Mail Notices.

Mails close tor the following places as cinder, subject to the necessary alterations :— THURSDAY, AtiGUST 23 For Northern Ports and Westport, alao to oounccb with Papanui for South America, and specially addressedcorrespondence for United Kingdom and Continent of Europe via Monte Video, per Rotoimhana, at 6.30 p.m. Due London October 9th, MONDAY, AUGUST 24 For Australian Colonies (xia Bluff), South Sirica, Ceylon, India, China, etc, also United Kingdom and Continent; of Europe, (specially addressed via Suez), per express, to connects with Taluns, at 12.30 pm. Dae Melbourne September 3rd ; London October 9th.

THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

(Traini leave ABhbarton daily for— OHRISTOHURCH—afc 720 a.m., 11 a.m., 5.15 p.m., 7 5 p.m. (express) TIMARU—at 10 55 a.m., 350 p.m. DUNEDIN—at 12.54 p.m. (express) SPRINGBURN—ab 4.25 p. m. Trains arrive daily at Ashburton from— OHKISTOHUROH-ati 10.45 a.m., 1247 p.m. (expreai), 8 p.m. TIMARU—at 10.35 a.m., 2.5b p.m. > DUNEDIN~ats 6.57 p.m. (expreßß) SPRINGBURN-afc 9.45 a.m.

EPHEMERIS.

Phases of Moon fer Auf tut

SUN.

SECOND EDITION Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22, 1900. THE CEMENT QUESTION

The recent action of the Mayor of Ashburton in connection with the purchase of 750 casks of ceoient without consulting the Borough Coun cil, throws a remarkable—not to say startling—light upon the effects of bad example. Mr Hugo Friedlander has been selected by his fellow-citizens to occupy the highest position in their town—a quasi-judicial position, in which soms knowledge of the funda mental laws relating to civic govern ment ; 9 disposition to administer them faithfully ; a recognition of the rights of other representatives of the ratepayers ; and familiarity with the rules of debate, are qualifications absolutely essential. And the present occupant of that position, judged by his past conduct in public position?, was generally admitted to be better adapted for it than the majority of his fellow-citizsns. But the circumstances in connection with what is known as 11 The Oement question," have shown bow a bad example may influence even the best of us. The Mayor expends £500 of ihe ratepayer's money in direct contravention of the law passed by the legislature for municipal govern ment, which provides that "No contract, the amount whereof exceeds £20, except in case of urgent necessity, shall be made except after public tender, of which due public notice shall be given." When, after he had ignored this provision, his action is criticised in the Council and outside of that chpmber—where we may tell the Mayor that comments have been both forceful and free—this is his answer in his owa words:—" Surely if the Hon the Premier can set aside acts he brings into law for his country's good, I, as Mayor, can do likewise if by doing sol save the honest ratepayers from the greedy clutches of such as the one who signs himself ratepayer." Why, even the Premier of New Zealand would hesitate about taking the stand the Mayor of Asbburton has done. So tuuoh for the high-handed proceeding* which some of the Borough Councillors have attempted to criticise. Now let us see how the Mayor uses his power as Chairman of the Council to prevent that criticism of his action which it is evident he expected, since he made the mistake of saying, that certain councillors were instigated by persons outside to bring the subject up. It might have been supposed that as he insisted upon having done the right thing in expending more than £500 of the Borough funda without authority, he would have allowed the matter to be fully discussed. Bui he did nothing of the sort. He did permit, and even encouraged, a long and useless argu ment upon the quality of the cement he had bought. But the moment any councillor made an attempt to approach the real point at issue—namely his having deliberately broken the law, he immediately frustrated it by simply refusing to allow the speaker to pro' ceed. His explanation—if it may be so called-—was in one case that the Council had formally confirmed his ac» tion, and in the ' other that the Councillor wishing to move an amend" menfc had already spoken. As to the fir&t, why surely, if the Mayor was so certain he had acted on strictly proper lines, be need not have objected to the fullest enquiry j while ruling that a Councillor could not move an amend" ment because he had spoken before was manifestly absurd. Moreover, we may remind, the Mayor that in a general way, he is not so particular in the matter of Councillors frequently speaking ou one subject. Some of them make quite a little collection of speeches on questions before them, aud discuss matters in the most com fortable way possible from thefr seats. But this is neither here nor there at the present juncture. What the rate payers are must concerned about just now is that the head of the borough affaire, and tbs chief magistrate of the

I town should hold such extraordinary \ * views as to his duty, as the Mayor has i expressed. We have the highest opinion I of Mr Hugo Friedlander's business experience and judgment, and fully acknowledge his services to the rate- \ payers of Aahburfcbn during a period extending over many years. But we are forced to condemn his attitude in this matter, and regret exceedingly that he has taken it. The question, whether a, particular brand of cement is as good as another, is a matter of very small moment compared with the pxtraordinary proposition laid down by Mr Fried lander, that the Mayor may set aside fifty Acts of Parliament if he should feel so disposed. We think that be missed his way on this occasion. Had he frankly admitted to the Council that he had infriug- d the law, tha chances are that nothing more would have beea said about this cement ques tion, and Mr Friedlander weuld have still been regarded as one of the men, best fitted amongst his fellow citizens to manage their municipal affoirs. But with all their faith in him, they are uot disposed to entrust him with the despotic power he claims.

Local and General.

%* Interesting reading matter will be found on the first and fourth pages of this issue.

Whether Forecast—Captain Edwin re ports : —"Strong west to south west and south winds; glass rise., weather colder." A Convhsihnob—Those interested in the &shburbon stock rales coining by train from the north will be pleated to know that the morning train now stops to allow pas&engere to alighb at the Ashburton sale yards.

The Governor.—Mr H. F. Wlgram has placed his home on Park Terrace, Christ church, at the disposal of the Governor for a fortnight) in November, and his Excellency has accepted the offer.

Telephone Exchange—The name of Mrs E Mack»y, Private Hospital, Burford Heu«e, has been added to the list of subscribers, under No, 63, and No. 61 has been altered to Fire Brigade (Captain Barber's residence}

The Dorik Horse-Beseding—Tho effort of the ;Dorie formers to secure a good draught stallion have bo far (failed, as no response was made to their advertisement inviting offers. This is certainly a remark able facb, which speaks volumes for the possibilities in horsebreuding in the future.

Two Field Cobnuts Ahbestkd.— Trooper Wilkie (Ashburton) was a member of a party consisting of Bimingfcon Scouts in structed to proceed to a farmhouse west of Kroonstadt and arrest; two field cornets. The mission was successful, the Boers (who had stolen back to their thomes) being es corted to Kroocstadt and handed over to the permanent) guard there.

Chak»b of Owkbes—lt is reported on good authority that the Canterbury Roller flour jailla nearly opposite the Ashburton Show grounds, have changed hands. This property was owned by the Assets Kealiz*, lion Board. Messrs Wood Bros of Chriat church, who visited Ashburton yesterday are reported to be the purchaser.

Football—The following it the draw for seven aside football tournament, ab Tcmuka to-morrow.—Piratea A team meets Waihi A, beam, Pirates B team meets Temuka B team. The following will reprasenb Ashbur ton against Duna&ndel at ths Domain on Saturday, the match to start at 3 p.m.— Pilbrow, Lynskey, Crisp, Rickman, W Fitzgerald, D Wilson, Blunden, Fawcett, Curtis, Chapman, Booney, Robertson, M FitzgeraH, Cromie and Hobbs*—The follow iog will represent their respective ,teams in match to be played in the Domain to* morrow: — Southern Cross — (Trevorton), Stigley, McCallum, Johns, A Pritchard, Hodgson, Piokford, Kobottom, A Hunt, flurrell, Brook, Turner, Oox, Simpson (2), Smith. Emergencies — McGinn, Thomas, Brace. Tinwald—Anderson (2), Beii (2), McKenzie, Kobiaeon, HeeeStine, Shearer, Culverb.ousa,Cairnoroas,BGudiiell, Fitzgerald (2), Baxter, and Brown.

A Rbuo—The building ia Burnebt Street opposite the present Mail office has been raised bodily upon a large trolly, and was yesterday carted away. This building formed at one time the original Mail and GtJAR lAN office, and a comparison between it and the present imposing newspaper offices, which are already too small, affords further proof of the advancement of the town. The gap formed by ths removal of tha old building is to be filled with substantial brick premises, tenders for which are now let to tne order of our enterprising townsman, Mr T Bullock.

Grain Shipments—The Corry vreehan has loaded at Timaru <t cargo of wkeat on account of Messrs Friedlander Bros. She is expected to leave the channel for orders to-day. For the same firm, the Italian barque Guiseppe D'Abundo, is daily expected at Timaru from Auckland to load 15,000 saoks of wheat for the Home market. The steamer Kilburn is due at Oamaru on Sunday next, and from thence goes to Timaru and Lytbel ton, to load 45,000 saoks of oata for the Caps to the order of the British Government. The cargoes for the baique and the steamer are folly engaged and are ready for ship ment.

The Salvation Army—There was a good attendance at the Oddfellows' Hail on Moo day to witness the Limelight and Kinemato graph (xhibitioD by Adjutant Dutton. The Limelight apparatus was a very powerful one, and the pictures were clearly defined on the canvas—the Kinematograph Sims being exceedingly life-like and realistic. During tha exhibition of the Passion views ap propriate hymns were snng, which added to the effect. The proceeds of the above exhibition arebeing devoted by the Salvation Army to the Indian Famine Fund, making a total of (with previous collections) of £35 for the fund from the local corps and Ash burton people.

A.O.F,—The ordinary meeting of Court Ashburton No 6729 A.O.F. was held on Monday night, Bro D Amos presiding. The sick visitors reported one member still oa the sick fund, he being on a fair way to recovery. The Secretary gave some inter esting items of Friendly Societies in general, from the Chief Registrar's report of Friendly Societies in Great Britain for 1399. P.C.R., Bro Kerael, gave a very interesting paper on Forestry, for which he was awarded a hearty vote of thanks, and was requested to give it again on quarter night. One candi date being propused for membership, this Court was olosed by the C.B. in the ueual way.

MAYfiELD—The Mayfield Mutual Im provement Association met; for the fort* nightly meeting on Tuesday last. There waß a good attendance of members, Mr Ham, the President taking the chair, tome new members were elected. Good papers were given by Mr S Doyle, »nd Mr Cooper on, " Which does the most harm to the oountry, the miser or the spend thrift" Mr Doyle taking the former, which side h« very cleverly defended, bub to bo purpose; for Mr Cooper wan for tht spendthrift. In the discussion which followed tht reading of the papers, some very iateresbing speeches weie given by several members. A visitor from Ashburton gave two amusing recitations. With the usual votes of thanks the evening closed.—We regreb bo state that through a severe attack of pleurisy, the Rev H X Lawrie was unable to hold the Evangelistic services at) Mayfield as had been arranged

Thb Domain—Daring the sitting of the Domain Board on Monday, Mr Scaly and Pauling Beverly criticised the expenditure on the sports groundi. The former saying thab the proper way to expand money on the domain, was to lay it o»fc in the making of prettty flower beds etc., and thus induoe visitors to come. Both member* considered that money had been wasted on the bowling green, tennis, and croquet grounds. The Mayor corrected the figures of the preview speakers and showed that out of the £440, which had been expended on the domain last year, only £167 was expended on the sports grounds, and £100 of this had come bftcjfc in rent. Mr Thomas defended the expenditure and Mr Willis said that the only objections to it had been heard fjrom members of the Board. None of the expenditure of the ratepayers mosey bad been bo little orlttoiwd m this,

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

United Press Assooiafcion—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. St. Petersburg, August 20

General Grodekofl has informed the Cz*r that the Russians have conquered the right bank ef the Amur, and con verted it in?o an internal Russian river; The Press,commenting on the report, recalls the Ozai's promises to abstain from selfish aims. | Hongkong, Aagust 21 Missionaries from the Shan-si province reached Hankow after fifty days' journey, in which they endured fearful hardships, They ware reduced to eating grass, and were mere skeletons when they arrived at their destination. Five women and children succumbed during the journay. August 20 Li Ping Heag hag died from his wounds. Igndok August 21 The Queen cabled to the Marine Guard at Pekin—" Tkank God you have been rescued. I and my people awaited with the deepest anxiety the good news of your safety and the happy termination of your heroic defence of the Legation. I grieve at the losses and the sufferings of the besieged.

The Chinese are obstinately resisting the Japanese attack cm the Imperial Palace, which the Allies have sur rounded.

The Plague.

Unitei Press Association—By Eleotdo Telegraph— Copyright, BOGKHAMPTON, August 21 A Chinaman named Ah Moy, who was afctackad by the plague, is dead.

The Murders by Blacks.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Sybney, August 21 A brother of the Governors and four other blacks have been lodged in gaol on a charge of having no visible means of support, to prevent them assisting the outlaws.

OBITUARY.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, August 20 The death is announced of Sir William Stakes, the eminent doctor. Tho event occurred suddenly at Pieter maritzburg. Sir William Stokes went to South Africa early in the war, as consulting surgeon to the army. Sir Malcolm Frasar, ex-Agent- General of Western Australia, is dead.

TRANSVAAL WAR.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. London, August 2d Lieutenant Pearse, a Taamanian officer who w».s captured at Klerks dork, escaped from the Boers. The burghers at Pretoria are greatly impressed with the fairness of the Court-Martial on Cardna. The latter declares that Oaao, a British detective, originated the plot, and enlisted him when he was drunk. Fe admits that be committed a breach of parole. London, August 21

The Boers captured 52 of the Kiio berley Mounted Infantry at Klerkedorp on July 25th, and fourteen Seaforth Highlanders at Reitfontein on Thurs day last. General lan Hamilton occupied Ghavteuok, in the Bustenburg district, and captured two Krupp guns. Major General Faget has occupied Waterval, north of Pretoria. ! In the Harrismitb district 634, Boers surrendered to General Bundle. The following casualties are reported in connection with Sir Frederiok Oar rington's force, haying occurred chiefly on the 16th :—Private McDougall, Captain J W Harvey, New Zealanders, and Private Gibson, New South Walct, killed; Private Bolton, dangerously wounded; Oaptain H F Fulton, Lieut R W Collins, Sergeant Liskie, Privates J Alexander, J J McOauley, M H Tiaoent, McOortney, Sutherland, seve rely wounded, all New Zealand Rough Biders; Privates McOastre and Lee, Victorians, died of thoir wounds; F Grace, Victorian, made prisoner; W Hay ward, South A ustralian, slightly I wounded.

Was Office Revelations.

The Glasgow Mail says j—The revela tum« mad* before the War Office Con tracts Committee as to how K/nocha of Birmingham secured huge contracts for cordite at a figure below that at which they offered, but still above the tenders of other reputable companies are so serious that a full and searching investigation must be demanded. It is perhaps scarcely necessary to say that the " Arthur Chamberlain, direc tor " of Kynochsj is the brother of the Colonial Secretary, and that Mr Powell Williams, the Financial Secretaty at the War Oftce, who had a principal hand in the business, ia one of the most prominent members of the Birna* ingham Ohamberlainite " ring." " Take care of Dowb" is quite evidentlya prime maxim with the Birmingham clique. Lloyd's Weekly has the following on the subject—la consequence of the irregularities in Army contracts re cftntly mads public, instructions have, it is stated, been given that from firms tendering for contracts the names must be obtained of all persons who are principals or partners, and in the case of limited companies the names of the directors.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, August 20 The warship Royal Arthur has been recommissioned for the Australian station. The Aberdeen steamship line has purchased the steamer lonic. New York, August 20 During a skirmish in North-east Carolina, Commander South was wounded in the abdomen.

Ashburton A & P Association

A committee meeting of the A and F Association was held in the Association's offices yesterday afternoon. Present — Messrs G W Leaclley (chairman). J M Furze, J Studholme, jnr, J Bonifanb, 0 Reid, Maweon, T Stone, J Stringfellow, D Me- Kendry, 8 S Chapman, Denis MoEendry, J Bland, JON Grigg, E Oookson, E Rich, F MoCofferfcy, 8 Brown, T. Taylor. The President mentioned the locs sus tained by Mr T E Upton by the death of his son, and it wag resolved that a letter of condolence be forwarded by the Association.

A letter was read from Lincoln College in reply to enquiries respecting the grass grubs A Setter from the New Zealand Railways, re the proposed siding at the show grounds, regretting th.»*> they could not agree to the request to have this work done. The following new members were elected : -~Tho» Lemon, Liuriaton j J M William son, Winohmore

Mr Stringfeilow congratulated the Asso ciation upon their successful efforts with th» Railway Department in obtaining a stoppage of trains at the-saleyardsi

The report of the revising or programme committee was read and adopted, with the following alteration—-that horses in earners' class be judged at one ton capability instead of as formerly

Mr Kioh offered a priae for the best colt or yearling filly, accompanied with its dam, the property of an Aehburton farmer, and Mr G A M Buckley £10 10g for the beet troop horse, to be under open competition, both of which were cordially accepted. Mr Stringfeilow offered to make apthe ; amount of two and a half guineas aaked fcr ! by Mr Peach for inbred halfbred wethers, | which was accepted with thanks SHOW DAT The President pointed out that there were | Chriatohnrch f unutions on the Ist and 3rd of November, and this was his reason for bringing this subject. forward again, and ascertaining whether members thought an alteration still should be made. He was of the opinion they should still adhere to the date arranged Mr Reid thought the Governor should be invited to attend tht show, which was agreed to *'-"-■£ A discussion arose about the tbow day.bub it was deolded to retain the day as already arranged for, i.e., Novembers AHALYSING Intimation was made that manures will be analysed if sent to the Secretary of the Association, who will have same analysed without cost TOTS OF THANKS A vote of thanba was passed to the Press for pamphlets freely given upon agricultural subjects, after which an adjournment was madd to the Orange Halt, to hear Mr W W Smith's paper on the ** Grass Grub "

THE LATEST THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright (Received' Wakapuaka August 23, 9 23 a m, This Office 957 am) Hons Kong, August 21 Sheng, director of telegraphs; Li Hung Chang, and the Chinese Minister at London declare that the Dowager Empress left Pekin a week ago. Li Hung Chang «ska for an armistice and offers to opes peace negotiations. Before her flight from Pekin the Dowager beheaded Hsutung and a dozen other officials and imprisoned Yungia

Austalian

United Press Association—By Eleofcrio Telegraph (Received Wftkapuaka August 22, 9 40 a.m, This Office 10.25 a.ml Sydney, August 22 Lord Beau champ, with a view to facilitate the proposal that the Governor General should be sworn in and live in Sydney, bas decided to retire from the Governorship and leave* Sydney early in November, Perth August 22

In the Legislative Assembly Mr Illingworth, leader of the Opposition, as an amendment to the Address in Reply, moved a want of confidence motion i The Premier adjourned the debate for a week. A similar motion has been tabled in the Legislative Oouncil

THE TRANSVAAL WAR

United Frees Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright (Received Wakapuaka August 22, 9 40 a m This Office 10 27 a m) LOKBON, August 21 On Saturday Brigadier General Mahou engaged Do Wet at Roodekop jest, on the -west bank of the Crocodile river, and captured some waggons and prisoners, De Wet sjamboked some burghers to compel them to march. If Lord Roberts' orders had been carried out to the letter on two occasions De Wet would have been captured.

Trooper Aufrayer(New South Wale» Infantry), Trooper CottSj. (sic) New JJealander, have each been awarded one of the four scarves made by the Queen and given for distinguished bravery. The recipients had to be selected by their comrades,

Received Wakapnaka Aug 22, 10 30 am, This Office 1118 am) Sydney, August 20 The Herald correspondent states that the Johannesburg plot was discovered through a nurse who obtained the information from her lover disclosing it to a patient. The latter informed the military, and the lover was arrested Among the papers found on him was one from the Commandant of a large force of the enemy, which was within 14 miles of the town. The paper contained names of a large number of foreign, wealthy, and promineat residents, against whom no suspicion of disloyalty had been hela. The intention waa to cause a panic at the Gymkana and then shoot the British a*d their \ supporters. Several hundred arrests; have been made.

United Press Asaooiabion—By Eleotrlo Telegraph WeliMN&tok, August ?.2 A private cable states that Lieutenant Collins, who was wounded in the Qtfcoshoop engagement, only received a flesh wwund and is not in danger.

The Musical Union.

The members of the Ashburton Musical Union are to be complimented on the success of bheir eighth subscription concert, which was held at the Oddfellow** Hall last even ing before ft large and appreciative aadienoe. The programme was excellently arranged and the classical element had not undue I prominence. The orchestra gave evidence of having had plenty of hard work, and in opening the programme gave one of those bright, sparkling, and graoeful measures of Klusman, entitled • Daphne,' in which they paid due attention to light and shade. We have never heard Mr Edwin Craighead in better voict than in his vooal contribution ofßonheur'i < King's Own.' Tbi« g»tle man shows marked improvement upon hit former efforts. A feature of the evening proved to be the Andante from Mendel sohns cooosrio Op 64 by Mr MoOiurg, who

handled his violin with more than hi* usual skill. The piece was a difficult one, and right throughout careful study wae evidenced in the thoroughly correct rendering of th* item. The harmonics came out very clearly, whitet the double stopping was also a feature of his work. At an encore he gave the well known intermezzo from the *CavaHena Rusfcicana,' which he played with feeling and verve. The next number was an "item of admirable vocalisation in Bishop's 'Lo hear the gentle lark,' contributed by Mrs Herbert Steel. This lady certainly has never appeared to greater advantage, and her pure olear notes easily conveyed to tht audience the interpretation desired by the composer. In this contribution tht flate obligato of Me Snodgrass helped to complete the effect by its bird like notes, blending softly, though clearly and in perfeot tune and time, with the vocalist. In response to an enthusi astic encore, part of the number was repeafctdt Mrs Donald McLean, Mas. Bach., in her academic gown, contributed the mournful mnaio of "Der Wanderer*' by Schubert- Lizt as a pianoforte sob, the difficulty of which can only be understood by one, who has played Lizbi arrangement* of Schubert* BODgF. The strong feature of Mrs McLean'* remarkable playiag, wae the perfect nota tion of the solo through the m*ee of aooom* panimsnt surrounding It* In response to an enthusiastic encore, she played on«th« solo in which her delicacy of touob was very satisfactorily shown. Later on Mrs Mc- Lean contributed Greig's " Aus dem Garni* val," the fine chords and brilliant runt charming the audience, and as a recall piece she executed one of Chopin's Waltzes with marked sacceee. ' Fiusuti'a Song,' ' The Baft,' was nicely sung by Mr J Oliver with string accompaniments. This singer gives promise of becoming a really good vocalist, but we woe'd commend to his notice the necessity of rather more attention being paid to light and shade, the piano and forte passages nob in our opinion receiving quit* suffibienb attention. Richard's Glee, " Let the Hills Resound " wes carefully rendered by the members of the Society as ft whole, accompanied by the Orcheitra, and thfi popular and well known item, met with the appreciation of the audience, at evidenced by a repetition being called for. Jones' " Geisha," a selection performed next by the Orchestra, was one of the best items ever rendered by the Musioal Union* The fantastic features of the pieoa were well noted and it was given with a good swing and attention to time from start to finish. Mr J Burgeee in Adams' " Holy City " shows himself to be the possessor of a good voioe, but evidences of a want of sufficient training were apparent aUhough he applied through* out great expression to bis item. Next on the programme came Mies Clark, & young vocalist whose good strong soprano wae beard to great advantage in Gray's " A Heavenly Song " Perhaps through nervousness some slight faults were, apparent, that mil with time, we are sure, disappear. The atteck in some notes was not taken with that force we should like, and rather too much effort was at times apparent, although on the contrary some of the highest notes were taken with the utmost clearness and power. -We feel sure that Mist Gl»rk will in the near future, take a preminent place in the rank of singers. Mr Wil" Ham McDonald's cornet solo, " Eternal Resb'' b T Picoo,ipmM.|?a t *fmirably i rea. dered ana assisted by the Occnesira, MlpScf to oosfribute a very pleasing item. The concluding chorus Haydn's "The Heavens are Telling," was given by the whole lfusical Union with pleasure to the -audience, and the only irregularity we noticed was in the higher notes of the ohorus and orchestra combined, showing the want of a few more rehearsals. At this part of the concert a reference was made to the deplorable death of Corporal R Upton, a former prominent member of the society, and the concert oonoluded with "God Save the Queen." The honorary conductor Mr Horace Gates is to be complimented upon the good work he has done in the sooiety aa Bhown in the success of the entertainment. The accom panists Miss Barrat't, [Mrs Claridge, and Mr McKeczie very carefully carried out the work allotted to them.

VALEDICTORY.

When it became knows that Mr T Langley and his family were removing from the farm on which they have lived for many years at Dromore, to Mr Brown's Farm, situated in asother part of the district), the many friends of the family decided that they could not be allowed to leave their old home without some token of the esteem in which bhey are held. A ' surprise party' was accordingly organised, and on Monday evening Mr Langley'* grain shed became a, scene of festivity. Among those present were Mesdames Kelly, Hanrahaa, Allen, Maxwell, Maioolmaon, Jones, Arrow, Pres< ton, Syme; Misses Hampton (2), Allen (2), Dickinson, Cameron, Searell, Hodgson, Beck; Messrs Wilson, Kelly s Hanrahaa (3), Allen, Jonts, Preston (2), Laaghlin, Cameron (2), Maleolmaon, Maxwell, Artow, Syme, Ellis and Beck. DDhe grain shed made a splendid ball room, and under the efficient management of Mr J rV Maloolnuon, dancing was kept np with great spirit until the early hours. During the evening songs were given by Mesdamos Jones* Preaton, Syme and Miss Dickinson j Messrs Beck, Malcolmson, and Maxwell; recitations by Mia* Hampton, and musical items by Hn Arrow (piano), Mr Arrow (Sate) and Mite Searell. The dance nrnsia was supplied by Mrs Arrow, Miss Searell, and Messrs Arrow and Syme. Ample refreshments were pro' vided by the lad'as; Mr Wilson in making the presentation, whioh took the form of a handsome tea service to Mr And Mrs Langley, aaid that ha was one of their oldest neighbours, and was able to bear testimony to their man? ex«el- Icnt qualities. It was pleasing to remember that their friends were not leaving the district, but were nimply moving 4o another part of iti Mr Maloolmion, in a eulogistic speech, spoke of the high esteem in which Mr Langley waa held. On bsbslf ef iTairton friends, he preseated Mr Langley with a handsems mat for Miss Langley, Mr Langley, in reply, said that it gave him great pleasure to sea so many frlenda renad him. He had lately been visited by, ate Nawlands friends, and it had bow fallen to his lot to be entertained by hia oldest friend's is the Dromore diltriot. He hoped they would all visit him in hia waw home. They would find their new neighbour, Mr Doig, « white man all through. He thanked hia Dromore and Fairton friends for their handsome presents. Very hearty oheera were then given for Mr and Mrs L&ngley, and the singing of "Auld Lang Syne" brought • most enjoyable gathering to * oloae.

Lincoln Collage and the Grass Grub.

At a former meeting of the Committee of the Ashburton Agricultural and Pastoral Association it watt decided to send an application to the Lincoln College asking their attention and advice in dealiag with the matter, and the following reply was received »t last meeting, held yesterday :— Canterbury Agricultural College, Lincoln, 17ch August, 1900 The Secretary, A; and P< Asaooiation, Asbburion. Sir,—l am in receipt of your letter rt the N.Z. grass grub and beg to state that 1 brought the matter under tike notice of the lecturer in natural aoiemoe, Mr F. W. Hilgendorf, MA, BSo., who replies as follows -.—" Owing to the recent date of my appointment here my investigations on the grass grub have barely began. I tried the methods suggested by the Government! Biologist in reference to the pest in gardens<l I find that injection with carbon bi-sulphide may be regarded as a practical remedy where small areas such as lawns are affected. The cost of clearing a tennis lawn would average about Bii I next tried the other method suggested, viz: watering with a solution of eaustio potash. This I find to be absolately worthless and indeed absurd on the face of it. I proved that an application of caustic potash involving the expenditure. of £166 per ace will not hart the grab, bat wilt permanently injure the land, lam now experimenting with gas Hire as a remedy, but cannot yet speak with certainty oa this method " Mr HUgendorf further states that should* remedy be found he will immediately maka it known and I will acquaint you of it.— I am, etc , J. Baynb, Direotor. The raiding of tha foregoing letter caused some adverse eruioiam at the meeting- Mr X Stone pointed out that the reply wa^

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAS j: WEDNESDAY., AUGUJST 22, 1908



First quarter Full moon Last quarter New moon

D Ji 4 4 11 9 17 11 25 a

M 16 am 0 am 16 pm 23 pm



Date Augusb 23 „ 24 „ 25 „ 26 .. 27 „ 28

Ri«es 646 644 6 42 6 40 6 39 6 37

Sets 5 21 5 22 5 23 5 24 5 25 5 27



■PPRING Goods will bo on view at •• The ! WD Corner" on Saturday, Aagnat2s.—•! WAWTED— Buyera to see our value in I Pr«B8 Goods. We have a well | ■elected atook, bought by our London Agent j for cash in the beat markets and we confi Aently invite inspection and comparison. Vitst'olasa Dreßtt-makiog on the Premises. ~-MITOHBLI,& TURWBB SHEARMAN BROS have large stock Loasbv 3 Wahoo, Benjaaiic Gum, : Koolibah, aad Cinnamon ure LAST Five days of "The Corner "Sale.i Secure Remnants and Job Lots.— KOfctHOOTB & HE-WORD. WANTED KNOWN—Ladles' Jacket, formerly 27s 6i! now 4* lid, Ladieß Capes formerly 30a, now 5* 63, Ladies Maontosheo 4s lid, Girls' 2s lid, Children's Uliteiß from 2s 6d, Ladies' Coraets from Is Id, Holland Aprons la.-—Andrew Orb's, Cheap Bat*. 7 FOR Ranges, Register Gratea, Bad M*ntelpieoe« try Babble* Bkcs, who «ffet «peoial inducement to purohaaera. Lwfge •tooks cow to hand. ALL Luasby's Preparations—Cinnamon Cure, Koolibah, Wahoo, and Ben jaman Oiim—at J T 0000 Storekeeper | WANTED KNOWN-ThatJ. MoiseN has received a large stock of Winter Boots and Sboea of the best material, also nboat to arrive new stock of French booda, and invites the Public for inspection. Sale for one mouth, commencing SATURDAY, to clear the way. J. M. being the only reliable and praocioal Bootmaker in the town, this gives him superiority and facility to know tho best value and quality. Repairs carried on just Ui« same, in tho oheapeet, neatest, and n.ost fauhion&b!e etyie. Bttßt leathers used, and wnrkm&nahip by the best of tradeemea, at The Hall, East Street, Ashbonou NEW BOOKS.—From London to Lady amith, Knights of the Grose, Siege of Ladyatnith, Shadow of Allah, Outsiders, When Life vu Young, Fruitfulnees, Besieged by the Boers, Jamie Meredith, Maroelle of the Latin Quarter, the Sanctuary Oluh, Empire Makers, Gilbert Ligan, V.O. fa fcale of the Boer war), Story of Baden Powell, the Mnlabele Campaign (Baden Powell, 8d , Deeds that Won the Empire (8d), ohsap editions—H M Jones rfIHOSB who desiro a convenient house JL and up-to-date, should consult Hard lit Bros.i for gc^d supply of hot and cold water FINEST Roller Hour, 2Golbs 14a lOObs 7s 6d, sOlbe 3a 101, and 251b 2-. Bran 3s 9J per bag, Sharps 6s 9i per bug. at Fletcher Bros., Cash Supply Stores. W" ANTED KNOV N~Removal of the old established firm of Mitchell & Tcsneb, from old premisee in Tanored Htreeb o New Shop in Burnett Street "AHEAD OF THEM ALL" AND RECOGNISED AS BRITAIN'S T>®ST T>I°YOLE RITAIN'B XJEST JDICYOLE. Come and Inspects tub Budge - Whitworth / World Renown, Firat-Olasß Qaality. XJasnrpassed in Stability 3 Elegance, and Spesd. The Finest Make of the Present Times. KING OF THE ROaD AND CHAMPION o£ the RACING PATH. Lady's & Gent's £21. Lames' & Gents' Machines on Hike. LARGE STOCK OF ACCESSORIES ALWAYS ON HAND. HONEST WORK at HONEST PRICES | UffIKJNJ GiTlf CYCLE WORKS. ! BURNETT STREET, j Opposite Ashburton Club, 8105 I-O-OF, M U LOYAL ASMBURTON LODGE No. 6003. npHE Lodge will Celebrate its 27bh X Anniversary by holding A BALL In the Oddfellows' Hall on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22nj>, 1900. Musiobf Misa Simmonda'Band. Refresh ments provided. Tickets 3a 6d; Extra Lady la 6d. Tickets can be procured from any member of the Committee. Chairman of Committee. N.G. Bro. J. Newman; Secretary, P.S. Bro. C. Campbell. 8 101 * CYPHER^~INCUBATORS. Used on all the Government Poultry Farms WE have now landed a large consign ment of these celebrated American j machines, and as this wiil be fche last) ship ment available for this season's hatching, i •arly application ia r< quested. Our Illus trated list is free, if you wiil send us your ltd dress. Thk N.Z. Poultry and Bbh Sub?ly Co, Broad Bay, Danedin. Sole Ageata in New Zealand for the Cyphers Co. of Wayland. N V, U 3 A. 8 151 ~T7A DIES DR. MAXOMS SKIN FOOD is a power ful Tonio for the Face and Neck, which removes and prevents all wrinkles and imparts to the face a beautiful clear complexion. Ladies whose beauty ia at all fading should at once procure this Beautify ing Cream, which possesses wonderful rejuvenating properties. Sent to any ftddrofs 2s 6r3, also our Book on Health and Beauty, one shilling. Address— ALPHA TOILET COMPANY, Christehurch. ? 9 SMOKE PfOfiSJEGAY TOBACCO. The Latest and Best Manufactured by O Williams & Co., Ricb>'• jffld, V.A. ___„_____ 'IHBJ NZ. FABMERvV (JU-OPKBATIVB ASSOCIATION OF CANTERBURY, Ltd. WE have several really firet-olasa Farm for Sale on our books, and farmera niahing to purohaae would do well to oali on as for partioulare :— 520 Aorea Rakaia District 365  ,1 » 500  Dromore „ 1900 , t L&umton  1180 „ Springburn „ 76Q ti Wakanui „ 1031 „ Cherteey | 1958 t i Dromore [ T. F* GIBSON, 4149 Masigwt



LABGE IMPORTATION -op WALL PAPiSBS- I HAVE last received (ex b.s. Paparca) o> Shipment of the NEWEST IN PAPER HANGING, to which I invite inspection. These papers are exceedingly rich in desigb ; and colouring. People desirous of decorating their rooms later on, may chose their Hangings from the preaonb full Stock, and I will lay them wide until required. J. WILSON, HOUSE DECORATOR, BURNETT STUBET, Artists' Mater (J Depot.



I rjIHE VEEDIOT OF PRACTICAL RIDERS IS IN FAVOUR OF Absolutely Best; Built in New Zealand. GENT'S £21 _LA DY'S £22. BURNETT STREET. tNEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTOBY. Boy's Tweed Sailor Suits from 6s i Boy's Serge Sailor Snits from 7s 6d Boy's Tweed MdviHe Suits from 9s Boy'a Tweed Norfolk Suite from 12a Boy's Sac Knxker Suivs from 18a 6d Bey's OoTert Coare from 14s 6d Boy's Tweed Overcoat* trom 6s 6d Boy's' Reefer Jr.-.kets from 6s 6d Boy'a Football Jerseys from 3a 3d Boy'a Caps 6d each Boy'a Sailor Tarns Is each FOR GOOD VALUE, GOOD WEAR, LOW PRICE 00 TO THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. 20 21 I 22 23 f 24 25 ONLY ONE WEEK LONGER , REMEMBER AUGUST 25fch LAST DAY JOF GREAT WINTER SALE STARTLING REDTOTIOnSIcFgEHEEAL& FANCY Dh APERY, CLOTHING, & BOOTS. Fplendid Opportunity for Cash Purchasers. ROSLYN Blankets from 16a 9d English Blankets 8a 6d to 12a 9d Men's Saddle Tweed Trousers, Colonial, 10s 6d to 12s'6d Men's All Wool Kaiapoi Trousers 5* 6d, 6s 9d, and 7a 6d Men a Waterproof Coats, sewn seams, greatly reduced Ladies' Jackets, Oapeß, and Mantles half price 60 Maids' Macintoshes at 4s 6d; Ladies' 7s 6d Black Cashmeres from Is 6d per yard Grand Stock of Ladies' Corsets much under usual'price Navy and Black Serges, all wool, much reduced Every Article in Stock largely Discounted TAILORING DEPARTMENT.—-Having secured the service* of a first-class OUOTER, Suita now made from £3 Bs, perfect fit, DRESSMAKING.—Thia Department is giving every satisfaction ; fit and style, at moderate prices, ANDREW 0 R R . | mumjj———[■miniiM —n»i« ■■■ ■ ■»«—i—i«ii«iiiiiMimirirni— -^———— SEEDS. SEEDS. SEEDS. I 190 0. - - SEASON, - - 1900 ---i Nimmo and Blair's FAMOUS STANDARD SEEDS VEGETABLE SEEDS FLOWEK SEEDS 3d. PBK PACKET. !»■ PER PACKET. NIMMO AND BLAIR'S SEEDS GROW, FEW EQUAL, NONE BETTER; j ALL THOROUGHLY TESTED BEFORB BEING BENT OUT. $^ OKDER JEAKLY - - And hftve your Seeds in hand when it in time to bow. CATALOGUES CAN BE HAD ON APPLICATION. FLOWEK SEEDS in one hundred varieties I This lieG includes the most hardy varieties as well as the showiest;, and eaoh packet contains more than sufficient Seed to plant in an ordinary garden. SOW THEM AND YOU WILL NOT HAVE ANY DISAPPOINTMENT. SHEARMAN BROS., CiROOERS, IRONMONGERS, WINE & SPIRIT MERCHANTS, Mauket House, Ashburton.



KifiKJNAKD & WHIT*), City Pork Shop, Havelock Street;, HATE jußfc opened New Business in the Pork Line. Small goods of all descriptions always on band. The public are specially invited to call and inspect Pork Sausages, (fresh.) Daily cash buyers of dairy fed Pork, 8 104 AT Mrs Alcobn's Sale-—A large lob of Jackets and Capea just bought at great reductions will be offered much under usual prices to make ios>m for the Builders. Ako all her Dress Goods. A ohoice variety, at prices from Is per yard double width, Flannelettes, Calicoes, Pinafore and Dress Muelins all muoh reduced to clear. "X CETYLENE GAS -"without doubt J\. the Light of the nineteenth century, Hakdlet Bkos are prepared to give esti' mates to light up private residences and business premises, wi th this most economic) and beautiful light. FOR SALE — Galvanised Iron Squaw Tanks, also Corrugated Iron Tanks from 150 gallons to 1000 gallons—Apply HABDI.EY J3RO! ... _«-ÜB_,-



Smoke New Venus J 110 LET—Cottage of four looms and . Scullery, with washhouße and Copper Bet in ; about three minutes' walk from Railway Station, in Cameron Street* West. —Apply to J. Moison. 8 109 f 1 / ANTEDKNOWN^BariFIeert Pota• VV toes for sale, Cheap—Mrs P Bktts, East Belt Store 8 128



Hmoke JTew Vodih