Mail Notices.

Mails close for the following placet as trader, subject to the necessary alteratioßi: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22 For Northern Ports and Westport, per Rotomahaoa, at 6 30 p m MONDAY, DECEMBER For Northern Porte, Westport, ik'eo Batnoft, Hawaii, Philippine!!, Japan, lUnited States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Oontioent of Europe, via £an Franciscc (due London 26th January), per Tarawera, ft* 6.30 p m Money ordari, 2 pm.

Commercial.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyrght.

(Recaivul December 21, 9 4* pm) London, December 20 The American visibe supply of wheat is estimated to bo 86,939,000 bushel*. An Australian oargo sold at 29» 10id per quarter.

ASHBURTON GRAIN MARKET

Tho Aahbucton Agency of the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association ot Canter bury, Ltd, quote as follows on December 21, 1900:— Wheat- Prime milling Pearl ... 2b 2d  „ Tuso»n.., 2a 3d  „ Hunter's 2a Id Oati—Duns ..- Is 5£ \ Danish Is s*d Canadian! Is 6d to 1b Id Sparrowbilh la 6d Barley—Malting, prime 2§ Inferior Is 6d Peas—Partridge, 2s 3d Chaff—Good oatsheaf 50) to 52* 6d Grasi Seed—Old pasture, 2* to 2a 3d New „ Is6*-l'9d The above are prises curieui pt»id to farmers on trucks at Ashburton.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1900 THE SECRET OF BRITISH REVERSES.

Thb latest news respecting the diiaßter to the British forces at Msgliesburg goea to support the view pat forward in a recent article in this paper that the reverse was mainly due lo neglect and mismanagement on the part of some of the officers in command of oar troops. It is trae thai the last infor mation received leads (o the conclusion that the British were very much out numbered by tbe Eoer?, who attacked on the hill they occupied But it is quite evident the defenders would have been quite able to hold the position against the enemy if they had not been taken by surprise. It would appear that a large proportion of the Nor thumberland Regiment (four companies and a few Yeomanry) held the hill, while just behind, actually within rangp, General Clements wag encamped with soHaa seven or eight hundred men f while Major-General Broadwood wag known to be about ieven miles off with a cavalry division. Tet in the face of these facts, which must have been well known to the Boer leader, he made a bold and unexpected attack, which as sacb attacks usually are, was successful. It was carried oat in the same way aa the assault on Majuba Hill ; and but for the overwhelming superiority of tha British forces in the field throughout the South African republics the reverse to our arms might have bad a very disastrous effect. Not only were the British driven from their position and the majority captured, bat General O'.eme»te, seems to have been just as ignorant of the presence of the enemy in tbe neighbourhood a* the Kortbutnberlands were. Hit first intimation of what bad happened was the appearance of the Boers between him and the key to hit position. The cables, which are pretty carefully censored nowaday*, state that General Clements made an orderly retreat to Commando Nek. But »• he lost bis transports and bad to blow up h(g »mmuoition to prevent it falling into the band* of the Boers, his retreat more resembled a rout. When we compare the vastly superior strategy shown by some of the Boer leaders,

men who have had no regular* training 1 in war and none at all in the science of military tactics, as with the imbecility, ignorance, and carelessness which so many of our own officers have displayed,, we are more thau ever convinced that reforms, drastic end sweep ing, are necessary in the British Army to restore the confidence of the people. Our countryman' have shown themselves to be as brave as lions; English, Scotch, Irish, Welsh, Canadians, Australians, and New Zsalanderg have all per formed prodigies of valour in the course of the present war. We have also a few able generals; but it is unfortunately undesirable that there are a good many British officers in Soafh Africa who are utterly unfit for their positions. The General* needed there now are watchful, resourceful leaders of the Baden-Powell type; men who will compel their subordi nates to be ever on the alert. The Boer generals evidently recognise th« great importance of being able to throw a larger force on any given point of attack than the British have there: $o long as they can continue |to do this as successfully as they have hitherto done, we may expect to hear of British reverses.

BONUSES FOR FAMILIES

Some of our contemporaries have devoted a good deal of their attention to the declining birth rate, and have encouraged correspondence on this somewhat delicate question, by leading articles on the lines, we presume, of what is known as " Ideal journalism." Many references have been made, in the coarse of the discussion of this subject, to the condition of France, which, we are informed, is a shocking example of the baleful effectß of attempting to interfere with the ordin ary working of natural causes. It may be some satisfaction to all who are so much exercised about the condition of La Belle France, to know that M. Piot, a French member of Parliament, whose fears have been aroused by the de population of France, has just intro duced & Bill directed against bachelors. Not satisfied with proposing rewards for large families, this honourable Deputy deeirea to levy fines in the shape of special taxes on those married people whose union has remained barren and upon the Bingle of both sexes, M. Piot apparently thinks that penal laws against preventive measures, such as are recommended by some of the en thusiasts who have been dealing with this question in New Zea land, would not meet the case so well as bonuses for families As to this and the special tax, it is not improbable that many bachelors would prefer to pay the tax rather than have to support a family and, possibly, a mother in-law Anyhow, the idea of a tax on bachelors seems more reasonable than some of the proposals made by those who havd recently been discus sing the subject of the decreasing birth rate, and it possesses the advantage of giving an opportunity te raiss additio nal revenue Seeing what a keen eye the Governments of the self-governing colonies have for every possiUe 6oarce of revenue, we should not be surprised to find the bachelor tax idea incor porated in a New Zealand treasurer's budget before long. And so with the imposition of fines upon married people without families, these would bring a nice little sum into the Treasury, But as for bonuses to people wifch large families, we fancy Mr Sfeddon would not be able to see eye to eye *ith the French reformer. Paying money out of the Treasury, is not quite the same thing as raking it in.

THE PRESS AND GOVERNMENT OFFICERS.

Somb little time ago a telegraphic notice went the round of the press stating that an order had been issued to Govern ment officers forbidding them to give any information to tbo Press. Considering that, hitherto no information which might nut reasonably and proporly be supplied to the Press was obtainable from any Government official, we naturally wondered what this order meant. We have now got the text of the document which is as followi :—No information oat of the strict coarse of official daty shall be given directly by any officer without the express direction or permission of a responsible officer or Minister. No officer shall make any communication directly or indirectly to the Press upon any matter affecting the Department in which he serves, or the business, or the officers thereof, or re* latfng to the public service, or his own official position or acts, or upon any political subject or question connected with Mew Zealand, without the express permission of a responsible Minister. This is a pretty comprehensive order, and suggests that something rauec have happened. It will be remembered that daring last session several members complained that information had been supplied to other members by officers of the Oivil Service. Reading between the lines of the above notice, it would seem that Government attach some credence to the statements made. The proclamation itself is certainly a novel pne. Theoretically there ought to be nothing to conceal in the public ser vice, and it is a sign that there must be something very wrong in a system which calls for the step we have re ferred to. We were always under the impression that the public had a right to any reasonable information they might ask for regarding the busi ness of the country, their own business in fact. In England tbero are no Government secrets except the matters dealt with in Cabinet And |n this colony information concerning every thing, except subjects requiring to be confined to the knowledge of members of the Cabinet, should be available to the Press on behalf of the people. |

Local and General.

To Our Fbaders—"My Lady's 'Satchel" to be found on our fourth page, is an exceed ingly interesting and appropriatt article.

Weathkk Report—Captain Edwin wires: •"Moderate to utrong westerly winds glass rise,

Thb Mayob.-—A letter received yesterday morning from His Worship the Mayor, dated from Rotorua, indicates that he is duly appreciating his surroundings, and is apparently benefiting by ihe trip north,

N.Z. Railways—Particulars of the ezonr sioo to Mount Somera and Springbnrn o December 26, also train alterations for th Christchurcb Cycling Sports en Dectmbe 26, are advertised in this issue.

Tinwald Racing and Sports Clcb— Nominations for this meeting, to bo held oo New Year's Day, close this (Saturday) evening, not later than 9 o'clock, with the Secretary (Mr Charles Bennett), at Lagan's Hotel.

Thb Stdkby Town and Country Journal. —We are in receipt of tha Ohrisrmao number of the Sydney Town and Country Journal, which, from the cover to the last page, is admirably got up. The chief feature of this paper are the beautiful pictures of soenery in New Sooth Wales whioh indicate spots of surpassing beanty.

Swimming Feat—A remarkable swimming feat wti done by Mr J A Jarvis, the world's long-distance champion, at Baonp Baths, in October. In attempting to lower the quarter mile record, he swam the distance in smin 52§aec, whioh is a second better than bis own previous best.

The Primikr In Kilts,— It is confidently expected amongst the members of the South* land Pipe Band that the Premier, in hii enthuaiaum for bagpipe music, will don the kike, and assist Drum Major Msogregor to lead the band through the streets of Sydney. The playing of " Wearing of the Green " is supposed to have done the busi ness.

Sports Association Carnival.—At a meeting of the Sports Association held last night it was deoided to hold a carnival on Thursday Febrnary 21st 1801 and the follow ing were elected a programme committee- Messrs Clark, Orr, McDonnell, MoSherry, F McKeig, L Hobbs, P H Cox 0 Campbell, J Snodgtats and F Prichard,

Notoribtt Loveks—A writer in the Owl (Capetown) once saw certain letters address* ed to a woman acquitted of murder, two of these emanating from professional men. one of whom—a tolerably well known outside preacher—declared that he wished to try the experiment, from a social and religious point of view, of marrying one who had gone through a terrible ordeal,

Thb Ooontbt Mail Bkbvice9.—lhe Post* master informs us that on Christmas Day aoi New Year's Day there will be no delivery of mails in the Greenstreet-Ashburton Forks and the Elgin-Wakanui and Riverside postal districts. The Greenstreet-Ashburton Forks delivery will be made on tbe Wednesdays of those two weeks, and It is probable that a similar arrangement will be made in con nection with the filgio, Wakanui, and Riverside service*

Univbrsitt Extension Lectures —At a meeting ef the Canterbury College Board of Governors held In Ohristohurch yesterday a sub committee, appointed to report on the subjecb of university extension lectures, recommended that such lectures be initiated in Timaru, Ashburton, and other localities where deemed desirable, and that in view of the special difficulties a provision be made in the estimate of next year for a grant of a hundred pounds to fairly launch the movemeub. The Boari adopted the report, provided the funds are available.

An Unmusical Bell— As the afternoon train for the north was about ts leave on Friday, the porter gave the usual violent Jerk at the bell to notify the passepgers that time was up. The bell, however, instead of respond' i> g in its ordinary grufi way, fell from its fastenings on to the platform with a great clatter, much to the amusement of the passengers, many of them expressing the wish that it would be consigned to the old metal heap, as it is a moat unmusical instrument, and should have been replaced long ago by one with mellower tones

Salamandkrs is Oamaru—Within the memory of the oldest inhabitant no hot wind has blown so hot in this district say» the North Otago Times as that of Monday. At times th? bre<za was like the heat from a furnace, and everything wilted before the parching blast* Grass that was before rank in growth shrivelled up considerably, and everything wote a brown appearance. One Salamander informed us that his thermo meter read 92 In the shade, and at the time he was perepirirg at every pore, and looked as if it had read much more he would have melted away altogether. A delightful change took place In tbe evening, when the wind veered round to the south.

A Shooting Yarn—Shooting men are rapidly gaining a reputation for story-telling which rivals that of angler*, Hare Is a gunner's yarn that, to say the leasti, taxes one's credulity. He saw a flock of pigeon* sitting on a branch of an old pine, so he dropped a ball into his gun and fired. The ball split a branch, which closed up and oattght the toes of all the birds sitting on it. He taw that he had got them all; so he fastened two balls together and tired; cat the branch off, which fell into the river. He then waded in and brought ib to shore. On counting them there were 300 pigeons and in his boots were tiwo barrels of shad, 'Next, please

Rangitata Station f chooi-.—The arnual picolo in connection with the Rangitata. Station School was held on Thursday last. The day was gloriously fine, and there was a good attendanoe of children, parents, and friends. All seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves. The prizes were distributed by the Bey. A. fy Todd, of GeralcJlpe, who gave the children a short addrfps. Oooasion was taken to present Miss iftesler, who 1b leaving the school on aoocunt of her approaching marriage, with a handsomely bound volume of Tennyson's poems, suitably inscribed. Miss Ziesler acknowledged the presentation, and hearty cheers terminated* the proceedings. Id the evening a social was held, which was well attended.

Visit of the Indian Boys—lt it seldom indeed that an Ashburton audience enjoy themselves to such an extent, ac they did bit eight at the exhibition by the Indian boyo. Adjutant Sadinand introduced the party ia a few well chosen words, when the boya who are admirably trained commenced with an Indiau action song to the accom paniment) of small cymbals and drums or Tom Tom*. This was followed by an exhi bition of Indian 'Ifo from the morning ablution* to the conclusion of the day. Four of the boys than gave their famine experiences, one of them being only five yeara old when reiouad by the Salvation Army. Adjutant Day* Ratna followed with a short address, explanatory of the Army's worki and methods among India* millions —.fellow subjects of our world Empire. The boya concluded by a sort of Indian Maypele danoe, in whi"h the colored ropes were twisted in regular order to produce the yellow, red and blue. Adjutant Badinand explained that the boys were of several different estates, but they were taught in the Army that all ciste distinctions mnst be buried, and that they all lived on equality as brothers. The boys wore under the im mediate training of Ad|nt*nt £|aya Ratna, »od they seen) to bo a credit to him in every sense; There is little doubt the Indian boys would have a bumper bouse if they should visit Ashburton again i

A Bio Fish—Mr E Marsden caught a 151b trout at the mouth of the A«hhurton riv«r this morning. Tbe fish was on view in Messrs Hard ley Bros window this morning, and is a splendid specimen of the brown trout

A Khaki Stamp—Sixty thousand of the new khaki IJd stamps (says the Wellington correspondent of the Otago Daily limes), are being printed. It is estimated than twenty thousand will be bought by collect ore. The stamps will carry six ounces of newspaper matier through the post. Theie has already been a somewhat extensive sale of the stamp on behalf of oolieoters and of firms who find a market for new and rare scamps. The l£d letter cards are, in view of penny postage, being put through the printing press again, the words one penny being printed over the stamp on tbe right hand corner.

MISS BARRETT'S SCHOOL.

The annual distribution of prizss in con nection with Miss Barrett's sonoo), took place In the St Stephen's Sunday Sobool yesterday afternoon. A large number of the children's parents were present; The children were prettily arranged on the stage. The prises, were distributed by the Rnv R A Woodthorpe, M.A, who opened the pro gramme by asking the Miaees Maud and Nellie Patching for a duet on the piano, whtoh was followed by the children singing the * Soldiers of the Queen' in good style. After other of the seholari had rendered piano solos and duets the children sang • Red, White and Blue,' whioh w*s heartily applauded by the audience. This was fol lowed by a piano solo by , Miss Dully Fried- Under, carefully played. A «iuet was ren dered by Misses tflsie Simpson and Lynn Snodgrasc, which was followed by a solo by Miss Segers. Miss McPherson then gave another solo, which was succeeded by a song well rendered by Miss Elsie Fletcher. Mils G Stephenson then gave a eolo, which was well received. ' The Meeting of the Waters ' rwae very well played by Miss Kate and Master Hmlth, and-another solo was prettily given by Miss Elsie Fletcher. The seoond last duet was given by the Misses A Barber and M Patching, the iBBt being by the Mlesos Norman and Cameron. ' Rule Bri tannia ' was Bung by Misses Roberts (3), Snodgrttss (2) and Smith, the children Ijo ning in the chorus. The R*v i R A Woodthorpe then gave a short address to the children. He pointed out to them the reason why a child goes to school, and gave several instances of children being asked the question why do they go to school, and replying they did not know. He urged tbe children to try to do better than those who had gone before them. He told them that they went lo school to learn, not only to read, write, &a, but to learn todowelh He concluded by wishing the school and obildren every future happiness. He then distributed the prizes »s follows :— , PRIZE LIST

English.

Stanford VI — Olive Snodgraea dux, Mary Roberts 2, Violet Snodgrass 3 Standard V— Katie Smith 1, Dolly Rob er'B 2, Zac. Ferriman 3 Standard IV (upper)-—Minnie Roberts 1 Standard IV (lower)— Eric Fried lander 1, Ruby Macpherßon 2 Standard 111 (upper)— Dorothy Denshire 1, Lynn Snodgrass 2, Clarence Shrimpton 3 Standard HI (lower)-EUie Fletcher 1, Joseph Ferrlman 2 Standard II — Hedley Baxtar 1, Jack Bnodgrass 2, Dolly Friediander 3 Standard I—Rewi Jones 1, Deanie Hunter 2 Infants (upper)— Ruby Digby 1, Frank Sorint 2 Infants (lower)-Kmil Friediander I, Jack Smith 2 Fpkoial Prizes Kitty Friedlandcr, mathematics ; Olive Snodgrass, drawing and writing ; Mary Roberts, essay; Violet Snodgrass, mapping ; Kitty Friediander, vertical writing ; Minnie Bobertß, home-work ; Katie Smith, regular attendance ; Olg» Friediander, home-work ; Rewi Jones, good conduct; Clare Friedian der, object lesson ; Violet Digby, poetry ; Elsie Simp«on, *peiling ; Ko»ooe Harmon, perseverance ; Hay Smith, object lesson. Sewing Prices Standard Vl— Mary Roberts (upper) 1, Violet Snotfgrass 1, Dolly Roberts 2 Stan dard V— Kitty Friediander 1. Standard' IV—Ruby Maopherson 1. Standard Hl— Dorothy Denshire 1. Standard ll—Eleie Fletcher 1, Violet Digby % Standard I— Dolly Friediander and Elsie Simpson 1. Infantt«~-Ruby D'Ctby 1, The conduct prize was kindly given by Mrs Max Friediander, and the first and second prizes for homework kindly given by Mrs H Friediander. After the prizes had been distributed the children gang the National Anth m. There was a largo quantity ot work done by the children exbib ted on tables. Some very good specimens of map and other drawings were pinned on (he wall for inspec tion The children presented Miss Barrett with a very handsome gifb in the way of a silver shoe horn and button-hook set in a cave with a suitable inscription on the ontsjde of it, as a token of their esteem towards their teacher, Before the children broke up they gave three cheers for the school,in which the Rev R A Woodthorpe led off.

Canterbury Frozen Meat Company

An extraordinary general meeting is called by advertisement to confirm the resolution 'increasing the oapital of the Company. The meeting will be held at the Company a offices, Christchurch on Friday, January 11, 1901.

Waterton Parish Gathering.

The annual parish gathering of the Church of Sts. Philip and JamM, Waterton, was held in the Library flail last night. There was a large attendance, and the Rev Mr Blakiston occupied the chair. An excellent tea was provided, the following ladiea presiding at the tables:—Misses Grigg, Mas dames Cowan, White, and J. Bice, and it ia needless to say that the good things were fully appreciated by all who partook of them. After tea a first-class musical programme, arranged by 41 r Horace Gates, was rendered. The concert was opened by a selection from the band, under the leadership of Mr McClurg, after whiob. solo* were given by Misses Donaldson, Watson,and Thompson, and Messrs Brooking, Sohwartz, and Mrs Dee, and Mr McClurg contributed a violin solo, St. Stephen's Choir sang with (tat expression the three anthems 'Ye Shall Dwell,' 'Beheld Bow Good,' and ' In Jewry.' The organ w%s lent by Mr Smith, one of the churchwardens, and the accom panists were Miss Ethel Ottos and Mr* Clarldge, who performed their parts well. All the musical items were well rendarod and fully appreciated by tka< audieaoe. On the whole the gathering was a most successful one, and reflects credit on all who had the arrangements in hand.

CRICKET.

NORTH CANTERBURY r. SOUTH

CANTERBURY.

The Canterbury representative team, who play Otago to-day, met a South Canterbury eleven at Timaru on Thursday* North Canterbury won the lose, and elected to bat, knocking up 258. W Pearce 47, 8 Callaway 60, R W Barry 62, and J B Reese 49 wore the prinoipal scores,

The match was continued yesterday morning. South Canterbury pat up 100 for the first innings (Adcook 27, Kalaugher2o, Powell 10, extras 22). Following on, they ware all out for 23, of which 1Q were extras. Barry and Pearce bowled in the second innings. The former did tha hat trlok, The visitors won by an innings and 156 rani.

Montgomery's Kinematograph

True to his promise, Mr Montgomery, of kinema'ograph fame, has returned from the Paris Exhibition and other large cities of note with a number of up to date kiaemato* graph pictures and many of the latest novelties of thu day. This enterprising manager has shown excellent taste in the selection of his views, trnd is to be oongra* tulated on being the first in the field with so many new attractions, which muse have meant a considerable outlay on his part—an outlay which will doubtless prove a profit)* able one before the New Zealand boar is brought: to a close He has a thoroughly competent staff lo assist him in the carrying out of the operations of his new machine, the working of which, it should be stated, is entrusted to a sapable electrical expert (Mr Walter Monk) from America. The pictures are very distinot and clear, and muoh larger than the general run of kinematograph views. They are shown without) a hitch, and a pleasing feature in connection there with is t,o be found in the fact that they are f res from the continual flickering which is so severe on the eyes, and is, as a rule, inseparable from this class of machines.

Interprovincial.

Auckland, Deo 21 A representative has been eleoted to the Anglican General Synod to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Archdeacon Olark. Great interest was taken in the election as two of the candidates, Canon Nelson and the Rev W Beatty, had taken opposite sides as regards the Bfc John's College management, The Rev W Beatty was eleoted Wellington, Deo 21

The Land Board hat decided to refute a request made by a number of settlers that, •boat 1602 acres of the Mount Brnoe Forest Reserve thould be sub-divided for tettlement purposes. The Commissioner stated that at the block had been proclaimed for State forest purposes the Board had no power to comply with the request In the Supreme Court, yesterday, the special jury in the case of A J Had field and others ▼ the Horowhenu* County Council returned answers to the issue submitted to them. There are two causes of the action, both in regard to the drainage of roads and lands. In one action the jury found answers favorable to the plaintiffs, and awarded them £150 damages. In the other action the answers were favorable to the defendants. The entry of judgment was left to the Court and the case reserved for further consideration

The censor afc Aden advises that delay is being caused to telegrams passing through that office, owing to the frequent omission by senders of any indication in the preamble of the messages of the particular code employed

The Ministers for Education, Public Workf, and Lands will leave for their hotne§ in the loath on Sunday. The Minuter for Juetioe cannot Ret away to Auckland until Monday morning. The remaining members of the Cabinet will stay in Wellington until Boxing Day, when the Premier and the Native Minister will Btart for Sydney. The Minister for Railways and the Minister for Customs will bt here until after the holidays. The City Solicitor, who was asked for a definite opinion on the point, considers that) the Corporation is justified in. spending money for lighting private streets. The Council is empowered to light 'the streets and publio plaoes of the borough,' and a private street comes within the definition of , a publio place.'

The Commonwealth.

United Pre«» A«s«cl»fcion—fly Electric Teles?r*pb—-Copyright (Received Deer 21, 7 42 p m) London, Dec 20 The newspapers, though surprised at Sir W. Lyne's selection, generally regari Lord Hopetoun'g action as constitutional.

Official circles consider it unreason able to ask the Imperial representa tive corps to remain in Melbourne till the end of May, at a cost of £500 daily, in order to attend the opening of Parliament.

Sydney, Dec 21

The i Premier of Queensland tele* graphed to Hr W J Lyne that he had no intention of entering the Com moo wealth Parliament, but would do all he possibly could to help him in forming a Ministry.

Two Men, a Dog and Lynamite

A NARROW ESCAPE

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph —Copyright (Rfoelved Dec 20, 9,15 p m)

Sydney, December 21

Two men, while fishing near Ooodo bolin, had a thrilling experience, They put a charge of dynamite in a bottle and a fuse through the cork, and forgot to weight the bottle. They threw the bottle into a water-hole, and their dog jumped in and secured it and chased his owners. The men managed to keep ahead until the dynamite exploded. The dog was blown to atom?.

The Rival Cables

United Preai Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Received Waktpuaka Dec 20, 938

Sydney, Dec 21

Mr Orick has now proposed to Victoria and Queensland to take a fresh ballot for the Pacific Cable Board. Until this body is properly constituted the contract for tbe cabla cannot be signed. Mr Orick' will do nothing with regard to the Eastern Extension Company's agreement until the Pacific cable contract has been fixed op,

CABLE NEWS.

United Prew Aatooiation—By Eleotric

Telegraph—Copyright

IJOGI'ESIASTIOAL, London, Dec 20 })t Thomas Kennedy has been elected Moderator of the United Free Church of Scotland; A BIG LOSS. Truth states that Lord Landadowne, enjoining the Ministry, sold his shares in tha Armstrong Company, sacrificing £60,000, owing to a sabseqnent rise. THE BEER POISONING EPIDBMIO. Government experts report that araenic can only be traced in beer brewed with sugar supplied by Bostock, of Liverpool. A HAUL OF HOOLIGANS, Paris, December 20 Three thousand two hundred and eighty-six persons have been arrested in Paris for hooliganism. THE KAISER'S SYMPATHY. Bbhliw, Deo 20 The Kaiser entertained Prince Christian and his daughter, the Princess Aribert, as a mark of sympathy with them in their domestic troubles. The Kaiser placed Prince Aribert on the retired army list. VOLCANIC DISTURBANCES Syiqnbt, Dec 21 News from the Gilbert Group, in the equatorial Pacific, states that a violent explosion has been heard at Butaritari^ the northernmost au.d mo«t important

of the island*. It is feared that a seriom volcanic disturbance has occurred in one of the neighbouring islands THE PLAGUE Brisbane, Dec 21 A boy named 01 sen has died at KocfeHampton after a few hours'illness from plague. Washington, December 21 The Senate, by 53 to 18, has adopted the Hay-Pauncefote Nicaragnan Oanal Treaty, with an amendment declaring that the Olayten-Bulwer Treaty is superseded. The Senate eliminated the article which ordered the notif ca tion of the Powers.

South Africa.

United Press Association—By Hsetcio Telegraph—Copyright

MOTEMINTS OF BRITISH AND BOEB FORCES,

Received Wakapnaka Dec 21, 6 86 p m, (This Office 7 42 » m London, December 20 A portion of Koox'i column dm been diverted in order to panne the Gape Raiders, who ire without gam, Lonii Both* is at Feltprnit. The British were strongly reinforced at Koomatipoort. General French has joined General Clements. De Wet is threatening Winburg.

Important Business it Bloom fontein

De Wet Defiant

Will Sesist Till Much

Bo Names Sis Ttrmi

Received Wakapuaka Deo. 21, 954 pn» this Office 1136 pm)

London, December 21 Sir G. Ladgen, the Commissioner for Basutolarjd has arrived at Blocni fontein, and important business Is proceeding.

An English gentleman, who recently was a prisoner in Dewetsdorp, reports that De Wet while attacking the garrison had six thousand men and eighteen thousand horses. General Knos. subsequently broke his force into three sections, De Wet told the gentleman that his dead outnumbered the British killed and wounded and admitted that the Boers were beaten but would not surrender uncondition ally. They were able to resist till March, and he demanded free pardon for himself and bis followers, including the Gape rebels and oath breakers. De» Wet promised bis followers the farm* of these who had surrendered to tbe> British,

London, Bee 21 Lord Kitchener has established bis> headqnarten at Pretoria It is reported that the first body of Boere, which invaded pace Colony, crossed the Orange River at Khencster boek, the British punning then towards Steynsburg. A second band crossed at Sanddrift. Mounted troop* sent forward are gradually surrounding both bands. The railway is well guarded Reuters Capetown correspondent states that, it is estimated that two thousand invaded the colony. There is no fear as to the result of the raid, but grave apprehension test Dutch sympathisers join the raiders

The lack of drilled mounted troopt is severely felt Tbe enormous waste of horses is inadequately appreciated in England. A mixed force of ft thousand from Capetown has beeni despatched to tbe Orangfs Biver The Boers are occupying the OoJes burg district

It is estimated that the Boers who crossed at Sanddrift numbered 2000

Their attempt to reach Goletburg was foiled. Th« invaders, diverging,, then occupied PhiHipstown. A portion of the commando occupied Honlkraal,, tutting the railvay. The British at Steynsburg forestalled the Boers, but. the Yenterstaad garrison, numbering ( twenty, was'foptared The garrison at Mamalfontein, after a five hours' fight, repelled an attack, inflicting heavy loss Strong ga|riione are stationed at Burgersdorp, Stornabeeg, and Naaow poori to checkmate the invaders, white the swollen river blocks their return

Martial law has been proclaimed is Tariooi districts of Oape Colony Sir Godfrey Lagden is likely to &» appointed Administrator of the Omng* River Coleny London, December 21 The Czar's recent answer, declining an audieooe, was addressed 'Mr Kruger.' Tbe latter was greatly pained.

Sporting.

Ztanidia Jookay GluVf Amtuui

United Prees Awociation—Bjt Sbotrio Telegraph—Copyright

Dcksdin, Deatiner 2I»

| The following nomlnaticna h*ve been re oeived for the Dunedfn Jodkey Orab'v Aotutnn Meeting ;— Dckkdin Gvt, of 400 nvi; one mile sod » half—Paladin, Gienaiadale, Bkobeleff» Ful men, Oatiak, Dundu, Strathnairo, PaMeve, Field Roae, Advaaoe, Nihiliet, Ouma, Hermoea, Hnkn, Sant Ilario, Tortall*, Pre» posal, Jnpiter. 1 PORLICANS" HAKDIDAP, of 150 MTI ; NTCIV fnrlonga—Magnifioent, Bluer, Pampero^ Firet Blood, Red Banner, Dand»t« Abe**' erombie, Hermasa, Booiti«h Minetrel, Brfee%. Oetiak, Gladyi 11, Benzoin, Edeiweiar,, Spider, Goldnpar, La Reiee, Nihiliit r 8% Denii, Hypnotiit, Turitea, Jockey Clob Uandioay, of 160 mtc t ne mile and a quarter—Paladin, Banmm, Briia, NihilUt, Dandae, A herorombie^ Strath nairn, Biasssr, Huka, Red Banner, Cmmo, ftdalweiis, Spider, Pampero, Fo.ln.en, Pra* poial, Joplter, Annivkbharv Hambtoai>, »f 185 eoTi; one mile *nd a quarter—Paladin, Spider. Briea,. Fulnveo, Propoeai, Japlter, Strathuira,, Aberorombie, flermoaa, Pampero, Sanfe. Ilario, Red Banner, Cameo, Edelweiss.

WiNOATiJi Stakes, of 125 eovi \ six fur longs—Blazer, Kotnori, Red Ga«ttlet» DnndM, Battler. Mentohilei, 8> Deol^. Goldipur, Cruoiforna, Oanteen.

Accklaxb, December 2i Five to 1 it on offer on the field far tfc». '■ Aaokland Cap. Ideal hM benleaed ettll further, ud it now qaoted at 6 Ml, ** which prloe Coronet i* finni Sht weather is still dry, ud the tnwk hard.

TfilS ASHBtJRTON GOARLIAN : SATtIKDA*, BECEMBSR 22, 1900.



i»»—~— r-£.- a^ r . [||<|I||t|||| ||| . <||([| - £ ,^,,,,,,,^-j^ :■;. .- .. ...,.,.. " . , i- f . |n ■■■■. Polypathic Medical Institute. l Corner of Gloucester Sfcreeb and Latimer Squar*. CHRISTCHUROH, (Immediately behind the Exhibition Buildings). FIFTH VISIT TO ASHBURTON. FRIDAY AFTERNOON, JANUARY 4, 1901. 2 o'clock p m anti! Bpm SATURDAY, JANUARY 5, 9 am until 1 o'clock pro CONSULTATION IRE —GRANGE'S HOTEL. POLYPaTpY, the New Method of Healing, U tht *~ * dureat and m<.st r*pid System, as it tmrei with abioluU drftf A <M&l^-jskrlj&«f% certainty such diseases as Cancer, Epilepsy and Atthma, PR^y^^^Mflßm ncuialle n-rUt the old syitetn, »8 we'l as all Chronic Clinics madr by POLYPATHY than any other syittm 28&8fc58/E3st£k Fftls PT!C Fits Fob Eigut YIARS ; ALSO HEART #" /m^S^^^^gS^SHl Yorr Medicines have done me a great dsal of good. I ISmKM^s&S^HHEH feel better in every way, and the pains at the heart have ||^H|Hfl|H|HVf¥S entinly Sefc me. I have not had one fib since taking LUNG DISEASE AND KXTKIME DEBILITY I have much pleasure in eendiog this letter, thanking ! fiflß^^^^^M^^El you very much for the benefit I have derived from your t^H^KT^H^^f^KW medicine, which I have been using six weeks. I wae . FbRI^K^^EISBBM reduced in weight from 12st 4'b down 60 Bst Tib, and I ÜB|MHiy«BpP|lSl^ had quite given myself up to my Maker; but thank God ffeJSßlrEttufl^^MH^BlJH after I had been under your treatment nine days my iw^Hns^B friende could see a change in me, and I could feel It iSMBEfjS^SS^^SSmF^ myself, and have been improving ever sinoe. You can ' ~ t-^^*^^^^^ M^^^ ft uge t,hj t letter for a teotimonial, or refer anybody to me 11"* Winning you every prosperity—Youn respectfully, 12 147 John Euhiok PARENTS ARE INVITED TO INSPECT Ot>R STOCK OF BOYS' OLOIHIKG. T> OYS' Guard Suits 8s 6d ; Boys' Blouses 4s Boys' Norfolk Suits 12s 6d j Washing Suits 2a 6d " Absent-Minded Beggar " Suits 18s 6d Best Value to be obtained anywhere. Men's Sac Suits from 21s to 65s Men's Trousers 7s 8d ; Tennis Trousers 128j6d. A nice variety of Summer Ooatß in Kharki Serge, Sfttteio, Alpaca, Etc. N.Z, CLOTHING FACTOHY. F. H. BECKINGSALE, Manager. j - ABSOLUTELY TRK BEST EVER MADE BURNETT STREET, ENORMOUS Stock of Fundriea jaat tv hand, ii eluding Latest Lamp*, Luggage Carriers, Faddle Chains, Alarm Bells, etc Inspection Invited The Equitable Life Assurance Society, of US Head Office for New Zealand—Wellington. DIRECTORS, with power to issue Policies and pay claims : ; > H D Bell Esq. Chairman. I Percy M Thomson, Inspector of Agencies. albert Martin. Eeq, MU. . I E Trevor Gopld, Resident Secretary; STRONGEST LIFE ASSURANCE SOCIETY IN THE WORLD Financial Position. „ „ - „„,, Aeauraoca in force £219,670,058 I Surplus over liabilities ... g}?.?".^ AccumuJated fuud-... .- £58,373.185 | Annual income ... ._ £11.286,145 A Mutual Office. AH surplus belonga to the policy holders. Send for particulars of the Guaranteed Caen Value Policy. NICOLT BROS, Agents, Ashburton. la hi XMAS PRESENTS. XMAS PRESENTS. X?VERYBODY should call and see our Grand Display of New Goodß suitable for "V" MA-S and New Year GiftSi Farfcy Goods of all kinds. Photo Frames, Vases, Fancy Baskets, Fancy Crockery iv all; the latest designs. Also—A Nice Assortment of the best Silver Plated Ooode at greatly reduced prices. CAI.L AND bEE. NO ONE PRESSED TO BUY AT T. fl. UMDRILL & COS., CABINETMAKERS & UPHOLSTERERS, TANORED STREET. PURE & HALFBRED TAM WORTH PIGS j Al j£ | I fro r,uirrrr. purchaßinf7 Halfbred PIGS. l^l Eg Qu^^ 9m We are prepared to bv>v them for Bacon, ■ -/j A"TE Co'a I tn, provided they are fattened on Rrain or I eas. ■ *"^^H|^^fcv " V FABMEBB' MEAT SUPPLY CO* I M FOE SALtf, •■ lA WELL Cured Prime quality HAMS / A . and BA« N. Cheaper than Beef jMV^ Jf LP or Muttnn. Guaranteed giain fed by lOW x Farmers of this district. '" FARMERS' MEAT SUPPLY CO. | ' ? 1? ——- CHAMPION BLEND REMEMBER! I •i% OTHER PRICED: j» ' THE SHOP will be OPEN «*ery Nlghb 7» VlO */2 *>^ th , « k „,« 8 u -o,. ck f Ot «h..... ». 1»SO CHINA TEA UgjljrjK, _ A. H. WILUAMS, Tancred Street taki»g|ifeoßß ?«U»*«



SI. BTKPHEN'S OHUROH Ashburton. Fourth Sunday in advent (Deo 23rd) 8 30 a m—Holy Communion 11am—Matins «nd Sermon 3 p m—BEAFIELD ; the Vioar 3 p m-DROMORE; Mr T A Gaths I 630 p m— Evensong and Sermon CHRISTMAS DAY (Deo 25th) 8.30 » m—Holy Communion I lla m—Matins, Holy Communion and Sermon 2 30 p m—Children'! BerTloe 4 p n~—Holy Baptism 6.30 p m—-Choral Erensopgand Sermon R. A. WOODTHORPB, M.A, Vioar 1 l 111 ■ ... ■ I T¥T B ARE SHOWING THIS WFEK A SPLENDID LOT OF GOODS, SUITABLE FOB CHRISTMAS i AND I NEW YEAR PRESENTS. INSPECTION INVITED ASHBHETON DEAPEET CO.



Personal—Major Steward, M. H. R, lor Waitaki,ieaveg for Sydney on Monday to be present at the Inauguration of tha CommoQ' wealth. Ha will be accompanied by hia daughter, Mrs Reginald Curtji. 11 The liver is the tataret of bile, But very rarely executes his junction." —Don Juan Bllioaa fever is % difease; ite attack it generally aurtden Thera ia a sense of Faoguor ajad debility for a few days previous: headache, lack of appetite, furred tongue, j pain in the joints, and a fading of nneasi. \ naaa. Chills ensus, followed by feverish n?ss Food ia distasteful; the bowels are ont pf order A dose of Impey'a "May i Apple " soon corrects then troubles, all nature smiles again, and once more you are your bright and happy self



£andbr & Sons' EuoALTrxi Extract— Under the distinguished patronage of His Majesty the King of Italy, awarded Diploma at tha International Exhibition, Amsterdam, Acknowledged by Medical Clinics and Uni versities all over the globe. That the erode, resinous oils, which are now foisted upon the public uod*r tha name of Euoalypi Extract*, way not b» mistaken for Sander &, Sons' Pore Volatile Eucalypti Extract, we state :*-It is proved, by testa made by tha Medical Clinics of the Universities at Bonn amd Griefswe>ld (Prussia), that only products that are saturated wilh oxygen and freed of acidSj resinous and other eybstan^es adherent to * primary "distfltailon, W |U develop the curative properties poasessed by tha plant. To avoid tha appalling consequences result' ing from the application of substitutes, etc, in croup, bronchitis, diphtheria,dysentery, internal Inflammation, etc., insist !n gettiag Sandbr and Sons' Pobu Vouj E i Lyra Kxibact, and be ife,



(XWSULTINTTWrigtAN Mr Ernest M. Sandstain, I)BOA!, FB, MO, who has lately returned after the years' special study fa England and Con- I tment, may be consulted oil all oaaet of j defective «jreiight« Daylight not neotaaary, art|6oial light being used. Dootora' pre soriptiona prepared. Fees moderate. Con suiting rooms, Cashel Street W;, over M Sandsteio, jeweller, Ohristohuroh, 950 to ? to 6 daily You can depend on ridding your children of worms with Wade's Worm Fig«, the wonderful Worm Worriers j v



Held Otbb, — " Cltiamrt ** letter will appear oo Monday, together with etbe* matters -iravoidable held over. Wuifc'a Worm Figs, the wonderful Worn Worrier*, uever fail for adults oj obMdren Price \%