Mail Notices.

Ma;i? close for the followtog places as : under, subject to the necessary alterations :— WKDNSSDAT, AUG. 1. For Chatham Islands, per Toroa, at 6 30 pm THURSDAY, ACG..2 F>r Northern Ports and Westporfc, per Rclimahana, at 6.30 p.m. FRIDAY, AU(?UST 3 For Northern Ports, Westporc, Samoa, Hawaii, Philippines, also United States, OhiihcU, etc., United Kingdom, and Continent of Europe, via San Fran cisco, per Takspar.a, as follows :—For money orders at 2 30 p.m.; registered letters, at 5 p.m ; books »nd newspapers, at 6.30 p.m.; ordinary letters 6.30 p.m.; late fee letters, mail van, express train. Due London Sept sth. W. H. Reiner, Postmaster. I— — mill ■iwiiHimi i nmmmmmmmmm^

THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

Trains leave Ashburton daily for— UHRISTUBURCH—at 720 a.m., 11 a.m., 3.15 p.m., 7.5 p.m. (express) TIMARU-at 10 55 a.m., 3 50 p.m. DUNEDIN—at 12.54 p.ni (express) SPRINGBURN-at 4.25 p m. Trains arrive daily at Aihburton from— CHRISTOHUROH-ab 10.45 ».m., 12.47 p.m. {expme), 8 p.m. TIM&RU—at 10.55 a.m., 255 p.m. DUNEDIN—at 6.57 p.m. (express) SPRINGrBURN-at 9 45 a.m.

EPHEMERIS

Phases of Moon for Augu: t

BUN.

Commercial.

CHRISTCHURCH GRAIN AND PRO DUCE MARKETS.

Quotations art as follows: —

Wheat—Prime milling nominal, Tuscan 2s 5d to 2s 6d, Pearl and Hunter's 2s 41 to 2s 6d. Oats (nominal}— Milling Canadian la 8d to Is 3d, short feed Is Bd, Duas Is 7d to Is Bd, ! acd Danish It 7d | Barley (aomiaat}—Prime malting 2<to 2s 3d delivered. Flour (millers' quotations, nominal)- Roller £7, stone £6. Sharps—£4 Bran— £s 10s. Oatmeal—£lQ Beans—2« 3d te 2s 4d Peas—Hue Prussian and Partridge 2f to 2i 3d Potatoes—Derwents (July delivery) 21« to 22 * 6d ao country stations Oatsheaf Chuff—4ss to 50» at) near country station;. Hay—£s 5s to £3 10«, delivered ; Drimesb baled £4, fob Seeds—Ryegrsss, farmers' lines Is 9d to 3s, prime heavy, town dressed, 2s 61 to 3s 3d, Cocksfoot 2|d to '2§d for bright seed, to 3d for extra good, town machine dressed 161b to 171b seed, 3§ to 4d, Cow «rass 5d to 6<f, extra choice 6§d, white olover 6d to7£d Dairy Produce—Cheese, dairy, 4d to S3, factory 5d to 5Jd. Butter — Local factory, Is 2d, best dairy 8d to lOd, salt (in boxes) 8d to 9d. Bacon and hams, 6Jd to 6d, factory £ per 2b higher j

TEMUKA STOCK MARKET

There was a representative entry at Temuka yesterday, a good attendance and keen competition. Prices realised were as follows :—Sheep—Fat ewes 13s 3d, three f uarterbred hoggets 12s 8d to 13a Bi, half bred ewetfia lamb 15i, three qu&rterbred do. 15s lOd, to 16s 3d, store hoggets 9a 6d to 10s 9d. Pigs—Baooners 38n to 40«, strong ■tores 15s to 17s, medium 103 to 13a, porkers 20a to 25s weaners 5s to 6s 61 Cattle- Three year-old Steers £4 to £4 15u, two y«ar-old steers £3 to £3 10a, yearlings 20s t027;6d. 8

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1, 1900. The Plague Scare.

A remarkable feature of the plague visitation to these colonies is the uncertainty that has always attended the actual date of its first appearance. In all the other colonies, as well as our Qtfii, there have been frequent announcements that this d readed scourge had appeared, and sotne few weeks ago there was a fresh scare nearly every day. Melbourne has been more than once startled by the assurance that a ease had occurred ; Tasmania \vas alsq treated to a similar experience; and Adelaide baa had several scares, although it is not yet clear whether

the South Australian capital has been , invaded or not. Our turn began when we were confidently assured by official experts that a case of plague had ' occurred in Auckland. We a!! know that up to the present time there is a remarkable difference of opinion as to , whether the case referred to was one I of bubonic plegue or o$ something quite different. Mr Gilruth asserts j that ifc was plague, while many medical experts just as confidently declare that it, was not. Doctors proverbi*liy differ ; but one would suppose that the chamc'eristioa of such a vrry pro nounced ravlady would be sufficiently distinct to remove any possibility of doubt. That thia does not, app. ar to be the case, however, is a very uncom fortable phaae of this pinguo business, and it saems to us that if the position with regard to diagnosing thia terrible disease is still ao uncertain, the matter demands the serious and immediate attention of all Governments. We enaertain the highest respect for the faculty, but, really, after the disagree ment concerning the Auckland case the lay mind may be excaied for becoming a trifle sceptical as fco the | value of medical opinion generally or, at any rate, aa to the reliability of medical diagnosis of diseases not of common occurrence. We know that it is neally two months since the death in Auckland was attributed to bubonic plague, yet not only baa there been no fresh ease, but the scientists art still disputing about that one. Thia ia a very unsatisfactory state of affairs. For all we actually know to the con trary, the plague may be lurking about not only in Auckland, but it other centres in this colony. Mr Gil ruth still insists upon the correctness of his opinion that the death in Auck land resulted from true bubonic plague, and we do know that it has often, even in its eastern home, rested for a time after striking down a victim or two. It m&y be, as we are all willing to hope, that the plague has net actually obtained a footing on these islands; but no precautions I should be relaxed, and our Government should be extremely careful in the matter of abating the restrictions placed upon our inter course with th« other colonies. Of course we all recognise the desirability of avoiding unnecessary interference with colonial intercourse, but it should be a matter of paramount importance to protect the people of this colony against the plague. We hope, there fore, that the Cabinet will fully realise its responsibilities in thil connection. There is too much reason to fear that plague stricken rats are in our midsjb, and thess rodents may be a very real source of danger, although medical opinion differs on that point also. Still on the principle that prevention is better than care, we shall be wise if we give rats as widt a berth as possible, and while theii destruction should be vigorously encouraged, handling them should be carefully avoided.

Local and General.

*** Interesting reading matter will be found on the firib aod fourth pages of thii iiiue, i The Staff of Life—Th« price of bread in Dunedin, has been increaied to 4^d net cash fot the 41b loaf on and after to-day. Vita^ Statistics . —Tha following are 1 the vital statistics for the month ending l July 3lsb, 1900 :—Births 21, marriages 11. deaths 6- Thb Ootwabd Mails—The Alamada, with the colonial mails for July 9, arrived at San iFranoisoo at 5 p.m, on July 25, one day early. Trains to Mbthvkn.—-The Minister of Railways has agreed to run a special train from Bakaia to Methveo, leaving Rnkaia at> 10.10 ft.mi on sale days, and returning from Methven at 5.35 p.m., leaving Rakaia again for Methven at 7 5 p.m. The Coal Tbadh—The Premier's state ment that the scarcity of coal in the centres is due to the limited numder of coal-carrying vessels will (says the Wei port Nnvs) be taken with a pinch of salt by those who continually see veiielt waiting in the river for supplies of coal. Lands Fox Ssttlsment—The Napier! Telegraph states that a petition is now in course of signature asking the Government to take over th« Omaranui and Puketapu estates with the object of cutting them up for close settlement). j

Dyeing and Death—Persons io the habit of using hair dyes should take warning from a, cane which was occupying the attention of the Paris police last month, A large num ber of elderly persons, who, attracted by alluring advertisements, sought to make themselves look younger by the aid of certain colouring preparations, are now Buffering from eczema and other skin diseases. The police seized an enormous quantity of fchsee alleged youth restorers, which the analysts declare to be more appropriately termed death hastt era.

America And Britain ;—A Chicago telegram, dated June 4, says .—"An im portant organisation of former British subject?, now naturalised American citfcans, has just been formed hsre. The members pledge themselves to vote only for candidates of the political party which shows friendliness to England, In Illinois alone there are 50.000 voters knitted to England by the closest ties, while the British voting element throughout the United States will, if combined, constitute a powerful factor in American politics. The organisation will support the Republican party at the coming election if the pro-Bosr resolution is omitted from the platform.

Ashxurtoh Rifles—The Athbarton Rifles completed their term of musketry instruc tion, in accordance with regulations, last evening, when a fair number were present under Captain Bolman. Lieutenants Hayes and Clarke were also in attendance* At the conclusion of the parade, Captain Dulman made feeling referenco to the death of Private W. Palmer, of the Guards, and intimated that Oaptain Sparrow had applied foe a military funeral to be accorded to their late comrade. The relatives of the deceased having acquiesced, the request was granted, and he hoped a large number of members from both companies would attend. Captain Dolman remarked that although the Rifles had now almost completed their majority, not a single death had ooeurred among their members during that period, for which they were all thankful. They had accorded a military funeral some yean ago to a gentle man connected with the corps, but not actually a member.

"No Good, I'm Djead—The Ashburton Guards recently held a smoke concert as a finale to the football match between the local oompanles, The Aehburkoa Rifles also intend celebrating their coming of age this month, and neither functions oould bo celebrated without the necessary equipment for the inner man. With this in view, om of the companies, we forget which, provided a small keg of plum wine for one of the functions, and a portion remaining ov«n after the smoke concert, it was stowerl away, strictly in accordance with ths advice of out grandfathers, in a 000 l and dark plaoa that; it might improve with age. Xhe olthtr ay suing a member of the Guards was reconnoitring in the dark room, and v«n tured to move the keg, but to his dismay, the keg bad grown lighter with »g*. Upon examination it wai discovered that the contents had " leaked out," and the dead marine bore the inscription *' No good, I'm dead."

The 'Fbi-co Mail.—The 'Frisco mail is etpeefed to reach Ashburton by the first train from CbrHtchuroh bo-morrow " Ochselvbs as Other Sbk Us."— Oar friends are generally too polite to tei! us our fiul s ; but they seldom fail to observe tha fi; and style of our clothes. Young men who want; to make good impressions, must bear in mind that; " appearance goes a long way.' An ill-fitting suit is uncomfortibie, ami an "eye-sore " •<> your friends. Don't risk it ! If you area stranger here, the first I well dressed citizen you meet will gladly | direct yon to " The Leading Tailors whem | you will always find a large assortment of ■ ' Up to data" suitings to select from, and where you can always depend on getting a ktifcfaotion. The largo and atiil increasing business done by Messks Craighead and Berkyman speaks volume:-. This firm has just irnpoited probably the finest stock of new seasons tailoring goods ever Bimwn iv Aahburton, including a beautiful range the new rain proof Beavers and Me!tens for Covert coats and Chesterfield overcoats, bo'.h aihion&ble and durable. •!

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

United Press Association—-By Eleobric Telegraph—Copyright. St. Petersburg, July 31 Alexeff, on the 30tb, inforjued St Petersburg that the latest news from Pekin confirms the safety of the Ministers. Washington, July 31 According to a messenger of the American missionaries sent from Pekin, the Legations were unmolested between the 15th and the 18th. The Dowager ordered the bombardment to stop. Hosa Koncj July 31 The Japanese commander of tho guards at Pekin reported on the 22nd that the bombardment ceased on the 18th. The British Consul at Tientsin on the 25th reports that according to a messenger who wai unable to reach the Legation, a strong body of troops, mostly commanded by Hwang-su, sur rounded the Legation on the 19 th. The Japanese Legation on the 22nd sent a report that t»» battalions of Chinese shelled the Legations con tinuously from June 15th, but stopped on July 17th. They possibly would renew the attack, but were, however, decreasing. The British, German, Russian, and American, half thb Japanese and half the French Legations were on the defensive- The Japanese hare food for a week longer, but little ammunition. Mr Fowler, Consul at Ghefoo, reports that the Austrian, Italian, Dutch, and Spanish Legations were destroyed, and the French partially destroyed. Hear-Admiral [Bruce telegraphs the following message from Sir OUude Macdonald, dated Pekin 21st.—" Chi nese troops from June 20tu to July 16th repeatedly attacked the Legation from all sides with rifles and artillery. Since the 16th there has been an armis tice. A strict cordon is maintained by both sides. Th«J position of the Chinese barricade is near ours. All the women and children are in the Legation. The casualties ure sixty two, those killed including Captain Strouts. There are a number in the hospital, including Captain Halliday, The Legation are all well except David, Oliphant, and Warren, killed. Eighteen Europeans and all the Christian Chinese converts at Tung chou have been massacred. The China Inland Mission confirms the news of the massacre at Pao-ting fu. The victims include Mr Bagnall, Mrs Bagaall, Mr Cooper, and several Americans. The message adds that the station at Haio i has been destroyed, and Miss Starell and Miss Whiteohurch killed. London, July 28 The Secretary of the German Lega tion reports, that the members were all right on July 21. The attack had ceased on the 16th, but the speediest relief was necessary. London, July SO It transpires that the German Em peror's "no quarter " speech wan not intended for pviblication, The Em peror's utterances hay* caused an immense sensation, although German- Austrian newspapers are endeavouring to qualify them: Lord Salisbury has suggested to j Germany that J apantse troops should be employed in quelling the'disturbances in China, Germany's reply is described as More frigid than that of Russia The British newspapers contrast the reply with the Emperor's vengeance speeches.

Correspondence.

(W» do not held oarieivas responsible for •pinions sxpmsed bjr oar conespoadantg

THE DOMESTIC QUESTION.

TO THE EDITOR.

Sir,—Would you allow ma a little ijpaoe to reply to your leader on Domestic Workers in lasb Monday's paper, I thought yon mined the chief defect in the whole system, the complete loss of social equality by any person engaged in domestic servitude. In a country such as this, owniog no aristocracy of either birth or learning, and only bowing to the gold god, euoh a 100UI loss is naturally bitterly resented, branding them as poor, therefore inferior. Yon mutb know that any lady who had the moral courago to treat her maids as her social equals, And introduce them to her guests, would be banned. In some oases the maids are educationally unfitted, bub in many oasea are quite as well mentally equipped as libs mistress. It is not so many years ago siao« nurses stood ou an even lower plans than domestic workers do at present. The need for a regular system of training, regular hours, and all the great changes of a modern I hospital has banished all thoughts ef social infamy attached to that great army of domestic workers, Why nob apply the same mode to another corps of the army of industry ? I have mixed freely amongst both suctions of workers, and of the two I think the nurses have a predominance of " feather brain*," la Wellington, the see-1 rotary of the Socialists' League made a determined effort to organise the servant labour, A Union was started with the objoot of getting the half-holiday made ontnpuliory, as with other workers. Mr J Hutohinson and other socialist members did their best to make the movementa success, amongst whom, be it spoken to his credit, was the Hon Hall-Jones, bub that great Liberal, Seddon, effectively smothered thus movement in its birth throes—a manner ho hut, siot> suftiolently well known outside Wellington city. The matter dropped after nearly twelve month* Agitation, and things ttr# jolting along in bhe same old rnttky' (rack, Of course the workers should orgauise titul agitate ; bub did any body of poor work*™ ever raise themselves by their own molded efforts ? Till there are properly equipped sohoola of training, I very muoh dujlrt whether things will do aught but go from fowl to worse. A» to your suggestion to iiuporfc labour, from those slum-saved ohiliUtn of Barnado'e, who in auoh a little tiiito leave behind them all taints of heredi tary, ami become suoh paragon* of all the virtual, I mn point you out a muoh cheaper i way, Whtn we bay* M P»Mw* " Chini, i

there will be a few millions more or less over and ab ive the needs of the country. They can be procured cheap. They have all the virtues of the white " slavey " and none of her faults ; cnly one or two of their owb. They would be happy to fill the gap you co bitterly deplore. Hoping you may see your way to accept this suggestion.—l am, etc., A WOHKEH.

Transvaal War.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio 'ZY.I graph Weuinoton, July 31

A private litter ?la'es thit 43 p*r cent, of the First Contingent at the date of writing, are laid U{» wiih wounds md disease. M<-j >r Jnweey has joined the artillery Btaff in cons-quenco or a disagreemeot with Colonel Kobin. The writer highly com* mends the Australian army medical corps, which under Colonel Wilinms ha«, he eaye, done the work of the canr.p»ign.

PARLIAMENT.

"{Justed PreMflAasooiabiot— By Electric Telegraph

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

Wellington, July 31 Tht Council met at 2-30 p.m. BILLS The Imptironment for Debt Limitation Bill, Public Contracts Bill, and Native In terpreters Classification Bill were read a first) time TUB ASSASSINATION OF KINO HUMBERT On the motion of the Hog W C Wallter, seconded by the Hon Sir J Whitmore, it was agreed to express sympathy with Italy is the a eassioation of King Humbert, and that the Council ehould adjourn a* & mark of respect The Hoa W C Walker and the Hon W D H Baillie aiio referred to the death of Colonel Russell, formerly a member of the Council The Council rose at 2.40 p.m.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Wellington, July 3 The House met> ab 2.30 BILLS The Egmonb National Pack Bill was introduoed and read a first time On the motion o! the Premier, » Select Committee wm sob up, to whom was referred the Municipal Corporations Bill NEW MBMBEE Mr Mackenzie, the new member for Wai hemo, took the oath and his ieafc PBBSS ASSOCIATION Mr Gilfedder gave notice to introduce the Press Association Bill. The Bill proposes to reduce the entrance faa charged by tho Association^ THE LATE COLONEL RUSSHLL The Premier submitted a motion to the effect that the House should place on record its regret at the death of Lieutenant-Colonel A H Russell, formeriy a membar of the Legislative Council, and Minister of Native Aff*ire, and tender to Captain Buaaell aiad j family its sorrow at the death. The Premier said that Colonel Russell had been a link in the history of tho colony, and, although he was personally unknown to him, he thought that his past services should be recognised. He was certain thab every member of the House sympathssed with his son, Captain Russell, and family, in their sad bereave* meat, Mr Massey seconded tbe motion, which was carried. T«K ASSASSINATION OF THE KING OF ITALY. The Premier moved that the House should convey through the Governor an expression of regret and horror ab the assassination of King Humbert of Italy, with a request that the motion should be oonveyed to tbe lata King's wife and family. In moving the motion, Mr Seddou said that he was certain that every member felt shocked at the news of the assassination of the King who was in the prime of lie, and was a man of peace. He deplored that men should by such means seek redress for real or fancied wrongs, and he thought it but right that the House should show sympathy with the Italian uaMon in its loss, a nation thab had alwajs been friendly to Britain. The motion was seconded by Mr M&tsey. Mr Fisher, Italian Consul, also spoke. The motion was carried. On the motion of the Premier, the House adjourned till 7.30 out of respect to the memory of the deceased. The House resumed at 7,30 pm, MINISTERIAL SALARIES A Bill amending the law relating to Ministers' salaries waß introduced by Governor*, message and read a first time. It provides for the Premier receiving £1600, the Minister of Railways £1300, and each of the other Ministers £1000 per annum BILLS The Municipal Corporations Bill and Trading Stamp) and Coupons Abolition Bill were read a second time pro forma, Bills providing for the appointments of an additional Judge of the Supreme Court and for providing for facilities for investing trust and other funds in the United King dom in New Zealand Government securities wore introduoed and read a first time The Noxious Weeds Bill was read a third tima and passed GOVEBNICENT VALUATION Or LAND} The Government Valuation of Land Act Amendment Bill was committed Clause 2—Defiiniton of capital value In reply to Mr Hardy, the Hon J G Ward said thab if a property were sold at a fancy price, the purchaser wonld not be rated on thab price, buk the Department would •zeroise its judgment and rate on the fair value Mr R Thompson moved an amendment that valuation should be bated upon the cash value. j Lost by 40 to 23. On the definition of improvements, Mr Pirani moved to omit the words " by the owner or occupier of tho land," bo aa to provide thab any improvement, no matter by whom carried ont, Bhould be brought under the definition. Lost by 37 to 25. Mr Napier urged that the definition of improvements in the Act of 1891 should be retained ao far as exempting improvements is concerned, ' The Hon J G Ward asserted that the j clause did exempt improvements. Mr Herries moved to strike out the words "bub shall nob include work done on or for the benefit of land by the Crown or by any statutory public body." Lost) by 32 to 17. Mr Massey moved to exclude from the definition of land, all timber or fl«t growing or standing thereon; Wellington, Angus c 1 After the telegraph office closed, tbe consideration of the Government Valuation of Land Act Amendment Bill was continued in Committee Mr Maasey'B motion to exclude timber or lax growing or standing upon land from the definition of land was loab by 27 to 14 Mr Ward moved to exempt metals, minerals, and precious stones contained la the land Agreed to on the voices The clause was amended, excluding an area of 25 acres of native bush or trees that have been planted At 530 Mr J Allen moved ho report pro gress, which was lost by 31 to 11, and the Bill was reported with amendments GOVERNOR'S SALARY AND ALLOWANCES BILL The Governor's Salary and Allowances Bill was committed, and progress being immediately afterwards reported, the House rose at 4 10 a m

Football.

The following will represent the Winoh more Football Club in the match with the Pir*tes second fifteen, to • morrow :—W Robertson, T Lemon, J Bland, J Rooney, 0 Smithell, N Ryan, J Patterson, B Baker, 6 Bland, W Green, A Robertson, H Hspburn, E Roooey, R and J Johnstoae,

A team of footballers from Wairarapa proceeded south per express to-day, to piny in a match with the I'emuka Club, whioh takes plane to-morrow.

CABLE NEWS.

Un-.ted Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright London, July 80 The Marquis of "Bute has presented £20,000 tobt, Andrew's University to found a chair of anatomy.

SERVANTS.

An American lady writing in the Daily News Weekly thus dtscribea the Britbh ser vant.

" When an English maid engages to do chamber work she has that fact nominated in the bond, and, though the skies fail and the social structure on which her miitreai fctands reels, the won't take the baby onto for an airing, or hand di; hee at the table, or stop in one moment after the clock has struck the hour when her stated recast from work begin*. There was once an American j woman in London who had a butler to whom ■ she gave directions to serve afternoon tea ab five o'clock. At that hour the tea came with faultless regularity, bat one day, pre ferring to linger late on her afternoon walk, •be on returning at half after five rang the bell and ordered up the tea ttaj. Xh« but ler with stolid British courtesy, replied : " Yes, madam, thank you, madam, bat tea has been served.' ' Whyl what do yon mean, Vinoe. I was cot here, I've not had any tea.' ''No, madam, you were not here, but five o'clock is the tea hour you appointed, and I served the fe»a then. Yon were mot here, to I took away the tray. I was qnite in time, and if you please I oannot pretend to man age in a house where meals are so irregular. I have my work to do.' " Vmce was dismissed, but his successor stuck to the same guie just as manfully, and she learned in time to get home to tta when it was ready or go without. She learned also that her husband's valet would die in his tracks rather than run her errands; that once in every month her housemaid exacted an entire day off; that the butler wiuld uo more bring up coal to put on her bedroom grate than her husband's head olerk would sweep out the office. When she learned ail these things she discovered by calculation that it took twice as many servants to keep her house in London as had been required in New Yotk, and that etch domestic did just half the work of aa American servant, but was in consequence twice as prompt, regular, cheerful and faithful, and just about ten times more healthy.

THE LATEST

THfi TRANSVAAL WAR.

The Surrender ;of Boers.

Details.

UnitedJPrsis Association—By Electric

Telegraph—Copyright.

(Received Wakapuaka August 1, 9.35 am, This Office 10-35 am)

London, Jaly 31

Lord Roberts reports: General Macdonald on the 26th fought * rear guard action at Bethlehem Rills from morning to night aad blocked Nauwpoort Nek to waggon traffic; The enemy, occupying two L ucks, had twice checked the advance,and General Hunter,with tbe Scots Guards, Royal Irish, Wiltshire*, and Leingters, took one nek ; the casualties were nominal. The Scots Guards took the second nek uooppoged. General Prinsloo, the Boer commander, applied for four days armistice to negotiate. General Hunter replied that he would only accept his i unconditional surrender, otherwise hostilities would continue. Later General Prinsloo offered that his men should surrender with their arms, bat should retain their horses and saddles and other property, and that they should then be allowed to return to their homes. This offer was com municated to me, aad I insisted upon tbe dtlivery of everything. The total surrender of Priasloo followed.

United Pr@Bi Association—By Electric Telegraph Wellington, August 1 The Premier and Mayor west aboard the ■ Karatnea early, and welcomed the thirteen returned invalid*. The former regretted the ill luck which had brought them hack, and said it would be the duty of Governmrab to do tkl! they could for their comfort, and to Baa they were well treated and provided for. —The Mayor briefly welcomed the men on bshaJl nf the ciMzana.^Parcona of Kaikoura had & bad attack of enteric on the voyage, but i- now convalescent, and able to leave for thi Sonth by the Rotomahana to-day. Among the passengers by the Karamea, is Mr Campbell, correspondent of the Lyttdtm Titus*

Westralia and Federation.

United Press Association—By Eltetrio Telegraph—Copyright

(Received Wakapnaka August 1, 93S am, QDkis Office 1017 a in)

Perth, August 1

Great excitement and interest pre vailed throughout the colony yesterday over the Federal referendum. The streets of the city and mining towns were thronged, aad though tbe returns are not complete, there are sufficient to place the issue beyond doubt— w Yes," 87,262,- "No," 15,762.

Home and Foreign.

United Press Association—By Elaotrlo Telegraph—Copyright London, July 31 Mr Beeves has protested to the authorities in Washington against the delay in the Ban Francisco mails

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

Tine Threat of Reparation

The Japanese Forces

United Press Association—By Electric

Telegraph—Copyright

(Received Wakapuaka August 1, 9.35 «.tn, This Office 10 17 a.m) London, July 31 The Powers have again warned China that heavy reparation will be enacted by them for for any massacre, hence it it believed thai; the wisdom of taking protective measures for the embassies has been recognised by China. The Japanese forces, when they number 20,000, will march on Pekin. Received Wakapuaka, August 1, 10 5 a.m This Office 12 3 a.m Hong Kong 31 An Imperial edict assprts that th« Legations were cafe on the 24th, Government is supplying t he occupants with provisions, London, J u ] y 31 In the House of Commons Mr Broderick stated that Qreat Britain had assented to the Russians guarantee ing the Tientsin - Taku railways, 'stipulating that ife must revert to the former mirugement at the dose of hosti iti'Fj Authority h*s been given to borrow £18,000,000 for operations in China. hit M. Hiok*-Beach wat qheereci oa

•THE ASHBURTON £OA&t>lAtf: WEDNESDAY, ATTGrUST 1, 1900



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JBKrth—tO^M»«m—■— mi ■ ■ ■■■" ■ I- ml i~ r._, Berger's Mieep Markirg J Composition In Three Colors—Black, Red, B'ae ITPHR finesk and nvistrcmomioal Sheep i Bianrftrg Oil in the market. Resd the opinion* of Leaoii g Shetp Farmers in Ota«o :— WE INTP-BD T7PIN6 IT AGAIN jftrora SJ Z, Agricultural Do,, Waimea House, Gore, M*y 22, 1897 DsarHjrs.—We have found Bergtrs Marking oil ?o be a good and durable heeu bran^inp material and intend uaing It again, a." hcv« ohaapel- th»mhe prepara tion formerly a»«i Utr the purpns P. J Patbbson, Stat. Mgr. tfNDOUBTEOLY M^RB KCONOMICAIi THAN OIL AND LAMPBLACK From J M McKenzie, Ba°hy Parli Bitfate, Falroerston May 19 189? Bear Sirs,-—I hairs great pleasure in Slating that Bernbe's Sheep Branding Compound that I received from you has given me every satisfaction, and is undoubted'? more economical than ©il and lampblack. I MAKE A POINT OF KEOOMMEVMN© IT From Kahert Logan, Maricang**, Hyde t M*y 10. 1897 JDear Sirs have aaed Beegeks Branding O! or some years, and have . ound it so 'i factory that I make a point of recommend ng if. The liquid In the droin<3 is lie same consistency right Irotn top bottom, and requires no ■fcliria?. ONLY TO TE U.SED TO BK APPRECIATED om Jamofl Taylor, Wairona, Clinton 15, 1897 mr Sire,—l used Beboer's Branding black and rid> last sessm on my lock, ana I am perfectly satisfied with the results- To sheep farmers the preparation invaluable, being always ready and Highly economical. It has only to he used to he appreciated. GIVEN KVBEY SATISFACTION FOR SEVEKAL YEAES From Mr X-hu Klliobt, Gladbrook Station, Ditiddleirarch. May 18, 1897 My Dear Slfb,—ln reply to yonr inquiry regarding BEKGEit'S Shepp Marking Com pound We have used this Compound on all oar ft >cks for several yeaw ard it has given every satisfaction. It is o even quality and ia ready f<>r use. I find it lasts well, bein<> quite legible on ful woolled skins It is much more economl cal than brand made with i he old materials (lampblack and oil), as owing to its even quality, there is no waste. Always ready for use Guaranteed not to injure thaw 01. * Will wash off on icourtng without leaving a stain. Sold by F. FUKKIMAN, Ashburton, N.Z. F- FERRIMAN. TO JLET, OFFICES IN HAVELOOK STREET. rtl WO Rooms with shed, lately eccnp'ed JL by Mr Jolliffe, Havelock Street, opposite Mr John Thomas' Grain Store. F FKRRI3MAN " toHlet; TANORED STREET, ASHBURTOJS A SHOP with two full windows, together wi;h an a'tachen dwelling oi 5 rooms, copp'-r. etc. The shop is situated ntxt to Mr Hall, Herbalist F FERBIMAN "" T 0 hK T, CARTERS TBBRAOB, TINWALD f| H.*T'very desirable Property, at j present occupied by Mr A Hewson, consisting of 4 acres of land with 9 roomed house, detached washhouse and dairy, good stabling, traphcuie etc F FERRIMAN " In Peter Street, A COMFORTABLE HOME, consisting xL tf 7 rooms, wih ba f h and abundant supp'y of water, detach d withhoaae, J «ere of good land, planted with fruit trees, witbtti three nv'nutes' walk of the railway station. Tho greater portion of the purchsso monf y can remain on mortgage. F. FERRIMAN, Estate Agent, Ashburton. *~~™~l\Ju tSALiII" ~^ 5 Town Sections, a capita! site for building, within 4 minutes 8 walk of Post Offica F. FERRIMAN. ' WAKaNUi RO&AE. FOE BALK. HOUSE of 6 ror-ms, acre of land. Price £150, £30 depoeib. F. FERRIMAN. FOX SALb), ~ Alford Forcat Road, HOUSK of 6 rooms and l£ acres of lancl, x e.dj .ins Mr GeorgeJHofikeii'a property; easy terma. _ F.FERRIMAM "FOR SA.LK Al ALLEN lON, A First class Block of Land, containing 6J acres, well watered, long frontage on a good road. The greater portion of the purchase can remain at 5 pe* cent. Adapted for subdivision. At.yone with a little capital, and h ilf an eye to the Suture, will inspect and secure this block, F. FERPIMAN^ """ fun tsALb," A Four Roomed House and £ acre of land in the suburbs. Prtoe £lbOl F. FERKIMAN ' FOR SALK, Burnett Street, Adjoining Dr Hunter's Rtßidence, OVER | acre land, with House of 7 Rjoroa, easy terms. f. ferriman. ""f^orTsale, tancred street, The Residential Street of the Town, A Comfortable Dwelling of 8 rooms ; the sfcction ie well fenced, and of good ality-___j^J^Rl E MA^ "* "~FAKM. FOR SALE. Q A Acre?, within 2 miles of Ashburton, O4: This Bhould prove a sound invest' ment for capital. Price, £1174. This property will let en a long lease to a good t6nant F. FERRIMAN. LARGE IMPORTATION OF WALL PAPHiBS. I HAVE ]vet received (ex e.s. Pap&rca) a Shipment of the NEWEST IN PAPER HANGING, to which I invke inspection. (These papers are exceedingly rich in desigt, and colouring. People desirous of decorating their rooms later od, may chose their Hangings from the prtsopfc full Stock, and 1 will lay them aside until required. J. WILSON, HOUSE DEOORATOB, BURNETT STBEET. Artiste' Materiftl Depot,



IN FULL S W IJN G.! i ST()CKTAKING SALE! AT 4 THE CORNER." (COMMENCING OVii LAbT )4 DAYS) ANOTHER BATCH OF REAL JOB LINES. j -.(Must be Sold) 6 On!y?Men's Tweed Overcoats, 7a 6d, worth 21s 7 i niy Aaeorud Men's Tweed Sac Coati, 9s to J2i, worth 2U 3 Only Tiousers and Vests, 12s 6d, worth 22t 6d 0 Cardigan Jaskata 4s 9&, were 8a 6d 13 Assorted Boy'a Tweed Kuicker Suitu, 6t lid »ad 7i 6d, (matt b« Mta to be valued, worth 12s ) L*rge Turkey Hundkerchiefs, 3 for li Silk Striped Muffiare Is6d, uniully 2a 6d 9 Pairi Women's Lace Kid Boots, usually 12t 6d, now 6b lid 16 Dczen Derby Scarfs, 4 for a 1b (worth treble the anney) J6 Only Men'« Fl»nnal Undere 2» lid, uia»Uy 3a lid (» r««l bargkic) 48 Pairs Women's Leather Slippers 3i 3d (8«W«), wort 4l §d, (bwt Tftlu* io Aahburton without doubt) 125 Fairs Ladies' Kid Fur Topped Glovei, 2a lid, (daring »!• only) 24 Pairs Mca'o L»mb Wool Pants, 4i6d (woith 6«6d) 300 Boy'a Tweed Caps 6 for la (look »fc these) 46 Hearth Rugs 6* 6d, worth 9s 6d (hard to he •qunllcd) 3 only ia'ge Kidder Carpet Squares, 29a 6d (worth 49l 6d) 40 Doz^u White Turkey Towels, 6d,9d, la 60 Dczen Brown Turkey Towels, 6d, 9d, Is 25a Yard* Bordered Apron Cloths, si<l, worth 91 10 P^irs Fay Bloaae Flsnnellettei, 3^d, 4^d, 6d A isrge lot of Plain Colors t>t 8»1e value 22 Dark Tapestry QaiUa, 5c 6d 75 White Blackets, 3b 9d «»ch 80 Gray Blankets, 5a 3d «»ch 1050 Yfcrda Oretouaei (all designs) 4^d, S^d, 6£d 49 P&irs Lace Curtains 3s 3d, worth Ss 6d 35 Holland Aprons, Is, Is 6d, Is 9J 16 Child's Tuuios, 3s lid, worth 6s fid Special Seductions during the last 2 Weeks on the Balance of our L»dias' Trimmed Hats, Ladies' Cap«s, and Ladies' Jackets. 14 Children's Mackintoshes, 3s 6i to 61 lid, mnst be olearnd 1879 Yards Wide Faooy Ribbons, for neck wear, 4d, 4|d, s|<*» 6d; worth up to 3s per yard j 115 Y*rds Fry Dress Tweeds, 7|d ; wer« Is 3d 66 Yards Silk Striped Orepon 1b 6d a yard (was 2s lid) Ladies' Belts 3d, 5 1, 9d (worth treble) 60 P<iirs Corsets, assorted from Is lid to 4s 6d, all of'd siz^l aid makes— originally 2a 9d lo 9s 6d 12 Piecea Colored Velveteen Is s^oj, all shades 2 Pieces only Black Velveteen, 11| J 37 Yards Evening Tinsel Dress Stuff li 3d (was 2s 3d) Perambulator Quilts, new and worth inspecting. Cot Quiltu, n«w and worth inspecting. Fail size Bedstead Quilts new and worth inspeoting, SPEND IOUE CASH_AT THIS SALE JNORTHCOTE W& HEFFORL) "THEOORNER."



»NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. Boy's Tweed Sailor Suits from 6» Boy's Serga Sailor Suits from 7s 6d Boy's Tweed Melville Suits from 9s Boy's Tweed Norfolk Suite from 12s Bey's Sac Knicker Suits from 18s td Boy's Covert Coats from 14s 6d Boy's Tweed Overcoat* from 6a 6d Boy's Reefer Jackets from 6s 6d Boy's Football Jerseya from 3s 3d Boy's Caps 6d each Boy's Sailor Tarns la bach FOR GOOD VALUE, GOOD WEAR, LOW PRICE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FAOTORY. W. SXJEfcANOK] Solb Partners: amd [X, GOV£iEII>AXiIC Pbofbietobb. THOUSANDS Will be Interested to Know that Our Mobster Stock-taking: Bale IS r=N 0 W ON= | AT CHRISTCHURCH. j A T this GREAT SALE it It oar Custom, evory y«« to SACRIFICE the ENTIRE BALANCE OP OUB WINTER STOCKS EVERYTHING HAS TO GO J— Became, you see, room baa to be made—somehow— for SPRING AND SUMMER SHIPMENTS ALREADY BEGINNING TO ARRIVE, I Id order to effect ac complete a clearance as possible, we shall make SWIEPING REDUCTIONS j in ETERY DEPARTMENT. Even plain Household Goods, such hi Oaiiooa and Cottom ! genarally (made and unmade) will be reduced ; also the price of Suits and Single Garment!, both to order and ready-made. Furniture, Bedding, and everything ws make and ael] t GOODS OF FASHION. Ihe came remark applies to «' GOODS OF FASHION," euoh »i our Exquisite London and Parisian MODEL MILLINERY, our StylUh Winter Drcaaes and Dreas Goods for Svenicg Wear, aad our lovely Winter Jackets, Mantles, Capes and Maointoihes, »U of which Muet be Sold for what; thay will Bring, a» we never carry ovarauch gooda from aeaßon to Haason* Cuite possibly you may exclaim, oa reading the aboye, i «OH, I AM SO SORJOLY!" I But I live so far away from Christahuroh I can'b get there to attend the Sale." That doesn't matter in the least, since you can do as HUNDREDS already do, SHOP WITH US BY POST if you can't shop with us in person ' GET A CATALOGUE. The first thing to be done is to get & Sale Catalogue (they have been well circulated already, but if you haven't got one we will send you one Posh Free on application ) Having got your Catalogue read it carefully through (you will find it really interesting), j make yonr selections, write down yonr requirements as plainly aa possible, enclose Stamp*, P. 0.0. or Postal Notes to value of Goods, and—drop yonr letter in the Port Box, and WE WILL DO THE REST 1 By return Train, Boat or Co»cb, ac the cisc may bo, your Parcel aha]) be forwarded— aad we will take as much ears to pleaae you as though you walked nn to one of our counters and mads your purchase persoD&lly. If we are Sold Out of the precise tins you want ws will aond the Nearest Thing to it, and if you are not i&titfied then, we will return you your money ! DON'T MISS THK CHANCE this Sale presents to you to sc cure ftXTBAORDINAHY B4UGAINS, THE SALE WILL SOON BE OVER, A 8 IT POSITIVELY ENDS ON Aufjunt 31, 1900 STBANGE~X~COMP AN V, CHUIBTGHTJKOH-



■ x J § £ (JJz, . goS > PQ I



Smoke New Venus The roliableFamily Remedy Woods' Great Poppermiufc Cure for Coughs and Golds— li 6d and is 6d