IN MEMORIAM.

Lockhakd. - William John Lockhard, who departed thia life, May 12, 1899.

Gone, but not forgotten, A sudden loss and shock severe, To part with him we loved so dear, 7 he losa was great, we'll not complain, But trust that we shall meet again. —Inserted by his sorrowing parentp, brothers and sisters.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, MAY 12, 1900. THE AMEER OF AFGHANISTAN.

A few weeks ago our cables mentionec that the Russian Minister for War had submitted a plan for the siege of Herat to the Czir, and that the latter hac received hia Minister with coolness, at the same time stating that he did nol wish to take advantage of a friendlj nation in a time of difficulty. If the Ameer's words may be trusted be is c firm friend of England, and will nol allow himself to be cajoled into trail? ferring his friendship to the Russians, A few months ago the Ameer accorded an audience to Mr Frank Martin, the only European now residing in Gabul, but he has only lately given permission for his remarks thereat to be made public. The Transvaal war formed naturally the principal subject of con* versation, the Ameer remarking that it had cost him several sleepless nights, as be recognised the possibility of Rus sia taking the opportunity to advance through Afghanistan on India. Be did not appear to think that this move would benefit Russia, for a war with the Afghans would mean a general rising of Islam, which would spread through Rus sian Asia, insecurely held by the con queror. Russia despite her experi ence in dealiug with Asiatics, and some natural gift for the business, based on similarity of temperament, is hated, so the Ameer said, in Kus sian Asia, and with all her power, he declared, she could not fight Afghan istan and India successfully, Re verting to the Transvaal war, he ex pressed sorrow at the losses of our troops, but criticised the fighting ar rangements, especially frontal at tacks on an enemy entrenched and hidden, while our men advanced m the open. He asserted that he could send O@,QOO troops to help in the Transvaal, and would do so willingly, except for the fact that his men were not accustomed to ships, and even if numbers did not die on the voyage, those who reached South Africa in safety would not be fife to take the field for a month or two. . " Bub Eng land's troubles are always my trou bles, her strength is my strength, and her weakness my weakness, for are we not allies ?, England must remember that I am always ready to fight for her on land, here or in India," If the Ameer remains of that mind and is as good as his word, the Russian in vasion of India is indefinitely post poned. But it is always difficult to understand the Afghan, who certainly may be classed with those races de scribed by Kipling as " half devil and half child." The devilry may be knocked oub of him, but the child ishness, the responsibility and the treachery combine to make his eftec tive management a problem for clever beads. Still the Ameer, as be was lately told by the Indian Government, has been faithful for twenty years, and the best guarantee for his remaining so is his apparent conviction that he is better oft under English influence than he would be under Russian. Prompted, possibly, by a hint he had received from the Indian Government, that he bad better buy smaller quantities of.

war material (in which he has been heavily investing), for fear the English Parliament would get suspicious, the Ameer compared the Parliament with the Oabul public Tukish bath. Mr Martin confessed he had not seen it, whereupon the Ameer advised him to go. Mr Martin did so next day. " It was full of men, and the high doras overhead reverberated with calls for towels, soap, etc, and loud-voiced conversation, until the meaning of any individual words and the words them selves became lost in tha confusion of sounds and but added to the uproar,"

Local and General.

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

Pat Kept His Billet —At a certain builder's yard, it was the custom to pay the men their money in little bags each week One Saturday the master told an Irish labourer, when paying him, that ho should not require his services any more. On the following Monday, as the master was going round the yard, he aaw Pah at work as usua'. "Hallo, Pat!'said he ; "didn't I give you the sack on Saturday?" "No, sir s " said Pat; " it was the name little bag I've always had." Pat's pervices were retained.

Night Sisnalling.—A new method of signalling by coloured rockets has been in vented by Messrs R T Bickerbon and J A Morgan, of this city. The present invention applies different coloured . rockets to the various eighteen flags composing the interna tional oode of all nations, by which shipß dgnalby day, LTp to the present, night sienalling has been extremely crude and difficult, and very little communication was possible till daylight appeared. By the use of these rockets, which are made with a para chute attachment to the coloured fire re quired, each colour burning for about half a minute as a large globe of fire, at a height of about a mile and a half, and should easily be distinguished at a distance of fifteen or twenty miles, with or without a night glass, sigualling by night is made easier aati plainer than by day, the same code book doing duty for both. Professor Biokerton has the in vention in h>\nd to place before the Board of Trade in London.

A Generocs Employer—The people this district are fortunate in having in their midst a lady sni gentleman whose benifioence to their employees is steadily winning the genuine affection of those who serve them, <*nd ia spreading throughout the district in which they reside a most benign influence. Recently this lady and gentleman enter tained many of the leading people of Ash barton afc their hospitable home. On Monday evening they entertained the employees on their estate, when the preparations made were on the same lines as the previous ones. Ia another column our Westerfield correa pondtnb describee the latter entertainment, which was evidently a moat enjoyable one.

Lord Roberts And Thh Children—A touching little story is told of Lord Roberta. Some children who had seen Lord Roberts and thought him the greatest of living men, ventured to write him a letter and to Bend ib to South Africa. They gave the address of their house, but only their Christian names. In the letter they spoke of th?ir admiration for Lord Roberts, and said they always remembered to pray for him. Imagine what the joy of theaa children was at receiving a reply from Cape Town in Lord Roberts' own handwriting. Ib is said to have been simple, touching, and beautiful In it he asked the children to go on praying for him, adding, •• I need your prayers." Lord Roberta seema to have time for everything. Ife ia surprising that amidst hie many preoccupations, and with so heavy a burden upon him, he should have found time to write that letter.

TINWALD WESLEYAN SUNDAY SCHOOL.— A social gathering was held in connection with the above school on Wednesday evening. Mr H M Jones occupied the chair. A pro gramme of musical items waa gone through. Two marches were played !>y Misses Sim mona and Jones (2), and Mr McDonald, a violin duet by Misses Simmons and Hawkins, aad a violin solo by Mhs Hawkin>°. Miss Clark accompanied them on the organ. A solo by Mise Harding wis encored, and that Jady responded with another song. Miss Jones aoted is accompanist. Mr Tremaia had fco respond to an encore for his patriotic song, ivliss Clark accompanied him on the piano. Mies Lewie gave an excellent recita tion. The speakers were Revs T Fee and J Jory. Apologies for unavoidable abisence were reoeived from Revs S Skinner and Blakiafcon. A very pleasing feature of the gathering was the fact that though the annual prizes to the school children were to have been distributed that night, and were already selected, the children voluntarily feave them up in order that thfi money might t-e devoted to the Indian Famine Relief Fond. One boy who had jasb left; the public echool contributed 2^ to the fund out of his first earnings. A collection was also taken up for this object. About £5 will thus be available for the fund. A very pleasant a^d successful evening was concluded by refreshments being handed round.

Montgomery's Kinematograph & Concert Company.

Speaking of the above company, the Southland limes, Inveroargill, says:—The popularity of the living pictures projected by this machine was again demonstrated by the immense audience that filled the theatre in every part when the Montgomery Kine matograph and Concert Company appeared for the first time in Invercargill. The preliminary announcement that war pictures would be shown was no doubt chiefly responsible for this, and it chows how in tensely enthusiasm burns in one of the remotest parts of the Empire. It ia probable that no such exhibition that has yet been given has come up to the expectations of the spectators, and the proprietors of kinemato graphs undoubtedly assume a heavy re sponsibility when they Btimulate the imagination with promises of war pictures. Judging by the frrquent outbursts of loud applause that broke from the audience Mr Montgomery and hia company Batißfied their pa rona. Some of the pictures wire un doubtedly excellent. The last stand by Maj >r Wilson was much fuller than it had j been shown bafore. The grim death of the little band, the rush of the MatabeSe, the thrusts of assegais, and the last deadly shots from Wilson's revolver, were watched with breathless interest. When the dyiDg soldier turned and shot the Matabele who dealt him a death blow from behind, the whole house cheered* A transport leaving England and and the departure of General Buller from Southampton were new, and another new picture was tint representing the Gordon Highlanders leaving barracks. These pic tures, and those depioting various exciting scenes from a Spanish bull fight, were the features of the picture exhibition, »nd they are worth seeing. There were also a number of myrioramio views of great fire scenes, and heroic deeds of firemeD. These were de scribed briefly by a lecturer, and attended to with great interest. Portraits of Generals Roberts, Kitchener, Buller, White, French, and Gatacre were loudly cheered, and those of Kruger and his myridons were, with equal lmtiness, hooted and jeered. |The Company appear at the Oddfellows Hall on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.

MANSION HOUSE FUNDS.

The Mansioa House Fund for tha relief of Transvaal war sufferers amounted reoently to £817,000. Of that sum £367,800 was contributed for I the widows and orphans, £80,200 for the sick and wounded, £87 000 for disabled sol diers and sailors, and £153,600 for the wives and families of men nerving in the field. An amount of £118,600 has been subscribed for allocation at the discretion of the Lard Mayor, and instructions for the disposition of £10,000 sent from Singapore are promised by the next mail. The Indian Famine Fund recently amounted to £152,000.

BOARD OF EDUCATION.

A meeting of the North Canterbury Board of Education waa held on Wadnesday. The following are items of local interest :— The appointment committee recommended Mios E M Simpson as misbress at Highbank. The resignation of Miss M Newman, as mistresß at the Hiuda S de School, waß ac cepted.

Ths question referred by the Board to the Appointments Committee, viz., whether anything could be done to check the practice of pupil-teachers resigning their positions before completing tho usual course, had been considered. The Board was recommended to urge committees, when making their selections, to satisfy themselves as far as they could, that the candidates recommended were likely to continue in tbe Board's servioe. V ■'

The auditor of School Committees' accounts reported that he could not but be satisfied with the general condition of the accounts, many of which showed great oare and correctness. In a few instances it had been necessary to call attention to some clerical errors, which could easily be righted. Tho Aehburton Committee called attention to the condition of the room used by Standard 111. Surprise had been expressed that the room was being used continuously, as It was understood that on the erection of the Ailenton School it would only be put to occasional use for class purposes

The Education Department wrote, thab fche question of increasing the capitation grant was now under consideration The election of the Longbeaah Committee, which had been disputed, was sustained.

Sporting.

ASHBURTON COUNTY RACING CLUB

Acceptances for all handicaps on tbe Srat day, and entries for the Maiden Plate, close this evening, at 9 o'clook, at) Mr A. Fooks' office, Arcade

WINSLOW SPORTS AND RACING CLUB

Nominations for the athletio events close this evening, at 9 o'clock, with the Secretary (Mr B J Henry), at the Window Hotel

FOOTBALL.

A special meeting of members of the Ash burton Catholic Literary Society was held in the Boys' School on Thursday evening for the purpose of considering the advisable nees of forming a football club in connection with the Society. There was a large attend ance, and Mr H. MoSherry occupied the chair* After & few rumarkt on the subject it was unanimously decided to form a Club, to ba known as "The Ashburton Catholic L iterary Society's Football Club." It was also decided that tho oolours of the Club be blue and white hoops. The following officers were appointed : — Patron — Rev. J. J. O'Donnel!; President —Mr L Hanrahan ; Vice-presidents—Rev. Father Crotty, Dr. Bolger, R J Henry, M Lagan, and F Sorint; Secretary and Treasurer—M J Moriarty ; Committee—Messrs D Wibon, T Nolan, H Mcßherry, J Healy, and E McTigue. The question of the opening day for the Club was deferre i until a future meeting, the Secre tary in the meantime being instructed to ascertain with regard to tho procuring of a suitable ground for the Club. Subscription fees and other minor business having been transacted the meeting closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman.

A SCHOOL FOR FAIRTON.

Public Meeting' of Householders.

A meeting of householders was held at the library, Fairfcon, on Wednesday evening, to consider the question of asking the Board of Education to erect a school there. After discussion, a petition was drawn up, to be signed by the householders of the district, and forwarded to the Board through Mr C A 0 Hardy, M.H,R. for Selwyn. It was decided to point out that less than a year ago there was only one house at Fairton besides the freezing works. Since then six teen houses had been built, and plans for several others were in hand. More people would live at Fatrton could they obtain houses. There were now between twenty »nd twenty-six children under the age of eight years who were too young, to travel by train, even if the train arrange ments suited, which they do not. As the success of the works is now assured, the population of Fairton must increase, and it is to be hoped the Board will favourably 1 consider the application of the petitioners. The signatures to the petition are those of hna fide residents at Fairton.

WESTERFIELD.

From Our Own Correspondent] , In response to a kind invitation, your correspondent attended an entertainment provided ab Lagmhor bj S A M Buckley, Esq, and Mrs Buckley, for their employees, and tbe friends of the Utter, on the evening of Monday last. From the entrance gate to tha ball room, a quarter of a mile ab least, the way was made clear as day by torch lights which, when viewed from a disfeanoe of some miles, as firsb seen by your correspondent, looked very imposing indeed. The interior of the hall room waa draped in red and oream, with choice evergreens tastefully plaoed. Drzsna of Chinese lanterns, lamps, and other appropriate decorations completei a scene worth remembering. On entering this room one might well be excused if he allowed his imagination to wsndgr for a moment, and fancy he had stumbled into fairy lands and found himself face to face with the fair and amiable den'zana of those mythological regions. However, other objects in the room very soon dispelled the fairy illusion, and brought home to the minds of everyone that they stood within the walls of a loyal British subject; for at one end of the spacious room hung tbe Union Jack of old England, and ab the other the Stars and Stripes of Americi, Amidst all this Mr and Mrs Buckley, loyal to the Queen and kind to their guests, who numbered over 200, continued throughout to endeavour to make everyone feel happy and at home. The musicians were Mr R Terrae (violin), Mias Simpson (piano), and Mr D Leitch (cornet.) These musicians gave unqualified satisfaction to everyone present. Mr W Paterson, and another whose name I did not get, kindly officiated while the other musicians were at supper. Mr T Graoa, aa usual, made an excellent M.C. Mr Palmer sang the songs "Tommy Atkins," "Soldiers of the Queen," and " Sons of the Sea " to piano accompani ments by Mrs Buckley. Theae songs being all in keeping with tha present war times were highlyappreciated. Mrs Morton supplied the supper. I need scarcely say that ample justice was done to it. Mr Helem, on behalf of himself, his fellow employees and their friends, moved a vote of thanks to Mr and Mrs Buckley for their kindness. He spoke in sincere and manly terms of the goodness of Mr and Mrs Buckley in all matters beariDg upon the comfort and happiness of their employees. The vate of thanks was carried by acclamation, and three cheers with musical honor* were accorded to Mr and Mrs Buekley. Captain Buckley—the designation which that gentleman should bear in future —replied on behalf of Mrs Buckley and him self in the feeling and pleasing manner native to him. Afterwards he called for three cheers for the three lads from the distriob who are now enduring hard ships and sharing the dangers of the Queen's soldiers in the Transvaal. This thoughtful and kind act was responded to in an en thusiastic manner, and it carried a pleasur able sensation to the heart of everyone present. It may be predicted that when Captain Buckley, who has had eaven years military experience in the Imperial Army, gets his company drilled to his satisfaction, he and they will be second to none in the service of Her Majesty.

After singing God Save tne Queen, tfie party broke up about 4 a.m.

CYCLING

TBE CASE OP SUTHERLAND.

THE SUSPENSION REMOYiSD

At a Bpeclal meeting of the Council cf the League of Wheelmen, held in Christ church on Thursday nighfe, the cha gef against (Jr. Sutherland for having deman ded''appearance money" at Garaldine and Wellington were considered A charge was also brought agairisb E. Reynolds and the Canterbury Athletic and Cycling Club on the ground that j when the Club had in November last paid ! Reynolds his boat fare to come from Auckland and represent the North Island in a paced match agiinat Wall, the same rule had been broken. It was considered that if Sutherland were suspended several other riders and clubs would have to be j similarly dealt with, and the result, would be a dead-lock in the sport, and that if the Canterbury Club were suspended four or five members of the Council would be prevented from acting. Ultimately the following resolution was carried :—" That os there has been a geneial misconception as to the effect of the rules regarding appearance money and the payment of expenses all breaches of these rules up to May 10 be condoned." Both Sutherland and Reynolds will now go to Paris The League voted Sutherland £100, ®f which £65 was for fare and £35 for expenses. Reynolds receives £65. It la stated that Tierney and Draffia, of Auckland, have both decided to make the trip on their own account.

HAMPSTEAD SCHOOL COMMITTEE

The ordinary monthly meeting of the above school committee took place on Wed* nesday evening. Present—Messrs Cawsey, (chairman), Hardy, Crooks, Sage, Thompson, Payne and Andrews. It was decided to apply for three dozen model rifle for the use of the children. The matter of appointing a truant officer was left in the hands of the chairman to confer with tho chairmen of the Borough and Tinwald committee*. The master reported the mil number to be 360, highest attendance 307, average 230. Mr James Elliot's tender for the yearly supply of firing was accepted. The matter of asphalting several footpaths was left) in abeyance. It was resolved to again write to the Town Board with regard to the drainage opposite the school. After discussion it was resolved that the Goverment be written to urging them to increase the capitation grant from £3 15s to £4. The Inspector's report on his surprise visit of inspection to the school was read and deemed very satisfactory. Accounts amounting to £5 5s 3d were passed for payment and the Committee adjourned,

Interprovincial.

United Press Association -By Electric Telegraph Wellington, May li

Patriok Maguire, charged with grievously assaulting Albert White, barman in the Empire Hotel, by attacking him with a knife and infl oting a severe out on the palm of his right hand, was commit ted for trial. Owing to the extraordinary increase of traffic on the Government railways, there are from 1600 to 2000 trucks short of the necessary number to carry on tho work. All the Government workshops are tunning under pressure, but at the utmost cannot construct more than 1000 a year Govern ment is enquiring as to the possibility bf the required number being built by outside Grms

The judgment) of the full bench of the Supreme Court in the oase Wardell Bros., Ltd, v Detective McGratb, was delivered this morning. The Court) was unanimously of opinion that the distribution of prizes by the appellants was not determined by ohance within the meaning of the GamiDg and Lotteries Act, chance not being the sole or predominant factor. The appeal was there fore allowed. Nafieb, May 11 la a prohibition csg\ heard at Hastings to-day, Mr Turnbul), S M, decided that the railway refreshment rooms were licensed premises within the maaniog of the Act.

COMMERCIAL.

ASHBURTON STOCK MARKET

Messrs Friediander Bos., Ltd., report upon the live atosk market for the week ending May 11, as follows :—On Saturday last at our Weab Street Mart we offered {in conjunction with Mr D Thomas) a consign ment) of draught horses on account of John Grigg, Eeq , Longbeach. There was spirited competition for the whole line, and good prices were obtained, they sold from £31, £33, £36, £36, and up to £46, the whole line averaging £33 15s per head. On Tuesday last, at the Tinwald Yards, the usual weekly sale was held. The entry for the day was en an average with late sales, 7383 sheep, 80 rams, 23 cattle, and 36 pig* being yarded. The sale, taken all through, was fairly brisk, and recent prices were fully maintained. Butchers' crossbred ewes sold from 12s up to 14*, halfbred from 12a 9dup to 13s 6d, breed ing ewes told from 10s up to 13s 6d, fat merino wethers up to 10s sd, Our entry for the day consisted of 3278 sheep, 23 rams and 8 cattle, and the following are the prices obtained :—l6 fab halfbred ewea 13s lOd, 50 fat merino wethers 9a 9d, 15 fab halfbred ewei 12s 9(3, 18 fat ewes and wethers lla Sd, 32 fat crotmbred ewea 149, 80 fab halfbred ewea 13s 6d, 39 fat halfbred eaes 12i 9d, 60 fab halfbred ewes 13s 6d, 29 fat merino wethera 8s 4d, 90 merino ewes 7s, 131 cross bred lambs 10s 3d, 142 crossbred lambs 6s Bd, 94 crossbred ewes 10s 6d, 481 merino wethers 10s sd, 267 halfbred lambs 8* Bd, 251 cross* bred ewes 12s, 153 merino wethers 8s 2d. In cattle 2 fat heifers £4 10s, 1 cow in profit £2, 1 fab heifer £4 17s 6d. On Wednesday last we held a most successful clearing Bale on the farm of Mr Evan Davies, There was a large attendance of farmers and other*, and all Jots elicited keen competition. The implements sold well up to market value, and the horses sold abfrom £32 up bo £40 for a two year old filly. ,

The Ashburton Agency of the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association of Canter bury, Ltd, quote as follows on May 11, 1900:- Wheat—New. Prime milling Pearl .- 2s Id „ „ Tuscan.„ 2aldto2l2d i  „ Hunter's ... 2s Oats—Duns .„ Is 7d Danish la 7d Canadians ~ Is B|d Sparrowbills Is 7|d Barley—Malting, prime 2s to 2s 2d Inferior Is 6d to Is 9d Peas—Partridge, 2s 3d and 2e #cl Chaff—-Good oatsheaf 40s to 45s Grass Seed—Old pasture, Is 9d to 2a New „ Is 3d to Is 6d The above are prices current p»id to farmers on trucks ab Ashburboa.

News in Brief.

Messrs Friediander Bros, Ltd, will hold a clearing sale of live and dead stock, imple ments, etc, on the farm of Mr John Devery, Lyndhursb, on Monday next, May 14. The farm of 282 acres will also be offered at the same time and place

Transvaal War.

The Enemy in Full Retreat.

Pursued by Cavalry and Horse Axtillery.

Strength of Lord Roberta's Forces.

General Buller Advancing.

The Boers Collapsing

Anxious for Peace-

Kosolution of the Voiksraad

The Band Mines.

The Transvaal Warned "by the Powers.

Ctflnalties Amongst theColonialf

Bravo New South Wales Trooper.

Unitsd Press Association—By Bleotrio Telegraph—Copyright London, May 10 Botha, with ten guns, is confronting General Hamilton's column, General Rundle is guarding ike country between Winberg and Lady brand, in tbe Eastern Free State. The ; Boers in that part of the country have removed their headquarters from Ladybrand to Olooolan,and are occupy ioga strong position at Mequating't Nek. May 11 Lord Roberta telegraphs from his position north of the Zand River, on Thursday, that the enemy are in full retreat, with cavalry and horse artil lery pursuing them along three differ ent roads.

Lord Roberts has thirty thousand men with him, equalling General Bailor's force. The latter ia beginning to move,

The Transvaal Yolksraad has au thorised the Government to adopt peace decisions according to the circumstances.

There is a consensus of opinion in Natal and Gape Colony that the Boers are collapsing, and will crave for peace at the earliest moment.

Telegrams ahow that the Free Staters, without President Steyn'a approval, held a meeting and passed resolurions favouring submission.

The Standard states that the Euro pean Powbrs have warned the Trans vaal that if the mines are destroyed, Great Britain will be requested to exact personal compensation, beginning with the Presidents and high officials.

Only a few of the Rand mines are working. The remainder, including the Simmer and Jack and Ferreira deep mines, are flooded.

' The new Governor of Delagoa Bay is trtating corned beef, clothing, and boots, destined for the Transvaal, as contraband of w»r.

Twelve thousand cases of supplies retcain in bond at Delagoa Bay, owing to the contraband decree. The plans for defending and supplying the garrison at Lydenburg are thus ham pered. Many foreign mercenaries are quit ting the Transvaal in disgust. Private Felting, of the .New South Wales Lancers, has died of enteric fever.

Corporal Hennessy, of the Tictorian Mounted Troops, was wounded at Karee. Bugler Atkins, of the same troop, is missing.

Mr HellaweH, representative of a Capetown journal, and Adrian Hof ! meyer, journalist, have been released from prison at Waterval. Sydnby, May 11 Corporal Wenhal), of the Oeylon Mounted Infantry, has written to the Daily Telegraph recording an incident which might otherwise have escaped notice. He, with several others, in cluding Private Peek, of the New South Walei Mounted Troops, went ! foraging at Klip Drift. Wenhall and Peek separated from their companions, and shortly afterwards were surprised by a party of Boers, and both ilsd. Tha Boers dismounted and commenced firing, Wenhall received a wound in the thigh, and his horse was shortly afterwards shot under him. Peek, who was fifty yards ahead, wheeled round and gavt the wounded Man his horse, and then sheltering alongside the dead animal, kept the entray at bay. Wen hall returned with assistance two hours later, and found Peek still blazing away, although the Boers had nearly surrounded him by the time assistance arrived. Peek killed two Boars,

Cheery News from Mafeking.

(Reoelved Wakapuaka Ma; 11, 10.35 ptn, This Office 11 1 ptn) London, May 11 Lord Roberts wires—" Have had a most; cheery telegram from Baden Powell dated April 27." Mr Chamberlain stated in the House of Commons that the Natal loyalists would be compensated for losses out of the indemnity hereafter to be exacted from the enemy. New Zealand Scouts, finding arms and ammunition stored in a farmhouse in the Smithfield district, burnt the buildings and removed a span of oxen and a waggon.

THE COMMONWEALTH BILL.

United Preis Asaooiafcton—-By Eleotrlo Telegraph—Copyright Brisbane, May 11 Lord Lamington's remarks, which have given umbrage to Mr Barton, were used during a speech of Tuesday night at the Presbyterian Assembly. Lord Lamington explains that there has been some misunderstanding. The meaning he intended to convey was that there would be no Bpecial gain to Britain to retain the right of appeal ; and that being so it was a pity the great display of loyalty, which so struck the world, should be made use j of to obtain an advantage more illu sory than real. His remarks were not directed to the delegates, but to tbt section of tha London Press which said let Australia have what she wants because she is so loyal. The local Press give Lord Laming ton's words as follows :—He would ask if it ware at all likely, when there had been such a display of loyalty and enthusiasm, the Imperial Government would seek to trade upou that feeling

so as to obtain advantages which were really illusive.

The Premier states that Lord Lamington did nob consult the Minis try on the opinions he would express in the speech which he m&de. It simply happened that in this case the Governor held the same views a* the Ministry.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, May 10 At the Primrose League, Lord Salisbury said that the Government of Britain uniformly aspired to justice, law, and peace; nevertheless, adequate and timely precautions were wine Maritime empires were invariably killed by & blow at the heart He [ concluded by saying he favored the formation of Rifle Olubs and other means of defence emanating from the people themselves. Melbowrnb, May 11 It having besa stated that the Eastern Extension Company had de clined the Victorian and New Soiith Wales conditions, Mr Watts says that he has not received oftcial intimation of «ueh a thing. On the contrary, he hopes to receive a letter accepting the proposals. Lqnd«h, May 10 Sir N, Lindley, who has resigned the position of Master of the Bolls, has been appointed a Lord of Appeal, in (succession to Loed Morrif, resigned.

The Plague.

YESTERDAY'S RECORDFBOM SYDNEY. ■■

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Copyright Sydmet, May 11 The fresh cases of plague to-day are; —Michael Maloney, Moon Piric; James Kgan, Chippendale; Robert Waller, Manly. The deaths are:—Maloney, Ah Fong, Farina, and Reid. Thirteen patients have been dis charged. Very few persons are taking advan tage of the new supply of prophylactic. Only about one hundred were inocu lated to-day. (Received Wakapuaka May 12, 545 am, Shis Office 10.27 a m) Melbourne, May 12 j A man, Byron, at Port Melbourne, j has been quarantined, as be is sus« pectsd to have the plague. A dead cat was found in a building in Flinders ; Street infected with plague. Received Wakapuaka May 12, 945 am I This Office 10 27 am) ' Adelaide, May 12 The Gera's fireman is suffering from plague. i

Wellington, May 11 The Colonial Secretary is prepared to accept the suggestion of Dr Roberts, plague commissioner at Dunedin, that the Union Company give a bond form to passengers from declared ports, to be retained by each passenger, which, on the signature of a medical man being appended, ia to be sent to the intpsctor of police. Mr Ward adds that if the bond system is not thoroughly carried out, there would be nothing left but to increase the time of quarantine, but he is anxious to avoid this. Dr Mason, one of the sanitary commie aioners, is going south to-day. Mr Gilruth is detained making a bacteriological exami nation of the rats captured here at Wanganui and elsewhere

SHIPPING DISASTERS.

The Wreck of the Sierra HeYaila.

United Press Acnooi&tion—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Melbourne, May 11 The artillerymen at Portsea re covered several thousand pounds' worth of the Sierra Nevada's cargo. One of the pilots ia convinced that the vessel was blindly ran ashore. Had she been put on the port tack, the green light at Fort Lonsdale would have shown the captdn that he was only a mile of ihore, and th<*t if he had th» red light he would have gone in safely. The low of the Magnet is laid to haYt been due to the vessel refusing to answer her helm. A heavy sea is running and the Magnet is likely to break up.

THE LATEST.

Australian

United Preas Association—By Eleetrlo Telegraph—Copyright (Received Wakapu&ka May 12, 945 a.tn, Thie Office 1027 am) A Pensions Board. Sydney, May 12 A Pension! Board has been ap pointed to dtat with claims by families of the ••ldien killed or wounded in the Transvaal war.

THE THIRD CONTINGENT AT EAST LONDON.

The East London Daily Standard of Tues day, March 27, contains the following :— "The New Zealanders landed yeiterday morning, and marched through the towa to the camp. They are in charge of Major Jowsey, a fine ipecimen of a colonial officer. The physique of the men is remarkably fine, and &a they swung up Oxford Street called forth enthuiiastic applauie from the speota tors. We understan 1 that Maj >r Jowaey and his men will remain here about a week, The hones have had a long journey, and must be given a day or two'a rait, before they are taken up to their work at the front. We extend a • hearty welcome to oar New Zealand oousins, every obo. The men are encamped on the commonage oppon ite to the military hospital, near the recrea tion ground. They are picked shots, the test having been a. severe one in this respect; and are specially adapted and trained for scouting purposes. They are very keen on having whab they term a ' scrap' with the enemy, and are eager to geb to the front. The same paper of the 29th contains a report of a smoking' concert given in the Drill Hall by the Mayor to welcome the New Zsalanders. The townspeople and their gnests were mingled at small tables, "and the open, frank bearing of the Rough Riders soon effaced any feelings of restraint aid won all hearts." Major Jowsey and his officers are named, and there were also present Colonel Smythe and several officers of the Northumberland and MunsUrs Regi ment) and the band of the former. The Mayor proposed the health and a cordial welcome to Major Jowaey and his men. He said that every Bast Londoner was "proud of the spirit shown by their sister Colonies to assist in this struggle for freedom. They wanted nothing but one flag, and they did'nfc intend to have any other. It had oosfe many valuable lives, this attempt to undermine , British supremacy in Bouth Afrloa, but peace and prosperity were coming. He trusted many of the men he saw there that evening would ajbtie down with them |M fellow

Colonists. There was a grand future before this country, and room for all,'* The toast was drunk with musical honoura «' and cheer after cheer for the men and ttf ir officers." M»jor Jowney made a very brief speech in reply, and, to atone for its brericy ha asked hia men to give them their Maori war cry, and in response to repeated recalls the men gave it again and again. Ihe Standard naively remarks: •• We don't think that East Londoners, or anyone else, have heard anything like it before." Among the company happened to be Dr Oonan Doyie, and he was called upon lor a speech, the chief point of which was a repetition of the idea he put iuto words in London, that: * statue should be erected in London to Kramer, as " the man wl:O had federated the British Empire." They Bhould, he added, put Kruger under ic. The report of the pro ceedings closes with the remark that " We can only add that the inhabitants of East London who were present at last night's function were proud and happy to make the acquaintance of so gallant a band of British gentlemen." „ The papers from which we extract the foregoing show that the Mayor of East London was a little premature in one matter. They contain big advertisements dated March 20th, in which the Mayor announces that arrangements had been made for a demonstration to celebrate the relief of Mafeking when that should be achieved. The order of a procession and its rout* nro laid down, and the churches are requested to join in a Thankss/ivlng service on the Market Square. This plan has now been held in waiting seven weeks, and the event which is to call for its applicatien has not yet arrived.

HAMPSTEAD TOWN BOARD.

An adjourned meeting (from April 20), of the above Board wu held last evenling. Pretest Messrs McEirea, flant, Oawfey, and Andrews. Apologies were received from Maura Elliott nod Keeley. i BLROTION Or CHAIRMAN ' The Clerk took the chair, and called upon th§ meeting to elect a ebairman for the remainder of the Board* term of office* i Mr Andrew proposed, and Mr Hunt seconded, the election of Mr MeElrea wfaioh was carried uaurimoialj. HrlicXfrea then took the chair, and thanked the Board foe the honour done Mm. Hs would prefer to him men an older member, Mr Elliott), in the chair, bat that gentleman had distinctly declined, as he could not give the. necessary *fan», and he, Mr McElna, would do hie beet for the d strict, and hoped to receive the hearty co-operations of hia fellow comrais* sicmecs. BAT fOISON. A circular wa« received from Mr T Gar* ret, LytteitOD, notifying the Board, he wae prepatsd to supply a rat poieop, which bad proved very successful at Port—Received, TBANSFSB. Lot 4, R.B. 8500 wm authorised to be transferred from J H Maynard to M Mare den. WOBKS OOXKIXTH. The Works Committee reported a num ber of channel* required cleaning. . Mr McEirea had bad the storm water let off at Mr Poystis'a and at the school gate. The Clerk was instructed to ask Mr Poyntz to allow a culvert to be pat aoirots the footpath into hie section in Willow Street. It was also decided to pot ■ few loads of fhingle on the cutting near the same place. The improvement of the footpath and channel at the school, and drainage at the junction of Trevor's Road and Beach Road, were left in the hands of the Chairman to attend to. Some patching was erdered to be done on the footpath, and the Works Com* tnittee was authorised to inspect the reads od reserve 1261, with poweer to act. The Gletk was instructed to obtain copies of the Abbatoirs and Slaughterhouses Act by next meetiDg. INBJPICTORS OF KUISAKOIS At the request of the Police Department, Constables Hogan and Bade ware appointed Inspectors of Nuisance* ELECTION The Returning Officer was instructed to hold an e'«3 tion of one Commissioner to fill the vacancy caused by Mr J H Maynard's resignation. ACCOUNTS An account of £2 15* 6d was passed for payment BOARD OF HEALTH. The Board *ab as a BosH of Health. IKSFEOTOa'S REPOBT The Inspector's report was read, and wu deemed satisfactory VISIT OF IKSPKCTIOK It wa^s resolved that members, together with an inspector, mike a house-to-home visit of the diatriot during the month The meeting then terminated

THE ABHBtJBTOU GUARDIAN ; SATUfIDA*, MAY 12, 1900



BAZAAB IJ? AID O | tt , »»„.„■»■ a House." -.cted by—Mbs Mack ay. can be reoeived on an after MAY 14, 1900. MRS MAOK&Y trusts that her long cotineotion with the Ashburton County Hospital will be a sufficient guarantee thafe all Pftbients (who can be attended by their own Dootore,) will receive every oare, AbsentioD, and comfort. For terms apply to 6 44 MRS MAOKAY.



, 1 *' I i I O ? g * * ! 5 * fe k Si.. Pj ■* ■ q « *n S ■ §1 s fi a i P3 p I p p i to



THE New Zealand CLOTHIiG FAOTQKY HAS received a Special Consignment of Men's and Boys' Tweed Overcoats and .Capes, which they are marking at Ridiouloua Prices to clear. SEE THEM AT ONCE.. DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY. Mod's Overoats and Capes 25* 61, for 19s 61 ; Boye' ditto lla 6'l, for 6ss 6d. Men's Overcoats and C*pee 263, for 21sj Boys' ditto 12a 6d, for 7s 6d. Men's Overcoats and Capos 32a 6tl, for 25a 6d,; Boys' ditto 15j, for 9s. Men's Overcoats and Oapea 35 ■» for 27-s 6d ; Boys' diito 16s 6d, for 10a. Men's Ovefcoata and Capes 37s 61, for 29a 6d ; Boys' Reefers 10a 6d, for 7s 6d. Men's New Shape Chesterfield Waterproof Coata made to order. A pery large selection of patterns* Ladies' Waterproof Cloaks made to order. See our pattern?. CLOTHING FACTOBY. ¥. H. BEOKIJNGSALM, Manager DATES, LOtRY AND GO. ■/■ FOR Gas Lamps, 16s Each- New Shipment o! Bells and Carbide ri ust .to Hand. DATES, LOWRY AMD GO, Barnet!) Street. E. W. H A N M &1T TO FARMERS.



I AM prepared to make very liberal cash advances on all produce—Grain, Wool, Frcean MnttoQ or Lamb, Sheep Skins, etc, etc., which may be placed in my hands for Bale here—or for aale by my representatives in London. I shall nob charge any Commission here for the- advance —and my representatives in London having the full knowledge of dealing with all. prodnce consignments which they may receive, and having plenty of money to meet my drafts, will nob sacrifice anything entrusted to iheir care, if there is the slightesti chance of doing better by folding for a while. The question of selling indis criminately because they do not know per ■onaily the consignor, is & very strong fea ture in the mode of doing their business, which has always recommended them. E. W. HANMER, J. WILSON, SIGN-WflllEß. LARGE STOCK OF WALL PaPEKS, WINDOW GLASS, MIXED PAINTS PICTURE MOULDINGS, I ARTIST'S MATERIAL, &o. BUPNETT BTREJST, opposite Mail Office I'elfiDhona 6B



Tfi^f,, -tfNCIL / -*- Oaadid 'Sl Goaf j: RIDING. I o t?e notice that the following have been duly nominated | ■ty OouDcillors for Mount Hutt McFARLANE, ANDREW; MORGAN, WILLIAM. And I further give notice that a Poll for the election of one of the above, named Candidates will be taken on 21st May, 1900, at the Road Board Office, Methven, and Schoolhouse, Luuriatoa, between the hours of 9 a m to 6 p m F. MAIN WARING, Returning Officer. Aghburton, May 12, 1900. 5 118 T. Bullock. TO LE 0\ HOUSE of 6 Rooms oenfcrally situated in Burnett Street) # Apply to T. BOLLOCK Agent. TO SPECULATORS AND OTHER 3. RAKAIA, TOWN PROPERTY Estate of W. Cox, deceased ; on aooounb of the Public Trustee. Being Lots 366, 354, and part of 352, con taining in all 2 Roods 20 Perches, fronting Maokie and Rolleston Streets, with Build ings thereon ; let to tenants Offers are invited for the purchase of this Full particulars on application T. IiULLOOK "~ TINWALD. NEAR THE COUNTY SALEYARDS. OA ACRES QA ■ 4>U ACRES 4U WITH Oomniodious Dwelling Housn and other extensive improvements, the Property of Mr F. Bonninqton. This not having been sold on SATUR DAY last, Offers are invited for the purchase of same; Full particulars furnished on application* T. BULLOCK. N. Z. FARMERS CO-OPERAIIVE ASSOCIATION, Joint Agents, ' T~O~LE rJ\ SUITE of Rooms, centrally situated in the new Victoria Buildings next Ar cade Burnett Street. T. BULLOCK. __ — A ~ A FARM of 265 Aores, Springfield District, Rural Section 32643, mostly in Eoglish grasses. For terms aud partiou ars apply to T. BULLOCK. Agent. TO LET. AT a Low Rental, viz 5s 6d per week, Small Shop with Rooms attached, fronting East Street South. Apply to T. BULLOCK, Agent.



The first fruits of Mr W. H. ; Collins' kip to the London warehouses may be seen in the m&gnifioent selection of table lamps and oil stoves the firm of Mr Collins k Co. have just opened up, and now on show in their window. They are certainly worthy of Inspection,



Unequalled and limnoible, Woods' Great Peppermint Cure for Coughs and Colds, Is 6d and 2a 6d 4 Cinnamon Cure, Wahoo, Koolibah of Benjamin Gum go 2 Ashbubton DmraCb. SHEARMAN BROS, have large stock LoASßy's Wfthoo, Benjamin Gum, Koolibab, and Cinnamon Owe,



O Iten You feel worn out, blown out After tired out, and un:Si> for work, iMLeal S all energy seems to Have left. You awaken with a bad taste in mouth, your sleep has been disturbed and unrefreshing. These are all symptoms of Indigestion that should be attended to. LOASBY'S WAHOO I will speedily alter all this. It stimulates the liver, renders the bowels active, strengthens the stomach, and imparts tone and strength to the whole system. One bottle usually cures. Prioe, Is 6d; obtainable everywhere. Sole Manufacturers: IOASBY'S "WAHOO" 212 MANUFACTURING COY., LTD« Woods' Great Peppermint Cure for Coughs and Colds neve; aila—ls 6d and 206 d



"Y7ITADATIO, THI GREAT HERBAL REMEDY IS YOUR FRIEND. TEST THE TRUTH OF THIS STATE MENT) CLERKS AND BUSINESS MEN. IP TOU SUFFKR FROM COLLAPSE OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. DHE PERHAPS TO HEAVY STRAIN AND PRESSURE OF BUSINESS, READ TUB FOLLOWING TESTIMONIAL t— Dear Sir— About 18 months ago I vm forced to givt up my poiitioD, owing to an attack of Con gestion of the Brain, earned by EXOESSIYE STUDY AND WORE. For some time I was very ill, and m under the care of fonr of the beat doctors in New Zealand. -1 found that although I toad recovered from the Cerebral Congestion THE NERVOUS SYSTEM had reoeivsd such a shook and had beoome so weakened that my medica advisers informed me that I would hare to take perfect) test for a long time, and that it would be from 2 to 3 YEARS before I would thoroughly regain my strength and be what I had been prior to my breakdown- Knowing of the wonderful results which had followed the taking of Titadatio I resolred to go in for a course cf it, and after drinking about 12 LARGE BOTTLES of the MEDI CINE, I rejoice to be able to say that lam now WELL AND STRONG again, and en joy the best of health. I feel that I oannofc but let young men who struggle through* the weary days of their ofloe work, feeling no weak and ill that life has very few pleasures for them, know what your medtoiae hn« done for me. To all inch I earnestly reoom mend Titadatio, as I am perfectly'sure :!• will thoroughly tone up the system and drive all impurities out of the blood. Yours very sinoerely, EDWIN C. SERVICE. " Linbhorpe," Newtown, Sydney, Dec, 16/91 S. A. PALMER, Distributor-General fcr Australasia. Prioe of Vitadatio, 5i 6d and 3i 6d» All Chemists and Grocers Head Offioe for N. Z. 39, Manners Street,, Wellington.



EXTRAOBDINABT CASK—At ISohllOft (Yio» torid) on April 17, a post-mortem examina tion wm conduoted to enquire into the ! death of » man found floating in tha Camp* aspe River. During the post-mortem the doctor operifcing| made an extraordinary discovery. In the centre of the heart, he found an ordinary wax matoh embedded. Fatal Accident at Temuka—A sad »ool« dent occurred at Temnka on Thursday after" noon. Mr Nicholas Connell waa engaged in Btacking clover for Mr £ Garr, of Arowhunea, ; when owing to a fork handle mapping, he waa thrown off his balance and fell a dUtanoe of some feet, He was carefully tended, and the cervices of Dr. Hayea pr6mptly # a*cared. Paralysis of the spine ensued, and deceased expired yesterday morning early. An adr ditionally 4»d oircumstftace in oonneotion with the accident is the fact thab.deceased was about to visit the Old Country asd b.ad his paasage secured. He had invited some relatives to b/d him good-bye, and they will arrive in tirnt only to witness hia funeral. Don't Ootqh—Belief can be obtained iai mediately. Use KBATING'S OOUQH LOZENGES—weII known aa the utterly un rivalled Cough Remedy. Strongly reopm* mended by the many eminent phyaiolaas. They at) once check the cough ftnd remove he cause—without any after effect; the moat delicate san therefore tak« then* On* Lozenge alone gives ease—one or two a>t bedtime ensures teat. Sold everywhere in ids 13|d each, ALL Loasbt's Preparationa—Cinnamon Cure, Koolibah, Wahoo, and Benjamin Gam—Kb JED Oooo«, Storekeeper,