SECOND EDITION THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

Trains leave Ashburton daily for— OHRISTUBURCH—at 7 20 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 3.15 p.m., 7 5 p.m. (express) TTMARU—at 10 55 a.m., 350 p.m. DUNKDIN—at 12 54 p.m. (express) SPRINGBURN-at 4.25 p m. Trains arrive daily at Ashburtoa from—» CHKISTOHUROH-at 10.45 ».m., 1247 p.m. (express), 8 p.m. TIMARU—at 10.35 a.m., 2 55 p.m. DUNEDIN— at 6.57 p.m (express) SPRINGBURN-ac 9.45 a.m.

EPHEMERIS.

Paasea of Moon fox August

SUN.

Mail Notices.

Mails close ior the following places &8 under, subject to the necessary alterations :— TUESDAY, AUG. 21. For Northern Ports, Wesbporfc, and West Coast, per Rotomahana, at 6 30 pm WEDNESDAY, AUG 22 For Northern Ports and Westport, Aus tralian Colonies (via Auckland), per Waihora, at 10.30 am. Dae Sydney September 1

Commercial.

PROPERTY SALES.

Mr P. Ferriman reports the following sales ;—321 acres 3 roods 20 perches at Dromore, to Mr F. Sorint ; town seotion 520, ioMrW. CPaga; perpetual lease of 100 aoraa at Westerfield to Mf H Jebson : lot 117 and house, at Hampstead, to Mr Evan Diviea ; lot 45 aad dwelling, A ford Forest Boad, to Mr T, Walker ; house and \ aore land,Wakanoi Ro*d, to Mr N, Johnson

CHRISTCHURCH GRAIN AND PRO DUCE MARKETS.

Quotations are as follows : — Wheat—Prime milling nominal, Tuscan 2s 51 to 2s 6i, Pearl 2* 6d, Hunter's 2s 41, whole fowl wheat Is lid to 2a. Oats (nominal)— Milling Canadian Is 10d to Is IC|<l, short feed la 9i to la 10J, Duaa and i.'amah Is Bd. Barley (nominal) —Prime malting 2s to 2a 6d delivered. Flour (millers' quotations, nominal)— Roller JB7, stone £6. Sharps—£4 Bran—£3 10s. Oatmeal—£lo Beans—2* 5d Peas—Blue Prussian and Partridge 2s 4d to 2s 51 I Potatoes—Derwents ( Aug deiiver) 38« to 20) an country stations O*teheaf Chaff—4sj to 47s 6d at near country station?. Hay—£3 5s to £3 10j, delivered ; primeeb baled £4, fob Seeds—Ryegrass, farmers' linei Is Id to Is 9J for fair, and up to 2i 6d for prime heavy, farmers s ed, town dressed, 2s 61 to 3s 3d, Cocksfoot 2| 1 to 2§ 1 for bright seed, to 3d for extra good, town machine dressed 161b to 17ib seed, 3£<i to 4J, Cow grass s|d, extra choie 6J'l, white clover 6d to 7^d

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. MONDAY, AUGUST 20, 1900. NOXIOUS PLANTS.

A letter that appeared in our correspondence columns a few days ago drew attention to the manner in ivfaich noxious plants, such as gorse, broom, and Scotch thistles are permitted to over-run the riverbeds of Canterbury. The writer points out that along some of the riverbeda the growth of gorse and broom is of such magnitude that in the evenc of flood, the water would be forced out of its ordinary channel, and in the case of the Temuka river would be diverted into the bad of a creek that would take it through the centre of a thickly populated district, and should such a flood occur at night the results would be disastrous. There can be no doubt that the increasing growth of gorse and broom in the riverbeda —in the Aahburton for instance—is a menace to the people occupying the banks where the land lies rather low. The constantly collecting debris most, in time, raise the bed of the river?, and it is not difficult to foresee that a time may come when an exceptionally heavy food would break through somewhere and devastate the surrounding country. The idea of encouraging the growth of plants likely to bind the shifting shingle in the be£s of the streams was all very well if steps were takea to regulate thtir growth, and prevent them from becoming a danger and a nuisance. That these plants iv the riverbeds are both, moat people will admit. Not only are their seeds spread all over the country on both sides of the whole cour«B of the rivers, but they harbour rabbits, weasels, and other vermin, and the time is assuredly coming, when, for this last reason alone, something will have to be dune. It is naturally asked why the Government does not carry out the extermination of noxious weeds on the lanjs under their control, a work that enjoins on private holders. The Noxious Weeds Bill Just passed by Parliament provides that "all lands being public reserves not vested in any trustees or local authority, and all unoccupied Orown Lands shall from time to time be cleared by the Minis »r, or under his authority." And " Every local authority, other than the Minis ter, shall, out of its general revenues, from time to time clear all lands under its control, and if it fails or neglects so to do the Minister may cause the same to be done at its expense," It would thus appear that there is no reason why the riverbeds should be so over run with noxious plants which private owners are compelled to keep down on their properties. No doubt the evil has aow reached such proportions, throughout Canterbury, at anyrate, that the expente of stamping it out would be great. But the matter ;s important and should soon be dealt with. We commend it to the consideration of Agricultural and Pastoral Associations.

Local and General.

%* luteresting reading matter will be j found on the first and fourth page* of thia BSUB. Sjpbikr—The reoesst mild weather, com bined witha couple of nor'- westers, has had lhi? tffiot of forcing forward the general growth in the county, and indications point to an early spring. Mosical Un 6n—-The last rehearsal for the forthcoming concert is advertised to be held at the rooms of the Sqaio'j to-night, at 8 o'clock sharp, when a y full attendance ia ri guested, 1 Immigrants MOM ICELAND—The steamer Vesta arrived a 5 Leiih lately from Iceland with about 260 Islanders on board, all immigrants on their way to Liverpool for Winnipeg.

Nor'wester —On Friday last Aehburton was treated to a regular old-faahioued nor'weßter, which raged with erratic force well into the night. A calm ensued up till Saturday afternoon, when a slight retain of wind from the nor'west prevailed. Qobse on FißE.—Oa Sunday afternoon a large column of smoke issued from the river bed, near the Old Men'a Home, attracting some attention^ It proved to be a gorse fire, which burnt ifsell out in the course of the day. Fatal Fall Feom a Lory. ~ A man named John Olancy, single, employed by J M Hey wood and Co, as a carter, died in the Ohristchureh hoipftal on Sunday morn ing, from injuries received by falling from the loft of tha stable where he waa iv the habit of sleeping; 10.0.F, M.U.—The 27bh anniversary of the Loyal Aahburton Lodge of Oddfellows will be celebrated on Wednesday evening next, 22nd inafc, by a ball, to be held in the Oddfellows' Hali. On former occasions the Lodge has had most, successful gatherings, and no doubt on this occasion there will be a large attendance. Tickets can be obtaiued from any member of the Committc. A Beggars' Club—Philadelphia, ever on the alert for a new sensation, has now a Beggars' Club. It is a guild, having as its objjct the eystematisation of the gentile art of beginning, and the reduction of competi' tion. The city ia mapped out in districts, and each beggar has a license for a small area. Any beggar refusing to join this novel Trades Union is promptly reported to the police. Sunday Music-In defiance of the refusal of Dundee Town Council to grant the use of the public parks of the city for eaored concert! on Sunday?, a Loohee band gave a performance on June 17 on the Esplanade, before an audience estimated at 15,000. The proceedings were marked by great decorum, and Councillor High intimated that the concerts would be continued. Unwomanly Clothes—The Chapter of the Rouen Cathedral have decided to refuse admission to ladies seeking to enter the sacred builiing in " unwomanly clothes," In giving publicity to this decision for the benefit) of its Bloomer readers, a contem porary adds that the rest of the French clergy will probably " follow suit."

Dobib—On Friday evening last an enjoyable sociel was held a Doric in the newly erected grain store of Mr Wm. Hacrifon, which was biodly pla'ed &t the dispoeai of ;ha A'^aroa bided Bohool. The decorations were arrayed wih great taste and the refreshments were in a most appetising variety. There were between three and four hundred present including visitors from Southbridge, Ash burton, etc , and the great success of the entertainment was very hrgely due to the kindness and energy of Mr and Mrs Wm. Harrison. The latter especially deserved very great credit for playing nearly all the music during the evening.

Ten' Years for Setting Fire to a Staok — At the Central Criminal Oourt, recently, before Mr Justice Gramham, John Wells, a oletk, aged 49, waß^fouod guilty &f maliciously setting fire to a stack of hay, the property of Mr Georg® Short Miller.a butcbar at Too ing; Mr Avory and Mr Guy Stephenaon prost outed.— A rick at the rear of the prose outer's premises was found to be in flames. The prisoner, who was oaught running away s admitted setting fire to the riok, SByinp, "I espeofc I shall get a long sentence for this," but he subsiquectly said that it was done accidentally, aa he was lighting his pipe. He edded that he had taken shelter by the side of the rick.— She prisoner had been iruny times in ouatrdy—twice for sacrilege. The riok destroyed was worth £200.—Mr Justios Gran'ham said no doubt from the prisoner's remrk when arrested he at that tima desired to return to Ma old he me, the Gaol, he having got tired of living a vagabond life. He secmsd to have taken a very acorate view i.f the oaee, fir the oflence wae one of the most serious kaown tn the law, &nd he .should sentence him to 10 years p.nal servitude.

Borough Improvements—A good deal of road forming is being done ab present about Ashburton. In Dobson Street the road has been levelled and footpaths formed, whilst in East strfiof-, fronting the D.unaip, the road is* being ploughed and levelled^ but (ho shingle (?) beicg put on it is far too coarse, stones six inches through being common. At the West Bait, past the hospital, the grass portion of the roadway is also in course of formation. A suggestion has been made to us that an excellent riding and walking brack might be arranged for round the belts. In summer the metalttd roadways become very rough, and if a strip were formed and grass seed sown, a capital summer riding or walking track might be made at) practically a minimum expense* This sug gestion certainly seems worth considering.

St John's Amsbxanoe Society, Ashbwr ton Branch—The fifth and iasb hoture of the First Aid Course was given by Dr Bolger on Saturday afternoon, when there was a full attendance. After the lecture, the doctor expressed himself p'oased with having had such attentive listeners, and hoped that he would have the pleasure of meeting them all again at the Second Aid Course, The examination will take place at the Borough School on Saturday next, the 25th, at 3-15 p.m., (he examiners being Drs Trevor and Hunter, and Miss MoAndrew for the bandag ing. Arrangements are being made for the Second Aid Course to be proceeded with, of whioh due notice will be given, and all those wishing to avail themselves of this course are requested go give in their names to the Seorctary as soon as possible.

Westbiwie D — A correspondent writes: —On Friday last Mr T Grace, dancing master of the Weaterfield dancing class, whioh was held here every alternate Friday evening, give a ball in the schoolroom as the wind-up of this winter's evening amusement; There were a very large number present, including visitors from far and near. Dancing cnynenoed at 8 p.m., and was kept up until the early hours of the morning* During the evening Mr J Byrnes, of Lagmhor, pleased the audience very much with his song, ' It never troubles ma,' for which ha received an encore, and responded with ' A soldier and a man.' Mrs Helena recited in a very creditable manner, ' The wreck of the Golden Bee.' Mr J Murray danced a horn pipe very nicely. Messrs T Mahoaey and G Warne exhibited an Irish jig in good style. Mr Lindsay also showed hit ability as a dancer in his display of a sword dance. Some of the last named gentlemen are among the best of the Lagmhor dancers. Mr T Grace made an efficient M«O. tfht musician! were,' Measra B Terrii (violin) and D Leitch (oomet), of Aahburton. Mr J Byrnes (violin) relieved them oocMlQQftlly e (Che refresh ments were presided over by Mrs Hannigan, assisted by Mr* Cook, Misses M Hannigaa and Hedgem&n, A most enjoyable evening was brought to a elope at 3 a.m., by till joining in singing * Au'd Lang Syne.'

"OUBSELYES AS OUHBB SEE Us."— Our friends are generally too polite to tell us our faults ; bub they Beldotn fail to observe the fit and style of our clothes. Young men who want to make good impressions, must bear in mind that " appearance goes a long way." An ili-fitting suit is uncomfortable, and an " eye-sore "to your friends. Don't risk it! If you are a stranger here, the grab well dressed citizan you meet will gladly direct you to "the Leading Tailors whera you will always find a large assortment of ' Up to date" suitings to asleot from, and where you can always depend on getting satisfaction. The large and still increasing business done by Mkssbs Cbaighead and Berkyman speaks volumes. This firm has just imported probably the finest stock of new seasons tailoring goods ever shown in Ashburton, including a beautiful range of (he new raio proof Beavers $nd Meit<r<iß for Ooverb ooata and Ohesterfidd overcoats, botk ; a«h{onible »nd durable. I '

Another BoBGiAKY-r-The premises of a' well-known firm in Aehburton were « atered by burglars, apparently early on Saturday morning, and a small sum of money appears to be the only re?ult of the thieves' work. We withhold farther details meantime.

WAS O( MMANDASJT OLIVIEa AN ENGLISH MAN? -Ifc is enid in New Zealand, saya ihe Scotsman that the Boer Commandant Olivier, whose death has been lately reported, was at one time settled as a colonist there. H« was (so the story rur.a at the Antipodes) a Birmingham man who emigrated to South Africa, tried his fortune with the Cape Mounted Riflee, then emigrated to New Zsaiand, and settled in Mangere, in the Auckland province. Thence he wandered home again to Birmingham. But a letter afterwards sanb by him to a New Zealand friend said that there were " too many call silk hats" to suit him. So he sailed once mor« to Africa, married a Dutch wife, and was found last spring in the ranks of the enemies of this country. \

In Fbaise of our Boys :—General Kally- Kenny baa a cousin in New Zealand, Mr Kenny, of Weßtport. In the course of a letter received recently by Mr Kenny, the General writes:—"Your people from New Zealand are very fine soldiers, and have often proved it, particularly in the eariy part of the war about Oolesberg.' He adds that he hopes the time will come soon when he oan claim a rest to live on his property amongst his own people ia Clare.

Fabmkbs and thi Telephonb —In the Eastern States of America nothing ia more notable than the almost universal use of the telephone in farming districts. Theae local circuits have been extended until they meet each other, when consolidations occur, and the business passes into the hands of a commercial corporation. The most valuable use of a country telephone is the communi' cation with immediate neighbours and with the local store, post office, and blacksmith's shop. For a telethons line which will give opportunity for this, no neighbourhood whote people have any energy need pay tribute to any corporation. Any two neigh bours within reasonable distance of each other, who have fifty dollars each, can have telephone connection any day. If they are quite near they can probably get what) they want for half that sum:

Correspondence.

(We do not hold ourseives' responsible for opinions expressed by our correspondent*

ASHBURTON SHOW.

TO THK EDITOR Sir, —As one greatly interested in the ■uccees of the forthcoming AshburtonShow, I desire through the medium of your columns to draw the attention of the Com* snittee to the fact that they have sand wiched the Bhow day in between the opening of the Christchurch Exhibition on the Ist of November, and the Naw Zealand Cup on (he 3rd. Although I know the Committee have already given this subject some con sideration, I venture to think that in consequence of these two important) events in Christchurch, they will even now re consider their decision, and decide on a day that will not clash with either of these two functions.- I am, fee , County Farmer.

Sporting.

CANTERBURY JOCKEY CLUB. GRAND NATIONAL MEETING. THIRD DAY Christchurch, August 18 Concluding results: Selwyn Handicap -Goldspur 1, 8t Denis 2, Sir Lanoelob "b. Won by a length and a half. Time-116f. Dividend-£5 U Final Hurdles — Torpin* 1, Ilex 2, Rauriri 3. Won hy a long neck. Titne— 3 2|. Dividend—£2 10b Hunters' Platb Handicap —Prorerb 1, Rex II 2 Hairtrigger 3. VVon by a neck. Time—2 49. Dividend— £7 U6d

Football.

WELLINGTON v. CANTERBURY.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Wellington. August IS Wellington defeated Canterbury to-day by 16 points to 6 points. The weather was fine for (he match and the attendance numbered about 4000 people. The feature of the game was the tiae combination of the Wellington backs, their p^saing being particularly fine. Except in the loose the Canterbury forwards were better than the Wellington vanguard, but the southerners showed weak defence, and moreover did not take advantage of what openings they had. Wellington creased Canterbury's line four times, Roberts and Brodie scoring one try each, and Woods two tries Two of the tries were converted. The Canterbury score was made up of two goals from penalty kicks.

CANTERBURY v. FLLESMERE.

A second fifteen of Canterbury tried con clusions with an Ellesmere fifteen ab Leeaton on Saturday. The city representatives were strong favourites, but the country team beat them by 11 points—two tries and a goal—to 6 points— two tries.

The Outlook in South Africa.

(LlOKßti PHILWM.) Apart from extinguishing the last embers of organised resistance to Imperial authority, what are the steps necessary in South Africa to promote peaoe and goodwill amongst its inhabitants, and to secure the development of its great resources aa rapidly »s passible ? Military government in the Traatvaal and Orange River Colony must obtain for a time, but civil administration should be established at the earliest moment) consistent with safety. Good soldiers are hardly Hksly to be good governors, and bad soldiers, amongst whom it is possible good governors might be found, are not likely to be seleoted. No form of representative government is possible until the population has again become settled, until <a census has been taken, and until all the machinery of oivil government has been constructed. To this end nob military but highly trained civil intelligence is essential. It is upon this ground that it saema imperative to begin with Crown Colonies. Responsible representative government should follow an soon as the population is ripe for it ; but I apprehend that at least two or three years must elapse before it would be wise or safe to introduce that system which isreergaised throughout the Empire as the best form of control. Iks time has arrived when serious consideration should be given to the ques tion cf either abolishing or of separating the office of High Commissioner for South Africa from that of Governor of the Cape Colony, with which it has hitherto been associated, British responsibilities in South Africa have now become so great, and the interests at stake so diverse, that a case might easily arise in which the High Commissioner would find his office in conflict with that of Governor of either of the Colonies with responsible government under the advice of whose Ministers he: acts. Whilst I am conscious ef the difficulties in the way I am bound to aiy that at the present juncture, when a re modelling of ao large and important a por tion of South Africa must take place, it would be fundamentally souod policy to have a-Governor in each Colony with representa tive government, and in each Crown Colony, with a Governor-General over all. That such a system is superior to that of having a number of independent governors can scarcely be disputed, the point being, how* ever, that the change would involve con stitutional amendments ; and in considering its expediency the question is one rather of opportune moment than of the wisdom of the step itself; When a difficulty arises it is no leas the natural tendency of govern mental than of human nature to avoid deai [ ing with it if possible. What it is therefore necessary to decide to day is whether within any measurable distance of time there is likely to be a more favourable occasion than the present to «q organise (he framework of government that it will fit in with internal changes for all time, I am, on the whole, inclined to think not, in spite of obstacle* fee whioh it would be fotuoui to bi blind,

Transvaal War

United Frees AMooiatiou—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright) London, August 17 De Wet outmarched and eluded Lord Kitchener, despite the fact that the British transports bad double teams of picked animals. His escape is attributed to the Boers' ability to march at night, their pursuers requir ing daylight.

August 18 De Wet'a force split into small bcdics and was last heard of near Rustenburg. They released ail the British prisoners in their possession, with the exception of the officers. lord Kitchener relieved Colonel Hoare at Elands river. General Carriugton, oa the 16tb, drove a small body of Boers from i Malmami in the direction of Zeerast. At Pretoria, Lieutenant Hans | Cardoa, of the Staats Artillery, was charged with breaking his parole ani plotting to kidnap Lord Roberts and officers. He pleaded "Guilty/ 1 but the Courtmartia), the President «f which was General Marshall, assisted by a lawyer, advised the withdrawal of the plea. Cardna is a young man of cool demeanour. Some sensational evidence was given, A burgher named Detoit deposed that early in July Cardna asked him to assist in an enterprise to stagger Europo, lie discussed the plot, which was to seize all the officers in Pretoria with the help of 250 residents, while Cardna rushed Lord Roberta's house, abducted him, and handed him to < Botha behind Beckett's kopje. He showtd a cyphed letter from Botha as proof of his genuineness. Wht>n asked about his oath of neutrality, he replied that that was nothing ; discovery only meant transportation to Ceylon. De toit declined to participate in the plot, and communicated the details to the constabulary

Captain Duban, the prosecutor, found a key to Botha's cipher letter on C&rdna Lieutenant Kruger, of the Imperial Transvaal Police, translated the cipher,, which ran :—" Proceed with the work Be courageous, I will not leave you in the lurch." Lieutenant Kruger and Marcus, late field-cornet, refused to join. It is believed the refusal of the women to retire to Lydpnburg will compel the final stand of the Boers to be made at Barberton. General Hunter encountered a com mando near Spitz Kop, south of Heil bron, and turned the flank of the Boers, forcing them to retire.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Wellington, August 19 His Excellency the Governor has been in formed by a cable message from Lord Roberts, dated 14*h insr,, that the garrison at Elands River was holding out on the 10th, and that General* Ovrringfcon and lan Hamilton had been instructsd to render them every assistance. His Excellency has also been advised by the General of communication, Capetown, that the Whakatane sailed for New Zealand on the 15th -inst. She hat on board the following invalids:—Corpor&la Solder, of Pembarton ; and MoBowel), of Robert's Horae ; Eagler Bell, Marton ; Gunner Kit ney, Hotchkiss Battery, Marton; Troopers yon Blaremberg, Wanganui; Frosser, Leei* ton ; Sullivan, Stratford ; Carrie, Waikato ; and Thompson, Middlmarcb. A member of one of the New Zaaland Contingents, writing to a relative in Napier, says ;—" There ia no doubt about it Africa is the place to make money. There are plenty of openings for young fellows, either working for the Government; or driving nig gers at a salary of from £25 to £30 per month, and 1 believe that at Kimberiey and Johannesburg one can eat up to as high as £40." '

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright) Sydney, August 13 An enquiry into the operations of the Metropolitan Charities' Association, formed three years ago to regulate the distribution of relief, shows that it had received over £1,000, and only col lected £87 privately, and expended £30 in relief, the balance going in salaries and expenses. Adelaide, August 18 The boiler of the flour mill at Ru dunda exploding, killing the engineer, Gharmston, and tearing op the railway line. Melbourne, August IS A divorce suit, Edith versus Adam Wilkie, has begun. The wife is the petitioner. Wilkie is a wtll known railway contractor formerly of Fordell, New Z°aland« Sydney, August 18 The warship Royal Arthur has arrived. The contracts for the supply of Newcastle coal to New Zealand for next year are now being offered. Some pit owners refuse to hare anything to do with the business unless a " rise and-fall" clause is inserted in the agreement. Others are disposed to take up contracts on a basis of a selling price of 10s per ton for the whole twelve months.

A week's jubilee festival of the Australian Board of Anglican Missions commenced to-day with special ser vices in the Cathedral and other churches. Twenty-two bishops, includ ing fourteen Australian bishops, the bishops of Melanesia, New Guinea, Waiapu, South Tokyo, and Nova Scotia, and the Bishop«besignate of Carpentaria, take part in the various functions.

Guiles, alias Reynolds, was re manded to Auckland. The Breelong blacks have been out lawed. London, August 17 Extension of the Brisbane tramways have necessitated increased capital. The company has therefore arranged for the subscription of a further half million August 18 Lord Wolseley, at the close of a field day, dfclared the Atderehot Division was unfit for service owing to insuffi cient elementary teaching, Paris August 18 A Grand Prix has been awarded at che Paris Exhibition to Western Aus tralia for ita naining collection New York, August 17 The murder of a policeman caused auti-^negro riots in New York, in which seventy negr»ei wtre injured

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

United Press Assooiation—By EUotrio Telegraph—Copyright. Hong Kong Augast }? Li Hußg Chang and other Chinese officials et&te that the Allies entered Pekin unopposed on Wednesday I The Commissioner of Customs at Ohefoo cabled that Pekin waa relieved on the night of the 15th The Ohiueie excavated ten thouiand tons of earth at Hohsiwu, with the object of cutting the banks of the Peiho. Three days' additional work would have enabled them to inundate the country suf&cieatly to arrest the advance of the Allies August 18 The Japanese admiral reports that the Allies attacked Pfekin en the east side on the 15th, An obstinate resis tance was offered them, but during the ' svening they surrounded and rescued the Legations. !he Japanese Joss wai 100, the Chinese 300' Prince Ohing welcomed the allies

The Imperial Court, with Prince Tuan and other Manchus, went to Shansi on the lltb, while the Kansu troops went towards the south west, hoping to attract the Allies and pre rent them pursuing the Court The bombardment of Pekin luted for a day The Japanese and Russians ad vanced along the northern side of the Tungchau Oana!, the Britiih sad Americans along the south side The Japanese exploded the Cheo | yang and Tone;hi gates on the eastern I side of the Tariar City, by which they enterec. The British and American! entered the Long Pien gate of the. Chinese cSty . The Chinese Minister at Tokyo informed Li Hung Chang that Japan was willing to assist the Dowager and the Emperor, but was determined to punish Prince Tuaa and several other chief snlprits

Generals Sungma and Li Feng Heng were wounded at the battle si Yang tsun Washington, August 18 Admiral Remey cabled that the Legations were safe Parts, August 17 The British loan to Wuchang has irritated the French newspapers im measurably. The Journal dcs Debats declares that nobody can prevent France disembark' ing troops at Shanghai. London, A tig 17 Mr Brodrick, in his speech yester day, repudiated the principle of spheres of interest, The postponement of the landing of British troops has been greeted with satisfaction in Berlin. Admiral Seymour is blamed locally because he ordered troops to Shanghai without consulting the Consuls. The Times blames Great Britain for not exercising ordinary prudence and foresight in China.

The Ohinese Minister in London affirms that a email force should be landed for the purpose of appeasing the population and averting danger. Hongkong, August 17 The Indian troopa land at Shanghai to-day; August 18 A number of British transport! at Wei-hai-wei have been recalled, arid return to Woosung. The Powers have agreed that th« respective admirals, instead of Admiral Seymour alone, shall watch the Ohinese Fleet in the Yangtsekiaßg, to prevent it attacking the transports. ' ' The capture of Haiching by the Russians is confirmed,

DESTRUCTIVE FIRES.

Nine Lives Lost.

Per United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph. Sydney, Aag IS. A fire occurred in a dwelling near Dun gog, and an old couple, named Mitchell aged 93 and 84 respectively, were burned to death, and an aged sou was badly burned. Sydney, August 19. Langdon and Hopkins's large timber yard at Petersham has been burned. The daxnaga is over £«000 MELBOURNE, August 19, A terrible fire happened at Bailarafe. A store, occupied by Thomas Jenkins and family and his married daughter, Mrs Algie and family, was burned down, and seven persons perished in the Barnes. The victims were :—Mrs Algie and her two little children, and two sons and two daughters of Jenkins. Thirteen were sleeping in the store. The others escaped with difficulty.

WEST COAST EXPORTS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Wbstport, August 19. The dutpnfc of coal from Westporb lasb week was 8229 tons 2 cwt, of which the West port Coal Company shipped 7729 tons 2 cwb and the Westport Co-eperative Company (Mokihinui) 500 tons. Gbkymouth, August 19. The exports for the wcok were :—Black ball Company 2057 tons 17 cwfc of coal Brunner Company 1133 tons 3 cwt o coal, 17 tons 11 cwb of bricks, and 17 ton 16 cwt of coke.

The Plague.

United Preis Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. TOWNSVTLLK, August 18 A man named Stephen! hai been attacked by the plague, and another Chinaman has succumbed, Sydhey, August It 1 West, who was attacked with plsgne in July, has died at the quarantine atatioß.

NEW WORK FOR CONVICTS.

The system of hiring oub convicts has been abandoned by Tens, Mississippi and Georgia, and the experiment has been made of employing them on farnu owned by the State and devoted excio* sively t > cotton culture. This form of employment has worked satisfactorily, Interfering less with free hbor than the abandoned contract system and yielding better returns to the State. la Texas and Mississippi the farms gave the State a profit- an( j )- ne convicts suffered none of the hardships and cruelties associated with the lease system.

THE ASHBURTON GtlAßDlAfl : MONDAY, AUGUST 20, 1906



First quarter Full muon L*atquart<r New moon

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Rues 6 50 6 49 6 47 6 46 644 6 42 6 40

Seta 513 5 19 5 20 5 21 5 22 5 23 5 24



- OIOT OV PRACTICAL RIDERS IS IN FAVOUR OF Absolutely Best. Built in New Zealand. GENT'S £21j_LAD.Y'8 £22. BURNETT STREET. »NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING_FACTORY. Boy'a Tweed Sailor Suits from 5s Boy'a Serge Sailor Suits from 7s 6d Boy's Tweed MelviHs Suits fro.v 9s Bny's Tweed Norfolk Suits f om 12* Boy's Sac Kn.cker Suirs from 18a fed Boy's Covert Ctar* from 14s 6d Boy's Tweed Overcoats from 6s 6d Boy's Reefer Jackets from 6* 6d Boy's Football 'Jereeys from 3a 3d Boy'a Cape 6d each Boy'a Sailor Tama Is each FOR GOOD VALUE, GOOD WEAR, LOW PRICE 00 TO THR NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. 1 20 21 22 23 24 ONLY ONE WEEK LONGER" REMEMBER AUGUST 25th LAST DAY OF GREAT WINTER- SALE STARTLING REDUCTIONsITgENERALA FANCY DKAPBKY, CLOTHING, & BOOTS. Splendid Opportunity for Cash Purchasers. ROSLYN Blankets from 16s 9d English Bionketa 8s 6d to 12a 9d Men's Saddlo Tweed Trousers, Colonial, 10s 6d to 12s 6d Men's Alt Wool Kaiapoi Troasers 5a 6d, 63 9d, and 7s 6d Men b Waterproof Coats, sewn Beams, greatly reduced Ladies' 'Jackets, Capes, and Mantles half price j 60 Maids' Macintoshes at 4s 6d; Ladieh' 7s 6i j Black Oashmere6 from Is 6d per yard Qr»nd £tock of Ladies' Oorsets much under usual price Navy and Black Serges, all wool, much reduced Every Article in Stock largely Discounted TAILORING DEPARTMENT.—Having eecared the services of a first-class cutter, Suits now made from $3 38, perfect fit. DEESSMAKING,—Tbia Department is giving every satisfaction ; fit and style, at moderate prises. ANDREW O R R. SEEDS. SEEDS. SEEDS. 1900. - - SEASON. - - 1900 ---. ... tft» _ — UIIBIIIII II I „%/,' >"— Nimmo and Blair's FAMOUS STANDARD SEEDS VEGETABLE SEEDS FLOWKK SEEDS 3d. PER PACKET. Id- PER PACKET. NIMMO AND BLAIR'S SEEDS GROW, FEW EQUAL. NONE BETTER; ALL THOROUGHLY TESTED BEFORE BEING SENT OUT. |gf OitDER EARLY - - And, hinre your Seeds in band whets it is time to sow. CATALOGUES CAN BE HAD ON APPLICATION. U'LOIiVER SEEDS in one hundred rarieties This liec includes the most hardy varieties as well m the showiest;, and eaoh packet contains more than sufficient Seed to planb in an ordinary garden. SOW THEM AND YOU WILL NOD HAVE ANY DISAPPOINTMENT. SHEARMAN BROS,, GROCERS, IRONMONGERS, WINE & SPIRIT MERCHANTS, Maxxkt House, Ashbarfcon.



FTIONKING'S LiDseed Ernulsioo, which JL has come to Btay in Asshburton is* oettftia cure for coughs, colds, and all chest! complaints. Sold by »ll local chemists and grocer* in bottleß ! l»6d»iad_j_6<i__ _2__ S KKRNARD^~WHITB, City P©rk Shop, Havolock Street, HAVE juat opened New Business in the Pork Line. Small goods of all descriptions always on band. The public are »p«oially invited to call and inspect Fork Smaagoi, (freeh.) Daily cash buyers ef dairy fed Pork. 8 104 AT Mrs Aloosn's Kale—A. large lot of Jackets and Capes just bought at great redactions wii! be offered much ander ueaal prioci to make room for the Builders. Also all her Dress Goods. A choice variety, at prices from Is per yard double width, Flannelettes, Calicoes, Pinafore end Dress Ma«lioG all muoh reduced to clear. "¥7IOR SALE — Galvaniwd Iron Square Jj Tanks, »l<«o Corruj{»i«d Iron Tanks, from 150 gallons to 1000 gallons-Apply tUftPLi? Bros



LAKGK IMPORTATION OF WALL PAPiiiBB. I HAVE jusb received (ex n.s. Paparoa) a Shipment of the NEWEST IN PAPER HANGING, to which I invite inspection. Those papers are exceedingly rich in design and colouring. People desirous of decorating their room! Uter on, may chose their Hangings from th« presont full Stock, and I will lay then? aside until required. J. WILSON, HOUSE DECORATOR, BDEMEIT STKEET. Artists' Mater »1 Depftt. Wew Venas



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HABDLEY BROS. Aahburton, supply windmill *ad Bt»nd for £12, Well sinking a& moderate r&tH. /GOVERNMENT LIFE INSURANCE DEPARTMENT. Policyhoiaers and those about to insure should note the three essentials oJ Life Insurance, — SECUKITY. LIBERALITY. ECONOMY. IN THE GOVERNMENT OFFICE,— SECUKITY is unimpeachable; the pay -1 ment of every policy is guaranteed by the State; and, in addition, the accumu lated Insurance Fund, invested in the soundest securities, now amounts to over three millions sterling. T IBERALITY is unequalled. Policies in J_J ari-ear are kept alive so long as the charges on the policy are not in excess of the surrender value. Polieyholders are unrestricted as to travel, residence, and occupation. Claims are promptly paid. Premiums are charged for age nearest birthday. Policios are unchallengeable on any ground except fraud, or suicide within six months. TJICONOMY is insured by direct Parlia _HJ mentary supervision. All expenditure outside payment of claims, &c, has first to receive the sanction of tho Legislature. Funds, over THREE MILLION POUNDS. Annual Income, over £400,000. Cash Surplus in 1896 {for three years), £225,000. J. H. BICHARDSON, 5J Commissioner. . Fiuit Trees and Foses, r iIHE undersigned having the largest stoo A of FRUIT TREES and ROSES i New Zealand, begs to offer them to the public at tho ollowing priceß— APPIES, on blight-proof ntoeks, 2yra old, 6s per d' zen ; 3yra old, 9s per doz; 4yrs old, 12a per doz; syrs old, in full bud and bea ing, 15s perdrz. L UMS, rra old 6s per doz ; 3yrs old, 9 par doz ; 4yrs old, 12a p«r doz ; syrß old 15aper doz; 6yrs old, JBi per diz. ROSES, Hybrid Perpetuals, 5i per doz  Tea Fcented, etc., 8j par dcz. SEBDLES3 GORSB, Plants 10a per 100; £A per 1000 ; Cuttings, 20a per 1000. Unknown correspondents mu-t send a remittance with their orders. Catalogues and prices of Fruit and Forest Tress and Ornamental Shrub* of all deacrip tion forwarded on application. ROBERT CLEAVE, Nurseryman and Soedaman, lavercarpill, N Z Established 1858. PELHAM POULTRY YARDS. THK Propriefors are largely reducing stock, to make room for coming season young birds. Some firat class Andalueians, Houdans, Orpingtons (buff and black), Gol den Pencilled Hamburg*, and Partridge Cochins will be for sale for a ehort time a extremely low prices. 7 169



. ISLINGTON Garden Fertilisers, (In 561b and 1121b Bags.) MOST of the Annuals and Vegetables which were awarded prizes at the Canterbury Horticultural Society's Autumn Show, 1899. were grown with this Fertiliser. Elmwood, Papanni Road, June, 1899 Gentlemen, —I have used Islington's Fertilisers for reveral years. ... In the kitchen garden I nse it frerly and find it advantageous for all sorts of veget*b'eß. As a liquid manure I have never used a better for pot plants an*l vegetables. In fact, I always have asack of your Fertiliser Sn my shed for an immediate use. JOHN JOYCE, Gardener. NICOLL BROS. IMafcric*-! A suite



G. MEDDINS "THE PEOPLE'S IRONMONGER Opposite Arcade, Burnett Street, INVITES particular attention to his Stock of Goods especially suitable for the Spring Season, including Dutch Hose, Garden Trowels, Hedge Shears, Weeding Forks, etc, etc. India Rabber Hose Pipe. TOOLS! TOOLS! TOOLS! In Carpenters' and Farmers' Tools I have the beefc selection in Aehburton County, at my well known prices, which are the lowest. BUILDERS' IRONMONGERY 3f every description, at bedrock prices, ncluding Locks of all kinds. Hinges, Screws, Brass Goods, REGISTER SKATES, MANTELPIECES, etc. AGENT for the following Makers' xIANGES :— Shacklock's Okion. Baning' ham's Zealandia, Scott's Atlas, Crown Iron Works Challenge, Storrier's Champion. FURNISHING AND HOUSEHOLD IRONMONGERY to suit everybody. BRUSH WARE, TINWARE, &c. Dont' forget a penny sayed is a penngr gained, <



Tht reliable Family Remedy Woods' Great Peppermint) Cure for Coughs aud Golds— liMaadSlW



rjlßOdE who de riroa convenient lions* JL and u--to-date» •hoold consult Hakb- LB7 Bros., for g«id ispply of hoUsd ool«| ttttit.,