caught hold of complain *nl'a near side rein, and threw the maro back on the buggy. She started kicking. Complainant was endeavouring to keep the mare's head straight to prevent the buepy turning over, as the buggy was on the lock. During the whole time defen dant wrs using vita language, and threaten ing to do for complainant if he could get him out of the buggy. Made attempts to get hold of complainant, and tore hia over coat trying to pull him out of the trap: Just then the noise of a trap coming towards Ra.kt.ia was heard. Phelan then relaxed his hold. Complainant drew attention to his horse clearing out, and asked defendanb what he meant, did he moan to murder him or had he offended him. Defendanb asked complainant to drive him up to the trap as he had something to tell him. Complainant) saio' if he would help him yoke up the trace he would drive him to the trap. They drove together to the trap. < Defendanb gob oub and wanted complainant to allow tha other trap to go past. Mr Street was in the trap behind. Defendant kept ahead the whole time, and was shouting to complainant to some on, and used abusive language the whole time. Complainant drove direct to Constable Stanley at Bikaia and made a complaint; Did not yet know the cosb of the damage to the buggy. The mare was considerably ir jured in the leg*. Had never seen her kick in h&rneii before. Had given defendanb no occasion to treat him in this way. To Mr Wilding—-Had seen Phelan every day and defendant had sup plied complainant with meat. The only dif ference was over the quality of some meat, and after that did nob deal with him further. They had no dealings since and there was no quarrel with them. Had had no rows with other people. Had had to apologise to Con stable Stanley some time ago. At a public meeting had some words with Mr Oxley, and threatened to have him off his perch. Denied he was a quarrelsome man or that he had had a row with aearly every person he had had lengthy dealings with. There wvi no cause for Pheian's conduct. He had given him no provocation. Phelan was on the road, in front of complainant, who did nob recognise who it was ab first. Was not excited in the slightest. Had he lost his nerve or his temper, ia all probability fc.hu result would h»ve been different. Did not call oub to defendant to make way. Did not say •• Make way for a gentleman, clear out with thab stinking cart" Had had jueb exactly as much bo drink that day as had to-day, and was not excited nor had he too much. Defendanb did not let go the rein till the trap came up behind. Did not strike him with the whip as he passed him. Did nob strike him across the face, leaviDg a mark. Had no whip in his hand. Phetan had hold of the coat and the rein ab the same time. He af. erwards asked to be allowed to get into the buggy to catch up to his horse. Complainants allowed him to do so and drove hard to catch the horse There wero m angry words then. Street was two or three chains behind: Did not say to Phelan that he (Brick), was very sorry for what hap pened, and thab he had an unfortunate tem per. Did not say hi« unfortunate tsmper had cost him many a good friend. He after wards asked Phelan to apologise and wrote oub the apology. (The apology, a most aljeot one was produced.) Phelan refused to sign it. To Mr Fisher—The whip was in the whip socket, and complainant never took it out as the mare never r* quired a whip. Left Ashburton at 3,30, and had no drink between Ashburton and R»kaia. Was as sober as he was thoD. To everything said by Phelan when riding in the buggy, complain ant told him to go before Constable Stanley and say it. To His Worship—The rnly motive gomp'aint could think of for such conduct, was his refusing to deal with defendanb six months before,—Walter Street, station manager, Rakaio, aud he was driving towards Rakaia on the evening of June 8 Raw somethirg ahead Of him, and before he came up heard voiceß, After some time took the vofcea to be those of Briok and Phelan, Was between four and six chains away, when he recognised the voices. Did not get any nearer a* his horee was young, and I c thought two people had run into each other, and h« did not want to get too close with a young horse, so turned round and went back. Took the voice to be Phelan abusing Brick, Heard him say he thought it was a gentleman coming alongside of him, but found it was a ekuok. There was general abuse going on. Turned bickfor about seven or eight minutes, then found Mis people went rin, so drove along a^ain to Rakaia. Thought both men wero in the buggy, but saw afterwards there were two traps- Could not see how the houses heads were turned* Should say one vehicle was in against the fence. After wards as they drove to R»kaia he heard nothing till he got close to R*kaia, when he heard Phelan say, "Come on Brick." Heard no more To Mr Wilding—Thought nothing' serious was going on. Heard Brick say " You won't get me out of tem per." Thab was aboub a!l he heard*—John James Stewart, horsetrainer said his atten tion was called to injuries on themarei legs, whioh were scratched and swollen up. Hair was knocked off and there were cut* on the fetlocks and hocks, as if she had struck something. They were euch injuries as would be probable by her kicking in a buggy. They were nob serious, but would leave marks subsequently. Went out with Brick to see the spot. Saw the tracks where a trap passed the buggy, and turned ronnd and the buggy had be: n backed into the fence. The marks of the buggy and trap were distinct, The baggy had been on the lock, and the horse's head across the road. To Mr Wilding—Lived ab Brick's hotel, bub did nob work for Brick. Could have driven the mare nexb morning.— David Bruoe, carpenter, R&kaia, deposed to yisitiog tha spot nexb d*y with Brick, apd seeing the marks of the trap and buggy.—W«" Cromie, blacksmith, Rakaja, said he repaired the injury to the baggy. The lock, front splashboard and two places in the wheel were broken. Th* charge for repairing ib was twelye shillings.— —Joseph Stanley, ponstable in charge at Rakaia, said he knew the complainant Briok, who drove to witness' house on Jane 9, about 6 p.m. He made a complaint againsb Phelan, whom he wanted witness to | see at once, Witness said there was time enough to go in the morning, and said he would see him then, Complainant) showed witness the pocket of a coat which was •lightly torn. To Mr Wilding-Wai ab his tea at the time Briok called, Did not finish his fcea, but went and saw PhelaD. Heard the stories from both parties, and to protect himself went and saw Street, who said he knew nothing, bub had heard voices. Dc aided ib was not within the scope of his duties to take further action. Had always gob on fairly well with Brick, Brick said Phelan was mad, bub at ha was not a professional man witness took no nobiae of his opinion. Phelan was a brobher«in-law of witness's, Mr Wilding atked was ib not a fa«b thab throe-fourths of the people said Brisk was mad, Witness said he did not know. Ha knew, however, Brick never missed a good chance for a lawsuit.—Mr Wilding held thab ib was oppossd to the interests of his client bo fall out with hie neighbours. He hoped to get his living in Rakaia. The faot remained that the morning after the affair, Phelan, with a mark across his face from the stroke of a whip or some other instrument, b&w a lawyer, bub was advised ib was nob to his interests to have this thing dragged* up in the Court. Eventually Brick took aotion and Phelan was advised to bring a cross action. Both parties were confronted with the trouble that there was no corroborative evidence. He held the facts were that Phelan, driving along, heard a voice say, " Make way for & gentleman." Phelan said there was plenty of roojp. and did not do so, and then Briok struck the horse, and made a second stroke, which caughfc phelan aorois the face. Phelan thereupon wenb baqk and remonstrated with Brick. He called B. Phelan, butcher and baker ab Rakaia, who said he was going to Rakaia on |he evening of Juc* 8. He heard a buggy coming behind, and when the buggy was a few ohains away he heard a voice call oub, " Make way for a gentleman. He turned round and asked who the genble man miahb be. The voice replied, «• Mr Paniel O'Connell Brick." Defendanb iaid be had plenty of room to pass, and that was as much at he wm entitua to, Brlqk, i&i4 ?

11 If you don't clear oub of my way, Til very noon clear you and your stinking meat cart off the road." Defendant said ho had better nob try. Brick then came along ida and struck 'he horse violently with a> whip, and then struck defendant a violent blow across the forehead. Defendant ooneidered both blows intended for him. Brick was standing in the buggy. Defendant's horse galloped away when he "received the stroke. De fendant puller! the horse up suddenly, and jumped oa* the cart. Brick* horso came up, and defendant sprang and caught the rein and pulled him up. Remonstrated with defendant, and s*id he had called hhmselt a gentle m*n, but he (Phelan) found him more of a skunk. Brick struck defendant a couple of times more with the whip, and told him to let go the horse or he would make him He endeavoured to m*ke the horse go on hot defendant held on, and the horse kicked. Jusb afterwards, Brick naked him to Ist the matter drop, and get into the buggy, dot into the buggy, and Brick drove him up to catch bin own horse. Brick said he cou'd not h«lp il at times; he had a terribly bad temper, and it had cost tvm many a good friendl Defendant gob oat of the baggy, got into hit cart, and wint on to Rak*i* ahead. Ther* iru no further disturbance In tht baggy, and Brick seemed vsiy sorry for what had occurred. Defendant afterwards called oat to Brick there w»s plenty of room if he wanted to go ahead. Went to Christchuroh on the Moo day to oonsult » solicitor, who ad?ised him to let the matter drop. N«xb thing Wie he got the apology, which he refused to sign. Replying to Mr Fisher—Witness denied that his horse was pulled in front of Brick's horse at the tide of the road. Hia hone was not turned round and brought to face Brick's. Did not catch hold of Brick by the coat, as he had hold of the horse's head, and could nob reach Brick's coat, which be did not tear. Did not hear Brick make use of the expression, ' You will not make me lose my temper.' Did not call him a skunk ; simp y said Brick called himself a gentleman, but had proved more of a skunk by the way he had conducted himself* Held the horse for two or three minutes by the head; did not call him names, simply remonstrated with him. The mark on hid forehead was not caused through a row with a man named Brown; had nob had a fight with Brown that night nor any other time, and never had an altercation with him in his life; was in the company of the O'Reilly's and Brown that night, bat bad no altercation of any description, — Denis ■,o'Keilly, laborer, Rakaia, said he knew both parties. Remembered the night the row occurred between Pheisn and Brick. Saw nothing occur between Phelan and Brown to cause a mark onf Fnllau'ir forahaad. Brown was angry with Pbelan, and pushed him, but there was nothing on Phelan's part; they were simply skylarking, and Brown got a little wild, bob there was no fight.—His Worship said ib was a peculiar case. There seemed to be no motive shown or any corroborative evidence of an assault. There really was only the evidence of the two parties ; the other witnesses threw no light on the matter. Looking ab the caee, it) certainly seemed very prohibit* something must have occurred between the two before Brick's boggy was stopped ; it seemed un intelligible that it should have bean stopped withoub rhyme or reason. Phelan'* evidence seemed to show what actually took place. It seemed very probable Brick must have 'done something to Phelan to oause htm to stop complainant in the manner he had done. He (His Worship) was satisfied in his own mind that Brick must have been the aggressor in the firsb instance. la regard to what happened afterwards, Pbelan was hardly justified in his conduct, even if what he said was true. His proper course was to have made a complaint at R»kaia, instead of getting nut of his trap and doing what he had done to Brick, by pushing bis trap into the fence. The matter should have been settled oub of Court. Both partial were in the wrong, and the only thing was either to fioe both or dismiss the eases. Brick was the aggressor in the first instance. Both cases woald be dismissed, each party to pay their own costs.

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

The Taku-Tien-tsin Lino Des troyed-

-Admiral Say mom's Fores Surrounded

A Heavy Casualty List.

United Prest Association—By Eleotric Telsgraph—Copyright Hongkong, June 27 The railway from Taku to Tien tsin has been completely destroyed. There are ten thous*nd troops be tween the two towns, largely Japanese and French.

The l»test message from Vice-Ad miral Seymour, which was helio graphed, stated that he was sur rounded, and that 62 of his force had been killed and 200 wounded, A relief ing column of 2000 immediately left Tien-tsin. Melbourne, June 23 At a meeting of the Missionary Societies, a letter was read from a missionary in China, stating that the present troubles were the outcome of the practice of French priests* in mixing themselves op in Chinese quarrels and law suits. The mandarins encouraged this sort of thing, knowing , it must lead to trouble between the Chinese and Roman Catholics. At the Missionary Society meeting a lady missionary, who spent several years in the north-west of China, was present, and frgm personal knowledge endorsed the statement in the letter that the French priests cause the trouble, and added that when murders were committed, the known murderers, if they were Catholic converts, were defended by the priests, who prevented the magistrates from imposing proper punishment, Berlin, June 27 In reply to a request, the Emperor has authorised the resident German community in Hong Kong to volunteer for the defence of the colony. Hong Kong, Jane 27

The Consuls at Shanghai and Chefoo report that the foreign ministers left Fekin, Ohineae troops escorting them, and proceeded to Shan-Hai-Kwan, along the line of the Great Wall, Other reports appear confirmatory. London, June 28 The British Consul at Tien-tsiu cables that Sir R ITart announced that the Legations had been desired on the 19th to leave in twenty four hours.

Lord Brassey's Opinion.

Neva From Admiral Seymour.

Hoary Fighting

(Received Wakapuak* Jane 29, 9% m This office 9 30 * m) London, June 29 Lord Brassey states tie is certain Australia would po-operate with Great Britain in China. The Shanghai correspondent of th» Daily Express, in a late message stales that Admiral Seymour has been relieved and reached Tien-tain. He also re ported that 200 of Admiral Seymour's force were wounded, and brought to Tien-tsin. Admiral Seymour reports a force of 50,000 Chinese prevented his : reaching ftkio,

i " ■ 11 «• i- ..>-.. .. T|[| . The Chinese desperately resitted the relief of Tien tim until the warship Terrible, with 4.7 guns, silenced their Krupps mounted on the wall. They then retaliated, suffering heavily, but rallied hen he effected » junction with the force, holding the arsenal. Event ually the machine guug expelled them with severe lose.

Canadians Volunteer for China

Japan to Spend 50,000,000 Yen Sending Troops,

(Received Wak.pnak* J oße 29. 10.60 im, Ihii Office lUOan) Lonboh, Jane 28 The Canadian Infantry are volun teering for service in China. Hong Kong Jons 21 The Boxers destroyed the military school at Alakden, the capital of Manchuria. 8000 Russian troops are tdraneing to suppress them. Tokio, Jane 28 The Japanese Government obtained authority to expend 50,000,000 yen in sending 20,000 troops to China.

The Plague.

United Preu Association—By Slaotrlo Telegraph—Copyright Stdnet, Jane 21 Fred. Townsend, a resident of North Sydney, has been attacked by plagut. The Government has arranged for 20,t00 doses of plague serum. Tht Board of Health is of opinion that ita efficacy has been proved by results. Brisbane 1, June 28 The man Morgan has died of plague*

A Case of True Plague.

United Press Association—By Bieotrlo Telegraph

WiLLiHGTOH, June 28 Mr Gilruth's report) on the examination of parts of Kelly's body states that farther experiments are being made, bat sufficient results have been obtained to enable him to declare ib to be a cue of true plagae. Dr Fyffe, who assisted, agrees, and the opinion is borne out by Dr Challinor Pur ohas, who has recently made an extensive study of bacteriology at Home. As soon as the Bill is passed, the Government intend to take steps to cany out rigid protective measures. Besides quarantining premises, these will be demolished if necessary. It is not proposed, however, to quarantine vessels from Auckland at present. Pas sengers will be inspected at each port of call, and where they land will have to report themselves to the Health Officer for a while. If any suspicious cast is noticed it will be isolated.

ANTARCTIC EXPLORA TION.

The Southern Cross Eacpiditioa

By Sir George Nkwnkk.

United Press Association—-By Kleotrlo Telegraph—Copyright Sydney, June 28 The continuation of the narrative of Borchgreviok's Southern Cross Antarc tic Expedition is an follows : —

Ib was at Cipe Constance, on the ice, that Messrs Bernacchi and Col beck took some most important observation*, without which it would have been impossible, even with the later observations, to have located tht present position of the South Magnetic Pole.

On March 5 the Southern Cross steamed southwards, and on the 6th was in latitude 74deg 32min. Land was discovered towards the west, and after proceeding westwards for about twenty mile*, the whole stsfi landed on an excellent camping ground. Next day the voyage was resumed, and Franklin Island was reached on the 9th.

On the 10th, at noon, the Southern Gross was in latitude 77dtg 17min South, and longitude 168deg East, Mount Erebus and Mount Terror being immediately to the south. Valuable photographs of these moan* tains were secured.

At the foot of Monnt Terror, where Mr Borchgrevink and four others landed, an exciting adventure occurred* Suddenly a roar was heard overhead, and the conviction dawned ou Mr Borcbgrevink that the glacier imme diately to the west of the little beach was giving birth to an iceberg. Quick as thought the event followed. With a deafening roar a huge body of ice plunged into the sea, and a white cloud of water-snow hid everything from light.

TRANSVAAL WAR.

Xo Troops to be Withdrawn.

Cbargcs of Kef lect,

United Frets Auooiatlon—By BlMtrle Telegraph—Copyright : London, Jan* 27

Victoria Crosses have been awarded to Major £ J Phipps-Homby, Sergeant Parker, Gunner. Lodge, and Driver Glaseock, of the " Q " Battery of Field Artillery, for their bravery in connec tion with the ambushing of the British convoy at Koornapruit, The recipients of the Crosses were elected by the survivors of the battery. An official notification has been pub lished at Capetown that no troops are to be withdrawn until the end of the war.

The Boers envoys have sailed for France, where a new Boer Committee has been formed, including nine ex* Ministers.

J. N. P. Botha, member for Aliwal North in the Gape Assembly, ha* been arrested on a charge of treason. Gerald's benefit at the Albambra Music Hall], in aid of the families of the killed and wounded members of the Australian Contingents, was * great success, and netted £500. There is indignation in Capetown at the condition of the military hospitals and the absence of comforts. ;

Mr Ash mead BartletC Bardett* Ooutts, member of the House of Cqm taana, in a letter to The Time*, supplies horrible detail* of the Buffering! of typhoid patients at Bloemfontein and elsewhere owing to the deficieooiet oi the field hospitals. The total deaths from disease were 3965, besides 12,000 sick invalided home. Sydney, June 28 The cost of the colony's contingent! to date is £210,000, including £45,000

T E/i AeBBtJKTON (30ABDIAN; FBIDaT fflm 29, 1900



"HEALTH" COCOA IS ABSOLUTELY PURE. FREE FROIfANf^IULTEBATIOH« YOUR DIGESTIVE OBGANS \ Rt quire pure food. Lour Liver demands consideration la the question of drink* Toar Nervous System requires a strfngchniing food drink, and you hare this in " HEALTHj^DOCOA IN POECH^.BING COCIiA It is important that yru should exercise your own judgment. If yon drlnV any thing that is offered yon, you do yonreolf a gross injustice. Cocoa should be absolutely pure to ensure Its full beneficial eflect. TRY< 4H!ALTH» COCOA And you will use It In preference to any other. Six subtantial Reasons why "HEALTH >J Cocoa phould be used in preference to any other. I*6.—Beoaas© " HEALTH " OOOOA. is abiolately pace, end pare food is essential tj perfect health, 2nd.—Because "HBALTH" COCOA Is most economical in ase, mon bo than other Coooas on the Market, half a teaspoonful nukes a Breakfast Cup of delicious Cocoa, other Cucois r. quire a teaspoon'ui. 3rd.—Because *' HEALTH " COCOA is lower in price than other Cocoes, a quarter pound tin costing 103 yields sufficient foe 30 cups of delicious Cocoa. 4th,—Because "HEALTH" COCOA agrees wirh the most delicate digestion, stimulates, and strengthens the nervous system, and is the most suitable food drink for Invalids, Children, and the robust. sth.— Because '• HEALTH " COCOA Is prepared from the finesb Cocoa ob ain*ble, and is free from drugs and other injurious mixtures. 6th.—Because "HKA-LTH" COOOA contains more nourishment) than Beef Tea, and Meat Extracts, and should be used by everyone who values health. Tr a Tin of "HExLTH" GO GO A and You will never regret //, AGENTS FOX ASHBUftTON— SHEARMAN BROS., GROCERS, IRONMONGERS, WINE A SPIRIT MERCHANT?, Makk&t House, Aehburton. NEW TAILORING DEPART MENT. ! A T the request of a largo number of my Customers I have added the TAILORING DEPARTMENT TO MY BUSINESS, and having secured a FIRST CLASS CUTTER, Gentlemen may rely on getting an excallent fit and style at moderate prices. GOOD SUITS FROM £3 3s. t|N JA* in■■T—niTTT"TT ANDREW ORE. -_, «., f Sole Partners and \ xhnc finvAi*d_lfl Wm. Strange { x Proprietors. } TI)0S" A TRIP TO TOWN Is not always PRACTICABLE. Consequently, MANY LADIES residing in Ashburton and District find it IMPOSSIBLE to visit the Establishment; of STRANGE & CO. as OFTEN as they could DESIRE. Their annoyance is natural enough. EXPERIENCE has taught them that the big City Establishments, SUCH AS OURS, offer them THE BEST VALUE FOR MONEY, and the WIDEST CHOICE OF GOODS. But sneh Ladies can always SHOP WITH US BY POST, as HUNDREDS already do, because they know we are LARGE BUYERS, LARGE IMPORTERS, LARGE MANUFACTURERS. It is also pretty generally known now that WE EUY EVERYTHING FOR READY MONEY, and that we have a LONDON HOUSE which keeps us supplied all the year round, not merely with plain, every-day goods, such as are in constant demand, but with The Latest London and Continental Novelties in Mantles, Costumes, Millinery, Corsets, Gloves, Dresses, Dress Goods, Under wear, Children's Goods, &c. Ajad Our Dressmaking Department cksely resembles a West-End of London Establishment. Our new Freaoh Dressmaker, MADAME BOUTBAUD, is acknowledged to be a TRUE ARTISTE. Her creations are the theme of GENERAL ADMIRATION; while our Miss Mazey (in charge of our second room) continues to give the utmost satisfaction to her numerous patrons. As Bespoke Tailors, > have acquired a HIGH REPUTATION. We make Stylishly-cut Suit plendid workmanship and material) from JE3 3s. Those who prefer Ready-made Clothing will find our famous " ORIENT" BRAND CLOTHING (in all sizes), the NEAREST APPROACH to MADE-TO-ORDER GOODS in the Market— •nd at about HALF THE PRICE. Furniture we Supply Direct from our Factory to the People at Factory Prices. We also have a BEDDING FACTOBY (for supply of pure, sweet bedding), a WIRE MATTRESS FACTORY, and a BLIND FACTORY (under the charge of those famous Blind-Esperts, Messrs. GEE). COUNTRY RESIDENTS, If you CAN'T come to town to see us, you can always I S > * Shop with us by Post. State your requirements PLAINLY in writing, ENCLOSE REMITTANCE, and your order shall be filled as PROMPTLY and SATISFACTORILY as though you had delivered it in person. POST FREE ON APPLICATION. Estimates for House-Furnishing, Blind-Making, Bedding, Wire Mattresses, &c, Patterns of our LOVELY NEW WINTER DRESS MATERIALS, and our NEW SEASON'S SUITINGS, TROUSERINGS, OVERCOAT INGS, &c. (together with full directions for self-measurement), Post-Fkbb oh application to STRANGE & CO., CHRISTCHURCH,



j PUBbIU NOTICES. , -■ ■ I I MONEY TO LEND. iT HAVE Trust Monies for Investment in X sums of £500 to £5000 on First j Mortgage at lowest out rent ratee. | DAVID Z\KDER, ! 6 119 Tat c-ed Streer, PUBLIC NOTICE. ("1 EO. WORN BR, Butcher, begs to X notify the Public of ABhburton and surrounding Districts that ho has com menced Business on the Premißßß lately occupied by O. Digby in East .Street. First ' Glass quality Mn.ib always on hand. Small goods kep^. Families waited on daily. The Prem;s?B will be opened on SATUR- DA V, June 30, 1900. 6 17 '& Co., | IMPORTERS OF* MUSICAL INSTRU MENTS, TIMABU, WELLINGTON, AND DPNBDIN, TNIENDING Purchasers of Pianos, Or gaos, or other Musica Instruments will do well to interview Mr W. H. Lon«, traveller for the, above-mentioned old - established firm before selecting. For terms apply at \ 6 157 jCENTRAL HOTEL. isws»n «q . i rf) . , * .3 Q- j " i « . b| S L< » '2 3 W 1 ' al # L 1 ... * *■■■( i Ei WE ASK— 1 Your inept ction of our BXCBLLFNT TWEEDS AND OVEECOATINGS. We havo now been in business 26 years, and still'retain many of our first customers, wh-nh a^one is proof o our HONEST WOEK. Mcdonald & Go, Tailcrs, Etc; Jubilee Buildlrg Burnett Street DATES, LOW JWD~1)0. FOR Gael Lamps, 15s Facfc- Shipment of lielfs and' Carbide Just to Hand. OATES, LOWRY AND CO-, Burna Streeb "" iott IsaleT HARD to beat for good value for ft! Suburban Homestead and Poultry I I Farm—3^ acres first claaa land, with five j i roimed H"U3e, detached wash house, dairy, j and bedroom combined; both buildings are on concrete foundations ; within two miles of Ashburton. Buyer can get £300 at low rate of interest, small balance will secure the property. 2j Acres Land and 7-roomed House, Netherby, off Wakanui Road; cheap, aud very eaßy terms New Dwelling House, Willi Street West, on £ aore. Good House and \ Acre Garden, Peter ' Street East. 15 Roomed House and 3| Acres Land near Canterbury Flour Mills. Several Good Town Sections, Weut Side Railway. Several Sections Fairton. ; H. W. Barrett, AGENT, iRCADE, ASHBURION. 6147 _ FOtTsALE. STERLING BICYCLE, in first-class run ning order; fitted with new Dunlop Road Racing Tyres and the latest Starling i Roller Chain, and an extra pair of Dunlop Path Racing Tyres, also Handle Bars. Thfl j prettiest machine in town, j Apply Mail Office ""the show~season ~ PRIZE "POULTRY. OWING to the number of new houses recently erected in the neighborhood of the Pelham Poultry Yards, rendering Boultry keeping there inconvenient, the Proprietor is prepared to sell cheap the whole stock, including Exhibition Birds, Prize Winners, Young Birds, Etc. For particulars apply the Gtjabdian PELHAM POOLTKYYAKDS I PETER STREET, ASHBURTON I de' Great Peppermint Cure for Coughs (aa oidi never aila—ls fid ?ud 2a 63