BIRTH.

NICOLL—At Strelitz, Burnett Street, on 2nd mat., the wife of Harry F. NicoJl, of ft son.

Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit.. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1900. Local and General.

%* On the first page to-day will ba found War Items.

Obituary-—The Marquis of Q seenabury is dead.

Thb Steamer Airlie—Word has been received in Sydney that the Airlio has been safely fbatad.

French WARsuip.—The French warship Eure, from Bydn«y, has arrived ab Welling ton.—Press Association telegram

The Federal Delegates—lt is proposed to remunerate the Federal delegates to England with £1000 apiece. The trip will occupy three months.

Wakanttißiveb Hoard.—An eleotion for the Wakanui River Board, of five members, will take place on Thursday, February 15. Nominations close at noon on Saturday, Feb ruary 10.

A Patriotic lamb.—The frozm lamb donated by Mr Malcoimaonfora prize for the tug of war, won by the Fire Brigade, was handed over to Mr D Thomuß for sale tomorrow, the proceeds to go towards the w?,r fund.

Fatal Boating Accident—A Melbourne cablegram states that three men, Mills, Howard, and Livitt, were drowned in Loch Garry on Thursday through the upsottiug of their boat.

The Patbiotic Demonstration -A fairly correct estimate made by thß Committee gives the following as the grosa takings during the day :—Sports—Gate and side shows, £112; concert (including £4 17s "Absent-minded Beggar"), £48; total, £160.

Queensland Commandant—Lieutenan'- Coionel Finn, of the 21st Lancers, has been appointed Commandant of the Q leenaJaud forces.

Band Contest,—Pr E. T. Cede, conductor of the Melbourne Brass Band, has been selected to act as judge of the North Island Brass Band Association Contest at Welling ton next month,

Patriotic Pictures—Among the photos taken on the ground on Thursday are soma views of the Volunteers (R fl-38, Guards. an 3 Geraldine Contingent), in which every volunteer can be recognised by his friends.

An Impersonation Case—AbHawera yes terday, a oa-e against a young nun named James Hicks, who voted at last election on the qualification of a well-known farmer of the same name was heard. Accused was committed for trial. —Press Association tele gram.

School Excursion*—A large number of children from the Richmond School and their friends came bo Ashburtoa by an excursion train this morning, and proceeded at once to the DomaiD, where they spent a very en joyable day in the usual manner. The weather being perfect the trip should be a very satisfactory one, to the youngsters at any rate.

Febmented Fruit.—Some consternation was caused in the Wellington battalion camp when it was discovered late last night, that aboub twenty-five men had been taken violently ill with every appearance of poisoning. One case was serious. Dr, YV&ckin, who was called in, expresses the opinion that the illness was caused by the fermentation of fruit, which had been stand* ing in the hotßun, in a galvanized bucket bet fore cooking. With one exception all the men Are about agaia t«-day,—Press Associa tion telegram.

MAGISTERIAL.

ASHBURTON-THURSDAY,

(Before C A. Wray, Esq., S.M.)

Alleged Stone Throwing— E. William son v Joseph Mclvor. TVinslow. Mr Wilding for plaintiff, Mr Purnell for defendant, plaintiff said that Mclvor, a lad of about 17 or 18, had been in the habit of throwing stones at him, and on two or three occasions had hit him. Witness had complained to the police about the matter, and they had spoken to the boy's parents, bub it did not appear to have any effect on the boy. Plaintiff, who is an old man, oould no*i defend himself In any way; therefore, he had brought the case into Caurt.—Mclvor, the defendant, said that he had charge of his father's cows, and used to graza them on a reserve about eight or nine chains away from plaiatiff's property. Plaintiff, who generally rode on horseback, used to chase witness and try and ride over him; so to protect himself he had to use a whip, and sometimes throw atones at the dogs—bub not at plaintiff—to keep them from biting him.— Evidence was given by Mr« Williamson and Mary Grace.— Hia Worship B&id thab he would ask both parties to keep the poac?, and if the case was brought into Court again he would have to go into it more thoroughly. The case was dismissed.

Maintenance. — Wrn. Sharp v. J. W. Sharp. Mr Outhbertaon for plaintiff, Mr Wilding for defendanb.~Wm. Sharp (father of defendant; applied for an order from his son for so much per week* Plaintiff had been in the Old Men's Home for some time, bur was now getting the old age pension ; there fore, according to the rules of the Charitable Aid Board, he had had to leave. Lately he had been bad in health, and could cot do any work.—Mr Cuthbertson, for defendant, said that Sharp's son had offered to keep him, .but the old man would not live with him, because he goald not agree with either hia jaon or his son's wile, Bis son had been paying him 5s per week for about nine years. Mr ftiorrisey, master of the Old Men's Home, thought th'afe Sharp was not gt to live by himself, aa he jsr»B gettiog very feeble, and when he was in the kom* two years igo he had behaved himself very well, and the Board wou'd not object to take him in again.—His Worship, after considering the matter, made no order.

Civil Oases-—Graighead and Berryman v R Ibell, £2 ; Moison v Johnstoae, £2 6a, y"\iclgm9Db in enoh case by default,

TRANSVAAL WAR.

Spion Kop a Trap

Awful Carnage

Who Ordered the Retreat?

More Treachery.

Charge of the Scottish Eifles

The Regiment Which Bore the

Brunt

United Press A»?ooiation—By Rleotrio Telegraph—Copyright

London, January 31

Spion Kop was a real shell trap, The mountain guns and smaller naval guns arrived only in the evening, and the men were so crowded on the summit that they had no room to extend. They had t*o little cover that there was little probability of thoir being able to hoist the guns, and the untenability of the position is believed to be the reason for the withdrawal.

The doctors report an awful artillery carnage,

Oolonel Thorneycroft ordered the retirement from Spion Kop, General Buller exonerates him from blame, and declares that he directed the defence with conspicuouß oourage and ability, under the ioas of at least 40 per cent, of his force, His conduct throughout was admirable.

The Boers admit that they had 53 killed and 120 wounded.

The Scottish Bifles charged brilliantly at Spion Kop, assisting the Lancashire Brigade when checked by a withering fire. The Rifles carried two tiers of trenches.

The Boers abased the use of the white flag, and fired a volley at Colonel Thorneycroft before he was able to regain shelter. He had a marvellous escape. Other examples of treacherous trickery are recorded as occurring during the fight.

Mr Winston Churchill states that the army has entire confidence in General Buller, It is exasperated, but not despondent, and is resolved to try again. The additional casualties preceding the capture of Spion Kop, chiefl/ on the 2lst inst, were 24 killed, 264 wounded, »nd 7 missing. The Border Regiment, the Second West Surrey, the Second East Surrey, the Second West Yorkshire, and the Second Dublin Fasi'iers suffered most. Durban, February 1 In the Spion Kop engagement the British casualties in the flunking move msnt amounted to 1379 9 including 204 killed, 552 wounded and 82 missing. Capetown, January 31

Two transports, conveying artillery and cavalry, hava been ordered to Durban.

Plan to Flood Ladysmith

The Invasion of the Free JState 1 lie Colonials to get Their Chance Colonials in a Skirmish Australian Aid Capetown, January 31 Lord Roberts has been recalled to Capetown. Major - General Kelly • Kenny has taken up his headquarters at Rosmead Junction, sixteen miles south of Naauw port. He has 8600 men, while Gene ral Gatacre has 5000, February 1 Lord Roberts assigns the colonials an important share in the operations preparatory to the invasion of the Free State, Delagoa Bay reports that the Boers are sending huge quantities of timber and sand bags to dam the Klip river and flood Ladysmith in order to force the garrison under their shell fire.

Five hundred Canadians and Aus tralians had a smirt fight at Baden borst, on the Riet Rwer. They expelled the rebels without loss.

London, Eeb 1 The fourth cjvalry brigade embark immediately,

Mr W. P. Reeves, in the course of an address at the Leeds Chamber of Commerce, said the colonies resented the taunts levelled from the Continent at England. He was confident the daughters of England would rally round their mother,

Sydney, Feb 1 The Government will despatch forty additional Lancers on February IS.

The match in aid of tho Patriotic Fund begins tomorrow. The follow ing are the teams :—Australian Eleven : Trumper, Darling, Hill, Jonep, Noble, Giegory, Kelly, Trumble, Howell, Iredale, Worrall, Layer. Rest of Australia : Graham, Stuckey, Saun ders, Duff, Mackenzie, Hopkins, Ewers, Mcßeth, Reedman, Kady ? Windsor.

More Boer Forts.

British Re build a Bridge

Occupying a New Drift. Portuguese Under British Pres sure. United Press Association—By Bleo&rio Telegraph—Copyright Received Wakapuaka Feb. 2, 9.10 a-rn, Ihia Office 10,46 a.m Oapktown, Feb. 1 The Boers are constructing forts at Stormberg. The farmers at Thebits are joining the colonial force. Kelly Kenny has rebuilt the railway bridge which the Boers destroyed. A B-itish force with artillery occupied Eprieskas drift on the Orange Biver without opposition. General Buller holds j various drifts across tha Tagela. London, Feb. 1 Owing to British pressure the Por tuguese have imposed more stringent regulations, re admitting foreigners into Loren?o Marque?;.

The Second Contingent.d

Weluk.QTON, February 1 Major Cradook has advised the Cdm r nmnder of the Forces from Albany as follows :—" All men aad hones arrived safe sad well. Contingent) delighted at fiaal thoughtful men»g«i, Behaviour excellent),''

An Australian Offer.

Itaden Powell in No Hurry. , (Received Wakapuaka Feb. 2, 10 a.m This Office 10 24 a m.) Capetown, Feb 1 In response to enquiries made at Eustin, Colonel Hood in command of the Australians, offered to transform ; bis five companies into mounted infan try. The British commander in chief has accepted the offer. The Bo^rs have commandeered three hundred Britishers at Barkley East. A thoujaud shells were thrown into I Kimberley, during the last three days. The population largely reside tinder ground. Mafeking reports all well. Colonel Baden Powell urges the British not to attempt to relieve him lest the besiegers become more active else. where.

The Third Contingent

A telegram from Hnwera to-day states that fifty applications have been received for inclusion in the Rough Riders Goatingent. Ail the applicants are good riders and young. The committee for the more men movement, take action immediately. The Patriotic Fund now reaches £200, the More Men Fund £150, besides which, an Absent Minded Beggar Fund for the relatives of local troopers injured, is under way, the Aeoli matisation Society heading the list with £50. Several volunteers for the Third OontingenO will supply their own horses.

A Fourth Contingent.

United Press Association—-By Electric Telegraph.

Wellington, Feb. 2

A Wellington press message states that it it believed the amount being fundod by pnblicßubaaription)throughoutthe colony will enable a second contingent of Rough Riders to be sent. It is also reported in well in* formed quarters, that the Government) intend providing funds for a New Zealand contingent, after despatch of the third.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copy righ b New York, January 31 Whitaker, a farmer, has been arrested at Frankfort, Kentucky, for shooting Mr Goebel, the Democratic senator, who had just been elected Governor. Rom:?, January 31 Italy baa cent an ultimatum to the Porte Prkin, February 1 The Dowager Empress of China directed the Tsang Li-Yamen and the Viceroys to take steps to forcibly resist foreign aggression.

THE IMPERIAL PARLIAMENT.

Uaitod Presa Association—By Elecbrio Telegraph—Copyright London, January 31 During the Debate in the House of Lords, the Marquis of Lanedowoe eulogised the extraordinary loyalty and extreme generosity of the great colo nie« placing the whole of their resources at the disposal of the Empire. In the House of Commons Mr Bal four twitted Sir H. Campbell-Banner man thac be was only willing to repel invasion, while the Government was determined to secure absolute British | supremacy ;n South Africa. The | military authorities considered the ; defensive force at first sent out was I more than sufficient. Major-Genera! Butler, formerly Commandant at the Cape had not supplied information as to the resources of the Boers or the necessity for extensive preparations. I The Irish Parliamentarians are re united on one basis, holding themselves aloof from any connection with the British parties. Mr Redmond moved that the war war was unnecessary and unjust, and ought to be ended on the basis of the recognition of the Republic's indepen dence. Lord E. Fitzmaurice moved the vote of censure on the Government. The debate was adjourned. February 1 Sir Michael Hicks-Beach, in the House of Commons, indignantly denied Mr Buxton's insinuation that the Treasury had stinted the expenditure over the war preparations.

The Presi and the public are indig nant at the partisan and recriminatory tone of tne debate, and appeal for a cessation of party politics in time of a crisis.

The Queen's Speech.

Lokpon, February 1

The Queen's speech, referring to the naval preparations of other nations, expressed confidence that Parliament would not relax its solicitude for the efficiency of the navy and the coastal defences

French National Defence.

A GIGANTIC SCHEME.

•SIXTY MILLION POUNDS TO BE SPENT.

United Press Association—By Elesbri < Telegraph—Copyrlghb

Paris, February 1

The French Cabinet have adopted|a scheme of National defence, costing a milliard and a half francs. The proposal embraces naval construction, coast and colonial defence and strategic cables. Half of the outlay will be devoted to the navy and 177 vessels will be commenced this year, consisting of 6 first class ironclads, 5 armoured cruisers, 27 tor pedo-catchers, 112 torpedo boits, 27 sub marine veaaels. All are bo be completed by 1907.

(A milliard and a half franc* is 1,500,000,000 francs, equalling sixty million pounds sterling.)

THE LATEST. Home and Foreign.

United Press Association—By Electrio Telegraph—Copyright

{Received Wakapuaka Feb. 2, 9.30 a.m. This Office 10.15 a.mj The Russians in Persia. St. Petersburg February 1 The Russian Governnieht haa guaran teed the Persian loan on the security of the customs revenue, excepting that collected in the province of Fara in the south west and at the ports on the Persian Gulf. This act gives the I Russians a dominating position in ! Persia. The Porte Gives In OoNfTANTpot^B, February 1 The Porte has acceded to the request of Italy and restored the girl Gemeli '* her father,

PATRIOTIC DEMONSTRATION AND SPORTS.

Yesterday morning broke with at.yt'alng but bright prospects for a day's enjoyment, aud as time wore on a dight breeze from the south-west, and decidedly chilly one at that, gave unpleasant indication, and at the tima appointed for the volunteers to (tart rain commenced to fall, which fortunately ceased about half past one, the procession I then moving from the drill shed. On reaching East Street, the strains of the band announced to the large gathering of people that proceedings had opened. The | procession was marshalled by Sergeant G. i Nelson, an old identity and one* of the old brigade of local volunteers, aft?r whom fo' lowed the band, Aehbuiston Rifles, Ashbur ton Guards, Fire Brigade and Ambulance, and last bub not least Mr J Ohoat, a vete ran who saw service during the Crimean campaign, and whose breast wag adorned with the medal bearing the words—Sebas topol, Inkerman, and Alma. The procession made its way to the Domain, followed by an immense orowd, and it was at once seen thab the efforts of the Executive to increase the fund would be crowned with success. Arriving at the ground, the rain had ceased, and the volunteers were drawn into close order on the oval, in front of the pavilion, where they were met by His Worship the Mayor, Major Jowsey, Mr J. McLachlan MHR., the Executive Committee, and many prominent citizens. His Worship the Mayor, who had promised to speak at the concert in the evening, gave place to th*» member for the district to open the pro ceedings. Mr McLachlan said he had been requested by the Sports Association to address them previous to the commencement of the day's amusement. It was voiy pleasing to note that the inclement weather had not damp ed their ardour, or lessened their patriot ism. There were many loyal and patriotic people in the district who had contributed to the Patriotio Fund, but there were many who had not, and they might yeb be com pelled to do so. The sports that day offered to those who had not already, and who were of limited means, an opportunity to assist the fund. As an old artilleryman, his hearb burned with iraal for the military cause. There was being raised in Christchurch a body of men to assist in the present crisis, styled the Bough Riders' Contingent, but he did not consider that a correct name, and he would christen them the Canterbury Gal lant 96th—-the nineties were ever memorable -—and with it would be associated theoream of our young men, of whom they were all p'oud, and more especially on account of the Inclusion of several young fellows from the Ashburton county. (Cheers). The news received from the front that morning bore a bright aspect, and the latest received from the front by the Ashburton Guardian was to tha effect that Lord Roberts hoped to relieve Ladyemith within a week— (cheers} —and if 300,000 men and millions of money were required, to assist in the con flict, hew Zealand would lend a willing band. He would support the movement in Parliament, and, if uecessary, assist to pass a war tax, and so place the burden on those best able to pay. An old age pensioner had contributed five shillings of his pension, and undertaken to pay an additional shilling per week, which action should stimulate others. He concluded by calling for cheera for the Soctl volunteers, whish were heartily given. Cheers were then given for Mr McLachlan, Major Jowsey, and the Contingent. Ihe grounds presented quite a camp-like appearance, being dotted with the military bell-tents, and large marquee?. The first of the marquees was in charge of the Misses Williamson and Purneli, and these young ladies, with their assistants, dispensed after noon tea, which waa appreciated by a large number of both sexes. The refreshments, or perhaps we should say summer drinks, confec tionery, and fruit, were in the next mat quee, and the numerous customers' wants were at tended to by Mesdames J. Orr, Collins, Criep, H. Friedlander, R. Friedlander, M. Friedlander, C. W. PurneU, A. Curtis, and Tabateau; and their gate receipts musb have considerably augmented the fund. The bran dip was under the charge of Misses Leahy and Harrison, and judging by their smiles, business was brisk. Last on the Hat of tents was one wherein fortunes were told—-husband's guaranteed— but when our reporter called, the proprietor or proprietress was missing. In addition to the above, quite a bsvy of maidens were bringing grist to the mill by disposing of buttonholes, badges, etc. The valuable assistance rendered by willing assistants in clearing up, etc., must not be forgotten. ( The programme of sports was a varied one, which could be appreciated by the most fastidious, comprising as ie did mili tary, cycling, and running events. In the military events, the newly-formed Ashbur ton Guards came oub on top, winning the sword-bayonet exercises, and also the tent - pitching competition, thus revers ing matters as compared with tha Temuka sports. The work done by the squads of both Companies in the sword-bayonet exer cise was vary creditable, and the Guards won by the narrow mat gin of two points. In this event one of tbe Rifles had the mis fortune to insecurely fix his sword for which they were penalised, and the Guards also lost points through one of their team mak ing a faulty lunge. The tent-pitching com petition was keenly contested and although viotory rested with the junior Company, they were hard pressed. The night attack by the battalion under Captain Dolman, was thoroughly enjoyed by the spectators, and although the semblance of battle was on a very simll scale, and minus artillery, it certainly itended to show, to some extent, what carnage and havoc is being wrought among human beings at the present time in South Africa. The struggles of the wounded, groans of the dying, and work executed by the ambulance corps, (under Captain A. A. Fooks), were very realistic. Items of this sort would be very acceptable at many of oar annual celebrations in the Domain. The oyciinjf events were all well contested, the thief honour being secured by T, Oates, C. C, Willis, F, Ohristensen, and H. Bell. Tha pedestrian events, supplied by weak fields, numerically speaking (several intending competitors being engaged with the volunteers) and O. and J. Friedlander, W. Amos, H. Fawoett, C. Campbell, and Johnston secured the principal prizes, and weli earned their victories. Events for cricketers, hookey players, were provided and afforded interest to their special devotees The cutting the Turk's Head created endless amusement for both young and old folks, the frantic efforts of the competitors to knock a " little bib off the top," eliciting applause from the on lookers. A tug-of-war, in which teams representing the Ashburton Guards, Tennis Club, and Fire Brigade were engaged, was eventually won by the Brigade, the Guards making a really good contest with their much more seasoned opponent?. The tag of.war over, brought a most enjoyable and long to be remembered sports to a close, and the executive are to be con gratulated on the success that attended i their efforts, every member doing his best in the interest of the day's enjoyment, and taking a fair share of the work, none more so than the Secretary, Mr A. Roberts, and his assistant for the sports, Mr I. Baigent. It was the wish of the Patriotic Fu«d Committee that with demonstration *od concert over, the fund would reach £1000, and as there was a record attendance yester day, fully 2500, all counted, beiDg on the ground, there are hopes that their wishes have been realised, about £160 being the grots takings. The receipts from the side shows were as under :—Refreshment booths £24 0s lOd, fortune telling £1 7a, Miss H. Frieilander (flowers) £2 14a Bd, Miss Leahy £3 8i 3d. The following are the results of the various events :— 440 Yards Flat Race (cash)—R Johnstone, 17yds, 1; T Nolan, 13yds, 2. 220 Yards Cash Foot Race—H Fawcetfe, 13yds, 1; R Johnstone, 10yds, 2 ; T Nolan, Byds, 3. Time—24§3ecs. 100 Yards Handioap (amateurs)—O Fried lander, 4yds, 1; Wm Amos, 9yds, 2; J Friedlander, 2ydi, 3 Time-lOf aeos. 440 Yards Fiat (amateurs)--W Amos, 45yda, 1 ; O Friedlander, 18yds, 2; A McPherson, 3. Time-54|secs.' '■ 100 Yards Handicap, Volunteers (in uni form)—Firsfc Heat—Private J Clay ton, 4yds, 1; Private J Friedlander, scr, 2 ; Sergeant HCPeroy.7jrds,3. Time—l2£*eei. Second Heafc—Privite 0 Campbell, Sydfs, 1 ? Private W Anderson, syds, 2; Private R Minnls, 6yds. 3 f —Time—l2sjee», Fin»l<~OftmpbeU,

1 ; Anderson, 2 ; Clayton, 3 Time— 12|iCC8. iie&t Decorated Bicycle -Miss Cookeou 1, M ss Andrews 2, Mies Clarke 3.

Half Mile Amateur Bicycto Race.—T O»fcej, scr, 1; VV B Willis, 35yds, 2; G McKenzie, 45yds, 3. On* Mile X cycle Race (ctsl) First heat— O C Wit.is, sot; 1; G H M j r, 60}-ds, 2j W P L»aly, fOytls, 3. Time—2 lo% S'eccni H<iat— X Williams, lSyds, 1 ; ¥ Willi#nn», 50yds, 2; F Symons, 40'yr 3.?, 3. 1 ime -?.36. tfmal-O O Willis, 1; F Williams, 2; H Vv'LUißma, 3 Time—2 24g.

Two Mile Bicycle Raco (ca-h). —F Ghris*;en- F6u, ]29;rU, 1; FS mn:.*, 75yds, 2; GO Wi.l b, 30yds be'oiod *cr. 3. Tinir—s 9f. Oi;e Mile Bicycle Kace (/*m»ieurfr) • T Oites, fl cr, 1; 0 B Willis, 40yds, 2; R Johnstons, 20yds. 3. T>mo—2 30. One Mile B cycle Raop, for Volunteers, (in uniform)—pnvate H Bell, 100 yds, 1 ; Private C U Willie, 20f ds behind acr, 2 ; Private R D Johustone, 45yds, 3. Time— 2 31.

t, C v Un- iD| nhe» Turk Head ~ Stock, 1 1 Robslhard,2 ; Bruce, 3. Throwing a Cricket Ball-POrr, 85ydt Ifb 1; E Mar»den2

Manual and Firing Exercise (12 men)— Ashburtan Rifles 1, Guards 2

Tent Pitohing Competition—Aihburtoa Guards 1, Ashburton Rifles 2

Hockey Driving Competition—W Huston. 108 yds, 1; B. Amos, 106 yds, 2 Tug of War—Fire brigade 1, Guards 2 Sword Bayonet Exercise (12 men)—Ash burton Guards, 33 points, 1; Ashburton Rifles, 31 points, 2

The Concert.

There was an immense audience present at the Oddfellows' Hall in the evening, when the concert took place, every part of the building being crowded, and many having to content themselves with standing room. The building, was gaily decorated with banting, and other military emblems. The pro* gramme was essentially suitable to the occasion, and the Concert Committee — Messrs W. H. Collins, Garner, Niooll, and H. M. Jones, are to be congratulated on the success which attended their effort!. Mrs Devane gave white satin badges, bearing inscription—" N.Z. Contingent," etc., to the Irish dancerr. His Worship the Mayor opened the entertainment. His Worship said when he seconded | the resolution moved by Mr Lambie on 1 Saturday, the 20th January, at the meeting in the Orange Hall, be very briefly referred to the history of the Transvaal and the Boers up to the year 1881 when, (after the unfortunate Majuba Hill disaster, the British Government entered into a convention with the Boera, the texb of which was:-(l) Equal rights to be guaranteed to all inhabit. ants of the Transvaal. (2.) Complete self government {subject to the suzerainty of Her Majesty, her heirs, and executors) waa to be accorded to the inhabitants of th« Transvaal territory." Bub who ever heard of the Boors ? keeping a pledge Conld any one expect such from ft people that knew not what freedom meant, and regard not the fundamental principle* of humanity ? It was found, therefore, that ever since thah time tho Boers schemed to evade the covenants of that convention, and how well they succeeded in their unlawful preparations we know now at our great cost. As the great Roman Emperor Cmar, once said, when he crossed the Rubicon, Jacta est alea— the die it east—so we have thrown in our lots with the mother country, and we must stand or fall with her. There was no turning back, no turning aside, but onwards go, like the charge of tha Light Brigade. The issues were grave, they had become even more serious during the last few days, but that was al! the more reason to still further awist to the utmost of our resources. We were not, perhaps, all agreed that we ought to be at war, but we are all sure, that siooa the war had been carried into our territory by the B erg and Free Staters, it was our duly to show our loyalty to our Qaeen and country. That loyalty has been expressed by shouting Rule Britannia and the singing of many patriotic songs and " God save the Queen," as our men marched forward at the call of duty. We would have been poor patriots indeed if we had not done mo'».

We had all given our share, ihe rich their hundreds, and the poor their shilling*, so that everything possible had been done for those that were forced to leave their homes, for the widows and orphans of tho«e that fsll on the battle field. Lord Rost berry, when speaking at Chatham, said, " this was in come respects, the most formidable war that Britain had ever undertaken, When General Buller received his reverse at Colenso, the events during that week might have led to a revolution in the case of other nations. There was do teudency to accuse any more. Politics disappeared, little or no criticism was ex pressed, but a passionate resolve to outpour the la»t shilling and the lant man, to assist; the country's need. Never in his life was he bo proud of Britain as during that week " So said he. Never in his life was he so proud at standing there before them thinking how nobly New Zealand had responded to the call of duty ; how loyally everyone through the entire length and breadth of this little country had supported the patriotic movement. That day in the Domain, that evening in the hall we had had practical proof of the borough's and county 1! patriot* ism He was truly proud of New Zealand and proud of Aihbnrton. Bat we should go one step farther. As he had already stated, the response made by New Zealand as a whole, and this district in particular, to the Patriotic Fund, was noble aad gratifying in the extreme. It was the opinion of many now, that there was no need to do anything more in that direction. Bat we had better try and reduce the chance of the number of widows and orphans being increased. The; should endeavour to assist) the mother country with that particular material of war it is in need of viz, more mounted n», good shots and hardy riders, bo that our Generals would be able to fight the Boers with their own weapons, and in their own way of modern warfare. The more of these men that were sent, the sooner the war would be over, and the less widows and orphans. He was sure there were many wealthy man in the district, and many others in only moderate circumstances who could, and he felt certain would further readily contribute towards the cost of fitting out a third Contingent, and more partiou* lady a "Canterbury Contingent of Rough Riders," containing a fair number of young brave Aehburtonites, Now was their chance, as win, England would in the end. Once we had to retire from Africa, good-bye for ever to our dearly cherished hope for a greater Britain, and a united English* speaking people. England must not, and cannot retreat) from the Cape, (and ha felt) confident she would not* Ib must be a war to a successful finish, and " the red white and blue " mus<i wave over Africa for ever. We were not going to be less loyal to our Queen, and to ourselves than the Boers are to their ffruger, ot the Free Staters, to their Steyn. No ! Ten thousand times no 2 Rise then and help. It is the battle for the Convention of 1881, it is the fight for our Queen and Fatherland, the fight for liberty and freedom, righteousness and justness. [Further details as to the various items of the programme, etc., are unavoidably held over.

COUNTY COUNCIL.

The usual monthly meeting was held to-day. Preaeno—The Chairman {Mr C. J Harper), and Mesors H Friedlander, E G Wright, J Lambie, M Stitt, 8 S Chapman, GAM Buckley, and J Jobnstone. An npology for non-attondanca was received from Mr J Holmes. " " "

OHAIBM4N'S STATBJIIIINT. [ The Chairman's report was read as follows : k A letter from the Hampstead Town B^ardj will be read tc^dav applying for the oontrol of part of the Ashburton river bed opposite the southern boundary of the district bo that the Board may prevent the depositing of objectionable refuse thereon. Mr Morton has written on the subject of the grass seed obtained by him from reserve 173 at Acton. Mr John Doyle proposes to wait on the Counoil to-day with reference to a grievance he considers he has in the matter of his special rate Raapuna water supply district. The Committee appointed by the Council to' consider the Hampstead Town Board's application for the Council to take over the control of Marker's and other bridges hag ipet and will present! its report ty*d*yr ■; BItGUNXEfi',B REPOBT.' The EngineePs report was read as follows : RuapnQft Water Supply from Rangiut*

THE AfcHBURTOK OUARI lAN .- FBIDaY, FEBRUAKi 2, 1900



RudjS e~ W hitworth -Cycle Depot, Burnett testroet. , \ HAVING been appointed SOLE AGBNT for Ashburton District for BRITAIN'S BEST BICYCLE 1, TS33 BTOGE-WHITWOSTB, Persona in want of a fihst-class up-to-date Machine cannot do better than buy one. Ihese Bicycles hold the position in \ England of being second to none, and in \ New Zsaland the same proud position ia given them by all who have tried them. The numerous riders of thii Machine include B. Rbynolds, Champion of New Zsaland 5 and W. Tibrnby, New Zealand's Unpaced King, I have also the Agency of thab HIGH GRADB AMKHICaN WHKEL, : THE TRIBUNE tThie is the Machine on which Muuphy, the New sTork Cyclisb, acoomplixhed his Marvcllons Bide of One Mile in 57| seos. All Kinds ov Machineb Repaired. BICYCLES ON HIRE. STOCK OF ACCBSSORIBS. M. D. Johnston, BURNETT STREET, Nbkt Obanse Hall. _±2™ WANTED KNOWN — Northcote & Heffobd will give you New Goods at Startling Cash Prices at) their Clearing Sale. ' _ FOR_SALE OOf 1 P^OE required for town section o£)?£)^J 818, containing £ acre fronting Aitken Street, East. T. BULLOCK "FcyßTTiiis WEEK. OPEOIAL Lines. Frints at 3^d per yard. Special Lines I rints at 4jd per yard. Special Lines Prints and Zyphers at 6Jd per yard. Fpecial Line Press Material, usual price Is Yd; 5s ild Dress Length. Big Line Sample Corsets, prices from 4s lldto :0s 6d, to j clear at 2s 1: d per pair. And many other tempting Lines in all departments. ASHBURTON DRAPERY COMPANY. FOX POSITIVE rALS. ALFORD FOREST ROAD. THREEQUARTERS Acre Land, with Four-roomed House, Washhouse and built-in Copper, Verandah and Conveniences. Apply for price and particulars to H. W. BABRF/FT, Agent, Arcade, Ashburton. FOR IMMEDIATE SALE. TQ 1171 Havelock Street West. Fine •O • healthy site for dwelling. I HAVE~FOR SALE, riIHAT Oonvenienb Residence with 3J JL Acres of Land, eitnate Wesb fcJide Railway, now occupied by Mr H. C. Segers. (The House contains fourteen rooms, and the surroundings and land are first-eke. For particulars, apply H. W. BARRETT, AGENT, ARCADE, ASHBURTON. 1 143 Mew Zealand CLOTHING FACTORY Stocktaking Reductions. Tremendous Bargains. HARD and Soft Felts 7a 6d, 10 6d, re duced to la and Is 6d. Straw hart, Is 9d, 2s 3d, all reduced to Is A few od 1 line« in Shirts reduced to 2s 6d Boys' Tweed Capn, reduced to 3d Boys' Paper Collars Id per box Men's Ties, Is 9d, 2a 6d, reduced to 6d f.nd Is Men's Sac Suite, Good Lines, 23s 6d I Boys' Sac Suits, 25s 6d, reduced to 19a ! Boy."' Washing Suite, 4a 6i> 3s 6d, reduced to 2a 9i Boys' Alpaca Coats, 1-t 6d, Sa 6d, reduced to 3s 6d and 4a 6d Men'a Tweed Trousers, 6s, la 6d, 9« 6d, etc., BOOTS! BOOTS BOOTS Canvas T»nn's Shoes, 5s 6d, reduced to 2s 6d Women's and Ghildrea's Boots and Shoes reduced about half. We mast clear out th- cc odd lines to mako room for .New Gor.d, etc. CAI,J> KAHLY AND OKTT FI-R »'*' CHOICE



MISS KITTY BELL, mEACHER OP THE PIANOFORTE, ' Will commence professional duties oa MONDAY, January 29. Address: Caas Strpet, Ashbnrton. 192 Fredlander oros. 1 WEST STBEET AUCTION MART. I OUR NEXT HORSE FAIR ' Will bo held on FRIDAY, February 2, 1 1800, For which we are now booking entries. i JRIEDLANDER BROS., l/w> R. FRIEDL&NDER, 1 H9 Auctioneer* FOR SALE. "" HAjLF ACRE of Land, on Alford Forest Road, near Woollen Factory. For particular* apply j FRIEDLA.NDER BROS., Ltd. ! FOR PKIVaTB SALE. I ASEVEN-ROOMKD HOUSK, with! Bcullery and Wash-house, £ acre, in Tancred Street East, close to Masouio Hail, j fP'ull particulars from f RJJBPLANDER BROS., Lm



WICW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTOKY. F. H. BKOKIJSGSALIfi, Manager,



MOVING SALE. FRIDAY, JANUARY 12m tar I ' (O) JSF/W BUILDING READY. STOCK TO BE CLEARED. fIIHE FOLLOWING LINKS ARE SPECIAL THIS WEEK — Val Lace 4|in wide, la Qd a doz ;n ; 300 dozen lace to be cleared Small Women'B Cashmere Hose, fashioned, heels and toes, 2 pairs for Is 6d Women's Black Ribbed Hose, fashioned, heels and toes, Is par pair Women's Black Ribbed Hose, Is 6J, U Bd, la 9J ; to clear at Is 31 Boys' Scotch Knitted Hose from Is per pair Boys' Roslyn Knicked Hoae from Is per pair Grand Line Printed Crepooa, 10£ d and la, now 6£d Costumes from in lid Lace Curtains from Is lid Lirge White Striped Towels, 6d A Pile of Art Muslins from d^i MITCHtiLL & TURNER. IN USE IN THIS COLONS «■; ——— I. jl ■-' |f * n.-rti**tlU. THEY BURN LIGNITE, TRUE COAL OR WOOD UP TO 24in no settingTrequired. With Stove Fipe can bo worked oat n the open. SPLENDID BREAD BAKERS With Cast Iron or Cop er Boilers. The Copper Boilers aro large an ITi . paa 1 REPAIRS ARE A MINIMUM. Made id all sizes, single or doable ovens. High or taw pressure boilers Sold by all Ironmongers, from whom Catalogues can be obtained, or from the maker, H. E. SHACKLOCK, LTD., SOUTHEJND FOUNDRY, Princes Street, DUNEDIN,



J PERKINS' ) Patent Bag Lifter, fTIHIS SIMPLE APPLIANCE oan be X fixed to a Dray or Waggon, and, by the aid of a home, will hoist Bugs of Grain, etc., over the aides of a dray, or on to a platform, at the Rate of 50 Bags in Tea Minutes. '1 he Appliance ia made of Iron Piping, and weighs only 401bf. It can be fixed oa to any : kind of Dray or Vehicle, or Loading Stage, j and is bo simple that anyone can use it. If a horse is not available, two tnen oan supply the necessary power to work it by pulling the rope instead of yokiog the horse to it. The Patent Lifter is an appliance that will do all the Bag Lifting of a large farm in a few minutes, and no Farmer or Storemao should be without it Prices made so low to bring i& within the reach of all. Jt can be used either ia the Paddock, at Birn, or at the Store. FRIEDLANDE& BROS., Ltd, Agejnta. CORNSACKS, 1500 BALES NOW LANDING. FARMERS will please give as their Qt&erg promptly if delivery is required ' ex. sh p. Btookß vvfll be kept at our Ash burton, Tinwald, and Lyadh^rp.t Stores. FKIKDLANDJSR BKQS., Lw



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