EPHEMERIS.

Phases of Moon foe October

SUN.

THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

Trains leave Ashburton daily for— UHRISTOHUROH—at 7.20 am, 11am, 3.15 p m, 7 5 p m (express) TIMARU-at 10.55 a m, 3 50 pm DUNEDIN-at 12.54 p m (express) SPRINGBURN-at 4.25 p m

Trains arrive daily at Ashburton from— OHRISTOHUROH-at 10.45 » m, 12.4 p m (express), 8 pm TIMARU—at 10.35 am, 285 pm DUNEDIN—at 6.57 p m (express) SPRINGBURN—at 9.45 a m

Mail Notic

Mails close for the following places as under, subject to the necessary alterations:—

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18. For Australia (Due Melbourne Oot 24), and Tasmania, (due Hobarb Oot 22), India, China Straits Settlement, Bouth Africa, also United Kingdom (specially 'addressed cor respondence only) and Continent of Europe via Brindisi, per express, to connect with Westralia at Bluff, at 12 30 p m For Northern Ports, and Australian Co'onier(due Sydney Oct 24), per Mokoia, at 2 50 pm

Commercial.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright

•.(Received October 17, 9 9 p.m) London, Oct 16

There was an inferior selection at the wool sales. Good parcels were very firm. The wool sales included the following clips :—Yaogatiti 7^d, Henku 7d. The wheat and flour afloat for the United Kingdom is 2,360,000 quarters, Continent 11,185,000 quarters. Sydney, October 17

Wheat, chick 2* 3d to 2s 6d, milling 2«i 8d to 2s 9d« Flour, £6 to £6 10a. Oats, feeding, New Zialand prime 2s 2d to 2s 31, local Is 8d to 2s Id. Barley, feeding 2s to 2a2<3i Maize 2« lOd. Peas, Prussian blue 3« to 3s 3d. Bran 7| 1 to Bd. Pollard Bd. Potatoes, Circular Heads £3 15a to £4 10', New Zealand Derwents £2 10a to £2 15a. Onions, Victorian £8 10s to £11, American £15. Butter, dairy 7d to 7£d, creamery 84 to 91. Chee«6, large s£ito s|l, loaf 6d. Bacon, New Zealand flitches 5d to s|d, rolls 6d.

(The above quotations are those ruling between merchant and retailer, and do not represent the slightly lower values obtained by a rscognised broker.) Melbourne, Oct. 17

Wheat is unsettled, from 2s B|d to 2a 9d. Oats, Algerian 2s Id to 2s 3d. Maze 2a 9d. Bran 9£d to 9|i. Pollard 10£ dto lOfd. Potatoes £2 10* to £2 12a 6d. Onions £8 to €910s.

.Adelaide Oct 17 Wheat ia dull from 2a 8d to 2* B}U Flour £6 10ft to £6 12» 6d. Oats, Algerian 2* 4d to 2a 7<l, stout 2i 9d to 3s.' Bran 91. Pollard 10£ i.

ADDINGTON STOCK MARKET.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

Chbistchorch, October 17

The entries for Addington were—22oo fat sheep, 100 fib lambs, 5000 store aheep, 311 cattle, aad 314 pigs. CATTLE—ISO fat oittle, mostly good to prime sorts, were yarded. There was keen demand, and prices were fully upheld. Good to prime beef 22s 6d to 2b3 per 1001b, and other 19a to 225, Prime steers £9 to £11 15s. others £6 12s 6d to £8 10j ; prime heifers £9 7s 64 to £11 2s 6', others £6 12s 6 I to £8 10s ; best ct.wa £8 to £9 17s 6?, and others £5 to £7 10a. Dairy Cattle- Mixed entry and a good s*le for young cows at £5 to £7, others £2 15s to £4. Store Cattle—Nothing very good, but anything forward 4old well. Two-year-nld steers £3 8? to £3 15s, mixed cattle £5 9i to £3 15% eighteen months mixed sexes £2 17a 61, rough yearlings 20a, dry cowa £2 15s to £4 15s.

Shsep.—The yarding inoluded some very prime sheep, both in wool nnd shorn, and for good merino wethers there r-n* keen competition between butohere ««d u» z^ra for all suitable lines, and if anything, prices hardened towards the end of the sale. Prime heavy wethers brought 24a to 265, freezing quality and mixed sexes 20s to 245, lighter 17a to I9a, shorn wethers 16a to 18a 9J, shorn ewes 14s to 18s lid, merino wethers 13* to 19« 3d. Fat lambs, mostly good sorts, were in keen demand, firsts being taken for export, at prices from 12s 9d to 16s, the majority bringing 14s to 15s 6d. The yarding ot store sheep was the largest for some time. With the exception of a few lines the ewes and lambs were all sold. Wethers in the wool brought 18s 7d, shorn wethers 11s Id to 13s 6i, about 600 Chatham Islands 13« 2d to 14s 2d, hoggets' in wool 13s 8d to 14a 7d, sound mouthed dry ewes in wool 12i lid, ewes and lambs in wool 9i 5d to 10s 10d, shorn ewes and lambs 9a all oeunted.

Pigs.—All classes were well represented and last week's rates were fully maintained. Baconers brought from 31s 6d to 40a, equal to S^i to 3|d per lb ; porkers 22s to 30a 6d, averaging 3£d per lb; efcon s 12s to 18s 6d, and suckers and weaners 5 ■ 9d to 11s 6d.

BURNSIDE MARKET.

United Frees Association—By Electrio Telegraph Dunedin, Ootobor 17

Fat Cattle—l6s head were yarded, the quality ranging from medium to good. Competition was keen, and considering the weights, prices showed a further advance. Best bullocks £10 to £12 10», good to best £8 10a to £9 17a 6d, light £6 2s 6d to £8 sp, best cows £7 17j 6d to £8 5", medium £5 15s to £5 10a, light and aged £3 10j to £4 153.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1900. A WELCOME HOME

Most of the members of the New Zealand Contingents who have been invalided from the front are agreed on one point, which is, that they would have much preferred being allowed to remain in fc'outh Africa—even if not permitted to rejoin their regiments go that they might return to the colony when the whole of their comrades were also coming home. They say it was bad enough to have to leave their posts to be laid by the heels on a sick bed, but they Sflena to feel keenly having to come home two or three at a time. They are evidently sore about not being able to do as their comrades are doing, and see the war through. This feeling is natural to the class of men we have sent to assist the Motherland in her quarrel with the South African Dutch ; but our invalided soldiers can rest assured that no one thinks less of their services to the Empire because they have met and succumbed to a mightier foe than Kruger'a Boers. As a matter of simple fact, these invalided troopers have suffered more for their patriotism than their more fortunate comrades, who have only had to deal with a human!

fmetny. We can imagine nothing more j depressing and trying to a brave young I Bolditr than to have to lie upon a bed I of sickness in a foreign land, aruongat strangers, however kind these might be, with comrades Buffering, and even dying, lying around him, Such a situation muab make the stoutest heart quail. We know, too, that when all is over, it is amongst those who have been invalided home, that we ihall find the greatest sufferers from the war. Some have already returned who will never regain their former strength, and some have had their health broken and their con stitution rained. There are also a few who have been sent horns because of wounds received in acton. Barely there are entitled to as much credit as any of our soldiers, who went to the front. It is very satisfactory to learn that the Premier fully realises the claims of the invalided soldiers to the gratitude and consideration of the country. Addressing the troopers who returned by the Wakanui, the other day, Mr feeddon said that the brief welcome they were given that day, was all the Government was able to do at present, to show the colony's appreciation of their services. But when their comrades returned from the front a colonial welcome would be accorded to all of them, including those who had come home earlier. He hoped to have all the members of the New Zealand Contingents present on that occasion. This is as it should be, and we trust all the invalided troopers throughout the colony, will be able to attend that gathering. The Premier put this very gracefully, and his inten tions in this matter should be made generally known throughout the colony,

Local and General.

Removal Notice.—Mtisjca W. H.Coll ins & C© havsj removed into their new premises*

Gebaldinb Market.—On account of the heavy rains making it impoiible for stock io travel the usual weekly Gemldine Live Stock market was not held yesterday.

Elgin School Concert.—The concert and dance in aid of the children's excursion, will be held in the Elgia Schoolroom, tomorrow evening, when a large attendance is expected.

(Troop Houses—Those entering troop horses for Tuesday's Show are notified Id our advertising columns, that the Secretary of the A. and P. Association will receive post entries up to date of Show, for horses which are eligible for competition in the hunting class

Maghsiebial.—Twe first offenders were fined yesterday morning by Messrs Aloorn and Rule for " looking on the wine when it ie red." It is to be hoped the lesson will not be thrown away.

Becokd Entries.—Over 360 entries have been recelv ed in hor sea for the forth c jming Aehburton Show. This proves a record for the Colony in this class c£ Block.

Kiver in Flood—As a result of the heavy and continuous rains during the last two days the Ashburton River is heavily in flood, and presents an interesting sight. The roar of the stream can ba heard a con siderable d'stance off

Ariel Bioyclb Club—A meeting of the Committee ot the Ariel Bicycle Cub was held last evening, when it was decided, in consequence of the wet, to postpone the procession and races proposed'to ba held to day. Mr D McDonnell was elected aa delegate to tho Sports Association in the place of Mr Henry Willis, resigned.

Ashburton Retailers' As-sociation.— It will ba seen on referenoo to our news eolumrs that the retail traders of Aehburton have formed themselves into an association to regulate ftll matters of interest to themselves and their customers. The much vexed question of ppaeial holidays will be one *übj ot> de*lt with. An advertisement in this connection »ppe»rs elsewhere.

Undekgrownd London.—After taking four yeara in combination the new Central London underground railway has been open> ed The cost of the line comes to close on 3$ millions sterling. A fall account of *his huge and successful undertaking will be found on our fourth page. On our first page farmers and eheepownerß will find a highly interesting article oa shearirg weights.

Extfnsios Of Premises.—Messrs Morrow Bassett and Company have tound it necess ary to enlarge their Aahburtou premises by the addition of another Storeand Show reom for the requirements of their trad 3 in the well known Me Cormick Reapers and Binders and other implements. In theso celebrated machines still further improvements are re. ported and in the recent contests the Depart ment of Metallurgy has awarded them two medals for specialty in forming metals into certain parts for machines. In a full trial against all comers the firm has obtained a medal and 200 francs for binders. In mower* also, further improvements have Inen affect* cd. In adition to farming implements the firm holds a stock of Sterling bicycles, and also lawn mowers, together with all necessaries in connection with harvesting machinery and it should further be noted, that the repairing of machines forms an important feature of the Ashburton business, under the management of Mr Priest.

Retail Traders' Association.

A large" asd representative meeting of retail traders waa held at the Orange Hall last evening, at which it was decided ts form an association called the " Ashburton Retail Traders' Association.'' All those present joined, and an toSien'ial committee was appointed to deal with matters of trade and the convenience of the public. It was decided that in future the Thursday half holiday would be rigidly adhered to, unless a statutory holiday falls on another day. This waa considered neceesiry in the interests of employers, employees, and the farming community. A deputation from the Agricultural and Pastoral Association afterwards interviewed the Retail Traders' Association, and it was decided at the sug gestion of the deputation that ail members close their places of business at twelve noon, on Show Day. Subsequently at a committee meeting it was decided that a whole holi day be obßeived on November 1, the occasion of the opening of the Canterbury Jubilee Exhibition.

Sporting.

VICTORIAN AMATEUR TURP CLUB

United Press Association—By Electric

Telegraph—Copyright

Received Wakapuaka Oot 17, 540 pm, This office 1010 p m Melbourne, October ] 7 There was fine weather for the [seoond day's racing. Results were ;— Moonga Handicap—Omrah 1, Fide* 2, Keyless 3. Won easily. Time, 1.4 Jumpeb's Flat Race—Cintra 1, Sheridan 2, Pat 3. Won easily. Time, 2.29 i Nursery HANDiOAP—Grasspan 1, Portree 2, Solitary 3, Won easily, Time, 51£ Australian Huniebs' Cttp—Tonbridge ■1, Roetolere 2, Old Judge 3. Won easily. Time, 5.411 Eclipse Stakes— Kinglake 1, Seahorse 2, Paul Pry 3. Seahorse led to the distance, where Kinglake shot out, and won easily. Time, 2,22 Coongy Handicap—Clean Sweep 1, George Frederick 2, War God 3, Won by a seek. Time-2.25*

CORRESPONDENCE

(We do oot hold ourselves responsible for opinions expressed by our correspondents

THE CITY OF LONDON WATER SUPPLY.

TO 188 KMTOB

Bm,— I notice in a recent issue of your paper that Mr J W Hardley, makes use of the statement " that water was taken from the river Thames, filtered, and then con sumed by thy inhabitants of the City of London," and then proceed* to take Mr Harrison to task for challenging the accuracy of that statements Now, Mr Hardley, I have no intention of defending anything Mr Harrißon may have said or written, I imagine he is quite able to do that himself, but I wish to teil you that yon are totally in error and that your statement is | contrary to fact. The water supply of the * City of London' is not taken from the river Thames, and if you knew as much on the subjeeb as you pretend yon do, you would never have made suoh a rash statement.

If Mr Hardley wishes for any further information on the subject, and cares to atk for it, I have no doubt he can be pat right on the matter. Thanking you for inserting this, I am, &o. t

Bow Bbixs. [This correspondence is now closed.—Ed.]

A Pea Rifle Accident.

United' Press Association—By Electric * Telegraph

Timaku, October 17 Two boys named Cole, thirteen and twelve years old respectively, were shooting sparrows'with a pea rifle this afternoon, when the weapon held by the eld«r boy accidentally went off. A pellet strnck the younger boy over the left eyebrow, piercing the skull and traversing the brain. He was removed to the hospital, A fatal result is anticipated.

WEDDING.

A wedding that) excited a greab deal of interest took place at Holy Trinity Ohnrch, Richmond, on Ootober 10, before a large number of friende, the contracting parties being Miss Emily Croueher, daughter of Mr J M Croucher, Richmond, and Mr Moritz Fdedfander, of Ashburton. The ooremooy was performed by the Yen, Archdeacon Wright, The bride, who was given away by her father, was very prettily dressed in cream duchesse satin and brocade trimmed with white silk pearl embroidered lace with a transparent yoke and collar of tuoked chiffon, and wore the customary wreath and veil. (The bride was attended by her sisters Misses M and LCrouoher, who looked nioe In dresses of pink muslin trimmed With silk and lace, and hats to match. The little niece of the bride {Miss L Ellis), was dressed in cream silk lustre, and carried a orook, decorated with flowers and satin ribbon. Mrs Croucher, mother of the bride, was dressed in black brocaded silk, trimmed with cream silk and chiffon* Mr Fried lan der, cousin of tha bridegroom, acted as beat man, and Mr Bert Croucher as groomsman. After the ceremony, the wedding party drove to the homo of the bride's mother, where a number of friends were entertained, and the health of the bride and bridegroom was drunk. The hippy couple afterwards left for Foxhill. amid showers of rice, to spend a few days before leaving for Ashbur ton, their future homo. The Chnroh was beautifully decorated by the lady friends of the bride, and archways of fl>RB and lilies with a large horse-shoe of white, looked very pretty. The service was choral. Mr Harold Ellis, presiding at) the organ, played the Wedding March aa the h*ppy conple left the Church, at the door of which they were greeted with a perfect shower of rice.— Nelftou Colonist.

The Forthcoming A & P Show

The committee of the A & P Association have now matters well in hand for the forth coming Show on October 23, and the PfceaHect, Mr G W, Lsadley, especially ha* devoted a, goad deal of attention to the improvements now being effected upon the ground iteclf. The Ashburton Association ia the fortunate possessor of one of the largest and beet show grounds in the colony, their block embrnsing twenty-sight acres, well sheltered and specially suitable for its fur pone. Amongst the many improvement! now being provided are forty five roomy, substantial and oonvenient pig pens, care fully roofed in and permanently divided, with a handy landing stage, gates, &o«, for yarding up the exhibits. Twen'y store cattle pens and a similar Dumber for fat stock have also b?en built, of a strong character, and embracing provision for roofing in at a future date. The whole of the work is being pushed forward by the contractors in a satisfactory manner. The sheep pens, 100, are already in position in a specially suitable portion of the ground, and a new feature has been adopted in the formation of a testing track for horse*, which is formed of rough shingle, whereby the soundness of feet and legs of the entries will have to undergo a more severe test than formerly. A concrete stand for measuring the height of horaes is another improvement effected for the forthcoming Show. Ib is anticipated that with fiuo weather, the attendance nexb Tuesday will prove a record one, acd thoee present will have plenty to occupy their attention from the opening to the closing houra, as a host of exhibits new to the district will bs collected.

SPORTS ASSOCIATION.

A meeting of the Ashburton Sports Asso ciation was held last evening. Present— Messrs P H Cox (chairman), D McDonnell, U J Burgees, P Orr, R Clark, and I Bai gent, aeoretary, Correspondence was read from the Borough Council with respect to asphalting the domain track, stating tha Council could not see its way to subsidise subscriptions, but adding the Council would carry out the work if repayment be made within twelve monthe.

The chairman asked the meeting for an expression of opinion as to whether this liability (should ba incurred by the Associa tion.

Mr Clark was of opinion that a special meeting of the delegates should be called to consider this question, and moved in that direction, which was carried.

The election of two members on the executive, in the places of Messrs Shearman and Clark, was proceeded with, and Messrs C Campbell and D McDonnell were duly elected.

Mr Henry Willis attended to state what had taken place at the meeting of the Domain Board, with regard to the Assocla« tion's application for a subsidy towards asphalting the track, life said that gathering from the views expressed by members of the Board, that a subsidy was out of the question, he had asked that the work should be proceeded with at once, on the Association handing over the amount already collected for the purpose, and guaranteeing the balance, and, as delegates might have teen, this «as carried.

The meeting then adjourned.

Auction Notices

Messrs Fried lander Bros, will sell on Saturday the 27th inst., five sections at Fairfield and four investment shares in the Permanent Building Society. Mr D Thomas will sell on Saturday first a quantity of saddlery in the estate of B Anderson.

Ashburton Amateur Cycling and Athletic Club.

The annual general meeting of tba above Club took place in the Orange Hall Tuesday evening, tha captain (Mr W J Shearman) in the chair, and there was a good atten dance of members. The balance sheet showed tha Club's credit balance to be £7 7?. The following officers were then elected for the (tnsaiug year:—Patron—Mr D Thomas (re-eleoted(; President—Mr GAM Buckley (re-elected); Vice-Presidents— Mewrs Hugo Fried lander, J Snodgrass, W D ▼ Preston, T F Gibson, D Wood, H Willis, C A Tabateau, I)r Hunter and Captain Coieman ; Captain —Mr Colin ' Catnpbsll; Sub-Captain— Mr L J Hobbs ; Committee—Messrs R Shearman, I Baigent, F Setdon, W Bowling, B Stephens, W J Shearman, W B Willis, N Jones and J R Friedlander ; Hon Treasurer—Mr M Bruce; Hon Secretary—Mr JMLynskey ; Assistant Secretary—Mr F R Robilllard. The follow ing new members were elected—Messrs Gray, Aitken, James Reed, and Byrant. A vote of thanks to the chairman and outgoing officers closed the meeting. At a meeting of the Committee held later it was decided to- open the season on Thursday next with a prooession and a pro. gramme of sports, consisting of two foot races, 75yds handicap and 440 yds handicap, also a half-mile bicycle race ; posts entries; The Committee then adjourned.

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

United Press Association—By Eleotrlc Telegraph—Copyright

THE DOWAGER'S COMPLICITY.

Receiver! Waknpuaka Oct 17, 3 50 p m This Offioe 99pm London, October 16

The limes' correspondent's summary contends that the Fekin Gazette, issued by the Chinese Government during the siege, emphasises the Dowager's com plicity in the atrocities, The Times, commenting on the report, condemns shameless mendacity of the Chinese Ministers in London and Washington.

M. DELCASSE'S TERMS.

Reoeived Wakapuaka Oob 17, 716 p.m, This Office 10 25 p m Hong Kong, Get 16 The Ambassadors at Pekin unani mously approved M. Delcasse'a basis of negotiations.

Sir Claude Macdonald has made a proposal that the Ministers of Foreign Affairs should replace the Tsung-li- Yamen, and that the ringleaders ultimate punishment Bhould be plac* arded for two years.

Violent robberies and piracy are increasing on the Canton Ho.

Reports are ro hand that the rebels northwards from Kaulung are avoiding pillage and anti-foreign outrages in the wish to conciliate villagers*. The whole movement has been skilfully organised. European women residing on the ports en the Yangtse have been ordered to Hong Kong.

Bxi4BA.hu;, Oct 17

The Rev Howard Smith, of the London Missionary Society, with his wife and infant, who went through the siege of the British Legation in Pekin, arrived here by the China steamer.

Mr Smith said the general tin pre paredness of the Legation was apparent from the first, and probably only the cowardly feara of the Boxera saved the foreigners, During the long and trying period, desperate though the situation was, at no time did the hearts of the besieged give way to the feeling that they bad lost confidence that every effort was being made to relieve them. AH, especially the children, suffered severely from want of proper food, and several died. They were compelled to subsist on hone and mule flesh and black bread, and not too mach of that. As long as the Dowager and Prince Tuan remained at the head of sjf*irs, Mr Smith did not think any good would be accomplished, bub if the yotrng Emperor were placed en the throne with a council of competent advisers things would vpry boob be put right, unless the various European Powers fell out amongst themselves.

Mr Smith described the country between Fekin and Tientsin as com* pletely devastated. He feared an enormous number of native Christians had been massacred. In all directions missionary enterprise had received a heavy blow, but this would not prevent the work being energetically carried on in the future. The Smiths are ena moured with work in Fekia, and hope to return there within a year.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.

GERMANY LOOKING AHEAD. London, October 10 Heater's Agency reports that Turkey has leased to Germany for thirty years, the island of Uroan, in the Rtd Sea, to be used as a coaling-station. NEW STEAMER. The N.Z. Shipping Company's new steamer Rimutaka has been launched at Dumbarton. THE PLAGUE. A suspected case of plague is reported at Limebouse. The patient is a carman ; who slept on some straw imported from Glasgow in a crate. ON THE TRAIL. Sydney, October 17 The Governors' trail was tracked to a waterhole, where the wounded oat law had washed, and was then com pletely lost in a scrubby range.

THE SEA SERPENT,

Adelaide, October 17

The captain of the steamer Nemesis says that the monster he saw off Oape Naturalist was not like a serpent, but was a large fish. It had a fin thirty feet long.

GOOD HARVEST PROSPECTS. Harvest prospects, excepting la a portion of the northern districts, whioh have suffered severely from drought, are good, and the yield ia expected to exceed that of last year. BIG EXPECTATIONS. Melbourne, October 17 In expectancy of increased shipping •nder Federation, the docks on the aaoth banks of the Yarra will be enlarged.

Transvaal War

BOER THIEVES.

THE PURSUIT OF DE WET.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, October 16 Five hundred thieving Boers are harrying the Free Staters near Stan derton.

The colonials are closely pursuing De Wet about the Vaal river.

Oommsndoea from two hundred strong, are located in the Kroonatad district.

The Netherlandb Railway Company, at Reitz's instigation, have heavily subsidised pro-Boer journalists, includ ing £5000 to the Standard and Diggers- News, also £1000 for Hargrove, one of Leyd's agents.

Kruger's luggage aboard the steamer Gerder, was landed and carefully searched by the Portuguese authorities.

LUMSDEN'S HORSE TO REMAIN

London, October 16

Lord Roberts has cabled to the Viceroy of lodia that, although the war is nearly over, it is essential that Lumsden's Horse, a body of cavalry raised in India, should remain until the tad.

Lord Roberts, replying to a communi cation announcing that the freedom of the city of Liverpool is to be conferred on him, states that) he will be unable to receive the freedom until January next.

London, Oct. 17

Generals French and Mahon are clearing the country between Machada dorp and Heidelberg

General Mabon on the 14th de feated the Boers after sharp fighting. Three British officers and eight men were killed, and three officers and twenty five men wounded

General French occupied Carolina on Sunday, capturing a convoy

General Lyttulton is marching on Middleburg

General Rundle rescued a convoy at Vreide, wounding seven Boers.

Melbourne, Oct 17

The Moravian brought six invalided officers and forty nine men from South Africa, including Colonel Gordon, the South Australian commandant. Cap* tain Fulton is the only New Zealander,

HIGHBANK.

Own Correspondent

THE WEATHER

The weather continues very changeable, rain, frost, fogs and sunshine—though we would just now prefer more of the latter. The grain crops atid grass paddocks are looking splendid, but (he tombs could do with more sunshine, as not a few are suffer ing from rheumatism, and a good many have been lost through ths cold and wet. _ A number of the larger lambs have died with wool in the stomach, caused by tucking the web wool off the sheep when trying to find the teat. I know some of your readers will aay crutching the ewes would ba a preventa tive for this, and while I believe in crutching the ewe, it hao not been a cure, as lambs have been lost from orutched ewes as well as other?.

THE OHUEOHE3

The Churches, like the weather of late, have been somewhat) mixed. First the Church of England minister forgot that) his appointment waa on the Sunday morning, his congregation was there, bub he attended iv the afternoon, only to find th« Wesleyah minister in charge of the afternoon congrega tion. The next Sunday the Fre&byterian congregation were present, but the minister was do\ Much of this disappointment has been caused through the rearranging of the various services since the Primitive Methodist have given up their services here. Each denomination has now issued a printed plan giving the dates of the various services in future. You will see we are well cared tor as regards religious services, as besides the above we have the Sunday School, and a visit from the Salvation Army every alternate Wednesday evening. A MODEL CHOIR Now, for all these services we have a poised choir, and at its weekly choir practice last Thursday evening £1 was voted to the Highbank piano fund, 15s for books for the use of the congregation of' the Churoh of England, and 15s for sixpenny Sankey hymn books for the other congrega tions. This, besides the donation to the Indian Famine Fund, speaks well not only for their unity but for their charity. SCHOOL. The school examination is to be hold a month earlier this year than last, and is fixed to take place on October 23 (Ashburton Show Day), much to the disappointment of many of the scholars, as it prevents their long locked for trip to the Ashburton Show. SPOKT. Saturday last, the day fix ad for the open ing of the new Cricket Club, had been looked forward to as the day to draw all cricketers of the district to the Domain, and so ib did, and also the ladies and children) The Domain had the appearance of a monster picnio ground, with its crowd engaged in football, cricket, aad ronnders, The cricket match was between sides chosen by the captain, Mr P. Drummond, and the vice* captain, Mr D. McDonnell, and resulted in an easy victory for the vice-captain* eleven. The ground was very bumpy and no good can ba expected with either bat*or ball till a good pitch is prepared. With a good pitch and practice Highbank Club should pick a very fair eleven. The club has a good membership and are able to pay for the* cricket material, and if funds permit, intend getting cocoanut matting for the pitch* A Rounders Club has also been started here, for ladies only. The first match was played in the domain on Saturday last, and judging from the interest taken in the games that afternoon, it should become a popular amusement. I hear that a Tennis Club will 86on be started hem

LISMORE

From a Corrcupontfonl

The peoplft ot Linmora and surrounding diatricfc spent a most enjoyable evening on Friday, the 12th, at) an entertainment given in aid of children's prize fund. The school room was well filled with visitors from far and near, and judging by their continual applause, they were thoroughly pleased with the programme submitted, and many thanks are due to the different performers. Mr Hall opened the proceedings with an over ture on the piano, and kindly officiated at the instrument) all through. Songs and solos were given byMesdamts Rich, Tippett aad Mies Button, Messrs Kelloek, Cusack, Tippett and Bassetb ; duets by Mr Kellock and Mrs Rich, and Mr Tippstt and Mrs Tippett j also a musical duet by the master's two little daughters, Misses Laura and Donella Smith ; readings by Miss Ham ; recitations by Messrs Robinson and Alien. All parts were well ap plauded and appreciated, and last men tioned, bub not least by any means, was Miss Button and her gramaphone whioh was very amusing indeed. After the conaert the performers adjourned to the teaoher's house, where refreshments were kindly served round by Mesdames Smith, MoNair and Fleming. In the meantime the school room had been cleared for dancing, whioh, to the music of Messrs Fleming, Charles, and Benison Bros, was continued withoub inter mission till the small hours of the morning. During the dancing refreshments were served round by Mesdames Emerson, Fleming, Smith, and Patersoo, assisted by the Com mittee, whioh v, «c I horougbly appreciated by the dancers. Mr J Kennedy made ft very efficient MiCj >

PARLIAMENT.

United Preee Association—By Electrlo Telegraph

Wiixington, October 17 The Council was occupied ap to 5 p.m. la purely formal business. In the Houee tha Impounding Act Amendment Bill was passed through its final stages. A long debate took place on the Representation Bill, and it was agreed to reduce the number of new members from ten to six. A debate on the question of the purchase of the Manawatu railway occupied the House till the 5.30 adjourn ment.

Fatal Railway Accidents.

A CROSSING-KEEPER JELLED.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio

Telegraph- Gnpyrighß

Chbistchukoh, October 17 James Mutch, a crowing keeper on the railway afa Selwyn street, sob bis heel caught between » rail and a check rail this evening as (wo trains were approaching. In straggling to free himself he was struck by the engine of one of the trains and his skull was fractured* Death was instantaneous. Ohbistohurch, October 18 The afternoon train for Springfield leaves town ab 4.50 pm, and a train known as the workmen's train leaves the Addington Workihops at the same time. The two train* always cross at the Selwyn itreet cresting, and did so as usual yesterday. Mutch went out on to the crossing to keep it clear of traffic, and as the Springfidld train oama up he was about to move out of the way when he fell, owing to the heel of fail hoot catching between the main rail and the check rail on the Springfield line By this time the train was so olose to him that it w»b impossible for the driver co do anything, and to the horror of aIE who wit nessed it, the train pasted over Mutch's head, killing him Instantly The body was removed to the Southern Gross Hotel, Addtogton, to await the inquest which was held to-day The heel of the unfortunate man's boot) was afterwards found jammed between the> ebeok and main rails. The fatality appears to have been purely accidental, and caused solely by deceased's boot catching between the rails Mutch was a married man about fifty six years of age, residing with his wife at the) crossing kecpet'a cottage. He has one grownup son, whese whereabouts at the preßent time is not known Dwnedik, October 18 Robert Burns an assistant guard was killed near Caveraham late last eight. He Was run over by the van on the train coming from Mosgtal to Dunedin 1 No one on the train saw the accident happen but it is thought he must have slipped between the rear van and the carriage when going forward to apply the brake. The van gave a bump at if an obstruction was on the line and was thrown cff. On going back when the train was stopped the body was found badly muti lated the wheels having gone over the legs and stomach.

THE FLOODS.

United Press Association—By Eloctrio

Telegraph

Wellington, October 17

Railway treffio on the Government railway has been suspended e'o f»r as communication with Wairarapa is concerned, owing to land slips on the Rimutaka incline. The mail train from Napier could not come on farther than Featherßton, where the passenger! were disembarked. The train leaving here at 4 p.m. for Maaterton did not proceed beyond Kaitoke at the foot of the Kimutaka, the passengers being brought back to town during the evecing. Cheistohubch, October 17

Very heavy rains are reported from Waiau, and both the Waiau and Mason rivers are now in fliod. The coach from Kaikoura was blocked at the Conway, and the mail coach from Hanmer was unable to leave the Plains. Up to twelve o'clock yesterday at Wai&u 2| inches of rain were registered. It is feared that the young lambs will suftV.

Nelson, Get 18

A severe pale has bren blowing in Nelson for twenty-four hours. A few trees have been blown down.

Timaru, Oct 18

A steady and heavy south-east; rain has kept up since last evening, and a greater fall has taken place than for many years. The rivers are a'ready high. The Opihi is run ning bank and b*nk, and it is feared will oveifhw. The fhta am covered with surface water.

Rain continues but less steadily than yes terday and rivers are reported to tee falling some peeple afc Temuka were driven from their homes by water. Yssterday the r*in» fall to 9 30 a m for 48 bears in about 4 inches.

Oar Springburn correspondent writes:— On Monday night a very heavy downpour of rain set in from the Southwest and before morning the Asbhurton River wu in high flood. Toward! midday yesterday the rain continued and so an the greater part of the low lying land ronnd about Springburn was under water. For year* the old ithafelUnti state, there has not been such a serious and heavy flood. All the oreeks and water oourses ditches and side channel! and roadi were covered with a rushing stream of great volume, As there was every appearance of the storm centinuing and the water still ris ing the scholars were dismissed early and the school teachers together with Mr G West' brooke was for some time busily engaged in piloting the younger scholars on horseback through the water and over the swollen creeks where the footbridges wen for tht time lo»t sight of. The rainfall on Tuesday night and yester. day was general throughout a great part of the colony. The northern riven, the Pa han, Huruoui, the Kowai, and the Ashley were in great volume, and in the direction of Saltwater Creek, Sefton, the country seemed to be under water. The Eyre and Oust Rivers came down heavily, taking much flood water and debris into the North Wai makariri. The south brunch of that river was likewise very high last evening. At Timaru the fall of rain was the heaviest experienced for yean, Ib put stop to all outdoor work, and as the fall still con tinued last night, it is feared that flood* wilt occur in the country districts. The vpihi River was phenomenally high, and farmers onSeadown were shifting their ewes and lambs from the low lying paddocks near the river. ThePareora was also very high, and all low land about St Andrews was heavily flooded. AtTimsru outlets had to be made at the Otihua and Waimataitai Is goons, According to our Timaru correspondent, it is reckoned that the rivers generally are higher than for tome fout teen years, and ia some instances fanners have shifted their stock. A telegram received last night states that the rivers rose most rapidly after spm and the Temuka river spread over the main road southward. No material damage wm done, and the river fell at about? p m The Timaru Herald of this morning says % —Passengers by the evening train from the north etatod that the Temuka River wae in higher food than it has ever been since fche great flood of 1868. The space between the Temoka and Opihi, and between the railway and the main road was a sheet) of water, flowing from the Temuka, lnlo the Opihi. On the north side of the Temuka, a few premises on the low ground between the Star Hotel and the river were flooded, and the occupants had to be rescued from them: Mr Mundell, who has had a long experience of the district, says he never saw the Temuka, River so high. We must expect to [hear of damage being done by such a flood, both np and down the river.

We have heard no particular! respecting the Fareora, beyond that it was rery higb yesterday. A Winchester correspondent writes sHeavy rain hai fallen without intermission for tbe last 24 hours, and at 5 p m yesterday showed no ligna of ceasing. The Waihl is in high fleod, and a good deal of lowlying land is covered. The Waihi crossing is impassable, and if the weather does nob take a favour able ton soon » disastrous flood is feared.

THE ASHBURTON GUABDUfi: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 190 C



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Bargains In BICYCLES. Highest Quality, Latest Designs. For One Month Only OATES, LOWRY & SO,, Z«alandia Cycle Works, Burnett Street, Ash burton, with the view of popularising the Zealandia and Atalsnta Bicycles in the Ashburton District, have decided to offer 20 Cycles ab the following very great reductions In price for one month only, Lot) 1 — GENTLEMEN'S ZKALANDIA ROADSTER, 22 inoh frame, 80 gear, Twia Roller chain, Westwood steel rims, Dunlop tyrep, Brook's saddle, enamelled black with gold lines. Regular cash prfoe £21. Sale price £1610 c 12 months guarantee! Irtt 2—LADY'S, 22 inch frame, 66 gear, adjustable bandiei, spring seat pillar, flexible saddle, Westwood steel rims, Dunlop tyres. Regular cash price £20. Sale price £15. 12 months guarantee. Lot) 3 - GENT'S ATALANTA LIGHT ROADSTER, 24 inch frame, 80 gear, Brook's 828 saddle, Weatwood atee! rimi, Dunlop tyres, enamelled black with gold lines. Regular cash price £21 Sale prioe £15. 12 months guarantee. Lot) 4-LADY'S ATALANTA, 22 inoh frame, 64 gear, leather gear case, Brook's saddle, Westwood steel rims, Dunlop tyres. Regular cash prioe £22. Sale prioe £16 10s. 12 months guarantee. Lot 6 — GENT'S LIGHT ROADSTER,22 inoh frame, 80 gear, Kelly adjustable handlebar, Sager flexible saddle, Westwood steel rims, Dunlop tyrec Regular cash price £20. Sale price £15. 12 months guarantee^ let 6-LADY'S ZEALANDIA, 20 inch frame, 63 gear, Westwood steel rims, Dualop tyrf 0, Brook's latesb saddle, enamelled dark green with gold lines and decorations. Regular cash prioe £22. Sale price £17. 12 months guarantee. et 7 — GENT'S ATALANTA ROAD RAOER, 24 inoh frame, Twin roller chain, 84 gear, Westwood steel rims, Dunlop tyres, Brook's 810 saddle, enamelled black with gold lines-i Regular cash prioe £21. Sale prioe £16. 12 months guarantee. ot B—LADY'S, 22 inoh frame, 68 gear, adjustable handles, spring eeit pillar, Flexible saddle, Weßtwood steel rime, Dunlop tyres, enamelled maroon with gold lines. Regular cash prioe £20. Sale price £15. 12 months guarantee, Cot 9—GENT'S ATALANTA, 24 inch frame, Twin Roller chain, 80 gear, Westwood rims Dun Sop tyres, Brook's 810 saddle, enamelled blaok with gold lines, Regular cash price £21. Sale prico £16 12 months guarantee. t*b 10 — GENT'S ZEALANDIA ROAD RACER, 24 inch frame, twin roller chain, 80 gear, Weatwood steel riirs, Dunlop tjret, Brook's 810 saddle, enamelled black. Regular cash price £21; Sale price £16 10j. Also,— 10 other high class BICYCLES, Bimilar to the above EASY TERMS CAN BE ARRANGED. All the above Machines are fitted with Dnnlop Tyres and Weitwood Steel Rim?. RIMKMBEB THE PALE IS FOB One J&ontli Ofly. OlflUfiWßf & op. Largest Makers of Cyc'es in New Zealand. Asbburton Branch, Burnett Street— W« A. SCHWARTZ 10 0D Manager; SPECIAL DISPLAY OF SPRING FASHIONS New Dresses, New Millinery, Kew Hats and Trimming, New Frintß, Zephyrs Muslins, etc. EEW GOODS AND NOVELTIES IN ALL DEPARTMENTS. YOU ARE INVITED TO INSPECT* ASK6URTON DRAPERY CO. AKT PICTURES OF THE GENERALS, &c, TRANSVAAL WAR Including IMPERIAL HORSE, CANADIAN DRAGOONS, &o. THE above are Works of Art and far surpass anything of the kind yet im ported into this Colony. Persons desirous of Securing a memento of the present War will find the above engravings very suitable. Price 2« 6d each. I have also to hand &n assortment of ABTIBT3 COPIES. which will be let out to for any number of days. J. WILSON,' Sign-Writer and Decorator, i BURNETT STREET. PRIZE EGGS—Sittings of Kggs.of follow ing :— Langshan, Buff Orpington, Andaludan; h'bo Crosßcs, Indian Gamc-Bnff Orpington, Buff Orpington-Dorkings, Ling ahan Buffs, L*ngshan Indian Game. Crosses. 5a aitting, 10 guaranteed. For particulars apply this office 9 £79 MRS ALCORN is having a display of Fancy Art Need»ework- the neweat j and latest for two weeks, during which ; Bhe will give 10 per ennt disccunt on it, and all materials for working; As ito ia laid oub for inspection she will feel obliged f ladies interested in needle work could in aid nee iv



DIABISB for 1901.—Fall aapply now to hand, including Rough, Scribbling, and Pooket series. Orders sow being fcooked for Christmas numbers of Colonial and English papers*—A H Williams, Tanered Street Johu Oir & Co. TImT EDO NOT STOCK ELEPHANTS But) have a> very varied and 'niefui selection °* TRUNKS Aad Travelling Boxes, which we are quot ing at extremely Low Prices, and will be glad to show to any of oar oaitomen. JOHN ORR & CO Have* Urge Stock of LAWN MOWERS CUTTING all kinds of grate. Oar latest) patterns, liko THE BOERS, move very rapidly over the ground when pushed a little. The grans 1b cub DOWN lite magic. Prices from SOs, JOHN ORE & GO.; Ashbuctoa. THE MOST WONDERFUL BABY IN THE WORLD Certainly deserves a Good Perambulator OR Iftail Cart, auoh as may be obtained from JOHN ORR & GO, ASHBURTON. : 10 45 NICHOLAS & PICKFOFD TTAVE Just Landed, ex s.s. Waimate, their first shipment of j SUMMER GOODS, ! INCLUDING Ladies 1 Croquet and Tennis Shoes, Gentlemen's Tennis, Bowling, and Cricketing SHOES & BOOTS, la Canvas, Parraraatta, Glace Kid, Buck Skin, and Hussian Calf. The Best Assortment ever Shown in AshburtOD. Inspection Invited. NICHOLAS & PIGKFORD, EAST STREET. ARCHITECT ARCADE CHAMBERS ASHBURTON. TF you want a NEW HOUSE, or Altera tions, or Newest Style of Decorations, CONSULT MR AOER. Call and see the NEW FI6BOSB BLIND Imitation of Venetian, at half the price, OWING to a great increase in business we have arranged for extension of premises, and to avoid removing and storing a lot of oar Stock, will hold a Genuine Clearin Sale For One Month, previous to the build rs commencing operations. This is en opportunity rarely me& with of obtain* ing New and Seasonable Drapery and Cloth ing at Greatly Reduced Prices.-—Robust Alcobn. DIARIES for 1901, now in stock; new books: China, The Goddess, The Out. span, Boy, Sonai Life in the British Army, The Strong Arm, A Son of Erin, Castle and Manor, Conviot 99, Daunay's Tower, Sport or War, Ruskin'a Works, Tennyson's Pocma Is 3d, Where the Shoe Pinches, Alletta, Little Anna Mark. New editions : In the ] roar of the Sea, 8d ; On the day of Bittle, 3d; AUwyn, 81 ; Red Badge of Courage, 8d ; England's Peril, Bd.— H M Joy as. A CE'S YLENE GAB—Without doubt the jt\. L'ghb of the nineteenth century Bardlet Bros are prepared to give esti* mates to light} up private residences and ' business premises, with this mosb economic j and beautiful light, j



Old Russia, wily in her schemes, Her eyes on India oft has oast, And of the future vainly dreams W hen that dear land ia hers at last. Bub ere we think of that far day, Consider what we now endure— Bcbd coughs and colds, that pass away On taking Woods Great Peppermint Cure Smoke New Venni



TO THE DEAF—A rich lady, cured of Deafness and Noises in the Head by Dr 1 Nicholson's Artificial Ear Drums, gave £500 to his Institute, so that deaf people unable to procure the Ear Drums may have them free. Address No. 667 d The Nicholson Institute, Lonpcott. Gunnersbury London CONSULTING OPIIOtAN Mr Ernest M. Sandstein, DBOAi,P  M.O, who has lately returned after six years' special study in England and Con tinent, may be consulted on ali cases o defeotive,eyesight. Daylight not necessary, artificial light being used. Doctors' pre scriptions prepared. Fees moderate. Con 'suiting rooms, Cashel Street W., over M. Sandstein, jeweller, Chriatohurch. 930 to } f 2 to 5 daily* ' I



mONKING'S Linseed Mulsion, whioh X has come to stay in Ashburton is a certain cure for coughs, colds, and all chest oomplalate. Sold by nil local chemists and €frocer« In bottles, !■ 6d and 2s 6d, MBS ALCOBN' is now showing a beautiful assortment of new Millinery new Mantles, new Dress Goods, new Silks eto., in the enlarged premises. Ladies and children! Pinafores, Aprons, and Under* i othiog in stock, and made to order t



Unequalled and Invincible—Woods' Great Peppermint Care for] Ooughr and Colds, lg 6d»nd 2s6d