Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 1900. ENGLAND'S HOME DEFENCES.

The London Times, in commenting on Lord Salisbury's speech last month, in which he pointed out that th«J elements of causfea of menace and peril abroad were accumulating, and might require most earnest and active efforts to repel them, says:—lt is indispensable that England, as Bismarck said of Germany, should stand toujours en vedette-—an attitude she has long neglected to as aurae so far as her land power is concerned. Lord Salisbury, like the rest of hia countrymen, believes that the navy will suffice for the protection of our Bhores, though he does not seem quite to realise how utterly hopeless all further efforts at defence muat prove to be should our fleets ever be destroyed. It is desijr&ble and even necessary that our land forces should be largely strengthened, but not, as Lord Salisbury appears to think, at a bulwark f against invasion. It is desirable also to increase those forces on Swiss lines, though certainly not upon those linen alone. It would be a real source of strength to us if we could pass all our able-bodied citizens as the Swisa do through a true military training, and make them liable to service in certain contingencies. But the chief advantage to such a system amongst us would be that it would do for us on a larger scale what the militia, and in a lesser degree the volunteers, are doing for us now. It would provide us with an inimenße reserve of fairly well trained soldiers who would be certain to volunteer in large numbers for active service abroad whenever the exigencies of the Empire so required, The rifle clubs which the Prime Minister recommended to the Primrose League are all very well in their way, and may discharge a useful function By perpetuating and directing the present outburst of martial and patriotic ardour among all ranks. But they can never do what the militia, and the volunteer too, might do, if properly reorganised by the responsible Government. They can never provide us with effective unit 3to replace regi ments sent abroad, or supply us with an efficient resource on which to draw for volunteers in an emergency.

Local and General.

%* On the first page to-day will be found Commercial, etc.

A Good Appetite.—The discovery of sixteen herrings—*ome ranging up to ten inches in length—in the interior of a penguin which had been captured, waa vouched for by a member of the Wellington Philosophi cal Society at a recent meeting. The bird, he said, had evidently got all it could hold, for its last effort had been to swallow half of another herring.

Sanitation at Oxford —A sanitary in spection of Oxford and district shows that 50 per cent of the residents have good sani tary arrangement?, 25 per cent are md ffarent and the remainder show some very bad cases One of the bad features is the proximity of the water races to cesspits, and some regulation will be necessary to deul with the matter. la most cisoi the pits were in existence before tha races ware made; nevertheless removal will be necessary,

A Stroke of Bad Fortune.—A few days ago an accident befell Mr M Coombs, market gardener, Geraldine, and he had just; recovered when he mot with a second mis fortune in tha loss of a valuable horse. While preparing to convey some vegetables from his garden.to the township on Saturday, his horse suddenly dropped down in the shafts and expired. Unfortunately for Mr Coombs the horse was a valuable one, end could not be easily -replaced for the work required of it.

Presentation. —Ab the conclusion of the parade of the Aehburton Guards last evening Captain Sparrow (on behalf of the members of the company) presented Private Fred Smith with a set of beautiful carvers, enoaeed, also a complete eeb of cutlery, on the occasion of his approaching wedding. Captain Sparrow, in making the presenta tion, said he hoped the presents would act as a happy reminder to Private Smith of the many pleasant hours he had spent with the corps* Private Smith briefly thanked the members. Cheers ware given for the reci \. ijnt, the bride-elect, and the Captain. The presents were procured from Messrs Shear* man Bros, establishment.

Strong Comments*—During the hearing of a recent action for damages for alleged slander at Sydney, Mr Justice Stephen, referring to the evidence given by some of the witnesses, remarked :—"lf ever I leave the Bench one gratification will be that I shall not have to listen to such outrageous and atrocious lying as one hears iv oourt from day to day. Ib is a wonder almost that bha Almighty Being doea nob manifeeb a mark of his displeasure. This case out- Herod's Herod. The unblushing lying in this case is simply awful on one side or the other. It makes one almost ashamed that such statements should be made by one's fellow-creatures; that there should be auoh fa utter disregard of the truth/

A War Correspondent's Experience*. —That the life of a war correspondent is a stirring one is evidenced by the opening paragraph of Mr A B Patterson's last letter from the front. He says :—lb is eight days since I last wrote—oighb daya that for variety.of incident and startling experiences would about: represent eight years of one's ordinary life. Many letters coma to me asking for details of a war correspondent's life. Well, in those eight daya I have seen three or four fights ; have captured two cities ; have been in among the Boers and out again ; have slept variously in a bed, in the unburnt end of a burning house, in a Boer Btable, out on the open veldt, in an ambulance, and under a cart which during the night was. dragged from over me by a frightened horse, bo that if this letter is rather long and rather full of personal experiences, your readers will understand that it cannot well be otherwise under the circumstances

A Dangerous Man—[Phe shocking tragedy at Gatton, Queensland, has been recalled by an arrest made at Trentham, Victoria. About 3 o'clock on the morning of Sunday, lOfch id at), there was a desperate encounter with a stranger, who was caught in the residence of Mr John Brooks by himself and his two bods. The man waa held until the arrival of Constable Tools, when a fieroe struggle followed. He proved most desperate, and it took the constable and four other men to handcuff and look him up; He made use of the vilest expressions and threats, and said frequently, "I am the Gatton murderer," He also said that he had shot a policeman in Queensland, and would shoot more. In court next day the man admitted that he was Richard Burgess, who had been arrested and was kept in custody for some time on suspicion of having committed the Gatton murders. He waa sent to goal for one month for using obscene language, and was to be charged on the 25th inst. with having assaulted a married woman in her own house prior to breaking into Mr Brook's house.

Gbraldine Stock Sale—The fortnightly stock ealo at the upper yards, Goraldine, takes place to-morrow.

The Late Mrs Kpwabd Corbeit: —The friends of Mr Edward Gitb'ett are reminded of the funeral of his late w'fe whioh leaves his residence, Barwell Farm, Aehburton Forks, to-morrow (Wednesday), at 1 p.m. for the Aahburton Cemetery

ACRNOWMDGMEiST —Mr F Ferriman re quests us to publish the following acknow ledgment :—The JFms Company have printed 10,000 circulars free oi cost, which iue being forwarded through tho p«»t free. I am also indebted to the Mail and Guardian for advertising free of cost, and to the Union Bank of Australia, Limited, in remitting drafts free of exchange.

Footb ia, Match —The football match, Banks v Auctioneers and Professions, which takes place in the Damin on Tnursday afternoon, is attracting much attention, and quite a crowd of onlookers will most likely be present. It is intended to take up a collection oo the ground, the money to go towards aephdting the cycling track.

Pbbsonal —A letter received from Geral dine states, that Mr Amos Sherratt, of Geraldiue, is again unwell, and has been ordered to a Timaru private hospital to undergo an operation. We trust that the operation will successfully remove the cause of his illness, and that he will soon be re stored to health again.

Cofvalescbnt.—Miss Button, who ha* been under treatment at Nurse. Lin ton* private hospital, Temuka, at the hands of Dr Hayes, had so far recovered from her stvero injuries as to admit of her removal to her home. During her attendance there the found, from personal experience, that great interest was taken in the patients. Her many friends wilt congratulate Miss Button on the excellent recovery she is mnking.

A National Riot.-—The news we publish to-day respecting the crisis in China is rather disquieting, and it would almost appear that China is rushing upon its doom —a general partition amongst) the nations. It is, moreover, by no means improbable that, as a result of the disturbed condition of things which now exists, the war in South Africa, the rising in Ashanti and Bulgaria, the misunderstanding between Russia and Japan, and the trouble in China —a free fight or national riot will be the eventual outcome of it alB

Letters f«r the Fbont.—lt will be seen on reference to our cables yesterday, ttiafc the Boers recently captured a train aontain ing 2000 bags of letters for the troops, pro bably all the letters from their friends written early in May. Ihe Boers would probably hand these over to women and non-combatants, and any valuables would be commandeered. As few of the Boers oan read English, the rest of the contents would hardly interest the ladies and their friends.

Ruapuna Bcnoot Committee, —At a householder's maetiog held in the school house, Ru&pun*, there was an unusually large attendance. Mr T. Taylor was voted to the chair. The result of the ballot toe a committee was, that Messrs Taylor, Jaine, Foster, Howden and Simile were elected. At a committee meeting held afterwards Mr Taylor was elected chairman,

A Maobi Boy's Trance —A case of trance is reported from Oaonui, near Opupake. It appears that a Maori lad named Isaac Bishop died, as was thought, on Saturday morning He had been ill some time. His parents and friends ab once set about arranging for an up to-date tangi, and the coffin was ordered, etc., when, to their surprise, during the afternoon the 'ad came to and appeared all the better for his sleep.

A Scarcity op Flags—Ab the meeting of the Borough Council last) night, the question of purchasing a flig for the borough was discussed Cr Jolliffs mentioned he bad been commissioned some time ago to purchase a New Zealand Ensign, and he was tota'ly unable to do so. Such a fiig was not obtainable in the island at present. The supply of bunting had become ex hausted, and he could not get one made at present. !'• was decided to hold over for v time the purchase of a fl >g.

A Boon for Housewives—With refer ence to an advertisement which appears in another column concerning a now gloss for shirb fronts •' Rapid Lighting," a lady in Ashburton who has an opportunity of experimenting a good deal in that line, is of opinion that) for ordinary households, this glossba* no superior, owing to the ease with which it can he applied, and success fully used. ■ The fault of some of thece preparations is, thit they are of little use to any but professional laundresses. Messrs- Sheirman Brcs, and John Orr and Co. are the agents.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, Jane 24 Inflaenzi is raging at St Helena. Hobart, June 25 A fire destroyed the engine room land sampling floors of the Mount Lyell Company's smelting plant at Queenstowc. The damage, which is estimated at from £15,000 to £20,000, ib covered by insurance. ..;■,' Perth, Jane 25 Mr Throssel, Minister of Lands, oppose! federation. Melbourne, June 25 Parliament opens on Wednesday. The leading features of the Governor's speech will be in reference to the despatch of troops, the measures taken for the suppression of the plague, the creation of federal electorates, women's suffrage, and old age pensions. Sydney, June 25 Mr Young, Protectioniat, has been elected for Bathurst, vice Mr Suttor, defeating the Government nominee.

The Plague.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Sydney, Jane 22 Fresb cases of plague are reported as follows:—* Patrick O'Neil, Annandale ; William Pavies, Paddington. Sydney, Jane 25 The following fresh cases are re ported : William Lyon, Woollahra; Walter Hockworty, Pyrmoat; and a child named Randall, Manly.

The Suspicious Case in Auckland.

Believed to be Blood Poisoning.

United Press Association -By Eleotrio Telegraph Auckland, June 25

A majority of the medical profession believe the suspicious case to be one of blood poisoning, and have decided to send a por tion of the pus to a {Sydney expert, Dr Ereon, speaking at the Onehunga Borough Council to-night, voiced the opinion which is general in the city when he said :— '* It is exceedingly problematical if there is, or ever was, a case of plague in Auckland, and It would require much stronger proof than at present available to convince the public that such a case exists."

Dr Mason, the Sanitary Commissioner, ii on his way to Auckland to investigate Kelly's case. . Five hundred doses of serum have been sent there in addition to 1500 already in Auckland.

THE POST AND RAILWAY DEPARTMENTS

An an example of the difarsnoes com plained of with regard to the disproportion betweeu the remuneration in the two New Zealand services, the following table (com piled in 1899) will be instructive. It gives the annual salaries of postmasters and atationmastera in the towns named:—

Referring to the above an exchange says : —Probabt> the most remarkable thing about the table quoted is the fact that in small inland towns like Feilding, Marton, and Hawera the postmasters are paid eateries equal to those paid to atationmasters at the cities of Dunedin and Ghristchurch, and £50 more than those paid to ataf/ionmasters at Wellington and Auckland. It is of course possible that there may be some valid explanation of this, but without knowing what it may be it must be admitted that the figures are startling. There is also another remarkable thing to be gathered from the petition and the return we quote above. It I is that at Stratford and Dannevirke, where both postal and railway duties were per formed by stationmasters a few years ago for £150 to £180, the postmasters for the postal duties alone are now recaiviug each £250. At the moment the duties at these stations were separated and postmasters appointed the postmasters were paid £40 to £60 more for the one duty than the utationmasters had received for the combined duties. On the whole the figures adduced may be regarded as proving that etationmastors are not sufficiently remunerated, and that systematic reform, based upon grading and classification, is needed.

An Ice Carnival for Ashbarton

PUBLIC MEETING.

A meeting of thos* in'erested in promoting a carnival to ba held on the ice in the Domain waa held last evening in the Com mercial Hotel. Thero were present—Messrs rl A Mackay, A'ington, Taylor, Shury, Cooch, Koens, Harris, Zinder. Denshire, and Grange. *Mr W McDonald, represent ing the Ashburton Braaa Band, was also present by invitation. Mr H A Mackay was voted to the chair. Apologies for unavoid able absence were received from Messrs Wark, Johnston, Coath, and a number of others, who strongly supported the project. The chairman explained the meeting wat called with a view, if possible, of getting the deep and dangerous part of the wa'.er reserved for expert skater?, in which case they might get someone to look after the ice, sweep it, and perhaps water the surface. There was no desire to infringe the right? of others, aa there was plenty of room for everybody, but if control of a portion could be secured, boys, who damaged the ice by catting holes, ooald be kept off, the ice could be well looked after, and the sticks, oiange peel, paper, dirt and stones which were now thrown on the surface, to the great danger of skaters, would- be kept cleared. A meeting of those interested had been held that morning, when it was suggested the required permission might be obtained from the Domain Board, which met that night. It had also been «ugge« fc'd that a carnival be held the following (Tuesday) evening, in order to take advantage of the present state of the ice. He had teei the Captain of the Fire Brigade, and that body would be willing.to grant the use of torches | required. I& had alto been suggested that a collection be taken up on behalf of the Indian Famine Relief .Fund. R plying to questions Mr McDonild said he did not think the Band.would turn out limply to provide fun for the crowd. If a collection was to be made in aid of the Indian Famine Fund he had no hesitation in saying they would do their best to aisisb such a cause They had, however, gob very tired of turning oub at considerable inconvenience and some expense to themselves just to provide amusement for other people. It would ba I very cold standing playing for a couple of hours. The matter was discussed for some time, aud eventually Messrs Mackay, Zander and Grange were appointed a deputation to wait on the Domain Board ab its meeting chat night, and endeavour to get) oontrol of a porbion of the ice with a view to improving its condition. During the discussion ib was mentioned that anybody with skates on would be perfectly welcome to the reserved ice. It wbs only desired to prevent its boing broken up by boys, and to keep rubbish off it. Any expense incurred would be borne by the skaters. It was also mentioned that some 80 people with skates on were on the io« on Sunday morning. Some of those present thought Tuesday was too soon to hold the carnival; it would be better to postpone ib till a later date Eventually, on tha motion of Mr Grange, seconded by Mr Zander, it was decided to go on with the fix ture for Tuesday, to commence »t 8 p.m. The following, with power to add to their numbers, were eleoted a committee to carry oub the arrangements, and to takesuoh steps as they thought best in the interest of skaters generally:— Messrs Cox, Coath, Taylor, Denshire, Shury, Mackay, Gustav Friedlander, Koens, Grange, Zander, Aling ton, Cooch, Harrie, McDonald, and Captains Dolman (Rifles) and Barber (Fire Brigade). Mr Grange said the caretaker had kindly offered to keep a watchful eye on the ice, and prevent damage to it if possible* (Applause). It was unanimously decided to make « collection in aid of the Indian Fonvne Relief Fund, and to ask Mr F Ferrimau to i take the work in band and supply collectors. Mr Cooch offered to supply some oases and material for the bonfire, and it was decided to ask the Council for some old cement barrels. Messrs Harris and Shury were appointed to provide the flare lights and Mr Zander undertook to provide the coloured fires. With a view to raising as large an amount as possible for the Indian Famine Fund, it was decided to ask the Borough Council to grant its patronage to the carnival*

BOROUGH COUNCIL.

The fortnightly meeting of the Borough Council was held last night. Present— His Worship the M«yor (Mr Hugo Fried lander), D. Thomas, J. D*vison, J. H. Pauling, W. Jolliff*. H. Davit, If. M. Jones, H. Willis and E. J. Paul. THE MAYOR'S STATEMENT Tha Mayor stated the balance at the Bank was £746. The amounts received since last meeting totalled £346 12i 6d. OOBBBSPONDHNOE Correspondence was read as follows :— BVm the Paym*ster-General forwarding £176 for tines, eta, paid into Court). Received. — From Mr T. F. Martin, Solicitor to the Municipal Association of New Zealand, quoting his opinion as to the re-oaming of streets. In view of all the oiroumatstDces he thought it wisest to consult the owners of the property on the street proposed to be re-named before making the •Iteration. Cr. Willis Mid, in view of that opinion, he questioned if it was worth while going on with the matter. He asked permission to withdraw his motion, which was granted. From the same, notifying the date of the annual meeting at Welliogton.~From the Department of Agriculture re the observance of Arbor Day, and regretting it was not better supported. Cr. Joliiffe suggested that the Council approaoh the County Council for ft grant of a piece of land near the beacb. The Council oould, as Arbor Day came round, plant) trees *;here, aad in the course of time it would beoamc a pleasure resort for the people of Ashburton. Cr Willie thought Cr Jolliffa's suggestion an exceptionally good one. It would be ft most desirable thing to obtain a piece of land at the beach, as in the course of time it) would become a popular health and pleasure reso:t for the people of Ashburton. They could, from time to time, plant trees | there, and thus eventually create a valuable plantation which would become a great attraction, aad provide shelter for Ashbur tonites wishing to visit the ocean beach. He moved "That* the-question of providing a reserve for recreation purposes at Wakanui beacb, be referred to the Reserves Commit tee, with a view to conferring with the County Council.' Cr Joliiffe seconded the mot:ei, which was carried unanimously. From the Rev. Father O'Donneli, «i complaint of improper drainage having been sent through the convent drain into the side channel, and demanding an enquiry into the complaint;— Left in the hands of the Mayor. From Mr E Stephens, re the erection of an outhouse in the fire block,—The Works Oqmmittne and Engineer to see the building by laws are carriod out. DEPUTATION Messrs H A Mackay, D Zander and T N Grange, waited on the Council as a deputa tion from the public meeting, and asked for their patronage at a skating carnival to be held in the Domain the following evening. Mr Mackay stated that the deputation had attended to ask the Board's consent and assistance in oar tying out the proposed carnival, and he detailed the form it was to take. There was another point. A num ber of parents had been complaining to those who had been frequently on the ice lately of the danger boys and little children were running by going on the ice. Ihere were a number of deep places, and if the boys fell in they woild probably have some difficulty in getting out. The public meet ing considered that if one or two of these dangerous places could be reserved for adults, the committee would take steps to have those places kepb clear and looked after, and thU would probably result in visitors from Christchurch, Timaru, and elsewhere visiting Aehburton for the skating. The deputation wanted it to be distinctly understood, the committee had no desire to interfere with the public. While reserving this apace, there would still be ample room for the children and everybody ehe; The expenses of looking after the place would be borne entirely by the Committee. The cit:z3ns had been very liberal in granting all sorts of heSp in holding the carnival. The committee wou'd like to take the matter in hand the first thing next mornicg, in order that a good skatiDg surface m*ght be pre pared, They also wished permission to light a bonfire near the io3. They antici pated a very large attendance, and it now remained with the Council ,to belp by granting permission. The matter was discussed for some time, and eventually it was decided to grant the patronage cf the Council, give permission for the bonfire, and supply some cement barrels for the same: The Council declined to take any responsibility for acnidentie that might happen, but decided to offer no objection to the committee roping off and preserving the ica. RE?KRVFS COMMITTEE. An extension .of time was granted to the Resarvos Committee to report re the borough leases, which expire next year. i LIBRARY COMMITEEH, The Library Committee reported as fol lows :—' ■ ■■'■.■■ An application having been received for the purchase of one of the papers after being taken out of the reading room, your com mittee would recommend the Counoil to call for tenders for the purchase for twelve months of the following papers and journals when finished with in the reading room :— ' Scientific Atnencani English Mechanic, Field, World* Queen, Spectator, Truth, Family Herald, and the Young Ladies' Journal. Councillors ware of opinion thaV.he two first named papers would be valuable for reference if filed and bound. The remainder should be sent to the Old Men's Home and the Hospital. The report was not adopted. SANITARY COMMITTEE. The Sanitary Committee reported as fol-

lows j— 1. Medical Officer—With respeob to the appointment) of a medical officer of health for thla borough, your committee beg to recommend :— {a) That the duties of the officer be to enquire into and report to the Council in all oases referred to him by the Inspector of Nuisances or the Council, and such other duties as may be imposed on him by regnla* tions of the central board of health. (h) That the salary be £10 10s per annum. (c) That applications be again oalled for this position. ' 2, Sanitary System—Your committee beg to recommend that the question of altering the scavening system of the borough be deferred until the borough is enlarged by the inclusion of the suburbs, and in the meantime all information on an improved system be obtained. , The report was adopted. , i BKP>RT OF SPECIAL COMMITTBE BE LIGHTING Your Committee have considered the ques tion of providing a cheaper and more econo mical method of lighting the borough, which waa referred to them by the Council, and beg to make the following recommendations: —(!) That the lighting of the Borough should be under municipal control; (2) That an expert opinion be obtained of the cost of lighting! the Borough with electricity; (3) That the opinion of an expert be obtained respecting the value and efficiency of the Aahburfcoa Gas Workr. Cr. Thomas troved to affirm the principle that the lighting of the borough should be under the borough's control. Cr. Jones seconded the preposal, which ' was carried, Ct's. Davis and Jones strongly supported obtaining the opinion of an expert on light ing the borough with electricity. Cr. Willis said they would need to ascer tain the feeling of the ratepayers on the subject.' It was a very big question, and, moreover, it w«s not very olear from the Committee's report whether the proposal covered merely the lighting of the street lamps, or the whole Borough. Cr. Jolliffa explained that the special lighting committee now simply asked per mission to obtain as expert's opinion on the cost of lighting, with a vUw to reporting more fully to the Council. Cr. Thomas spoke in • similar strain, and the report as a whole was adopted* FIRB INSPECTOR Captain Barber, of the Fire Brigade, wat appointed senior Fire Inspector for the borough. - / WORKS COMMITTEE AND ENGINEER'S REPORT The Works Committee and Engineer re ported aa follows ;— (1) Street Crossings.—The Works Com mittee have considered the motion proposed by Cr Jones afc lasts meeting, and would recommend that so permanent crossings be

put down at present, but that all the prin* eipai crossings be scraped in wet weather. (2) Road Scraper.—-The Works Commit tee have authorised the Engineer to make enquiries as to the cost, etc, of a road coroper, and will report on the matter al nrzb meeting, (3) Footpaths—Your Committee recom mend that the principal footpaths of streets crossing the railway in the town be kerbed and reformed co as to be ready for tarring I during the next season.

(4) Water Races in Alford Forest Road and Winter's Koad—The Woiks Committee waited on the Upper Ashburton Road Board, at It* meeting today respecting the latter received from that body ontheqaee sian of these races, and it was arranged to makei«, vi.it to the ground on the date of (be Board's next meeting, (5) Übonr G»og.-lThe men hare beea engaged during the put two weeks in form ing streets, and carting .oil to seotloM reforming footpaths, and shingling iioe, spreading shingle delivered by oo.trwtor! carting soil to DomaiD, and reforming fool paths therein, making and fixing bridra and culverts, and scraping mud off streets, oart mg rubbish, attending to watar supply, and general works of maintenance. (6) West Street Formation.—Tenders for the formotion of about 17 ohalna of West Street, wiil be laid before yon this evenlajr. The report was adopted. INSPECTOR OF NUIBANOEB The Inspector of Nuisanoes repotted the yards in good order. Several dogs were atlll unregistered. There were no oaeei of Infec tious diseases in the Borough at present. It wu deoided to instruct the Inspector to proceed against the owners of unregistered dogs.

TJJNDBBS. Tenders were received for re-foraiaf seventeen chain* of West Street-Mr Kf. Fi)«eraldl £32, and I, per yard for shiagte, aad Mr Bright £32 lOt, and U 4dl«f shingle* The former wu acciptcd*

ACCOUNTS Account! amounting to £137 6* 94 WWt pMi«d for payment, DOMAIN BOARD*

The Council sat as a Domain Board. OPEATOB'S RIPOBT. The curator reported ai follows f— . biß,--I have to report receiving Mvcfal donations to the Domain slnoe last meetlsif. Mr Herring presented six bags of wheat let the water fowl, and a fine Paradise dock ia place of the one killed a month ago. (Bale gentleman also presented another minimum thermometer recently imported with new stand for meteorologloal observations. Mr D. L. Inwood, of Winchester, presented six ducks of a new variety, which I keep la an enclosure until weather moderates. An anonymous donor senc a package of native plants, which have been distributed over the large island and the main borders. 1 most again inform the Board of the difficulty I experience every Sunday ia stopping biovol wg through the Domain. It if useless to oautlon Borne people against thepractioe. In is, however, extremely annoying to many citizens who visit the Domain on Sundays! She report was adopted. The Mayor asked what the bytlaw on the subject was.

The Clerk laid It wu against btcyole riding in the domain. The Mayor said in that case, the cantor had only to tako the name* and report to the Board, and they would take action. Mr Pauling objsoted to cyoliste being da barred from riding in the domain while the Board allowed horses and trapt to be driven through. Mr Willis said it was evident something more should be done to conserve the wild fowl in the domain when the ice was strong enough to oarry boys. He had seen a num ber cf boys rooting on the island and dii. turbing the birds. There was also a great danger of some of the children falling in and being drowned. He was satisfied the Board would some day see the necotsity of taking action*

Mr ThomM Raid he had wen fourteen egge rooted out and (mushed on the ice. The Mayor pointed out there was a by-law mak« ing it an offence to be found on the island, and it should be strictly enforced. The matter was allowed to drop.

THE KHEDIVE.

London, Jane 24 The Royal yacht with the Khedive on board was ten hours coming from Flushing through the rough sea. He is detained at Port Victoria, at the mouth of the Medway, in consequence of septic sore throat! The Queen is much concerned, and has sent her own physician, who reports that the Khe dive is progressing favourably. He will bo removed to Buckingham Pal ace early in the week.

ITALIAN AFFAIRS.

Formation of a New Ministry.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio . Telegraph—Copyright Rome, June 24

Signor Saracco, President of the Senate has formed a Ministry, replacing that of General Pellouz, who resigned owing to continued obstruction from the Extreme Left. Marches* Vu« couote Venosta has . been appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Gen eral Sau Martino Minister of War, They had the same portfolios in the Ministry of General Pelloux.

The Trouble in Ashanti.

United Press Association—By Bleotrio Telegraph—Copyright London, Jane 21 Major 0. Borrongha, with 450 Wett African troops and a field gas, have reinforced Colonel Wilicocki, who it advancing on the relief of Knmairi. June 25 The supplies collected at Prahsn justifying the resumption of the march, the relief column started thence for Kumassi on Saturday.

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

The Fire From tae Taku Fort*

The Indian Contingent

United Prats Assodation—Bjr Etotrto Telegraph—Copyright Washington, June 25 The American battleship Oregon is now et Hongkong. The armoured cruiseri Brooklyn and Mondanock, at the Philippines, have been ordered to Taku. America will also send 4500 troops and a battery from the Philip pines, Hongkong, Jane 24 Li Hung Ohang asserts that the Takn forts were not authorised to fire on the fleets. Hongkong, June 25 The British Consul at Tientsin, on the 20tb, sent a courier to Ohefoo, stating reinforcements were urgently needed. The casualties were heavy* and the ammunition insufficient, and machine guns were required. The Russians were hard' pressed at the railway station. .., The incessant fire of . the attackers' heavy guns had burned ! most of the buildingß in the European concessions, London, June 24 Lieutenant-General Sir Alfred Gase* I c commanding the Bundetkhund district in India, has been appointed to the command of the Indian Qod«

THE ASHBUBTOTS GtUfiDUN ; TUESDAY, JUNE 26,gJi900



[Township ob Post- City. master.

Station- MASTRK.

Auokland 500 Onehimga 300 Hamilton 250 Kotorua 240 Cambiidgo 210 Palmeraton North 300 FeildiDg 300 Marlon 300 Fawera 300 Putea 250 Stratford 250 Maatertoa 300 Wellington 400 Oarterton 240 Groytowa 210 Pahiatua 250 Napiec 425 Spib 250 Dannevirke 250 Haitingi 250 Lyttelton 290 Aihburton 290 Temuka 250 Wikimnta 230 B&loluthA 250 Lawrence 250 Chrietehuroh 500 Dunedin 500 Bluff 290 Gore 300 lapftaui 250

250 2LO 170 190 170 220 180 190 210 190 170 200 250 160 150 130 220 190 180 200 250 220 180 180 210 180 300 ZOO 230 220 150



— 28.000 IN USE IN THIS COLONY _hmT yn^-"- I'''^'!!'' "^f *" """ "rewjfaiMsr I iHActieeKJlj U *^~*r SI THEY BURN LIGNITE, TRUB GOAL OR WOOD UP TO 2ffc 6in NO SETTING^EQUIRED. W«fch Stove Pipe can bo worked oat in the open. SPLENDID BREAD BAKERS . With Caat Iron or Ooppsr Boilers. The Copper Boilers are large and Tin-lined inside REPAIRS ARE A MINIMUM. Made in all gizes, single or doable ovens. High or low pressure boilers Sold by all Ironmongers, from whom Catalogues can be obtained, or from the maker H. E. SHACKLOCK, LTD., SOUTHEND FOUNDRY, Pbincks Street, DUNEDIN. New Zealand tarasoe Company. SST ABLI#H"ll) 0' 1 «. 1859 CAPITAL^ONEMILLION. THfi PBEMXm km WEALTHIEST COLONIAL COMPANY, NOTED FOB PROMPTNESS AND LIBERALITY PAID-UP CAPITAL AND RESERVES—£4OO^OO,. FIRE AND ~MARINB RISKS. ALSO,— RfSKS ON GROWING CROPS, IHRK HING MACHINES, Ac, AOOEPTEB AT LOWKBT CURRENT RaT«* t ¥. HANMKR : ABENT. SHOOitNG_BEASON, rl9oo # (tmhb and Ammunition. NEW SHIPMENTS NOW OPENED FP. A Large, Asaortraent, at prices tosuifc alt buyers Iftsys, Kynooh, and Club GAiayRiDGES; Powder, [Shot, Caps, Wads, Rad pAtti'RlDGB Casks. L A M P 8. IT*M P S. LA M P S. tJtTK HAVE JUiT EEOSIVSD A CHOICE VARtWTY OF TABLE LAMPS, , HANGING HALL LAMP. 3, I^NQfNO PARLOR LAMPS, SMALL BEDROOM LAMPS, Which we af? offering at rery low prices, A Large Stock of L\MPWARE always on Imnd, HAKDWABE AND Hos'*issoLD'- FURNISHINGS. We have a full stock of the above lines, including Backets Table Cutlery Fenders and Fire Irons Saacepana Spoons and Jforka Electro Plate Ware JTails and Staples Brash ware Enamel ware Plough Shares Lubricating Oiia Etc, etc. At Prices to suit the times iwiMß's a¥d~pirits. All Kinds and Brands of SPIRITS kept in CA.SE and BULK. Whiskey, Brandy, Port, Sherry, Australian Wines, etc. English and Colonial iJottled Ales and Stou^. GROCERIES at Wholesale Prices. Orders by Posb despatched with punctuality. Goods delivered dailj SHEARMAN BROS., GROCERS, IRONMONGERS, WIKE & SPIRIT MERCHANTS, BuRNETr Street, Aehburton, ■> ■ ■ . \ ■ ■ THE NEW DRAPERY." A Beautiful EVENING DRESS WINDOW. 8 01S.fi l'HINfl SEW ASD 0 HAjSjT B. MITCHELL & TURNER. 1



DATES, LOWRY ABO CO FOB Gas Lamps, 15s lack- Shipment of Bells and Carbide Just to Hand. OATES, LOWRY AND GO. j Burne Street MONEY TO LEND. I HAVE Trust Monies for Inveatmeob in sums of £500 to £5000 on Fibst Moktgagb at lowest current rate?. DAVID ZANDER, 6 119 Tarcred Streeh & Co., IMPOETERS OP MUSICAL INSTRU MENTS, IIMARU, WELLINGTON, AND DUNDDIN. TNIENDING Pmohasers of Piacoi, Cr gana, or other Muaioal Instrument!) will do well to interview Mr W. H» Long, travel 1 cr for the above-.nentioned old-established firm btfora selecting. For terms apply at 6 157 CENTRAL HOTEL. "TTwrLSONT BURNETT BTKEET. T HAVE JUST TO HAND a very large variety of MIXED PAINTS Very Suitable for Painting Drays, Trap?, Kitchens, Interior and Exterior of Houses, Etc. E| EJ I• " . < 7-/1 •.*. -' .1 Ph Od *n *>* E5 ° » o! ■« P^ £s ■■.'•! Sj « 1 .. , 5; -jz; the; rapid lightning gloss TB> ONLY BELIABIiE SHIRT POLISH IN THE WOBLD. TUTRB MILLER, of Dunedin, the Pxo fe«aional Laundreiß, sayß ;—lt is the best I have ever used. It makes Shirt Ironing ft pleasure. Wise Mothers and Sisters try it and save your strength, temper, and patience, Oooe tried, always used. Sold in Tins at SHEARMAN BROS' & JOHN ORR & CO. 5 136 _______ . . Your isaspcotiouof our EXCELLENT TWEEDS AND OVERCOATINGS. Wa have now been in business 26 years, and still retain many of our first customers} which alone is proof o our HONEST WOEK. ■ McDonald & Co,, Tailors, Etc; Jubilee Building Burnett Street FOX SAJUE. HARD to beat for good value for a Suburban Homestead and Poultry Farm—3^ acres first class land, with five roomed House, detached wash house, dairy, and bedroom combined; both buildings are on concrete foundations ; within two miles of Aehburton. Buyer can get £300 at low rate of Interest, small balance will secure the ! property. 2| Acres Land and 7-roomed House, Netherby, off Wakanai Road; cheap, and very easy terms. New Dwelling House, Wills Street West, on a acre. Good House and } Aort Garden, Peter Street East. 15 Roomed House and 3| Acres Land near Canterbury Flour Mills. Several Good Town Sections, West Side Railway. Several Sections Fair ton. H. W. Barrett, AGENT, ARCADE, ASHBURTON, 6147



Mr W. H. Long, traveller for the old established firm of Charles Begg &Co., who are noted for the quality, durability, and cheapness of all kinds of musioal instruments, is at present staying at the Central Hotel, Ashburton, and will be pleased to interview intending buyers of instruments, who should not forget the reputation this firm possess Mr Long ia prepared to do business on the best lines procurable, so that no harm will be done by making enquiries' r<? terms,



The Southland County Council have decided to levy a special small bird rate of oae-aixteenth of a penny in the pound«



Don't Cough—Belief can be obtained im mediately. Use KEATING'S COUGH LOZENGES—weII known as the utterly un rivalled Cough Remedy. Strongly recom mended by the many eminent physicians. They at onoe check the cough, and remove he cause—without any after effect; the most delicate can therefore take them. One Lozange alone gives ease—one or two at bedtime enaurei rest. Sold everywhere n tine 13£ d each.



At the meeting of the Borough Council, held last evening, Messrs H A Mackay, D Zander, and T N Grange, the committee appointed at the public meeting, watted on the Council, and atked for its patronage at the skating carnival in the Domain the following evening, when a collection would be taken up, in aid of the Indian Famine Relief Fund. They also asked for permission to light a bonfire near the toe, and requested a grant of the old cement barrels the Council had on hand. Further, they asked permission to rope off a small portion of the ice, so that a man might be pub on to sweep, clean, and water it, and so make it available for any person wearing skates, and also preserve it from the attacks of small boys, who dug holes in it to make traps for each other. Councillors decided to graqb their patronage, also to give the cement barrels and the permission for * bonfire, and to offer no objection to the committee roping off and preserving the ice. Ib will be seen by an advertisement elsewhere that a grand skating carnival will commence at eight o'clock to-night (weather permitting), when there will be a band in attendance. A bonfire will be lit, and there will be torches, fhre lights, coloured fires, and oth«r illuminations. Smoke Newtfemw