Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 1900. THE COMING WEST COAST BOOM

The West Ooaafc is in a mild state of excitement just now over tne coming dredging boom. It is many a year since the Coasters' hopes ran so high as they do at the time of writing;' Nearly everybody over their is " talking dredge," of pegging oat, of company promoting, of claims ao rich that when they are worked they mu&t make their fortunate proprietors.and shareholders ■ wealthy beyond the dreams of avarice. "Ofcago has done well, thanks to dredging," say these sanguine West Coasters, " but wait till we make a start, and even the returns achievebly Hartley and Riley shall not be a cir cumstance to what we will show." And, making every allowance for enthusiasm born of the wearing of rose-colored spectacles, there eeems every probability that the West Ooaat dredging boom when it comes will come to stay, and that the gold winning industry over 1 there will take a new lease of life with the advent of a few first-class dredges of the newest pattern, Of course dredging on the Coast has been tried before, years ago, and has failed lamentably. But that was due, say the experts, to the old - fashioned dredges employed, which were power less to work the hard, boulder strewn, river beds, where much of the gold lies hidden, For the up to date drfidge is as superior to the old time dredges, as the modern turret man-o' war is superior to the old wooden battle ships, of the "Victory" type. Recent visitors to Westland who ought, if training and experience go for any thing, to know what they are talking about, predict, after visiting the Coast and seeing all that is to be seen, that the coming boom is going to be a very big thing indeed. They point oufc that an enormous area of wonderfully rich god yielding soil exists on the Ooaet which, but for dredgps, i*". would bn hopeless to dream of turning to pr fit able account, but which, again, with the facilities now available, may be made to produce such stores of gold that even the palmy days of Westland shall be eclipsed and put in the shade. Booms of a transitory, spasmodic kind, such as the one that occurred in the Auckland district four or five years ago, are by no means unmixed with blessings. They give a temporary fillip to trade, and, for a spell, money is plentiful, and timrs are good. But when the boom dies, and the inevitable reaction sets in, it is another story, and general jubilation gives place to gloom and despondency. Auckland is only now recovering from the effects of her last boom. But between Auckland and the Weat Coast the conditions are widely differ ent. The area to be worked in the case of the latter is infinitely greater. And, besides, the Auckland boom was due to deep-sinking, ordinary mining. The We3t Coast boom will be due en tirely to dredging. And there is reason to suppose that it will last at all events for a good many years. Tt's possibilities are much brighter than in the case of Ofcago, where the ground available for working is so much less in extent. And of course a really big boom on the Weat Coast must affect other places besides West land. The people of Canterbury may reasonably hope to reap some of the benefit. Of course money will be lost as well as made. That is inevitable, i because, when a boom of this sort is on, the wild 9-it, like the poor, is always with us. Mad, reckless speculation generally ends disastrously. Intending investors should look before they leap, and refrain from touching any venture withous first satisfying themselves that there is, at least, some kind of reason to support the glowing assertions set forth in the prospectuses of the wily company promoter. j

A CONTRAST.

Verse 30 of the sixth chapter o£ tb« book of Proverbs reads as follows : — " Men do not despise a thief if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry." The Christchurch Press is responsible for the statement that on Saturday last, at Lyttelton, Patrick Maguire was sentenced to seven days' imprisonment for stealing two loaves of bread. The verso quoted above was penned by Soloman, the wisest of men. The sentence of seven days' imprisonment was inflicted on poor Maguire by Captain S H "Willis, Lloyds surveyor at LyttejtoDj and Mr William Radclifie, Mayor of that port. Comment is needless.

Local and General.

*V* On the first page to-day will be found commercial news and on the fourth page a short Btory.

The Dairy Expert.—With reference to the resignation of Mr Ruddick of his position of Qhief Dairy Expert, the Post states that Mra Ruddick has not been ia the besb of health einco she has been living in New Zealand, and it is partly for that reason that Mr Ruddick has decided to return to Canada.

Schoolboys Treasures.—A Wellington City Councillor is the authority for a state ment that boya ia the Wellington city schools, not having time in the morning to take rats captured by them round to the destructor, had kept the defunct rodents—not more than one or two at & time—in their school bag along with their books and lunoh until dinner time,

A Cusio.—One of the latest curios re ceived from the front is " a fragment of the biscuit used by the New Zealand Contingent during their inarch to the relief of Kimber ley." The memento is in tho poaseseion of a Palmerston North resident.

An Interrupted Service—On Sunday last in an Ashburton Church, a lady member of the congregation commenced reading the annual balance sheet, which had been dis tributed through the Beats. The clergy man, who had just commenced his sermon, noticed the actioD, and asked the lady to desist. This she immediately did, but the preacher said he was unable to proceed with his discourse, and after giving ouo a hymn closed the nervice.

A Queer Haul— An extraordinary «• mar ine, growth " was fished up in the harbour the other day by the dredge (reportß the New Plymouth Herald.) It is a boat row lock embedded in sand and shingle bound together as if with cement; The spike and points are protruding, giving it a singular appearance. How long the rowlock lay in the harbour it is impossible to say, but the gradual decay of the iron has caused it to become quite loose in its cement-like bed.

The Catholio Pro Cathedral. — QDhe Press says—The work ot removal of the Catholic Pro-cathedral from Its position in Barbadoea street, is progressing very successfully. It is intended to re-aroct it on a Bite eastward of the Convent, on the Ferry road. This will leave the original site clear for the commencement of the building of thu new cathedral.

Shunned Him Likb a Plague.—When the passengers of the Waikare were quaran tined at Dunedin they were supplied with a yellow badge bearing thename of the steamer. On reaching Lyttelcon one of the passengers got into a railway carriage which was inoonveniently orowded. The thought struck him that to display his badge might clear % way for a seat. Accordingly he acted on this idea, and the result was a general stampede, enabling him to get a comfortable seat. There are uses in the plague after all id seems.

Volunteers—There was a good muster of the Guards at the parade last evening. Captain Sparrow in command. The men were exercised in b&fetalion drill by the Captain and Lieutenant Guthbertson, and in company movements by the non-coms. A vacancy in the non-com rank was announced and candidates invited to forward their names, as the selection will be competitive At the conclusion of the parade, Captain Sparrow naid he regretted the meagre atten dance of members at the camp, as that waa practically the only opportunity officers had diving the year of working the men in full battalion drill. He hoped they would respond more readily next year

Ashburton Borough School—The in spector's annual report on this school, which is to hand, is an excellent one, as the fol lowing paragraph will ahow:—The school work is ably and methodically concluded under intelligent diiection, and the educa* tional resu'fc must prove to be in a high degree estimable. The inspector remarks on the absence of a school library as fol lows :—The absence of a school library, In present use by the pupils, ie much to be regretted. The matter is oommended to the notice of the school committee, as the advantage of cultivating a taste for reading outside the limits of ordinary lohool books can scarcely be overestimated, and the school as the centre of an important dietricb, may fairly be expected to furnish in this respect a good example to its neighbours.

Ealino Sunday School—A very suocess ful gathering was held in the schoolroom on Friday, April 20, to celebrate the anniver sary of the Sunday school. Mr J. Withell, as chairman, gave a short address, after which several sacred songs and recitations were ably rendered by scholars and friends in the district, and an address by Mr Haines, of Mayfield. Refreshments were handed round by the ladies, and a very pleasant evening was brought to a close. During the afternoon tbe Sunday school scholars met in the playground for games, etc., and enjoyed themselves as only children can do. Much .praise ia due to Miss Fechney for the large amount of interest she has taken in the young during her residence in the district. Oa the following Sunday special services were held in the morning by the Rev. J. D. Jory, of Wiliowby, and in the evening by the Rev. A. B. Todd, of Seraldine, there being a large audience present oa both occasions.

An Unkind Insinuation—Dr. Thornton, who has recently resigned the Bishopric of Bailarat, once narrated to a temperance meeting a curious experience which befell him during a visitation tour. He waa landed late en a tempestuons night in a remote bush towuship. Not alight was to ba seen save that which proceeded from the office of the local newspaper, The Bishop knocked, and a voice from an up-stairs window cried, " Who's there ?" " The Bishop of Bailarat. Could you kindly direct me to a hotel ?" " I say, boys, guess who'B the cove down below—the Bishop of Billarat." Then there was a bureb of incredulous-laughter from the composing room. Presently the head re-ap peared at the window, and gave this piece of friendly counsel :—•" Look here, old man, you've had quite enough hotel for one night. Go home and get to bed. O'Rafferty's on the beat, and if you don't mako tracks you'll be run in as sure as eggs." The Bishop is a rtaunoh teetotaller!

AUSTRALIAN FEDERA TION.

SPEECH BY MR BARTON.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. London, April 22 Mr Barton, speaking at the Press Club, said that when common action was needed the Empire was already one, and the Motherland might refrain from a step calculated to render the union less warm and less strong. The col onies had asked her to respect the votes upon the matter of self government, declaring that what was asked would promote the prosperity of the Empire.

Sydney, April 23 The Agent-General has cabled to Mr Lyne, that the Imperial Government has been favourably considering the question of vebtment of British trust funds in-colonial stocks, but the move ment will be seriously jeopardised if ap peal to the Privy Council is limited.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Constantinople, April 21 Despite the formal collective pro- I test which has been received from the Powers, the Porte is raising the cus toms duties from 8 to 11 per cent., believing that the Powers will yield upon the point at issue. SydniYj April 21 H.M.S. Diana has arrived from Portsmouth with relief crews for the Australian station. April 22 A small launch was wrecked by the boiler exploding. A man named Love \s missing. Two others were blown into the harbour and were rescued.

.Tam«B llencl ¥ujur»«l Mr James Reed struck bis leg against a cake of ice in such a manner as to bruise it severely. It became very much swollen and pained him so badly that he could not walk without the aid of crutches. He was treated by physicians, also used several kinds of liniment and two and a half gallons of whisky in bathing it, but nothing gave any relief until he began using Chamberlain's Pain Balm. This brought almost a complete cure in a week's time, and he believes that had he not used this remedy his leg would have had to be amputated. Mr Reed is one of the leading merchants of Clay Court House, W, Va. Pain Balm is unequalled for sprains, bruises and rheumatism, Forj aale by ASHBTOTQN DaTO COMPANY

TRANSVAAL WAS.

Strecg'h of Lord Roberta's \ Force The Siege of Wepener The Enemy Reinforced General Brabant's Force Fight ing The Town Shelled on Saturday The Enemy's Big Guns A Colliery Shelled by the Boers 1 The EnemyEepulsed The Boers Becoming Venture some A British Camp Explored Lord Methuen's Operations The Defeat of the Enemy The Boers and the Swazis American Military Critics Lord Eoberts' Censures Ap proved United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, April 23 The Standard correspondent states that Lord Roberts' advance is delayed through the necessity of clearing the flanks and rear and accumulating Btores at the front lest communication should become interrupted. The army, when it moves, will consist of 70,000 men, perfectly equipped. The Boers in front of Wepener have been jeinforced by the addition of a body of men from Thabauchu. Colonel Dalgety's officers and men are all in trenches night and day. The Boers, with five guns, on Satur ! day threw 800 shells into the town, ! doing little damage. ! Two thousand Boers remain to keep up the siege, while 7000 went to Boesh mankop. Sixty-nine guns are mounted at Krconstad, and seven French guns At Pretoria.

One thousand Boera on Saturday crossed the Sunday's River bridge and shelled a colliery, but the British, with heavier guns, drove them off. Lord Methuen's rearguard were de fending the convoy, and were surprised, as the ground was examined three hours previously, and only small parties of Boers were discovered.

A foreigner led a dashing attack, The Boers occupied a portion of the kopjes. After their repulse they re formed and tried to pass round another kopje, but were repulsed with heavy loss,

Colonel laa Hamilton is successfully employing Australian Bushmen to BQour the country and purchase re mounts, and secured those found on unoccupied farms. On Saturday they brought 160 horses and 12 mules. Two thousand horses in Basutoland are awaiting transport. Sir Charles Warren passed through Durban and East London. It is under stood he is on his way to the Free State, where he assumes a civil post. Lord Roberts disinterred the body of Colonel Utnphelby, the Victorian officer, re-burying him at Bloemfontein. Capetown, April 22 The prolonged inactivity had the result of making the Boers venture-! some, and, disguised in khaki, several have explored the camp of the South African Light Horse at Ladyimith. \ f New Yoek, April 23

The military critics in America approve of the , censures passed on General Bnller and his subordinates, but at the same time condemn the publishing of the despatches. Walsh, Nolson, and Dultman, Ame ricans, believed to be Chicago pro-Boer emissaries, have been arrested at Niagara Falls for attempting to dyna mite the Thorold lock of the Welland Canal, the link between Lakes Erie and Ontario. Sydney, April 23 H.M.S. Diana met the troopships Maori and Wairaate prior to reaching Albany, and cheers were exchanged.

Movements of the Troops.

More Fighting

In Favour of British

"Foreign Intervention is Cer tain."

Received Wakapuaka April 24, 9.45 am, This Office 10.17 a m London, April 23 General Brabant, leading one half of the mounted division, found the Boers strongly posted with several guns at Boesmankop. A cannonade, with rifle fire, was kept up briskly. Bundle's column, including the 17th Brigade with two batteries of artillery, trav ersed a roadless country amid heavy rain for three days. The enemy were mot with athwart a road to the west ward of Dewetsdorp. Brazon cleared, a p'ateau cleverly, outflanking and driving the Boers off. The yeomanry then seized the hill holding it, despite of a bombardment by five guns. The infantry supported them. Bundle on Saturday entrenched. The 16th Bri gade then arrived on the scene, and an artillery duel continued all day. Received Wakapuaka April 24, 10.30 a*m Thii Office 10.52 a.m) Capetown, April 23 The Boers at Wepener are jubilant over a message received from Steyn in which he announces that foreign inter vention is certain.

Steyn Implores the Burghers to Resist.

General Warren Appointed Military Governor of the Free State.

Boer Fairy Tales.

(Received Wakapuaks April 24, 11,5 a.m , This Office U4O a.m) London, April 23 Steya bag implored the Burghers to

resist pending M> Fischer's efforts to obtain foreign intervention.

General Warren has been appointed military governor of the Free State. The Boers officially declared they had captured recently thirteen thou sand British, and that two and a-half million Russians were invading India. The statements are apparently issued to stimulate their troopa to persevere in opposing the British.

GLIMPSES OF ROBERTS AND KITCHENER.

" A little grey-headed man, with a very ! compact, well koit figure, and a resolute look , and very keen eyes," That is the hero of the hour, Lord Roberts, the viotor of Kandahar, the saviour of Kimberley, and the victor of Paardeaberg, as he is described by Charles E. Hands, writing from Capetown to the Daily Mail: The same correspondent continues :— 11 Everywhere I seem bo oome across him, and wherever he happens to be people turn round and look at him as he passes and hurry back for another look, and^e 's"oimpressed than they almost forget to cheer. And where ever he goes, with his alert step and his grave, strong look, confident purpose and re solution seem to spread around He looks so thoughtful; everything he does seems so thoughtful, so well considered, parb of a definite scheme.

" I get a glimpse of him alone in a big office room. It ie a very small matter lo him what I want to put before him, I am think ing. But he does not seem to think so. To him no detail seems unimportant). He con siders it rapidly, but thoughtfully, gives a decision and a reason for it*

"I seek an opportunity to get a glimpse of the general manager of this great business undertaking ab his work. lam told to be there at ten minutes paat 9 o'clook. Ib ia exactly tea minutes past 9 o'clock when a door is opened and my name is called. Igo Into a long room, in which are several desks. At the end of the room, at a table which commands a view of all the rest of the room and all the other desks sits a big, dark, •tern man, with a heavy moustache, intent upon paper*. Before he looka up I have time to note the telephones and neatness and orderliness of the arrangement of the table. Whan he does look up, he keep! his finger on the paper ia front of him, marking the place where he left off. I begin to tell what I have to say. He looks at me with very keen, bright, grey-blue eyes, and before I have said ten words he seems to know all the rest, including that which I had planned artfully to lead up to. In ten words he siys what he has to say. He asks me about something which he wanti to know, hears what I have to say, remarks that he is very busy, and before I have quite realised that I have shaken hands and said good morning, he is binding down again over his papers, deep in a calculation at the point) where he left off. Lord Kitchener—for it is he—is engaged, they tell me, in reorganising the transport system. Think of that—in time of war, in the midst of a campaign, he is doing for himself what the whole of the Pall Mall would have bungled at for years in times of peace J But he thinks it is neces sary ; be knows that he can do it", and no one seems to have the slightest doubt that it will be a very advantageous thing to do. And I observe that of the men immediately around him many, down to the merest sub ordinates, are men whom he has trained and tried himaslf at the other end of Africa to know what he wants, and to do what he wants. THE LAIR OF THE WILD BOER. The Times* correspondent, describing a visit to the Boer camp at tne back of Thorn Hill, four mileß out of Ladyemith, says •— The bivouac was pleasantly situated in a valley with abundance of water, protected on two sides by Thorn Hill and Surprise Hill, from which latter we suooeeded in taking one of the Boer Howi-Z3rs before dawn on December 12ih. The camp pre sented a straggling appearance, the tents being pitched without attempt at uniformity and. although they had boen vacated 24 hours, the stench from seme was Sufficient) to deter anyone but a Kaffir or coolie from attempting to explore theme They were square, conical, irregular, and many im provised from bucksaiis. (There was no lack of sab&ble?, as evinced by the constant stream of soldiers, kaffirs, and coolies, hastening back to camp with bundles of all sizes. The poor Lstdysmith Tommy Atkins, ia his present weak state, toiling along with a heavy load on his back, under a sweltering sun, presented a pitiful sight, although his face, streaming with perspiration, actually beamed with the prospect of having a real " tuck in." The rtfereat of the Boers was bo precipitate that nearly all their stores were left behind. A large quantity of Boer meal and flour was found, but the potatoes and onions were a real godsend. In almost every tent were to be found boxes of rusks which the wives had forwarded frequently, and cases of ammuni tion were soattered in all directions, to the amount of 50,000 rounds. The camp was in charge of Commandant Zsederberg, who succeeded Commandant Pretoriu*. Natives informed me that the Boora commandeered their rood to feed the horaer. The camp oould never have beeo taken without immense sacrifice of life, "as lit was protected by outposts for miles I round.

HAMPSTEAD TOWN BOARD.

The following wai accidentally omitted from yesterday's report:—

BOARD \>F HEALTH.

The Board then sat its & Board of Health and the Inspector repotted that he had no complaints to lodge. The late rain disclosed that drainage might be improved in some yards. He was ordered to see that thii was done and sufficient straw provided for pig styes.

MEAT AND MILK INSPECTION

Id reply to the Aahburton Borough Council ib was resolved that this Buard does sob contemplate taking further action in reference to Slaughter yards and Dairy Inspections pending the result of proposed legislation during the next session of Parlia ment).

CYCLING.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

CimisxiHUßCH, April 23 Since Reynolds' fine showing in the test matches, there has been a strong feeling in Christchurch that both he and Sutherland should be sent to Paris, to represent the Oolony in the World's Championships, and at the League Council's meeting, to-night, the icfe» was given effect to in the following resolution, which w*a carried unauimeu«ly : —" That, in addition to Sutherland, if suffi cient funds are available, Reynolds shall be seat as a second representative to Paris. In the event of the balance being large enough a third also to be sent." The last clause was included to meet the wishes of those who would like to see the Colony represented in the international teams race of three aside. The names of J. Chalmers and W. Tierney were mentioned as the possible third man, but it is not considered probable that the funds will warrant the sending of more than two. The expenses to be allowed repre sentatives will be £90 each, and they will leave at the end of May or early in June, £77 is already in hand. Reynolds' sports manlike action in saviDg a deadlook over the test matches, by agreeing to ride behind a singla pacar, after having made all arrange ments to ride behind multicycles, came in for very strong commendation.

Melbourne, April 24 The Eight Hours' Anniversary Wheel Race resulted as follows :— Lewis. 1, Mc- Donald 2, Hudson 3. Time, 4min 16sec.

THE PLAGUE.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Sydney, April 23 Eight fresh cases of plague were reported to-day. The names of the patients are Miss NewtOD, Annandale ; Mrs Fuller, Red fern ; Percy Cook, York street j James Mann, Millar's 1 Point; John Link later, Millar's Point; Bphraim Thom son, Sommerhil! ; a Chinaman at Prince Alfred Hospital ; and Jeannie Thomson, Chippendale. The two last named are dead. Brisbane, April 23 A rat infected with plague bacilli has been caught at the wharf.

United Press Association—By Bleobrio Telegraph Wellington, April 23 The information telegraphed from Ausk land, that certain ratß there suffered from Bubonic plague, caused a mild sensation In the city bo-day, and the sanitary measure! adopted by the Government were applauded, Stupid rnmonrs were afloat in Wellington this afternoon that auspicious cases had been reported in various parts of the town, but they were proved to be without the slightest foundation. The sanitary inspectors ap pointed by the City Council began their duties to-day, and each is allotted a portion of the city to which he has to confine his at tention. A house to house inspection is to ba made, and daily reports are to be lodged. Special attention is to be given to the premises wherein the sale of meat, fish, poultry, fruit and vegetables is carried on. The Colonial Secretary has decided on a Royal Sanitary Commission fop eaoh centre of the colony, Mr Gilrnth and Dr Mason being the commissioners for A*cklan3, while other commissioners will be appointed Im mediately. The new Commission directs Dr Mason and Mr Gilruth to enquire into (1) the sanitary condition of the various ports and places in the oolony, including the marine quarantine stations. (2) Measures to be adopted for the improvement of the sanitary conditions of any port or place. (3) Measures to be adopted to prevent) the introduction or spread of the Bubonic Plague or other dangerous infectious or contagious diseases and (4) Hospital accommodation and means of isola tion available for any cases of bubonic plague. QDhey are empowered to call for all persons or papers they may require in regard to premises, and to examine witnesses on oatb. The Commissioners are, in addition to sending report and recommendation to the Colonial {Secretary, to send a copy to the local Board of Health or Harbour Boards affected and these boards are empowered fotthwith to employ all the means exerciaable by them under the Public Health Act, 1876, and Governing Act or otherwise. However, in order to give full and proper effect to the Commissioners report and recommendations, if any board fail to take prompt measures to give such effect the Colonial Secretary is to be notified by telegraph and shall take such action as in the interest of the public health he deems expedient. The police are empowered to assist Boards in giving effect to the Commtssionere'reportand recommenda tions. Similar proclamations dealing with Wellington, Ohristchurch, and Duuedin will be issued to-morrow

WELLINGf ON, April 23 Mr Ward states that Dr Symes has been appointed to act as Commissioner in Canter' bury He has communicated with other medical men, asking if they will act in Otago and Southland, but up to the time of writing he has not get got their replies.

News in Brief.

On Saturday next Mr H Stephensop will sell, for removal, the ahop and dwelling in Wills sbreeb, now occupied by Mr W. Bryant. Excursion fares and train arrangements for the Timaru races on 26th and 27th inst. are advertised in this isgfte

SPOUTING.

TIMARU RACES.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Timabu, April 23 The following acceptances have been received :— : High-Weight Handicap, of 40 soys; seven furlongs — Abercrombie 93, First Blood 90, Bristol 812, Phryne 83, The Serf 82, Red Banner 80, Vandyke 713, Telemeter 713 Washdyki Welter, of 30 sovsj one mile —Galileo 92, Vantoon 812, Lady Medallist 810, Sally 88, Heliograph 83, Gloaming Bst Autumn Handicap, of 100 soys; 1J mile —Jupiter 86, Paladin 81, Nihilist 712, Suzannah 7 2, Vandyke 612 Pony Handicap, of3ssov9j six furlongs —Sb Loanda 80, Ukase 712, Vicar 710, Little Daisy 75 Flying Handicap, of 40 soya; six fur- St Denis 810, Cherrystone 87, Aberorombie 35, First Blood 82, Gladys 11. 75, Liberty 72, lay Chief 612, Conqueror 610 Selling Rach—Hickory 9.11, Warrington 97, Heliograph 8 13, Adtrshol 80, Belli gerent 711, Romanoff 7 9 Notel—Same as Selling, omitting Hic kory.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE ELECTIONS

ASHBURTON BOROUGH SOHOOL

The annual meeting of householders ia the ABhburton Borough School district was held last night, There were some 50 persons present. The Chairman of the outgoing Committee, Mr Wt Craighead, occupied the chair. BALANCE SHEET. The balance sheeb showed that after paying all expenses, including £43 3s Id for repairs, there was a credit balance of £38 15*. AMNPAL REPORT. The annual report of the outgoing oom mittee was aa follows:—In presenting the annual report and balance shsefe your com mittee are pleased to report that the success of tbe Bohool has been such as to justify their most sanguine anticipations' The annual examination in August last was a most excellent one, and one of the best the school has yet had. Of the six scholarships open for competition amongst the various schools of the county, five were taken by pupils of this tchool, five only entering. It iB moat gratifying to find that all have been successful, and that again the Borough school has headed the list, Arthur Claridge gaining top marks. This makes 14 scholar ship! out of a possible of 18 gained by the pupils of this sohool during the three years Mr Hardie has been in charge. At the last December examination all of the pupil teachers, four in number, passed their respec tive years, and all in the merit division. The record indeed has once more been established, of which we should all feel proud* Ig is a mutter for congratulation too, that outside of th» ordinary curriculum the school has also been well to the fore, a pupil from this sohool again carrying off Mr D Thomas' challenge cup for swimming, the competition being open to all the schools in the county. The attendance, while better than last year, still admits of much improve ment, and it is to be hoped that the parents will do their best to co-operate with the staff, in securing a higher average in future. Before closing, your c ommittee desires to point out to the incoming committee, the absolute necessity of having the room now used by Standard 111 removed or destroyed as it is injurious to the health of those using it. Fourteen meetings of the committee were held during the year, at which the several members attended as follows: —W Oraighead, 14; R McOallum, 14; J T Phaup, 14 ;W J JSileock, 12; G Meddins, 11; D C Stock, 11; H M Jones, 9; R 8 Beto, 8. Mr Bean pointed cut, that during some of the ■ five meetings he had missed, he was absent on leave. The chairman saidjthe staff had really done excellent work. They oould scarcely have done better. He moved the adoption of the report, < Mr H. Mi Jones qeoonded the adoption

and said it was a highly gratifying report to all concerned. THE INSANITABY OLASS-ROOM Replying to the Rev. Mr Fee, as to why the outgoing committee did not acb with regard to the room of Standard 111, but ad vised the incoming committee to act, the chairman Baid the matter had beeu before the committee for years, buo they had been unable to got the Board to act. The report was adopted. Later on Mr Northoote moved M That it be an instruction to the incoming Commit'c» that if the room in which the Standard 111 children were taught were in an insanitary state It be closed' 1" His child had been going to the Allenton sohool, but he (the speaker) had to sand him with the other Standard 111. children to the main sohool and he objected to the ohild being taught in that room- Mr R Lechner seconded the motion. He had been a pupil in the same room 26 years ago. Those present .thought it was about time the place was pulled down. Mr J Steel moved a vote of thanks to the outgoing Committee. This was seconded by Mr Chapman, and oarried unanimously. Mr Jones proposed a vote of thanks to the staff. Mr Siloock seconded the motion. He had had a good deal of experience of inch com mittees and he was satisfed the teachers of the Borough School were second to none. The results of their work proved this. The Chairman fully endorsed what) had been said. The vote was carried unanimously, Messrs R Lechner and H Garner acted as scrutineers. Mr Kenel atked was ib a fact that a member sat on the committee all the year and senfa his children to the Hampstead school. The Chairman ruled the question out of order at that stage of the meeting. Ibey were now electing a committee* Mr Kersei said tie had oome in late and 1 would like to know before voting. ELECTION 01 COMMITTM. The following was the result of the voting 1 for a committee:— *■ W Craighead .... ..35 1 F Steel ..  .. 33 J WSilcock 28 » J T Phaup 28 ■ RMcCallum 23 > GFDodd -20 1 HMJonea ... ... .. 19 1 HGBerryman ..19 ) W Jolliffe „ 18 J R Chapman ...  .16 DO Stock .. ... „ 12 f W Lindsay „ 7 * At a meeting of the new committee held 9 afterwards, Mr W Craighead was re-elected i chairman. Mr C J Styche was re-elected ' secretary, and all the old officers were re * appointed at the same salaries as before. * The Chairman with the Seoretary were ap* 1 pointed to sign cheques. } SUPPLY OF FUEL J The secretary {was authorised to invite 3 by next meeting, tenders for the supply of 8 fuel. * VISITING COMMKCTEB 9 Messrs Phaup and Doddi were appointed 9 a Visiting Committee for the ensuing month* 1 JSIGHT Or MHETING 1 Messrs Jones and Jolliffa who are mem & bers of the Borough Council suggested the * night of meeting be ohanged, as Monday |* evening occasionally clashed with the Coun * oil meeting. After a short discussion it was 1 decided to change the meeting night to tha second Tuesday in the month, the hour to be 3 p.m. The first meeting will take place i on Tuesday, May Bth,

Tinwald.

The members elected were the same as laib year, viz:—Messrs J. Clothier, J. Hampton, J. Stephens, C. Docerfcy, C. Hawkins, F. Bonnington, J. Gudseil. Mr Clothier vw elected chairman for the coming year,

Chertsey.

The attendance of householder! wbb ex tremely poor. The annual report was read by Mr G. Scarlett, and a resume of the year's work done. The following wer« elected a new committee viz s—Messrs Q( Scarlett (chairman), J. Btewait (secretary), J. Copland, J. Ironside 6. Oambell, E. A. B. Stuart, and W. H. Dunstan.

Springburn.

Very little interest was taken in the dec* tion, there being only nine householders present. The following were elected a new committee, no ballot being necessary :— Messrs Morrison (chairman), Mowbray, Syme, Brown, Young, Miatrom, and Gold smith. The chairman made complimentary reference to the examination and inspector's report, the latter stating " The sohool is well conducted. The master is a Capable teacher, possessing intelligent aims, and both depart* ments give ample evidence of eifioient indai try. The writing of the school is a feature to be improved. Order and discipline good."

ASHTON.

There were eight householders present, and seven of these were nominated and duly elected as follows:—Messrs W J Brown, R Gilmoar, J D Bell, J P Blee, T Taylor, J Jamieson, W Stevens. . At a meeting of the new Committee held afterwards, Mr T Taylor was unanimously re-elected Chairman.

Hampstead.

There were some 20 householders present. Messrs G Rumsey, John Hunt, G Sage, JO Cawsey, A Hardy, G W Andrews, W J Crooks, S Payne, and W Thompson wert thd only persons nominated for the committee, and they were declared elected. BEJOBT AND BALANCB SHKKT- The following report was read at the annual meeting of householders at Hamp* stead:—Tbe only regrettable feature ia connection with our school during the past year is one common to nearly every school in the country, viz., the falling off in the roll number; Last year our roll number wm 360, this year it is 349, and this, together with the increased number of small sobooli in the education district, reduces the amount of grant paid by the Government to the Education Board, which, to make both ends meet, has been compelled to reduoe teachers' salaries and incidental payments. The present system may be capable enough of improvement, and no doubt is, bub if it it deserving of support at all, a matter of suoh vital importance to the colony at the prtper education of rising generations should not be allowed to suffer for the sake of a few thousand pounds. The reduction of teacher*' salaries after many years of faithful service is not enoouraging, and the reduction of the inoideatal fund means, as in our own case, that instead of the committees currying out constant repairs, the premises will have to go until the Board has to make them good out of their already too small building fund. Our own sohool premises are in good order. with the exception of spouting which requires to be ronewed. (Tha Boards clerk of works Is to inspect! this shortly); and the play grounds which require a good deal of filling and shingling to prevent storm water lying about, as it does at present. Your committee receatly had 50 loads of soil put in, but it is only as ft drop in the ocean, and I do not see any prospeot of-their being able to do more.as pay* meat of liabilities will leave not more than £5 in hand for ourrenb expenditure. With respect to the staff, the second master after some twelve years of good service, I regret to say had to resign on account of indiffer ent health, and Mr W Ooliewaa appointed in his place at the commencement of this year, Miss Porter completed her fourth year as pupil teacher, passing in the merit division, and going to the Normal school, Miss McDonald also passed her third yean The Board has allowed the school to retain Miss Sheard as second assistant mistress, instead of appointing additional pupil teachers. The inspector's report in August last, was on the whole very satisfactory, and is supported by the fact that the passes were within a fraction of 85 per cent. During the past year the Board appointed a truant officer for Ashburton, Hampatead and Xinwald. That officer ha« now sent his resignation to the Board on account of ill* ueaa, and we are expecting the Board to notify the committee, and request it tonomi* nate a successor, Tho truant officer, Mr & Williams, carried out hit duties efficiently! and was instrumental in enforcing the attendance of the worst offenders as absen tees. Thanks to the efforts of the teachers, a very successful concert wai held daring the summer the prooseds of which provide?

THE AfHBtJRIOK OPA&DIAK j TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 1900



GKORGE DUNCAN & Co. -|3 BSPEOrFULLY announce that they haye Opened those centrally situated Premises in Tailored Street, Ashburton, lately occupied by Mr A. P. Williamson (next DndrilVs), where they will open on "Saturday, i4th April," AS BEADY MONEY DEAPERS. Wl£ BUY'FOR O.V.HH and thus secure all Discounts, The Lowest Prices and best Markets WE SELL FoR OaSH and thus avoid all losses arising from Bad Debts and the expenses of the Credit System. WHY should the O*sh Customer p*y for other peoples bad debte By dealing with us they avoid doing ao. Please Call & Inspect Our Stock. No One Pressed to Buy. 4=175 . I, .ma— -.rWJIWII irTTITMiB I il NOTICE TO FARMERS. ABE CASH BUYERS OF PRIME MILLING WHEAT IN ANY 1 QUANTITY Please take yoor Samples to th© MillJ We can supply Oornsacks'at cost price, CANTERBURY! ROLLER FLOUR MILLS, (ROLLXIT AND C 0.,) J. B. HOBART, Manager 17th March, 1900.



Imm 11 mil 1111 11—II i»iiii«i'iiiMiii iwi'n 11 wrii i mill imrr*«~TTi~r ssxnn"** j ZBALANDIAS" at the FRONT STILL BOOMING. riIHEY are simply marvellous. For Speed, JL Rigidity, and Comfort they cannot be beaten. Beautifully enamelled in fancy colors Gentleman's £31 Lady's £32. A largo stock of Latest Novelties to hand. L%mp3 from 4s 6d, Graphite for chain from 6d, Toe Clips from Is 6d, Dunlop outfits 9J, Elastic anklets 2s 6d, Fancy handles from 2s. Inspection invited. OATES, LOWRY AMD CO ■ Burnett Street. To Bicycle Purchasers. TILVX STRAIGHT ICII* Fob Racing Cyclists & Others who would secure a GOOD STAhT in the EkCh. For Success in Life, And get " well placed," is to ba WELL MOUNTED I ! Now, to be well mounted coats no more than to be ill-mounted, so long as you patronise tie right BICYCLE ESTABLISHMENT. R. I). JOHNSTON can Bupply intending purchswrs with the Best Bicycle ever iranufactured, viz., the Budge - Whitworth! 'I heee Bicycles are manufactured at Coven iry and Birmingham by the oldest established Firm in England. They carry the usual twelve months' guarantee, which | is quite unnecessary in the case of the ! Budge-Whitworth, Come and Inspect the 1900 Models. They are real Beauties. STOCK OF ACCESSORIES. All Makes of Machines Rwairfd. BICYCLES ON HIRE. L L 111, BURNETT STREET, Next Orange Hall. N.Z. LOAN & MERCANTILE AGENCY COMPANY, Ltd. FOUE Great Bread Winners. THE HERCULES NICHOLSON CULTIVATOR* Leading Farmers' verdict is—" Absolutely the best Cultivator ever Bold in the Colony." "FARMER'S FAVORITE" ALL STEEL DRILL Fitted with Roller bearings and New Turnip and Rape Feed. HINEMOA" POTATO DIGGER Cost of^machine saved in three, acres of Potatoes.) SPALDING-ROBINS ROTARY DISC PLOUGH 50 per cent saved in cost) of ploughing. We ask farmers to inspect our machines for the Autumn Trade. THE N.Z. LOAN AND MERCANTILE AGENCY CO., LIMITED. G. STAVELEY, Manager. SOLE AGENT for Ashburtoa Districts: DAVID THOMAS. 5 267 NOTICE. ANY person or persons found Trespassing il '■' fhe Riversdale Estate in pursuit of gam ■'thcrwtHi' will b« (irriapcut,ed. W S STRANGE: ,



ESTABLISHED 1874- McDonald & Go., T> BMOVED to See our Samples jm.BIJL.KIiS Com pare our prices Burnett Street. | We can't be beat 3 235 _ w % s 1 O S H 2 Si £ £ > SI.. /-s » <: =* -N ° > H . ■ § Cd 'pxsJ GO H^ .a cq P I W ! <|- ■ New Zeal an d. CLOTHiiG FAGTORY TS NOW SHOWING A LARGE STOCK OF Winter Goods Meo'aSac Suita  21s, 25a, 29a 6d. Men's Tweed Trousers 7^ 63, 83 9J,Sj 6d Men's Covert Coats .. 29.3 6d, 39^ 6J, 52^ 6d j Boys' Covert Goats from .. .. 14a Boy?.' Reefer Coats from .. .. 6s 6d Boys' giilor Suits from .. .. 7j Boys'Norfoik Suits from .. ..Ila6d 60 dozsn Serge and Tweed Caps. The largest variety in town. 20 dozen Soft Pelt Hats, newest shapes. White Shirts 5s 6d, 6b 6d, 7s 6d, 8i 6i, 9s6d A new line of short fronted White Shirts. New Ties, Braoes, Gloves, Mufflers, Collars, Umbrellas, Wool Shirts, etc. Ladies and Gentlemen's Watebpboof Coats, Made to Osdbe. A large variety of Patterns to choose from, 3LOTHING PAOTOBY. ¥. H. BKOKINGSALE, Manager Mlss~~BS«;ssiifi silML&loal>sr" MUSIC Seller and Teacher of the Violin. Musioal insirumenis of every descrip tion VIOLINS a SPECIALITY. Muaie anrl Songs by every mail. Firp.t-claßa Quad rilJe Bind. Bnrnet.fc Street, 4 83 Opn-sitp Puhli'-.hint! Coainar.y. -\ r » k n wri W h ivh )ef > our t m ■— i<> '>■'> «"^* 0t1.cu.u,..-:, ,.i ii ■ ... w 'hop iJuweib Street.—Mitchell and Tcjrnek.



ST. STEPHEN'S OH(7 R 0 H < Ashburton. Children's Service—Dity, ab 9 a m TUESDAY—Young Women's Bible ClaBS, 4pm WEDNESDAY—Feaab of St Mark 7.30 a m—Holy Communion 1 7 30 p m—Teachers' Bible Clasa j THURSDAY—The Annual Meeting of Parishioners in the Schoolroom, at 7 30 pm FRIDAY—-7 15 pm, Litany and Addraßß. 8 p m—Choir Practice On Friday Evenings the Vicar will give a course of Meditations. Subject: "Studies of the Mind and Life of our Lord," SECOND SUNDAY AFIER FASTER. (April 29.) ! 8.30 a ra—Holy Communion 11 am—Matins, Litany, and Sermon 2.30 p m—Children's Service 4 p m—Holy Baptism 6 30pm—Evening Prayer and Sermon The Offertories throughout the day will be given to the Church Mission Fund of this Diocese. R. A. WOODTHQRPE, M A., Vicar



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