Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 1900. ASHANTEE.

Wednesday's cable to the effect that Sir F. Hodgson sends reassuring mes sa-jea with regard to the position of affairs in Ashantee is a very welcome os c. Tho previous news that the Bri tish rosident (D. W. Stewart, 0.M.U.) at Kumasi, tho c lpital c f Ashantee, was isolated, the wires cut, the natives engaged in tribal fighting, and more troops aßked for, waa specially disturb ing. In view of the task Britain has on hand in South Africa the possibili ties were grave, for previous experience ha^ proved that campaigning in Ashan tee is attended with many difficulties. The first British trouble in Ashantee j arose in 1872, when the British bought uptheUutch forts on the coast. It wag out of this transfer that the Aehantee War of 1873-4 arose, as the

King of Afehaatee, who had always j been on good terms with the Dutch, feared that ho would be cut off from the sea. The conduct of the British campaign was placed in the hands of the present commander-in-chief, and for the time being the native power eras shattered. In 1894 Prempeh, King of Ashantee, having successfully fought against the .Nkoranzas that had revolted against his rule, threateaed to attack the All&bubus, who had been givt-n British protection in 1890. 1 his attack was diverted by the despatch, of an armed force, and an ultimatum was then sent to Prempeh warning him not to enter British territory, and sug gesting that he should acquiesce in the establishment of a Residency at Kumasi. No definite reply could be obtained, and a military expedition to iKuiuaai, to coinpil complidt.ee with the letnanJs of the Government, entered Etuinasi without resistanca in January, 1896. Prt mpeh npide >übinis>s.ion, but, failing to comply wrh the terms die lated, was brought to the coast as n political prisoner, and now liv. s in banisbrae.-it in Sierra Leone. Tlie Kf sideut was then installed at Kumasi, and the relations between that place and the Gold Coast have n mained tran quil till the present inter tribal disturb ance. The Gold Coast and its hinterland I are as a territory steadily increasing in value. Revenue and expenditure in 1898 were £303,822 and £377,972 respectively ; imports, £960,336 ; ex ports, £992,998. Tn accordance with his principles of " utilising waste ma terial, and developing our v^ist estates from the cfcntre," Mr Oaamberlain has procured much-needed financial as sistance for the West African Crown colonies under the Colonial Loans Act, which aims at the direct development of British dependencies by means of dome capital. In this way, £578,000 has been advanced for railway develop* meDt, and £98,000 for harbor works at Accra (the seat of government), which latter work is of imperial as well as local interest.

WHAT IS A SHEEP DOG?

At the meeting of the Borough Oounoil on Wednesday, exception was taken by one Councillor to the small amount placed on the estimates as the revenue for the year from dog registration fees. | The explanation of the Town Olerk was that there were bo many dogs registered as sheep or cattle doga. The law provides that any man owning a dog kept solely for the management of sheep or cattle may register it at a fee of two shillings and sixpence, but be fore he can do bo, he must make a declaration that the dog is kept solely for the purpose named. There cannot be many dogs belonging to residents in Ashburton that answer the above | description, and if an enquiry is made ; into the matter, aa will very likely happen, it will go hard with some of those who have made the declaration alluded to. For the crime of making a declaration knowing the same to be false is punishable as perjury and is a very serious matter.

Local and General.

* # * On the first page to-day will be found a report of the Addingtou stock market. On the fourth page a short story.

Eoakd oi' Education—Mr T L Weeton was yesterday elected chairman of the Board of Education for the ensuing year. A report of the proceedings ab the Board's meeting appears in this issue.

I The Difference —Ab the meeting of the ', Borough Council last nighb, Or. Thomas promptly defined the difference in the duties of two officials connected with most build inga. The arohitecb, said Cr. Thomas, sees that hid plans are carried out, the clerk of works sees that the contractor does not rob ihe employer*

Medical —The second visit of the Poly^ pathic Medical Institute, of Ohristchuich, is to be held at Grange's hotel to-morrow (Friday) afternoon and Saturday, 20th and 21ab April, aud from their great repute wad success ia curing chronic diseases, hitherto considered incurable, such as cancer, epilepsy, etc , by the Polypathic remedies, their periodical visit to Aahburtpo should be appreciated.

Bats and Tar—At the Syienham Borough Council meeting on Wednesday nighb it was stated in one of the reports that the CounoiJ whs unable to get any tar for constructing aßphalt crossings. Or Taylor gave as a pro bable reason that the City Council were using all the tar for the purpose ot dipping rate up to the neck and then letting them go.

Thb Plaque.—Ab the meeting of the Borough Council last night it was mentioned that a rumour had come to hand by the express that a case of plague had broken out at Port Chalmers, and another ab Dunedin. Up to a late hour last night there was no confirmation of the rumour.

Deserves a Leather Mebal —The letter of the Under-Secretary for Public Works re a new post office for Ashburton, read at tha meeting of the Borough Council last night, caused a laugh by its intensely non-committal character. Councillors expressed the opinion that the writer deserved a leather medal for his achievement.

Shags and Trout. —As showing how destructive the black ehuga are to trout it mry be mentioned that on Friday last Mr Hetiitr and hia son while c-.hool.icg on the backs of the Wainukariri noticed a black shag dive into the river, and emerge with something in hia mouth. They thot the shag, and found that his booty consisted of a trout over lib in weight.

The Summit ok His Ambition —Mr Richard Evans of Kaiapo', who was chair man ar, the morning session of ihe Prohibi tion Council on Friday, expressed himself thus :—" There is no position I am so proud to occupy as to preside over this Oounoil for an hour and a half. My duty is to say little, and to sit on those who Bay too much !"

Pbohibition Views—Some opinions ex pressed as the Prohibition Council:—"Truth is the moat powerful missile you can fling at a man."—Mr Will'am Harding. •• We have not done our part until wo succeed in getting hostile folks to our public meetings."—Mrs Newton. "We need a temperance mission to the rich, and in view of this, an effort should be made to get Lady Henry Somer set to visit the colony."

Worrid by Dbbt.—Some letter left by a girl who was found drowned in Cnrist churoh on Monday morning, disclosed the fact' chat she had got into debt to the extent of £2 sa, some 30s of this amount; having been incurred for drapery. This appeared to have preyed on her mind at a time when she was in ill 1 • Jth. The Coroner remarked that he did not know what the practioe was with regard to giving credit to girls of de ceased's class, but he thought that it would be better to insist on prompt payment.

A Splendid Idea.—The Beautifying As sociation has sent) the following notice to the masters and mistresses of all the schoo s in Christchuroh and suburbs:—"The Christ ohurch Beautifying Association will be glad to supply any of your scholars who may be anxious to grow them, with a small packet of swaet peas (about 40, all colors, mixed). Will you kindly ascertain bow many wish to have them ? Lat the vice-preaidenb know, and he will see that they are delivered to you for distribution."

PERSONAL—The Press has the following : As a result of the unfounded report published ie several papers that Trooper CO Roberts, son of Mr P Roberts, of Tinwald, had died of enteric fever in South ii ica, Mr and Mrs Roberts and family have received letters and telegrams and personal expressions of con dolence from various sources. While thor oughly appreciating the kindly feelings which prompted these expressions of sym pathy, Mr and Mrs Roberta wish it to be known that no news whatever has been received of any mishap to thuraon Our contemporary is in error in eta ing that the report referred to appeared in several piper?. The Lylteleon Times was the only paper re ceiving Press cable news which published the report about Trooper Robjrte.

Open Wells—The well in which a young girl drowned herself on Monday morning in Ohristchurch was an open wooden box, 2ft 6in by 2ft lin, and 18iu deep. At the inquest on Tueaday the foreman of the jury remarked that there was a very great danger of children being drowned in such receptacles, and suggested that if pumps were used, the danger would be avoided. The Coroner said that a certain number of deaths occurred every yaar owing to wells. Children were very fnquently drowned in them, and juries had added riders recommending that open wells should be covered, but no notice appeared to be taken. The jury on Tuesday addei? to their verdict a rider that they were of opinion that all overfhw weils from artesun pijjo3 should be covered, or pump nsed. Mr Bcfccharn said he would forward the rider to th ; proper quarter.

Tebbibijß Mortality.—Mr Jules Tapper, in R leter from Bueuos Ayrep, published ie bhe Southland Times, writes :—-A p'inic has set ia in this city, for in leaa than four day's more than 300 persons have dropped dead in the streets, and the number is increasing each day. Ie is said to be tha effects of the terribly hob weather, but come cay it is the jjlagua. They have not sufficient horses fco convey the corpses to Chacarita Cemetery, where most of the bodies are lying on the ground unburied. Tha death rate has increased some 75 per cent. Horses and dogs are dropping dead in the streets by hundreds. Tne banks and most of.^he offices have changed their hours by starting busi ness in the cooler moments of the day. Something Ike 8,127,000 kilos of ice were consumed within the last fortnight. Amongst the victims is Archbishop Uladhlao Castel lano, head of the South America Citholic Oburoh. Tinwald School Committee—The uaual monthly meeting of the Committee wae he'd on Wednesday. Present—Messrs Clothier (chairman), Jno. Hampton, J. Stephens and Chae. Hawkins. The Master's report was read, and showed the present mmber of children on the roil to be 143, and the average attendance for the past four weeks 122. Its waa decided that tha Master was quite justified in punishing the boys who damaged the palings around the girls' closet. The truant officer's report was lead, and the committee expressed their regret at his resignation through ill-health, as he had given every satisfaction, A circular waa received from the Board ia refereeo3 to the householders' meeting on April 23 .Accounts to the amount of £5 13j ll£d were passed for payment, and the meeting terminated.

An Excellent Suggestion — At the Council's meeting last nighti His Worship the Mayor made an excellent suggestion. He said it was vary hard that officers of the Council, who had served the ratepayers well and faithfully for many years, should, when they became past work, begot rid of without compensation. The moßb humane and proper thing would be to provide an insurar.ca fund, to which both the Council and the officer should contribute a certain amount. '1 hen when the employee had to resign, owing say to old age, he would be able to draw an annuity from the fund. Some day the Council would have to face this matter" They hai officers) who had served them well, some from as far back aa 1876, and inthecourseof time these officers would have to retire. Me had not gone deeply into the scheme, bu^ thought the best plan would be to appoint a. com mittee to consider the matter. C•. Paul thought the suggestion a good one and moved that a committee consisting of the Mayor and Crs. Thomas, Scaly, Jolliffe and the mover be appointed to report on the subjsct as early as possible. Or. Jonea seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.

Reduction ok Otherwise.—The debate on Fridiy evening last between the two temperance orators—Rev L M Isitt end Mr T E Taylor—was equal to the anticipations of their moat ardent admirers. Ib was evi dent that Mr laifct was the advocate of the popular side, and he made the most of it; at the same time his opponent was in excellent Lrrn, and advanced his arguments in telling and characteristic style. There was a deal of goodnatored banter between the com batants, and the fact thab Iheee two chief* tains of the prohibition movement had pro bably never before met on a publio platform to discußs opposite phases of their pe crusarle, sometimes led to " situations" ex eeedingly funny to the audience* A number of other delegates spoke on either side of iha question, and when the motion was put, shortly after ten o'clock, the advocates for the retention of the reduction vote had an overwhelming majority.

TRANSVAAL WAR.

munic itionF,

Opinions of the Press

Bugler Melvillp, of New South Wale?, has been missing since the battle of Karee

The Boers are circulating in Cape Colony an impass:oned appeal to the Afrikanders to rise.

London, April 18

(Trooper Heenan is one of the seventeen New Z slanders captured in the Koornspruit ambush. He joined the First Contingent from the Southland Mounted R fles, and hie relatives live at Pyramid Siding, Southland.)

Mr Day, manager of Frank Smith's diamond mines, saved the available diamonds and a number of documents, which he concealed in tin boxes and gas pipes find buried. The spot waß known only to himself and the chair man, who recovered them after Kim berley was relieved.

Three thousand remounts for the British troops have been landed at Capetown since Friday. Messrs Richard Bleath and B. 6. O'Connor, members of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly, who are visiting South Africa, interviewed Lord Roberts, who spoke io compli mentary terms of the Australian Con tingents' work. He declared that he was much interested in Australia, and hoped to visit that country. A drum and fife band played the Boer prisoners at St. Helena, including into the Deadwood camp. When Scbiel landed he was marched to the citadel. The British sailors and soldiers sang " Rule Britannia " and " Soldiers of the Queen "

April 17

The first base camp is to be at Mar andellas.

The troopships Atlantian, Maple more and Euryalus, landed 1100 Aus tralian Bushmen at Beira. Ihe men and horses are in splendid condition.

The Boer losses were heavy, and the onemy have since applied to the British doctors for an ambulance.

The British had two killed and one wounded.

Two hundred Tranfvaalers deter minedly attacked a party of Orpen's Horse on the 13t.h, at Dopaspoort.

General Bundle's division via Red deraburg, and General Brabant's, with General Uart's brigade supporting, via Rouxville, are advancing to the relief of Wepener,

In his despatch regarding Weponerj Lord Roberts states that the Boers ure anxious in regard to their corn-

Lord Roberts hopes the columns will soon make their pressure felt.

Lord Roberts reported on the 17th that Wepener was stili surrounded, but the attack was half-hearted. Vio lent rains were delaying the marsh of the relief forces.

Some anticipvte General Bailer's resignation.

The newspapers express grave con cern at the revelations made, and applaud Lord Roberta's wise and wholesome s verity,

General Buller justified Oolonel Thornfycroft in the evacuation, but thought the position would have been tenable if General Warren had exhi bited proper organisation and system.

)n the gazetted despatches Lord Roberts states that he considers Sir R. Buller's wide flanking movement by Acton Homes well devised, and .it •ught to have succeeded. Sir Chae, Warren thought the route too long, and tried a more direct road, neces sitating the occupation of Spion Kop.

He also condemns General Buller for showing a disinclination to assert his authority, and see what he thought best to be done*

He also holds that General Warren was guilty of errors of judgment and want of administrative capacity. He blames him for not personally visiting Spion Kop at the time of the crisin.

Lord Robert?, while acknowledging Colonel Thorneycrofi's gallantry, se verely condemns his wholly inexcusable assumption of responsibility in order ing the retirement.

London, April 18 The despatches from tiir Charles Warren, Sir R. Buller, and Lord Robert", in reference to the capture and abandonment of Spion Kop, are gazetted.

United Press Association—By Rleobric Telegraph—Copyright

Documents

.Recovery of Diamonds and

at St Helena.

lhe Arrival of Boer Prisoners

Lord Keberts Interviewed,

Remounts for British Troops

Their Losses Heayy,

fJ he Enemy Defeated

The March of the Belief Forces

munication

The Enemy's Lines of Com

The Siege, of Wepener

General Puller's resignation. Expected

A New Zealander Seriously 11l

Colonel Plumer's Casualties to

March 31.

London, April 18 George Heenan, of the New Zealand Mounted Infantry, is seriously ill with typhoid at Wynburg. Colonel Plumer's casualties to March 31 totalled 70. Many were slightly wounded.

Lord Roberts' March to Bloem fontein.

Received Wakapuaka April 19, §.10 am, This Office 9.31 a m

Sydney, April 16

The Daily Telegraph special, des cribing the brilliant generalship and the hardships %i Lord Roberta' march to BloemfonteiD, says beside it the march to Kandahar was a mere cirs cumitaoce. Lord Roberts' reception

from the English, the only irsidents left, was most enthusiastic. The bur ghers had commandeered almost every-; thing before leaving. '

LETTER FROM TROOPER WILKIE.

_____ j Trooper A. .Wilkie, of the First Contin. j pent, haa senb a ehorb letter to a friend in j Ciiristchureh. The letter, which ia written j on a Transvaal telegraph form, is aa fol lows :— Kenilworth, Kimberley, March 4, 1900 Dear Ernie,—Having a few moments to spare, I take the oppor'unity to drop you a few lines, and to lei you know that I am still in th) land of the living. We have had a lively time since we arrived at the front. We relieved Kimberley on February 15, and the following day we had a fight with the | Boers, who had entrenched themselves in various positions. They fought very stubbornly, bub oar artillery and Msxim gunß ultimately shifted them alter their number had been considerab'y lessened While the British were tackling one position we were fired on by another, and the New Zealanders and Queenslanders were Bent to attack Che second positionl As we rode to wards them the Boers senb in a heavj fire. We dismounted, and moved forward on foot, and after exchanging shots with the Boers for some time, ultimately succeeded in driv ing them out. The Boers had been firing a gan which threw 1001b shells, and these projectiles had done greab damage to the | town, and killed many people. The ir-: habitants are eating horseflesh, I found these telegraph forms at) a Boer position after they had cleared and am utilising them for note paper. The move of General Frenoh's column in this direotion haa had the desired effect of drawing the Boers away from Ladysmith, Ooleaburg, etc., and the other day, as you are probably already aware, our troops captured Oronje and about 5000 Boers, It is the general opinion.here that the war will be over in about two months. Food is very dear, and I have paid 33 6d several times for meals at the Grand Hotel here which would not be put on an hotel table in New Zaaland for Is. Hoping that you are in your usual health.—l remain, yours sincerely, Alexr. H, Wilkie.

SIEGE PRICES.—THE LADYSMIIH RECORD

The following list of prices at Ladysmith during the siege will be interesting. It) ie Issued by an auctioneer, Mr ' Joe' Dyson, who vouohes for it in the following state ment :—" I certify that the following are the correct and highest prices realised at my j i sales auctionthe: —

INTERPROVINCIAL.

United Preis Association—By Eleotri: Telegraphs

Wellington, April 18 Judge Edwards has resigned the presidency of the Arbitration Court. ,

Mr James Ruddiok, chief dairy expert of the colonvj has received and accepted an offer from the Dominion Government, Canada, and will be leaving the colony early in Jane.

Spurious silver ooin is in circulation here,

. The Otaki Licensing Election has been declared on petition null and void, owing to a certain portion of the electorate being dis franchised through the ballot boxes mis carrying.

The Wellington Woollen Company have declared a 3-| per cent, dividend for the half year* Mr J C Martin was sworn in to-day as actiog Jutige of the Supreme Court. Christchukch, April 18 During the passage of the Te Anau from Wellington to Lyttelton it was discovered early this morning that a man named E S Wardle, a sfce?r.ge passenger, was missing A thorough search was made for him but no trace coald be .discovered. He was last noticed about midnight, when he waa seen on deck. There seems to be no doubt that he was lost overboard.

The City Counoil is taking steps toward t a thorough inspection of the city, and cleansing the places that require it. The Counoil is offering a shilling per dozen for rats.

CORRESPONDENCE.

(We do not hold onraelves responsible for opinions oxpnised by our correspondents

TO THE EDITOR.

Sib,—Would you kindly allow me, through the medium of your paper, to mention a oiroumataoce which took place in connection with myself last Sunday at Wester field. I waa walking quietly along a road to vitit some friends, when from behind a gorae fence belonging to a neighboi ing farmer a stone was thrown at me. The stone passed within a foot of my head, and considering its Bfzs and velocity, I am sure that if it had hit me co the heid it would have killed me. Last jur a lady was thrown from a young horse through the actions rf two evil disposed boya 1 while passing the same paddock. My motive for writing this is to warn the guilty parties to give up (heir fiendish practices before ir is tco late, and I give them to understand that they are known.—l am, etc., A.D

Apropos the War.

"It is our old blundersthab hare taught the Cape Dutch to be trimmers. We should nob attribute all the double dealing that has been going on ab the Cape to love of the Boers, bub to uncertainty as to the political future."-— Spectator* "The loyalty and discipline of the Cana dians in undertaking the dull work of build ing railway sidings and erecting platforms at O ange River Station ia a better proof of their real military value than almost any success in fighting."— St dames' GazMe

The field telegraphists with General Buller'oarry their cables in specially-con structed carts, each containing, if necessary, ten miles of oibles wound on drums bo that in open country they can lay it out at a gallop. The current is sent to e»rth through the wheels of the cart.

A private in the Ist Border Regiment describes the difficulties under which Rome of theae letters are written :— •* I am lying on my chest while penning this, with the paper resting on the butt of my rifle, a com rade holding the candle, and keeping off the wind with his great coab."

THE BUBONIC PLAGUE.

United Press Association—By Eleobrlo Telegraph—Oopyrighb Sydney, April 18 There were five fresh cases of plague to-day.

THE SUSPICIOUS DEATH.

Oamaeu, April 18 A. Eddington, H. Bddington, and B. Bums were charged with the murder of Pefler Cartridge at Kakanui, on April 14. The case arose oub of the stone throwing episope, particulars of which have already been telegraphed. The inquest nob yeb being finished the accused were remanded for eight daye.

VERY PARTICULAR RECTOR

- — + I QUESTION OF TOMBSIONISS AND HEATHEN RITES'. According to the Daily Mil the singu larly punctilious views of the Rev. S. Tur ner, ractor of Ely, on the subject of grave - yard memorials and inscriptions, resulted in his appearing at Ely County-court recently aa defendant in a o-iee which exoited graat interest in the neighbourhood. The plaintiff, Mr John Nix Chambers, a i&ndowner of Coveney, who had inherited burial rights in the local churchyard, erected there a monument in the form of an obelisk to the memory of his wife, beariDg the words, •• Pe&ce, perfect peace." Itwa'put in posit on at five o'clock one morning in the absence of the reotor from ihe | parish. When he came b.;ck, hie oidera for | its removal being ignored, he had it removed himself and placed in the parish room i He objeoted to both obelisk and inscrip tion. The former, he said, was of heathen origin, closfcly connected with idolatrous worship—of •* a peeu'hrly shucking and horrible oharaoter," he believed—and he hid made ib a rule that inscriptions should consist only of passages from the Scriptures and the liturgy of the Church of England. Mr Chambers contested the rector's as sumed authority over the churchyard, and claimed £15 damages. A verdict was given in favour of the plaintiff, who on being informed that he could re-erect the monument in its original form, abandoned his claim for damages. Prior to this decision an unsuccessful attempt was made at the judge's suggestion to have the case settled privately.

FEDERATION.

United Press Association—By Electris Telegraph—Copyright

LoifDOif, April 18

Mr Walter Griffiths, representative of the West Australian Goldfields Separation League, contends, in a letter to the newspapers, that tbe objection to Clause 74 in part of a con spiracy to wreck the Commonwealth, and a false step, postponing and imperilling the Bill, may result in the formation of an Australian Republic.

The Westminister Gazette protests against lasers and constitutional pedants precipitating an imperial crisis. Perth, April 18

Sir John Forrest has informed the Premiers of i he federating colonies that in the event of one amendment in the Commoitweaith Bill required by him being agreed to, he will immediately advise the summoning of Parliament, and do his utmost to pass the Bill aB a Ministerial measure, and obtain its acceptance by the people of the colony. The amfndoi'nt is the one which provides for five years' ■ tariff con cessions to West Australia.

Adelaide, April 18

The Premier states that as soon as Parliament meets it will be asked to pass »n Enabling Bill, providing for the election of a -convention purely South Australian, to consider the subject of the final adoption by the referendum, and the whole subjpc»; of the-consti tutional changes to take effect after the accomplishment of federation.

Mi* J. H. Symons, signing himself Chairman of the Judicial Committee of thp Federal Oonventior, has cabled to The Times that Mr Carruthers and the Melbourne correspondent's letters mis represent Australian opinion in reference to the Privy Oounci'. He says by the deliberate vote of two re ferenda, the people have confirmed the finality of the high court of Australia, and their determination is unchanged. If the British Parliament overrides this it will occasion great disbatisfaotionand bitterness, Mr Chamberlain's attitude is widely ' regarded as obstructive towards Australian unity, and restric tive and inimical to the national self governmenfc of united Australia.

COMMERCIAL.

GESAIDINE STOCK MARKET.

At the old G iraldiae yards yesterday there waa a fair entry of sheep but no cattle. The attendance of the general public was good and bidding brisk. Prices were a slight advance on late rates. Sheep—Crossbred ewes 9) 31, 9s lOd to 10s, do four and six tooth 12a 23, 12i 3d, 13s, to 14a Id, two and four-tooth crossbred wethers 13s sd, 14s 2d, to 14s 61, two tooth oroesbred ewes 12s, fat crossbred ewes 10s lOd, lambs 7s, 10a 85, to 10s lid. Bema of an inferior class of all breeds at any price from 10s 6d to £2 2a. Pigs were at late rates and dull of Bale.

BILIOUS COLIC CURED.

♦ ■ AN OLD TRAVELLER 18 RESTORED TO PERFECT HEALTH BY BILE IEANS. MR CLARK SAYS ""THE CURE WAS SIMPLY MARVELLOUS." Medical ssienoe has not gives sufficient thought to the oaring of this complaint), bub it has been proved beyond the shadow of a doubt that Bile Beans act as an effective and permanent cure. We publish here an in stance of one cure among many. Mr B. F. Clark, of High-Street, West Maitiand, N.B. W,, says:—" They are the best medicine on the market. I have tried Bile Beans, and so have my children, and I can conscientiously ' say that, b.cause of the manner they acted id my family. For thirty-five years while I was following a seafaring life I suffered from nothing, but since leaving the sea I have suffered most actually from bilious colic.

The effecb was most distressing. My whole system seemed to become deranged, my skin dry und yellow in appearance. I Buffered a depression of spirit*, and a form of debility that was alarming to my family and my friends. It appeared as it I had prematurely aged, and senile decay was carrying me off, And all these disorders continued after I had tried one after another method prescribed and advertised for every complaint. My work had to be neglected as I became no weak.

My four children suffered from biliousness and the different remedies-tried proved to be of do avail, I was recommended to try Bile Beans for Bilioasness. I did so, and now I have great pleasure in giving my ex perience of the great good they have done me in my distressing malady, The cure in my case was short of being marvellous. My children can also testify to tha efficiency of Bile Beans, for they, like me, are better than they have ever bean in their lives,. I cao confidently recommend Bile Beans to anyone suffering as I did. They have opened « new life before me, and I get about now ike a totatlly different man, and I am thank ful that afber all the medicines I tried, I at last- found Bile Beans to bring about the desired effect Bile Beans are an undoubted specific for Biliousness, Headache, Indi gestion, Debility, Female Ailment, Liver Trouble, Coßtiveness, Piles, that tired feeling, etc. Obtainable from all chemists, or direct from the Australian Depot, 39 Pitt-street, Sydney, who will forward one large box Is I id. post paid on receipt of stamps or post order,

BOARD OF EDUCATION.

A meeting of the North Canterbury B= ard of F.ilucaiion was held at the Normal School on Wednesday. The following *xraot from the report of the business done is of local and general interest:— Mr Weston was unanimously elected chair man for the ensuing year. Mr Weston briffly thanked the Board for his election.

Messrs O'Bryen Hoare and H, G El', M H.R, alt ndtd as i. de; ut&tion ftom the Children's Aid Society, and urged that the truant officer shou'd be made » special cor. etab'.e under the Education Act, Mr Hoare, id Bupport of the appiicaiiort, eaid tbaf nice out of twelve children convicted last year were truants, and from truancy to or me waa only one step. The deputaiion did not con sider it right th&t children who were not otiminak should be in the hands of the polioe, which was in itself almost introduc ing them to crime. After a short discu 1 sion, it was agieed that if the deputation would forward its views in writing they would then receive the fullest consideration from the Board.

Messrs Kereel and Steele waited upon the Board, on behalf of one hundred house holder and residents, and asked that the Third Standard work should be taught at the AHent'on school,—The Chairman laid the Board would consider the matter, and intimate its decision to the deputation* Messrs T W Adams, H W Peryman, D Buddo, and M D&;ss*il were appointed the Building Committee; and Messrs 0 A 0 Hardy, J Rennie, J L Scott, and H W Peryman the Appointments Committee for the ensuibg year. The Normal School Com* mittee was elected as follows :—Mfssrs T W Adams, D McMillan, junr, M. Da^sil, and D Buddo

A latter was reoeited from the Depart ment, to the effect thai the present regula tions respecting the issue of model riies were to some extent tentative, and that it would be well for the Board to take advantage of the terms upoo which she rifiei weie offered. It waa resolved to accept on the terns men tioned, the rifiei already applied for; but to express regret that, while the contingent for South Africa had been chitly drawn from country dutriote, country tohoolt were not receiving that recognition to which they were entitled from the Department, in the matter of a supply of model rifles.

On the motion of Mr Peryman, it was also resolved—" That the warmest thanks of this Board be Accorded to Mr Bennie for his servioes an chairman during the year that has just expired, and for the courtesy he upon ail occasions showed to them. That, while deeply sympathising with him in his trying illness, members trust that at no distant period he may be restored to health, and be able to resume his seat among them, and that a copy of Lhis resolution be for warded to Mr Bennie."

Mr Buddo moved, its accordance with notice of motion, and Mr Soott seconded— "That the attention of the Minister d! Education be drawn to the fact that the extension of land settlement during recent years has necessitated the building and maintenance of additional schools, without adding to the number of the pupils in the Board's district; the present capitation grant is, therefore, insufficient to meet the claims upon it, and the Board is of opinion that if the present standard of efficiency it to b« maintained, and further reductions in teachers' salaries and in allowances to com* mitteea obviated, the question of increasing the grant to £4 demands early and favour able consideration.'' The motion was carried unanimously.

The following retiring members to repre* ■enb the Board on High School Board* were

re-elected, viz :—Akaroa, Mr G Saxton ; A*hbur? 00, Mesßrs A Orr sndD Williamson; Rangiora, Mr H Boyd,

Discussion on an application from the Very Rev Father Le Menant dcs Cheinaii to

have the Catholic schools inspected and examined, was deferred until the next inset-

ing- Mr Scotb moved, ft? an addition to Clauie 91—"Provided that in the ciae of pupil teachers who, after holding both a Board's Scholarship and a Junior University Scholar ship, have continued their studies at Canter bury College for a period of not lesi thau two years, with the view of obtaining a University degree, the term of Bervice shall be two years, with a salary commencing aa of the third year."

The motion was seconded bj Mr D. Buddo, and carried.

After some discussion, it waa resolved to address the Minister of Education on the proposed colonial scale of staff and salaries, the letter to be prepared by the Chairman and Secretary. During the discussion the Chairman said that while the scale proposed would largely increase the sum total of teachers' salaries, highly paid teaohen would receive much more than at present, wfcile teachers who already received small salaries would receive considerably less>

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. Sydnky, April 18 At the Agricultural Show sales, Mr Grant's New Zealand draught stallion Hero was again sold at an advance of forty guineas.

The Intercolonial Protectionist Con ference, to discuss the Federal tariff and arrange a plan of campaign for the Federal elections, has been opened.

Adelaide, April 18 The Attorney-General, in outlining the policy of the Government, inti mated that the chief issue in the com ing campaign would be household suffrage.

London, April 17 The Shah of Persia has started on a visit to the European capital*. The Queen prolongs her visit to Ireland to the 27th inst.

Beater's Constantinople correspon dent Indicates that the Forte has decided to ask Prince Ferdinand of Bulgaria to visit Constantinople before visiting Russia. The Sultan Baid ha wag uneasy of Frince Ferdinand's alleged intended betrothal to the Grand Duchess Olgft of Russia.

BOROUGH COUNCIL.

The fortnightly matting of this Council was held last night, the usual night of meet? ing having fallen on Easter Monday, There were present—Hit Worship the Mayor (Me H. Friedlandar), and Crs D Thomas, J H Pauling, W Jolliffe, H Willie, EJP*uI,H M Jooec, The Mayor apologised for the non-attendance of Crs Scaly, Davison and Davis. BIAYOR'B STAtI«BN¥ The Mayor stated he had obtained a ivpply of tar from Dunedin. He had also ssnt the inspector to visit the reserve at Hindi leased by Mr W Sutherland. The debit balance at the Bank was £46 4s, and the sum of £71 4s had been received since last meeting. CORRESPONDING!! Correspondence was read and dealt with as follows :—From the Paymaster-General remitting the sum of £13, the subsidy to the publio library.—Received ; from the clerk Ashburton County Council, asking for 4s 4d, the Council's share of repairs to fch» traffic bridge. Passed for payment; from the same, asking for £10, the Council's sharp of £60 paid to the hospital.—Passed; from the same, asking for £68 15s 8d tha post of the recent licensing election. The account was passed foe payment, the County Council to be asked to giva details of the amount; from the Under-Secretary Publio Works Department, stating that the question of * new pest office at Ashburton would receive due consideration. Messrs J MoLachlan, CACHardy and the Hon. WJSteward, M.H.R.'s also wrote relative to the same matter; from tha secretary of the Christ* church Charitable Aid Board, stating the Council's contribution for the ensuing year was £7J6a 2d. Ib was decided to pay the amount in twelve monthly instalments j from Mesirs Mitchell and Turner, suggesting tha crossing in front of their premises be carried I along to meet the adjoining crossing to ob | viate the risk of people stepping into the channel between the two bridges. Referred, to the workj committee.

THE ASHBUBTON GOARBIAtf * THUftSUA V.J^KTL 19, 1900



£ a v 141b oatmeal 2 19 6 Condensed milk, per tin .. 0 10 0 lib beef fat 0 11 0 lib tin coffee  .. .. 0 17 0 2lb-tin tongue .. .. 16 0 1 sucking pig .... ... .. 117 0 Kggg per dozen .. .-. .. 28 0 Fowls, each « 0 18 6 4 small oueumbera .. .. 0 15 6 Green mealies, each .. . • 0 3 8 Small plate grapes .« .• 15 0 I small plate apples 0 12 6 1 plate tomatoes ... ... 018 0 1 vegetable marrow ... ~- 18 0 1 plate eschalots .. .. 011 0 1 plate potatoes .. .. 0 19 0 3 sm»ll bunches carrots .. 0 9 0 1 glass jelly ... 018 0 llKbottle jam 1 11 P lib-tin marmalade .. ... 110 1 drzsn matches .„ ... 0 13 6 1 packet cigarettes ... ... 15 0 50 cigars ... ... ... 95 0 « Fair Maid ' tobacco .„ 2 5 0 Jib-cake • Fair Maid ' .... ... 35 0 lib Sailors' tobacco _ ... 2 3 0 ' Capstan ' oavv cnt to: acco 3 0 0



J. V. DTC BEEE,? WATCHMAKER & JEWELLER, \ HAS JUJT RECEIVED a Choice Col lection of STEKLIKG SILVeR & E.P. WARE, SUITABLE J\;R REDDING PiE-ENIM, ETO., Compel iag Specially S«lec ed Articles, both Useful and Ornamental. Not having Window spaoa to display the above Goods, INSPECTION INVITED. To th'ga interested in RACING/TROTTING, CYCLING, Etc I have ju«b recalled a Speola! Jine of STOP WATOHEP, INCLUDING SPLIT SECOND CHRONOGRAPHS—A wonder in Watch construe; ion. Hunting an! Oponf-ice High.*olaas CHRONOGRAPHS.' Also, a New liae of two D^-av, ** Tlie (. ouwtiHutlou" Nickel Keyless STOP WATCHES. Pkigb 20 1- Thh iB a Tut superior time-piece to ar.y thing of the same class yet offered 10 the public. A full stock of all other classes of Gold and Silver Watches on hand, afc prioea to suit everybody. For the Latest Novelties in Gold and Silver Jewellery, insp ct Window display. Silver Charms in endless variety from Is each A new alook of SpJOtactas to hand. J. V.DEfBEER, WATCHMAKER & JEWELLER, Knsfc Street;. Aahburton. £STABLMSKD 1874. McDonald & Go, T> EMO YE D to See our Samples jrrTJBIJL.'KIi: Compare our prices Onll fling; f* 9 Barnstt Street; We cau't be beat 3 235 Q 5 X | ° 1 o sps S S . § 1.. ltaJ Ota' < ea apl 3 P < ? | Jz; f~— —v y 1 &**»vm 'poor v HwW < <, FJJ F? iink. Curtis. "WiitcJinialcer, & Jc^vtollor. WEDDING PBESENTS A VERY Ch ioe variety in Electro-plate and Sterling Silver, iooiudinga beau tiful lot of DouUoq ware, eic, ab prices to suit the times. INSPECTION INVITED As usual my stock of G >ld Ringa and Breeches, Charrna, M;ff Ciiaios, Watches, etc., ia Ihe Urgeet and best selected m the district. A SPEMAL BO'iM. FOR CHOOSING IF Rl QUIKED. Wedding rin^R and keepers 18ct, of my own mannfacturo 1 make a special line of, and are well worth in-pecting being far and away befcer finished than the ordinary article, and costing no more. L will pay you to call and see them. Your old gold, rings, etc, rc-mvici '.n i.h-* umiu s-;y!« And finish at *.;.■:.•;».-isai cr^,L Wy-isliug rir>gß -LTKftKI) iN -IZK WIIHOUr OlTr. TIM«; W:iILK WAITING, BY SPE CIAL M:\CUINEHY. Silvnr watches froni 30^ upwards, a full Slock of f£oiliOf'''atM, WaHham*, eto, always on hand. Sp*ch»cl9<» ep?;cinlly fi'ted for reading at wight. Spectacle Suing by my system is no guo n8 work, glasses being fitted to Btiit the ei^ht purfcoi.ly in every c--ao. A special room for testing, Glasses from 2s 61. 1 eat ing free. Repairs as untal, neat, prompt and reason able. Silver charms in great variety from la apwarda. LIiWeLLYN OWtN, OBKTIFIOATBD TBAOHEB. lOC »L Kepreaentative of the London i J Cullege of Music, and vi the Muaic^l Internationa!; College. i * lANOFORTB, ORGAN. VIOLIN, MAN-' DObINE, SINGING. HARMONY, AND COUNTERPOINT. The new term will commence January 22nd. Intending pupils kindiy communicate early, MISS BE-sSIK SlMiaiOiNDS. MUSIC Sailor and Teacher of the Violin. Mu^ic-il instrumen.K of every decrip tio;. VIOLINS >i SPECIALITY. Musnc and Sooga by every mail. Firet-class Qaad rille Bind. . •^ Barnotb Street, s %83 Oppoiite Publishing Company; <



N.Z. LOAN & MERC \NIIMS AGENCY COMPANY, Ltd. FODB Great Bread Winners, THE HERCULES NICHOLSON CULTIVATOR. Leading Farmers' verdict is—" Absolutely the beat Cultivator ever sold in the Colony." "FARMER'S FAVORITE" ALL STEEL DRILL Fitted with Roller bearings and New Turnij and Rape Feed. I ""HINEMOA" POTATO DIGGER Coab of machine saved in three acres of Potatoes.) i SPALDING-ROBINS ROTARY DISC PLOUGH 50 per cent Bayed in cost of ploughing. We ask farmers "to inspect our machine* for the Autumn Trade. 'IHE N.Z. LOAN AND MERCANTILE AGENCY CO., LIMITED. G. STAVE LEY, Manager. SOLE AGENT for Aahburfcon Districts: DAVID THOMAS. 3 267



THE New Zealand CLOTHING FACTORY T8 NOW SEOWING A LARGE SIOCK OP Winter Goods Mod's Sac Suits .. 21a, 25a, 29a 6d. Men's T>veed Trousers 7s 6d, 8s 9J, 9a 6d Men's Covert Coata .. 29i 6d, 39i6d, 52s 6d Boys' Cover!; Coats from   14s I Boya' Reefer Coats from .« .. 6a 6d 1 Boys' Sailor Suits from .. .. 7a Boyt.' Norfo'k Suits from  .. Ils6d B0 dozen Sergeant! Tweed Cupa. The largest varipty in town. 20 dozen Soft Felt Hats, newest shapes. White Shirts 5s 6d, 6a 6<l, 7s 6rt, 8s 6d, 9s6d A new line of short fronted White Shirts. New Tirs, Braces, Gloves, iWufflers, Collars, Umbrellas, Wool Shirts, etc. Ladies and Gentlemen's Watebpboojl Coats, Madk to Obdeb. A large variety of Patterns to choose from. NlflW ZK/^LAND CLOTHING FACTOIiY, F. H. BEOKTNGSAXW, Manager



GEORGE DUNCAN & Co. ; T> fcSPECTFULLY aniiounce that they have those centrally situated Preaiises in Tancred Street, Ashburton, lately occupied by Mr A. P. vYiliamsou (next UndriU's), where they will open on "Saturday, 14 th April," AS BEADY MONKY DRAPERS. WE BUY FOR CASH and thus secure all Ditojunti. The Lowest Prices: and best Markets. WE SELL FOR CASH and thus avoid all losses arising from Bad Debts and the expenses of the Credit System. WHY Bhould the Cash Customer pay for other peoples bad debts. By dealing with as they avoid doing so. Flbase Call & Inspect Our Stock. No One Pressed to Buy. 475 NOTICE TO FARMERS. Abe CASH BUYERS OF PRIME MILLING WHEAT IN ANY QUANTITY Piease take your Samples to the Mill We can supply Oornsacksjat cost price- CANTERBURY* ROLLER FLOUR MILLS, « (ROLLITT AND C 0.,) J. B, HOBART, Manager. 17th March, 1900



Smoke New Venus The doctor may scoff, and likewise may sneer, When to his advice you lend him no ear, Bub tell him his fee is a little too dear For the good that he does when you feel a bit queer. He from you the secret may try to allure The cure for all coughs bo cheap and so Bure,' Suspense you'll not let him then foo long endure, But explain that it's Woods' Great Pepper* miut Cure. j



la India the jackal is more dreaded than the tiger. In this country ib is the substi tution fraud that one hae to guard against, high profib bearing substitutes being often pushed for the sake of extra profib, With Hondai-Lanka Tea you are quite safe co long as you trade with your eyes opeD, every genuine packet bearing the registered aad Government protected name, Hondai-Lanka, on packets and boxes.—Sold by tj" T Coooh,! Saundern' Buildings, Ashburton Wade's Worm Figs, the wonderful Worm Worriers, never fait for (adults pr children* Prtoe, is*