Mail Notices.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27

For Northeen Ports and Westporfe, per Tarawera, at 6 30 p m FRIDAY; NOVEMBEB 30 For Northern Ports and Australia (doe Sydney December 6th), also India, China, Japan, Straits Settlement, South Africa, Noumea, Fiji, Mauritius, also United King dotn, specially addressed via Brindlsl (due London January 13th) and Continent of Europe, per Moans, at 10.30 a m For Northern Ports, and Westport, also for Australia, etc, to connect with Moana at Wellington per Tarawera, at 6.30 p m TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4 For Samoa, Hawaii, Philippines, Japan, also United States, Canada, United King dom and Continent of Europe, via Ban Fran* Cisco, (dul London Jan 4), per Rotomahana 620 pm ; Money Orders, 2 pm ; registered arfcioles,spm

Commercial.

AUSTRALIAN GRAIN & PRODUCE MARKETS.

(Received November 28, 48 pm) Sidney, November 28 A return laid on the table of the Assembly showed that during the p»»b twenty years, over 127,000,000 bushels of wheat have been exported from the states forming the Commonwealth. Wheat, chlok, 2s 3d to 2a Sd ; milling, old, 2s 7d; new, 2s 6d. Flour, £6 15s; Manitoban £11. Oats, feedng, New Zealand, 2i to 2s 2d ; local. Is 8d to li lid. Barley, teediog, 2s to 2s 2d< Maizi, firm, prime New Zealandf 2» lid. Peas, Prussian Blue, 3* to 3s 6d. Bran, B|<l. Pollard, BJd. Pof«toe% new, looal, £8 to £9; Circular Heads, £6 to £7 5 New ZeaUnd DerweDtii, stale, £5. Onioni, £4 to £6 10*. Butter, dairy, 7|d to 8d; creamery, 9 1 Gheeie, New Zealand, unquoted. Bioon, New Zealand, flitches, 5i to s|<i; rolls, 6d« (The above quotations are those ruling between merchant and retailer, and do not represent the slightly lower values obtained by a recognised broker.) Melbourne, Nov 28 Wheat, old, sales 2^ 91 to 2s 9£d ; new, 2< 7d to 2i Bi<f. Oats, Algerian, oM, Is 9d to 2i l new, la 8d to Is 9J j stout, 2s 9 L Maize, 2s Bd. Bran, 9d to 9Jd. Pollrd, lOd. Pofcatoea, £4 10i to £5. Onkns, £8 to £9. , , . The Ltadtr estimitei the colony's wheat orop »b 18,716,000 bushels, being an average of 9£ bushels per aore. Adelaide, November 28 A little new wheat is selling at 2s Bd, whioh is equivalent to old flour, £6 7« 6d to £6 10s. Oats, Dan, Algerian. 2i to 2s 3d ; fttouft, 2s 3d to 2; 9d. Bran, 9^d. Pollard, 10^d.

GERALDINE STOCK SALE.

There wat a good attendance at the Garaldine live stock sale yesterday, *hen about 4000 theep, 35 head of cattle, »rd 15 pigs were entered. The sale was a good one right through, almoso every K-* Ringing hands at auction, Shorn hoggews brought lls 9d, 13* 9d, 14« 3d, and 15«; hoggets in the wool, ISb Id to 16s 8d ; threeqae.rterbred hoggets, 14* Id; ewes with lambs at foot, all counted, 9i, 10s 4d, 10s 6<J, 10i 10d,12i 2d; merino wtthers, 12s Id; fat ewea, shorn, 13s 3d, 14s 4d, md 14* 9d; fat wethers, shorn, 1B« fid ; four and six tooth wethen, 16s Id to 17s Id ; fat ewes, 16s 6d; dry ewes, 13s 5d ; merino ewai, with lambs at foot, 6s 9d to 7a. Cattle—Gow In full profit £5 8s 6d, fab cow £7 10s, heifer (empty) £6 2s 6d ; steers, £2 3s; yearlings, £1 5s to £2 4s 6d ; fat heifers £8 5% ; dry cow £1 17s 6d* Pigs—Weaoers, 6s to 10* 3d. Potatoes, 5s per sack

ADDINGTON STOCK MARKET

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph CHKisiOHtracK, Nev 28. The entries at Addingcon were 1500 fat sheep, 350 fab lambs, 4500 store sheep, 323 cattle, and 339 pigs. Oattl/E,—ln fat cattle 177 head were yarded. The market) was Irregular, with a alight decline. Prime beef sold at 21 s fco 23a 6d, other 18 i to 20s ; show bollocks £13 63 to £13 10s, show stesra £10 to £11 ss, local steers £7 15s to £9 53. heifers £5 10s to £8 17s 6d, cows £415s to £8 15s. Sheei\—There was a small supp'y of fat sheep, mostly shorn, but not many of good quality. The market was Jn the hands of the local batchers. Wbb irregular with a slight decline, excepb for prime lots. WoolJy wethers brought 18* 8d to 22a 9d, shorn wethers 16j to 20i 6d, woolly ewes 183 to 21s, shorn ewea 18s Id to 22«. The fat lambs included tuine of good quality and there was good eompe* titlon at 13« to 16s Id. Store sheep sold well—Woolly wethara 17 s Id to 17s si, shorn 14s 9d to 14s lid, woolly hoggets 14s to 18s 6d. woolly ewes with lambs (all counted) 7s sd, 9s 3d for aged and 11s 4d to 12 7d for good, good shorn do. 10s 7d to 10s Bd, . Pigs.—There was a moderate yarding of pigs and a good sale, with improvement for baconew, which brought 31s to 465, averaging 3&d per lb ; porkers 21b io 30a, equal to Sjfcd to 4d, stores 13s to 17s 6d, suckers and waaners 5a to lls.

BURNSIDE MARKETS

United Preaa Association—By Electric Telegraph Dukkdik, Nov 28

Fat cattle—lßo head were yarded, mostly of medium quality. Tbe sale was irregular, and if anything in favor of the trade. Prime bullocks £10 to £1117* £4, ordinary £8 lOi to £9 15a, small £7 to £8, prime cows and heifers £7 to £310 i, ordinary £5 to £6 JOi, eld £2 te £4 lOf

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 29, 1900 A TWO DAYS' SHOW.

97e congratulate the Ashbnrton A. & F. Association apon having at last Acknowledged the advantage to ail concerned in extending their annual exhibition to two days. The President pat the matter very clearly before the members, and it is satisfactory to note that the decision to have a two days' ■how was practically unanimous. On this point a suggestion from oue of the tpeakers that the best way to ascertain the views of all the members of the Association on the question would be to send oat ballot papers, was a plausible one ; but a moment's consideration will satisfy anyone that it woaM.be a most improper proceeding. As Mr Grigg pointed out, the meeting on , Tuesday was specially called to deter mine whether the proposed alteration should be made, and it had been thoroughly advertised; The subject has been discussed for months, and it is not conceivable that, if any member of the Association were strongly opposed to the change, he would not have attended the meeting or forwarded his objection in writing, Our farmers are, as everybody knows, an intelligent class of men, keenly alive to their own interests, and It is difficult to imagine any amongst them permitting a step to be taken in this connection, to which they were opposed, without making any sign. We mention this to show that the position of the Association with regard to the vote on TGesday is perfectly satisfactory, and there is no reason why delay should take place in carrying oat any arrangements that it may be desirable to proceed witb at once. Lest there should be aoy hesi tation on the part of members generally to accept the decision of the meeting as to the extension of lime for future shows, we may briefly summarise the reasons for and against the proposed change, and we think that the verdict of members of the Association and the public must be tolerably unanimous in approving of the decision to hold a two days' show in future. In its favour there are--(l). The fact, so strikingly illustrated on the occasion of the last show, that unfavourable weather, or any special untoward circumstance occurring on the day set apart for the fixture must militate very "sfcriously against its success financially and otherwise; whereas, if there was a second day tha results -would probably be satisfactory. (2). The extra outlay (exclusive of any expenditure it might be decided to incur in connection with the accommodation question) would not be more than a third of the sum that might be expected to be added on to the receipts. (3). The public would be greatly the gainers, since they would not only have time enough to see all the successful exhibits, which they cannot do under the one day system, the judging often going on till quite late in the afternoon, and many visitors have gone before the prizs ticketß have been allotted. Moreover, persons whosa engagements might prevent their attendance on tha first day, would see the ahow on the second. There can be no doubt that many more people in the aggregate would pay for admission to the two days* chow. (4.) Under the late system the implement exhibitors had good reason to complain that they were not allowed sufficient time to reap any substantial benefit in exchange for the expense and trouble they were put" to, to place their machinery, etc, on the show ground. They not unreason ably as* that they should h*ve some opportunity to do a little business amongst th« farmers. To some extent this would be advantageous to the latter as well. (5.) L%st, but not least, the finances of the Association would certainly be materially benefited by the increased prices that would be paid for the privileges On the other hand, there may besome, particularlyamongst the horse owners, who tbiok that the keeping of the stock for two days would be an objection worth consider ing. In answer to that, however, we have only to point to the Canterbury Metropolitan Show, and even to the South Canterbury A. and P. Show, to demonstrate bow easily this difficulty can be got over. Some of the speakers, at the meeting on Tuesday afternoon, described the arrangements made in Christchorch and Timaru to provide for feeding and accommodating the stock ; and we gather from the utterances of members present at the meeting, that the Ashburton Society is prepared to deal with this matter in the manner best calculated to consult the interests of all concerned. We can imagine no valid objections to the proposed change, although we foresee that the work of the executive and the officials will be considerably increased. But jadging from the way they have discharged their duties in the p*st—having in view apparently the fixed determina tion to make the show a success—we presume that point need not be con sidered as a difficulty to be overcome. We are sure that the action of the Association will meet with general approval throughout this County.

Local and General.

Si Ahdbew's Day —(80-morrow, Nov. 30, is St Andrew's Day, and a Bank holiday.

To Anglers. — The season for perch, tenoh, and catfish commences on' Saturday;

FILUNS Up.—The plan for the comedy •' What happened to Jones," in the Ash burton Oddfellows' Hall oa Friday nighb, is filling up, nearly thirty seats having been marked off last night.

Alleged False Pretkncbs, —At the Christohnreh Police Court yesterday, Joseph Wataon Kennedy, who was alleged to have obtained goods from various firms by means of valueless cheques, was again remacded till Tuesday. THB GOf *Bj;IMEMP AS HORSB BBEpDEBS— A very interesting letter on this subject appears in our correspondence oplumae to day. It Is rather long, but we are sure our farmer readers will agree that it is well worth reading.

OTbi Ivvuv Fbonwbb.—ln oar issue of yesterday we reprinted from the Londpn Sfaiutafdm article ob " The Indian Frontier which predicted that there were troubles to be faced soon from the Watirl tribe whioh inhabits the country near the QomulValley. The article was written by the Simla oorreif pendent of the paper and wai dated Septem ber 29thi It will be seen from our cables fee day that this foreeait has been fulfilled and thattioops are at present blockading W«?ir» iatan as a punishment for the robbing of mails and attacks on opoials by the tribes men.

Horsk Fair.—Mr D. Thomas will bold his monthly sale of horses tomorrow io the arcade. The sale commences it 11 o'clock.

THB NMHFBiAND RAILWAY—At the recent sittings of the Transvaal Concessions Committee in Pretoria, it was brought out in evidence that the Netherlands Railway Company had taken the initiative in blowing up bridges with the objsct of stopping the advance of British troops. An account of the enquiry will be found on our fourth page A Btb angi Epidemic—What is termed in our cablegrams ?' the beer poisoning epidemic' is creating a good deal of excite* ment at Home, and no wonder. The faots already disclosed are both puzzling and alarming. The symptoms of the epidemic are said to resemble berri berrl fever, which chit fly affects the nerves. Some of the prohibitionists apparently regard the epi demic as a blessing In disguise. At any rate further information will be awaited with Interest.

Fishing—Messrs Bennett and Shury re turned on Monday from the Rakaia mouth. They found plenty of feed in the paddock and a lot of water in the river, but the fish seemed to have crossed over to the other side. Besides themselves, there were Messrs Cambridge, Thompson, Preston, Doolan, and Muokle, who literally toiled all sight, and got nothing. Mr Thompson gob two during bis stay, and the others nothing, though Messrs Cambridge, Thompson, Preston, and Pitbrow had a few before Messrs Shury and Bennett got down. After all the others left, Messrs Crisp, Donglas, Preston, and Pilbrow returned, and Meiers Crisp and Pilbrow got one' each* In three days Mr Sbury caught 10 fish. On the other side of the river Mr H Curtis got five nice fish, in a couple of hours, in,the .early morn-

A Niw Building—Me A Ager has shown m the plans of a new house, which ha has just designed (or Dr Hunter, and for which tenders have Already been called. It will be a two-storied brick building with hollow walls—a great protection against damp* The front will be relieved byoompo dressings and string coarser There is to be a wide verandah covering the front b*y windows with ornamental oast iron panels* A balcony, all on cement and iron, supported by ■trong brick columns, cemented and oast In the jJorio order with fall triglyph en tab lature, will be In the front and one side of the building. When the brickwork is pointed, *he front will present a bold and massive appearance. The interior will be fitted up with all the latest conveniences, and altogether there will be several featores In the bnilding quite new to Ashburton. The tendeti close on December sth.

Catholic Litbraby Society.—At the usual weekly melting of this Sooiety, held last evening, there was an average atten dance of member*. The President reported the receipt of a number of books ordered by the Society for their Library, and a quantity of other minor business having been transscted. a debate, namely—" Is the Press a reliable guide ior public opinion," was proceeded with. Mr McSherry took the negative and Mr Molson the affirmative side of the question. The debate proved the keenest and most interesting yet held by

the Boole y, several of the debaters, more especially the leaders, delivering lengthy and telling speeches, After the members had spent over three hours in arguing the ques tion out, a vote w*s taken on the subject, and resulted in favor of Mr McSherry's party by a majority of one vote, and a most JnabruoMve ' and enjoyable evening was thus brought to a close. 8 8 Rimctaka.—On October 11th, Messrs William Denny and brothers launched from the Leven Shipyard, Dumbarton, a new steamer, built to the order of the New Zsa* land Shipping Company. This vessel will be one of the largest engaged In the trade be tween Fngland and the oolonies, the moulded dimensions being—Length 457 ft, breadth 53 ft, depth to shelter deok 42ft. She is in* tended for both passengers and cargo, and handsome accomodation U to be provided for forty first olasi, fifty second clans, and eightyuteerage passengers. As the vessel is intended to carry large quantities of frozsn meat and dairy produce, the three forward holds have been insulated for that purpose. The engines, by Messrs Denny, consist of two on the triple expansion syatem, with boilers for forced draught, whilst the steamer will be fitted with twin sorews. She has been built to the highest class at the Biitioh Corporation, and has the usual Board of Trade passenger certificate. The vessel was named the Rimutaka as she left the ways. It is expected that she will reach the colony e&r'y next year, and she is at present fixed *o take the March time table date from New Zealand for London. It is understood that Captain H E Greenstreet ba« been appointed to command the Rimutaka.

Mr J. Wilson, house decorator, has been fortunate in securing the agency for Ash burton and district of the now famous " Hall's Sanitary Washable Distemper " or Water Paint, as used for renovating all the principal hoepitals, hotels, etc., throughout Great Britain and the oolonies. Before renovating the OhtUtchurch Hospital some time ago, a competition was held to deoide upon what kind of distemper or paint would be used for oleaosing and decorating the buildings. After exhaustive tests and trials " Hall's Water Paint" was considered by far the' best, and has been used in the institution ever since. \t is very suitable for applying to walls and ceilings of kitchens, whether wood or plaster. It has an advantage over oil paint, inasmuch as insects cannot live near it. It is very easy of application—by simply adding hot or cold water, it is ready for immediate use, and in three weeks' time is washable. Mr Wilson has a shipment just to hand.—(Adrt> 11

High School Board.

The monthly meeting of the High School Board was held yesterday* Present—Messrs Andrew Orr (chairman), H Friedlander, M Stitt, W B Denshire, and Hon Major Steward. An apology was received for the absence of Mr Chapman. FINANOB.

The Chairman reported the debit balance at the bank to be £23812s 9d. RESIGNATION 07 SCHOOLMISTRESS,

The question of the date of acceptance of Miss Mu'holland's resignation was re* opened, and was eventually held over nntil next meeting.

ACCOUNTS.

Accounts amounting to £53 8s 9d were passed for payment. Headmaster's report. The headmaster's report stated that the number at present on the roll was 38, whilst the average attendance for the last month was 34. He recommended that on aocount of the Jubilee celebration! the school close for the Christmas vacation on 14th December. He reported that the Inspector-General would probably visit the sohool on Thursday but owing to speolal demands on his time a proper inspection visit would not take place until March nett He asked the Board's permission to expend one-third of the annual vote fo.r prizes in the purchase of books to form the nucleus of a school library. He was not personally in favor of the present prizs system.

HOLIDAYS.

It was decided that the bchool close as recommended on 14th Deotmber and reopen on Ist February.

MISCELLANEOUS*

The sum of £8 was voted towards prizss and £4 towards forming a school library. It was decided to print 100 copies of sohool prospectus,

THH STAFF,

Fourteen applications were received from young lady applicants for the vacant position of mistress at the johool, and it was decided to leave the appointment to a committee comprising the Chairman, Messrs Steward, Denshire, and Frledlander, to meet on Friday nest a<s g.30 p m to come to a decision.

The Rotomahana Breaks Down.

United Preu AnoMation—By Eleotrio T»le«raph Wiuaikqicn, Nov 28

While the Rotomahana was on the ran from lyttelton last night the guiding atrip of the low pressure cylinder oarried away, the vessel being at the trim* off the Raikouras The mishap neoetiitated a delay of five hour* to order to effect temporary repairs. The steamer then came on under eaiy ■team, arriving at the Queen's wharf at 4 p.m. Her departure for the South bag been postooned until to-morrow, consequently no *teamsr left to-night) for Lyttelton.

The Plague.

United Press Association —By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright Brisbane, November 28 A lamp trimmer named Smith, aboard the flteamer Flinders, which has just arrived from Bnndaberg, has the plague.

Interprovincial.

United Press A*eo<jiation—by Electric ' Telegraph

Invercargiix, Nov. 28

Trooper James Aitken, of the First Contingent, who returned to Gore yesterday and came on to Invercargill this afternoon, had a very complimentary recep* ion. The trooper, who is quite young, had his full share of casualties. He was missing after a skirmish before Paardeberg,and was supposed to have been dead for a long time. He was found by the Boers, and was well treated; he was liberated after Pretoria, at Nooige daoht, and again got into the fighting line, and was again wounded. He was then invalided home.

SUPREME COURT.

United Press Association—By Bleotrlo (Telegraph Wellington, November 28

At the trial of Mary Henderson, evidence was given by the mother of the dead girl to the effect that she had takan the latter to ■cc the prisoner, and paid her for performing a certain operation. A girl of eighteen years of ape who had come from Napier also gave evidence, she having been found In the house when the Woman was arrested 4 Her evidence, which was given after an assurance from the Crown Prosecutor that she would not be prosecuted, went to show that she had been subjected to certain treatment of a similar kind. His Honor in summing np explained that the verdict of manslaughter could be returned if the jury thought the prisoner had not known, and could sot reasonably have expected, that her aot would cause death* The jury retired to consider their verdict, and at 5.50 had not agreed- In the libel aotion Skelley v Oeddis, the jury returned a verdict in favor of defendant upon all issues. Judgment was entered accordingly, and costs according to scale DcNßDitt, November 28 George Knight Noble and^Wm. Trigance, charged with stealing a suit of clothes, were found not guilty, and discharged. The jury returned a verdict of not guilty in the case of Wm. Tyrone Ferrar, charged with making a false entry in the books while a clerk at the Mount Royal station. No suggestion was made that the accused benefited by the entry.

Election of the County Council Chairman.

Tn» annual election of chairman of the AnhbortoD County Council for the ensuing year took place yesterday. There wai a full attendance of members

The retiring chairman (Mr C J Harper) stated that he was sleeted twelve months ago, and daring his term of office Borne highly important event* had occurred. The early portion of ihia year had been foil of events, in which the Council had been obliged to take a prominent part, instancing the call for patriotic funds. la this con nection the Mayor and he had worked together, and they managed to obtain the handsome mm of £1059 9* lOd, of which £1000 had already been remitted. A farther call had been made towards the expenses of ■ending a special contingent to South Africa. The ratepayers came forward, and £654 odd had been collected locally, and in addition various other contributions had been for warded by this district. In connection with the Indian Famine Fond, through the energy of Mr Ferriman, whose conduct deeerved the highest commendation, £616 had been collected, bo that a gross total in hard cash of £2300 had been obtained for the above Purposes, as well as contributions in kind. hia, he thought, was a very creditable performance, and well worthy of mention. They had also got ten of their men in South Africa, which was an additional noble effort on their part, and from the Field Marshal and all the Generals commanding, they had reports of a complimentary character respect ing these men. Mr Harper went on to state that who ever occupied the position of chairman would, he felt satisfied, give tyeir highett services in the work of the Council. He had omitted another matter in which the member* had taken a prominent part, namely, the foundation of a Mounted Corps in the district. In conjunction with the Mayor, who had very ably assisted, together with Mr G A M Buckley, whois noble generosity was a matter of notoriety, they had succeeded in forming a splendid company, and in place of ten men, who had gone forth from their homes to assist, he believed that they could, if required, now get a hundred. "With respect to the Canter bury Jubilee celebrations, a meeting had been called, but no interest- was shown in the gubjact, and they must therefore just keep away from the celebrations. (Laughter). Coming to County Council matters, he pointed out that no rates had. beep struck during the year. Their overdraft had been redaoed to £2091 16s Sd. A higher flood than had ever previously occurred "had unfortunately swept away a lob of their work, which it was estimated would cost £1000 to repair. In connection with the extension of water races, he pointed out that although the Council had been refusing extensions, or only granting short lengths, yet ten milea of new channels had been supplied during the year in the Ashbnrton-Rakaia district, and twelve miles in tbe Ashburton-Rangitata district exclusive of 25 milea of new distributing races in tbe Ruapuna special district. Within the county 1310 miles of races were now being maintained! and • total area of 3000 acres of reserves had been planted with trees. In conclusion, he heiA to thank members, for th« valuable" help given him during his term of office. The lightest task of the position was that) of presiding at the meetings, as they were then all present to assist him, whereas the other work had to be attended to by the Chairman who had thus to take all the responsibility.; In retiring he thanked them for the courteous treatment always tendered to him, which he hoped would be continued towards his suooessor.

The Clerk here took the chair.

Mr Wright proposed that Mr Harper be re-elected chairman. The duties of the office were no child's play, and Mr Harper had carried them out in an efficient manner, and he had one qualification—" That of plenty of spare time. 8' Mr Lambie seconded, adding that of Mr Harper none could Hod the slightest fault in his position as chairman. Mr Friedlander, in further supporting, stated there was hardly any necessity for any member to speak as to their last chairman, who had given every satisfaction, and it afforded him great pleasure to support his re-election. He was of the opinion, however, that the position of chairman should not be looked upon as a matter of Course, and he considered the chairmanship should be a rolling one, and that every member should qualify himsef to preside at the Council. He referred to the fact that it was on his proposal that Mr Harper hud been elected as chairman last year, and whilst supporting his re-eleotion be thought it was the duty of members to try to follow in Mr Harper's footsteps as chairman, more especially the young members, Mr Harper was then unanimously elected, and took his seat, returning his hearty thanks for being placed again In the position of chairman. He quite agreed with the remarks of Mr Friedlander, and hoped some other member would he found to take his plaoe at next eleotiont He would like to see some o! the younger members of the Oounoit dome forward for this position, and he again thanked them for the compliment done him,and hoped he would be as successful in the coming as in the past year.

Alleged Subornation of a Witness

THE SYDNEY DIVORCE CASE

ABIGAIL COMMITTED FOR TRIAL.

United Presi Association—By Electric Telegraph-—Copyright

Sydnbv, Nov 28

Abigail was committed for trial at the quarter sessions, and ball was allowed. In the course of cross examination, he said that Coogan was telling a deliberate He in regard to a certain portion of the conver. satton, and the hidden witnesses, who corroborated, were mistaken. In reply to the question whether it ft as before the conversation and employing Coogan to get certain evidence in the Couingham case that he believed him to be a black* mailer and a paid perjurer, Abigail gave an affirmative answer.

CABLE NEWS.

■ ■ -<► : United Press Association—By Eboirlo Telegraph—Copyright

AMERICAN NAVAL PROPOSALS. Washington Nov 27

Mr J. D Long, Secretary of the Navy, recommends Congress to authorise the construction of two battleships and two cruisers.

FRANCE NOT A COLONISING NATION.

Paris, Nov 27

Daring a discussion in the Chamber of Deputies on the colonial vote, M. D Estournelles de Constant, who has held diplomatic appointments at several foreign Courts, denounced in unmeasured terms the scheme of wlonlal expansion, and said, unless she was careful, France would provoke another Fashoda in Yunnan. M. Francois, a retired Chinese diplo matist, condemned the imprudent French intrigues ac Yunnan, and eaid Fiance mast remain a Continental Power. She was unable to aspire to an empire over the sea.

EVANGELTOALS AND HIGH CHURCHMEN.

London, November 27

A conference of representative Evan gelicals and High Churchmen has been held at the Instance of Bishop Orelghton, Bishop of London. They have discussed the questions of doctrine, ritual, and holy communion. The conference, however, proved abortive, and failed to remove the differences.

THE INDIAN FRONTIER 'TROUBLE. Bombay, Nov 27

The troops recently despatched by the Indian Government are blockading Wszlristan as a punishment of the tribes' men for the robbery of malls and attacks on officials.

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

United Frees Association—By Electric Telegraph

MISSIONARIES SAFE.

London, November 28^

Misß Chapman, of Adelaide, and Miss Way, of Melbourne, of the China Inland Mission, who some time ago were reported to have been murdered in the Shanai province, are now reported to have reached Talyaenfa safely.

HOSPITAL BOARD.

A Committee meeting of the above Board was held yesterday morning ■ t the County Council Chatrbera. Present—Mr H Fried lander (chairman), Messrs £ G Wright, S ChapmaD, and M Stitt A list of patients admitted and discharged was placed on the ts^bje, showing the discharger daring the month' to be 13, and the admissions 11, deaths nil A fetter was received from the laundress asking that her wagaa be raised to £1 per week—The Committee decided to refer the matter to the Hospital Board, after some discussion.

A letter was received from the matron, askiig for supplies of stores.—Mr • Wright thought the matron should have power to order stores as required. Mr Stitt said it had formerly been decided that quantities of stores should be ordered through the Committee, and it was decided that the Chairman obtain the articles required'

VISITING COMMITTEE

Mr Stitfe was appointed for one month and Mr E G Wright for two months from date.

DRAINAGH

The decision of the Board to carry out a now drainage system came up for discussion, Messrs Wright, Stitt, and Chapman indicat ing they considered the scheme adopted was not la desirable one. It was deoided that the Visiting Committee be empowered to carry out the instructions of the Board in inaugurating the new system.

ACCdPHTS

A list of accounts was passed for payment, that of the Crown Iron Works to bo held over.

It was decided that the piano be kept in tune at an annual charge by Mr Ooombe. This concluded the business.

Transvaal War.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright

BOERS GETTING WISE.

REBELLION TO BE STAMPED OUT.

(Received November 28,9.2 p.m) London, Nov 27

One hundred Boers In the Eastern Transvaal have signed adocumeno pro ferring surrender if they will not be exiled.

Mr Jobann W Goienbrander, managing director of tho Oolonbrander and Mata bele Development Company, ia enrolling a British regiment 1000 Btrong at Bnlu wayo. Tha Right Hon. R W. Hanbnry, M.P, President of the Board of Agriculture, Bpeaklng at Preston, said this was no time for undue generosity. The dying embers of rebellion' in the annexed Republic ought to be stamped out,

KRUGER'S DOINGS IN FRANCE.

(Received November 28, 1045 p m) Paris, November 27

Mr Kruger exchanged ten minute visits with M. Waldeck Rossau, Prime Minister of France.

The Fenian leader, O'Leary, Major O'Brlde, and Miss Maud Gonne, a young Irishwoman, who has won a name for herself as an agitator and a bitter opponent of England, were introduced to Krnger, and made fiery speeches, Mr Krngor, by receiving and coxnpli* meriting the Dreyfusite League on its battlo for the rights of mam, has alienated many Nationalists

A REARGUARD ACTION.

A GALLANT CAPTAIN.

Received Wakapuaka Nov 28,11 p m,. Thii Office 1166pm London, Nov 27 Colonel Fanßhaw had a rearguard fight; with 60 Boers at Uamsfontein, and one of the New Sooth Wales infantry was killed. Captain Watson seeing; Private Robinson, of the New South Wales Infantry, fall, returned under a hot $re and carried him opt of action on his own horse. J Anderson, of the New Zealand Rough Riders, has died of enteric at Pretoria. Private Butler, of Tasmania, has died at Pretoria from enteric Seventeen British, splendidly repulsed a fierce attack at Brakpan, killing 8 and capturing a flag.

London, November 28

Lord Roberta reports that the poles have frr some time been aware of a pint against himself, and arrested on the I6th five Italians, four Greeks, and one Frenchman on & oharge of plotting to explode s mice efc the morning service on fhe 18th at St. Mary's Church, Johannesburg KecKHAMPTON, November 28

Trooper Robertson, who recently re. turned from South Africa invalided, com mitted suicide by shooting himself dead. He had been eccentric since his return.

PRAISE FOR NEW ZEALANDERS

United Preu Association—By Electric Telegraph Wbll'MOTOn, Nov 28

Colonel Pentou received a very inter esting private letter this morning from Colonel Pilcher, who wm for some time daring the campaign In charge of ins first three New Zealand Contingents. Colonel Pilcher writes to the Commandant to the effect that his experience with those of our men who made tip a part of his brigade led him to form a very high opinion of them as soldiers, and as they had served with him during the greater part of the war he saw the New Zealanders thoroughly tested. Colonel Pilcher (joes on:—"I have hoard many men say th»t thif looked upon the New Zealanders as the besb men in South Africa, and they were also well officered. It bad always been considered difficult to find non*regnlar officers able and fitted for their appoint}* ments, which entails dealing with more I than their own unit, bnt I can honestly say that I think the New Zealand Mounted Rifles are bettered cfScered than any other Colonial corps I have met." Colonel Pilcher also wrote in high terms of praise of Majors Robin and Cradonk.

CORRESPONDENCE

__ »__— v. - (We do not held onrielves reiftMitible for opinion* expressed by our corrwpondenta

THE GOVERNMENT AS STOCK IMPORTERS

TO THS EDITOB

Blß,—The announcement, that MrGilrutb, Government Veterinary Surgeon, it to ba sent Home for the purpose of selecting stud horses and cattle for the Government, la worthy of a few remarks. The wisdom of the coarse adopted by the Government li very questionable. We are told that Mr Gilruth will select twelve stallion* suitable for getting remounts, which, on arrival In the colony, will be distributed over tha various State farms. In » series of con tributed articles which appeared in tba columns of your paper some months back, the limits of Government interference wen very dearly defined—that-was if tha Govarn menb took the matter of horse branding In hand it should be on the Unas of establishing one or two stud farms for breeding high class stud stock only, the progeny to ba submitted to public competition annually, while the management to be placed under the most skilful and praotieal men thai ! could be obtained in the colony—man who j have been connected with the breeding of the different clasns of hones, whose opinion and advice would be superior to that of a | veterinary surgeon, as to judicious mating of i the sexes It can scarcely ba conocded that Mr Gilruth is an authority on the most suitable types of horses for this colony. Professionally he ranks high, but that dosa not fit him for being the most competent judge in selecting the daises of nonet best suited for all requirement* In New Zealand. In the msntion of the number of stallions to be imported, twelve is stated, and I take it [that they will include horses of different i types, and without detraoMng from tha qualifications of Mr Gilruth as a professional man, I consider he is not tht besb man that could be send. If that gentleman's presenoo was necessary before a horse was purchased, by ail means let him be there, but I do not think that the future types of horses to be raised in this colony should ba It ft to a veterinary surgeon to .decide. I maintain that those who require the sar* vices for different kinds of work would bo better able to select the most suitable types for general purposes. It appears tome that the Government are entering into an experi menting business, which the colony may yet have cause to regret. Experimental it must be, as long as it is going to be tun by pro fessional men. Horse breeding has passed that stage in this colony, however, and wa have the men in it whose' reputation as skilful and practical breeders is well known throughout the whole of tha colonies, and given the material to work with, would soon demonstrate the best and most suitable ' horaes to breed, If the Government intend to set up a lot of breeding establishments to be run by veterinary surgeons and to act as training establishments also for thosa gentleman, then tht sooner the thing Is knocked on the head the better. But If tha farm was supervised by practical and com petent men who possess a knowledge of tha requirements of the country, and on tha lines indicated here—that is tstablishmsnts for breeding pure-bred stud stock only then they might become beneficial to breeders generally, by giving them an oppor tunity of getting a change of blood which they could depend open as pars. In a question of such magnitude as this to which probably the colony, may be oommittad ta tho expenditure of several thousand! of pounds. The taxpayers should have bean consulted through the agricultural soolailas* and their opinions sought as to the typos best suited for this colony, and to what ex tent the Government would be justified in going. But as the Premier has said money is no object, it is difficult to speculate at to what are tho intentions of the Government, and how far they will go in thit matter. It is announced that the stallions to be pur chased by Mr Gilruth, will be thosa most suitable for getting remounts. Admitted, that at the present time there is a demand for that class of horse, is it going to con tinue, are remounts wanted in any groat numbers in this colony! They are not! Then why should the taxpayers money be spent in furnishing suitable horses for tha Imperial Army. If the Imperial Govern* ment wishes to establish stud farms in this colony by all means Jet them do so, but at its own expense t The Government would be doing a greater servioe to the colony, and horße breeding by purchasing as stud horses those which are likely to prodoos animals f}t for general purposes, and as remounts are outside our practical requirements, attention fchjuld be given to what it required, rarely draught stock, hacknsys, and carriage horses. The race horse we have ; ths draught horse we have; and by judl* eious handling we have as good material la the'colony for improving our stock, as. tho Government can import. What wa Bead Is a bsttsr type of carriage and hackney horso, and valuable assistance could be gives by the Government in these two olasset by importations of true types. How Mr Oil* ruth or the Government proposes to raise the remount by the introducing of fresh blood, -1 am at a loss to know. Have they any defined ideas themselves on that point? This much however Is certain and 1b almost teems a stain on Naw Zealand—that for the purpose of brttd, ing the class of |animal required lot i remounts, we have as good, if not bettor, material to work from in the colony, than can be imported. It is admitted that the thoroughbred is the best homo for this purpose, crossed with a heavier kind of mara or vice versa. That, I think, it beyond dis pute, and such being the case, our own resources should have been drawn an first, and the taxpayers' money for tbta class, allowed to remain in tho colony. Tha step taken by the Government is simply a leap in the dark, and how it will finally come out i remains to be seen. Another point is how far their action will interfere with privata enterprise. If it U proposed to compote In the open market with private breeders, It would assuredly bo prejudicial, and would eventually tap what little enthusiasm apd enterprise there was in this rsspoat.. Owing to the undue advantage tha Govsrnmont would hays breeding would soon beoonta disheartening to those engaged In it, and oonsequsntly the Government would soon obtain a monopoly, and breed whatever thay wished. • Ths most Important, and I think chief point, In connection with the deteriora tion of horses in this colony is the pro valency of unioundness, »cd that is where the Government should have first turned their attention, by pasting legislation, such aj would purga ths country of uoaoaßd.

fHft ASHBtmi'Ofl (SUABMAtt, !tfitJBSt)AX KoVEiißlfia % 1900



THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY MEtfM Silk Striped Tennis Shirts from 3a 6d Men'g White Canvas Tennis Shirts 4a 6d Men's Fancy Tennis Shirts, splendid variety Men's Straw Hats from 3s Boys' New Straw Hate from Is Men's Frame Hats in New Shades 4s to 12s 6d The Largest Stock in ABhbnrton. CYCLING SWEATERS in Fawn and White, from 6a Men's and Ycatba' Cricketing Trouserß, all the Latest Novelties AT THB N.Z. CLOTHING FACTOttY- F. H. BECKINGSALID, Manager. WOOL SEASON 1900-1901 \XTn SHALL BE REPRESENTED at fcne OhrUtohnroh and^Ttmaru 11* W have made satisfactory arrangements for disposing of CLIPS privately dshburton. Coni.ignment.B will be received at our Aanbarton or Tlnwald sbores, and;sent onto either Ohrißtcharch or Tlmaru, free of all charged, except railage; Clients who wish to send thoir Wool direct from their nearest railway station will tsaee oop'ign as follows :— If intends* for Bale at Ashburton-Friedlander Broa», Ltd Siding, Ashburton If intended for sale »t Christchureh—Brown and Son'i Siding, Aldington If intended for sale or shipment at Timaru-Miil & Go's Siding, Timaru If intended for ehipment at Lyttelton-N.Z|Bhlpping OoXDumpin^Shed.'Lyttelton WOOLPAOKS, TWINE BRANDING OIL, and ,»ll othet^Shearing Requisites supplied at loweat rates. «—*:o:— *- OafSS^irst Sale will take placej at Timarn on FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3», 1900 JRIEDLANDER BROS, LTD, WALL PAPERS! WALL PAPERS! X¥TE HAVE jasb opened np TWENTY BALES of th« Oholcwb pitterne and the best ?alae ever Introduced into this market, and invite inspeotlon. "wfcpiX*fll"l PAINTING! PAINTING! PAINTING; If yon require y >ar house painted, we import genuine leads and olli only, md employ firsfclasa men to execate our work, thereby ensuring satisfaction and durability. W. H. COLLINS & CO,. PAINTERS, AND HOUSE DECORATORS, lEO MONGEBS, Etc. AGENT ROYAL INSURANCE COMPANY. J. W I LSO N, SIGN-WEITBB AND DECOBATOBi IMPOETEE OF AETISTIC WALL PAPERS. BURNETT STREET, TELEPHONE 65 SOLE AGENT FOR ASHBURTON AND DISTRICT FOR HALLS ''Sanitary WATER PAINT? As aied in fehe principal Hotpitals throughoub the world. Ib will BBand wwbing. It kills ioeeotc, and it a considerable saving compared tfo oil paint. ZEALANDIA CYCLES. BUtLT with Narrow Tread and Overhanging Sprocket, Patent Head Tube, Butted Tubing Throughout. Genuine English Danlop Tyres, and Guaranteed for 12 Months. Easy Payments Arranged for. BURNETT STREET, Largest Cycle Manufacturers in the Colony



Massey-Harris Haryestem WE have pleasure ia annoimcing to those of oar Bunaeroae Clients who . possess Massey-Harris Reapers and Binders that an Expert is now at Ashhuiton for the purpose of Oveibaoliog Machines. Farmers who wish to made use of his services, will kindly bring in their Binders as soon as possible. FKBiDLANPER BROS., Ltd, Aohburfcon Agents. 23rd October 1900. __ 10 208 Smoke New "Venus



SI ILL ADVANCING CBAIGHEAD & BBKBYMAN HAVE vat opened oat, ex b.i. Paparoa from London, the largest shipment of New Goods they have hitherto Imported, oomprising tbe moat up to date Buitings from the best) Manufacturers »■ now worn at Home. Their immense stock of Fashionable Tailoring Good* now affords customers such a splendid range of new materials of guaranteed quality and stylish patterns to choose from as should please even the moat fastidious, and their prices, workmanship, and fie will compare favorably with those of the leading firms in Christohnroh or other cities. They are alto snowing a grand lot of new Hats, Shirts, Ties« Boots, etc., this seam. Customers would do well to place their orders early as 0. & B. have already a large sumber of salts on the books promised before Xmas. 11 140



ASHBURTON OFFICE "LTTTELTON TIMES" " OANTIRBCJRT TIMES ' "STAR" •• SPORTSMAN ' WHERE Adverbiuments and Subscrip lions will be received, and files oan be impeeted. E. NORDON, Managing Agent for South Canterbury, BURNRTT STREET, (Entrance to lhstnab' New Auction Mftirt) 11 10 ST. SDEPHEN'S OHDROH Aehburton. FRIDAY : Feast of Sb Andrew (Day of Intercession for Missions) ? 30 am—Holy Communion 11 a m—Matini and Intarcessions 715 pm—Evensong and Sermon The offertories throughout the day will be gtv«n to tht SPG ADVENSD^SUNDAY (Deo 2nd) 8.30 ft m—Holy Oommnnioa lla m-MEMORIAL SERVICE for the late Robert R B Upton and thoss who have fallen in the war to Booth Africa 3 p m—GREENBTREET 6.30 p m—'Evensong and Sermon R. A. WOODTHORPB, M.A, Vtoar OOTS and Shoes to Measure ab D SgooK'a. 9_«p



ni in



i g^^MBBSBSBSBS^SHSBMSsssssiBBBBSSSBSBi' AWOBl) to the wise—Try the rapidly Jigbfcniog ghirt Gloss, it never fails— Shxabiun Bk©» and Jojhn Obi ft Go ire the Agenti Wade's Worm Figa, the wonderful Worm worriers, never fail for adult*,' and children Price la , WK4TH£R Bjefost.—•Captain Edwin wirta:—-north to west and southwest gale, indications of rain, glasi fall.



rpAKB your Bepairi to the Jubilee Boot JL Bbop



Smojce Npf V»ni«



O, lovely lsl«, proud Maorlland "; With sky so blue and landscapes grand, All radiant with the summer'^ sun, And foliage green, when winter's gone; Thai) season with its storms and galea Brings coughs and colds, then grief and watie, Unless we do good health assure By taking Woods' Great Peppermint Care