SECOND EDITION

THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

Trains leave Ashburton daily for— OHRISTOHURCH—at 720 a.m., 11 a.m.,

3.15 p.m., 7 spm. (express) TIMARU—at 10 55 a.m., 350 p.m. DUNKDIN—at 12.54 r.m. (express) SPRiNGBURN—at 4.25 pm.

Trains arrive daily at Ashburton from-— OHHISTOHUROH—at 10.45 ».m., 12 47

p.m. (express), 8 p.m. TIM A RU—at 10.35 a.m., 255 p.m. DUNEDIN—at 6.57 p.m (express) SI•RINGrBURN-at 9.45.a.m.

EPHEMERIS.

Phases of Moon for July,

SUN.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails close for the following places ac under, bu jet to the necessary altera tions :—

THURSDAY, JULY 12 For Northern Ports, and Westporfc, per Ro^omahana, at 6 30 p m W. H. BBNKtSR, Postmaster.

Commercial.

ADDINGTON STOOK MAKKET.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

Christchtjrch, July II

The entries ab the Addington market* tc-day were 3700 fat sheep, 700 fat lambs, 3000 store sheep, 296 head of cattle, and 404 pigs. Uattlb —The 213 head fat oafctle yarded included some very goed sorts and for these there wes a keen demand and prices were more than upheld, v:z : 20s to 22s per 1001b for prime beef, 17a 61 fco 19-< for good, and down to 15s for cow and inferior; good steers ran from £7 10s to £810 a, and up to £10 7a 6d for extra prime, and from, £5 17s 61 to £7 for lighter sorts, heifers £7 to JBB 7s 6d ror host and d"wn to £4 for others, prime cows £7 to £8 2a 6d, and down to £4 for others.

S^hkep —Fat sheep were a mixed yarding, including some very good lines. Both ■mothers and butchers' ewes, all of superior quality, were in demand. There was & distinct rise for this c'rob. Prime heavy wethers realised up to 24s 7i, heavy fiotzars 18* to 22^61, lighter 16* to 17s 91, ptime heavy ewes 181 to 2ls, good 14s to 17s 6d, inferior lls to 13* 61, frerz'ng merino wethers 15s 101 to 17s ii, butchers' sorts 10s 6d to 13s 7d, and ewes 8s 9d to 9*. In fab lambs the bulk of the yarding was of moderate quality. la sympathy with the London market a deolme took place ; freeziog quality brought from 12i to 14«, and up to 15* for one small lot. Score sheep.—The yarding was mixed aod the sale throughout brisk. Good breeding ewes were in demand, hoggets sold ex'remeiy well, wethers 13s to 133 lid, breeding ewes from 14s lOd to 16s 10!, hoggets from lls to 12s 2d. PlGS.—All classes were we 1 represented, and a clearance at late rate?. Stores were in good demand ; baconers brought 30s to 40-, equal to 3d to 3£ 1.

ASHBURTON STOCK MARKET

Messrs Fried lander Bros , Ltd , report up ii the live stock market for the week end ing July 11, as follows :—The usual weekly ai\e was held at the Ashburton Yards' on Tuesday last, !he entry being very small with an average attendance of farmers, doalersand other?. There was a fair proportion of fat sheep yarded, but prices for these were a little easier as compared withl»te rates. The butchers' pens were poorly filled, the con sequence being that anything suitable met with a, ready sale, crossbred ewes selling from 14- 61 up to 17a Id. The totals yarded for tho day were 1969 sheep, 40 caitle, end 9 p!gs, rur entry consisting of 1199 Bheep, 10 catt-e, 9 piga, and the following sre the sales :— 15 fat crossbred ewes 17s Id, 57 fat cr sabred ewes 15a 6d, 50 fat wethers 14? 4i, 23 fat halfbred ewes 15a 6d, 5 fat crossbred

ewea 16i 7d, 13 fats wethers* lls 41, 18 fa

' wethers 20a, 109 crosubred ewes 14a Id, 62 crossbred ia.nbs 9j 9d, 114 fat wethers 17s, 31 crossbred ewes 9i 9d, In cattle, 1 fat cow £5 17=. 6d, 3 fat steers £5 53, 1 fat oow £5, 1 fat heifer £5 10s, 2 springers £5 10s, 2 fab oowu £4 12s 6d. During tho week we soldi privately in the estate of W. P. S. Elrnslie the farm at Mavfield, knowu as gHaneock'g, consisting of 1365 aores, to Mr John Oir at a satisfactory figure.

GERALDINE WEEKLY STOCK MARKET.

At the usual sale on Wednesday, 11th July, the yarding of sheep was fairly large for this part of the season. Bidding; were dull despite the good attendance of buyers, and several lots were passed at auction. The following sales took place:—Crossbred owob in lamb 12s lOd and 12s lid, two-tooth ewes in lamb 15j to 15a 51, treezing wethers 17s 6d, butchers' ewes 13s, forward store wethers 139 to 15a 7d, hoggets 9d 6d, lQs 2J, 11« 4d, small sorts 8?, merino ewes 4s 6d. Cattle.-—

The beef trade was rather better, making up to 18* per lOOlbs. Fab heifers £4 15* to £5 10s, steers £5 2s 6d, store heifers £2 183 6J, yearlißge 20a, epringers up to £5 10', two year old steers £3 10a. Piga.—Weaners 7s 6d to 10a, stores 14s to 16s 6d.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Paævalebit. THURSDAY, JULY 12, 1900. THE LAW OF LIBEL.

Thb question—what constitutes a libel —is not bo satisfactorily settled by the present law as it ought to be, and more than one attempt has been made of late years to remedy this unsatisfactory condition of things. According to the English law, under which proaeedinga for libel are taken, a man may be cast for damages for publishing a statement concerning the words of actions of another in perfect good faith, as a mere report of proceedings, and with no intent to injure. Tndeed cases have often occurred in which news papers have been cast for damages for reporting verbatim the public utterances of a person because such publication held him up to the ridicule of the community. At least one case of a similar character has reached the initiatory stages in Ashburton, and our friends of the legal profession can generally centout a libel case in what is, apparently, the most harmless statement imaginable which may involve the unfortunate proprietor of a newspaper at least in the cost of defending himself. This is certainly not as it should be, for while the character of every person ought to be carefully protected from malice, defamation, or attacks of any sort, where the public interest is not con cerned, it is mrely not too touch to

ask that the journalist shall be privil* j leged in respect to his Exports of what may take place in open court or i meeting.^ 'A Bill that is now before | Parliament proposes to remedy the' particular defect ia the law which wo b^va pointed oat, It was introduced by | Mr Oarnerosa, tho m praber for Taieri, j himself a journalist, aed therefore well ; qualified to deal with the subjpc f. The Bill is not a long one, containing only six clauses. Clause 2 provides j that <{ % fair and accurate report in any j newspaper of proceedings, publicly j hpard before any Court exercising I judicial authority—shall, if published i contemporaneously with such proceed ings be absolutely privileged, provided that nothing in this section shall au thorise the publication of any bias* \ phemous or indecent mattor. Clause 3, which is the most important in the Bill runs as follows :—•" Clause 3, a fair and accurate report published ia any newspaper of the proceedings of ft public meeting, or (except where neither the public nor any newspaper reporter is admitted) of any meeting of a Borough or City Council, Education Board, or other Board or local authority formed or constituted under the provi sions of any Act of Parliament, or of any committee appointed by the above' mentioned bodies, or of any meeting of any Commissioners authorised to act by Act of Parliament, or Governor's -warrant, or other lawful warrant or authority, Select Committees of either Howe of Parliament, and tho publica* tion at the request of any Government office or department, officer of State Oommisaionnr of Poiice, Inspector of Police, of any notice or report issued Iby them tor the information of the- I public, shall be privileged,unlessifc shall j be proved that such report or publication was published or made maliciously." The remaining clauses make provision for dealing with cases where more persons than one are proceeded against or publishing the same statement : co that " at the trial of an action for libVl contained in auy newspaper, the defendant ehall be at liberty to prove in evidence, in mitigation of damages, that the plaintiff has already recovered (or has brought actions for) damages or hR.B received, or agreed to receive, compensation in respect of a libel to the same purport or effect as the libel for which such action is brought:" -The possibility of obtaining damages from more than one newspaper for publishing the same statement has not only been a strong temptation to people to bring actions for libel, but has enabled some persons to obtain a solatium out of all proportion to the damage suffered. We think one other provision would improve Mr Oarn croas' Bill, and that would be a clause making bankruptcy no release from the penalty in a successful action for libel; thft Alternatives should be payment of damages or imprisonment. This would act as an t ffoctivs check upon those scurrilous writers, who make a practice of libelling other people with the knowledge that as they have nothing to lose, they will escape the conse quencis of their cowardly acion.

Local and General.

%• Interesting reading matter will be found on the first and fourth pages of thie 88 UQ.

The Mails—The colonial mails from Melbourne, dated June 6, per Himalaya, were dehvored iv London ou July B—one day early.

0 Personal—We regret to announce that Mr A HShury is confined to his bed «s the result of an accident he received last week while out thooting.

A Runaway—A horse with a trap careered down. E&b6 this morning, but was stopped by Mr J Jackson, before any damage was done. It had been standing ab ihe Railway Station.

The Weatheb— In the Ashburton Domain iaßt night, five degrees of frost were regis tered, the wind wa* N.W. The highest temperature in the shade yesterday was 52 degrees.

Ice. Carnival—Unfortunately for this proposedfanction, only five degrees of frost were registered during *<he night, and pros pects are therefore nob so good. The ioa at present is moist and non-beating.

Flag Signalling—Sergeant Major Jones, Colour-Sergeant Coleman, and Sergeant Boyle, visited Temuka yesterday to judge a flag signalling competition between members of the IVmuka Bines.

New Coal Measures.—Afc a meeting in Westport last Thursday evening ib was decided to form a company with a capital of £2500 to prospect the flit io the Buller district for coal.

Euohbe—A friendly match at Euchre was played last evening between a team from the Ashburton Club and M.S.a and the Fire Brigade. Sighty games were played, and the final scores were ac follows , —Club4B games. Brigade 32 games. Tho former thus wincing the match by 16 games.

MYSTHBIOUS DISAPPEARANCB.—With re epect to the disappearance of a certain well known person, some startling rumours were current in Geraldine yesterday. As the person to whom these remarks apply ig at present reported as missing, we withhold farther iutorm&tion in the meantime.,

Freezing Cattle. — The Christchurch Meat Company have commenced the slaughter of fat oattls ab their Smithfield Works. Tho beef will bu frozao for the Home markets and as some parts of South Canterbury are eminently smited for rearing fat cattle the new departure is meeting with much favour by the farming community.

Qbbheus.—The well-known sire Orpheus, the property of Mr F. iSircunona, Oampstall, died on Sunday morning-, from inflammation. The loss to Mr Simmons is a heavy one, as he had just sold the horse to Mr Douglas, of Taierl, for 200 guineas, for a North Island breeder. Orpheus was thirteen years old.

Catholic Literary Society's Social — There was a good attendance at the social given by the members of the Catholic Literary Society last evening in the Oddfellows' Hall, A great many visitors had accepted the invitations given to them, and thoroughly enjoyed themselves, dancing being kept up till a late hour.

Poultry Show.— An advertisement in this issue draws attention to the approaching Poultry Show, which ia to be held on Friday and Saturday, 20th and 21stiosts. The entries total up to 530, which establishes a record for Afhburton, Art Union tickets to Sod ing eager purchasers and those who wish to avail themselves of the double advantage! offired by them had better make haste and secure tickets.

Thb'Mounted Rifles.—A parade of the corps representing Rakaia, Oherteey, and Ssatield, Lieut, Fooks commanding, was held in the Ohertasy Domain yesterday when there was a good muster. The men were put through squad work and extended formation, and a great improvement was noticeable in their drill. It is expected that the uniforms will be received in time for the parade on the 26th inst. Indian Famine Fund—Sidney Honeywell, a boy at Maronin, oolieoted for the Indian Famine Fund the sum of £5 16a Bd. He must have put forth a big effort to get this amount in such a thinly-peopled district. Mr Ferriman has also r received the following letter which speaks for itself:—Pentlaud Hills, July 10, 1900—Enclosed you will find £1 for the Indian Famine Fund, which I hope every British subject) will subscribe to. As I am only a working man, that is all I can eive.

I Volunteer News—Captains Dolman and' Sparrow proceeded to Timaru to-day on '' speoial business conaeofced with the service I Home Industkies— The Town Clerk has. ( received from the secretary of the tCaoter s bury Jabilco Industrial Exhibition, 1900, ; to be opened about November 1, a number [ of Bohedules of the Home Industrious Section I for distribution. As the subjects embraced ' include needlework, carving, cooking, | laundry work etc., doubtless theire will be : many enquiries for the aobodulea, which can be obtained from the Towa Clerk of Aehbur ton. &. Lively Time.— Oq stook market days Geraldine is oelebtated for its crowds of farmers, dealers, aal others, and as a. result sheep and other dogs are greatly in evidenca. ! At the usual weekly sale held yajterday at i \ the old saleyards, which are situated in the I I busiest part of the town, the nsuU dog fight ! occurred, In which about 30 animals j >iaed, ' Aa a remit they startled a horsa harueesed to a spring oarb, and after atanding op on hia hind legs he made a bolt;, and therei appeared : every pro^peot of.a big smash, the thorough fare being crowded. A couple of onlookers, however, managed to aeoura the reim, and after a hard straggle brought) the horsa to a standstill, two dogs being fkttsenod out in the prooess. Thh FoBTHOOMiua OotJRSiNa Meeting— The stewards of the Aehburton Coursing Club met at the Commercial Hotel on Mon day evening, and made final arrangements for the meeting on Wednesday next, Mr Jas Heseltioe occupied the chair. A letter was read from Mr Dan O'Brien, of Riocarton, accepting the position of Judge. Mr X Alexander and Mr M Healy were eleoted dip ners. Mr B Preston fUc steward. The

Tinwald raceoourte is admirable for running, and a number of hares have been provided, so th.ifc visitors will have an exceptional opportunity to see this old English sport. It ma; be mentioned that) ladiea will be I admitted free. .

PARLIAMENT.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

Wellington, Jaly 11 The Council met at 2 30 p m FIHST READINGS

The Civil Service Examination nnd Weights and Measures Bills were read a fir»t time.

SECOND READINGS

The Shorthand Reporter's Bill was read a Beoond time. The Yonr.g Persons Protection Bill was read a second time by 20 to 10. The CouociS rose at 4.25 p m

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Wellington, Jaly 11 The House met at 2 50.

SECOND READING

Mr Mils move! the second reading of the Bank of New Zealand Officers' Guarantee and Provident Bill, which wai carried on the voices.

PRIVILEGE

Captain Russell moved a motion affirming that a breach of privileges of the House had heen committed hy the publication in Hansard of a letter from the Agent-General which had never been read in the House.

Mr Allen seconded, contending .ihtA if it were competent frr Ministers to insert letters id Hansard, private member* should also be so ea'.it ci.

The Premier replied that he knew nothing aboub tha matter and that not by his instruc tions had it appeared in Hansard. He objected to the mover assuming that he (Mr Seddon) was responsible, and moved an amendment that the matter tn referred to the Reporting Debates Committee to report.

After a discussion tailing two amd a half hours the House divided, and the motion was lost by 40 to 23 and the matter was referred to tho Reporting Debates Committee, NEW BILLS The Shop and Ship As-istanta Act Amendment Act, Auckland Harbour Board Empowering, Midland Authoii iosi Area Land Settlement, Mining Act Am"iidmenf, Government Vaiuaticu, LaKd Act Amend ment), Ltnd and Income Assessment Bills were introduced and read a first lime;.

The Houre adjourned at 5 30 The House resumed at 7.30 SECOND READING

Tho second reading of the California Thistle Bill was carried on the voice?, in providing for the destruction of that Weed tho Biil makes it encumbent upon the occupier wnoae fand is inf?cted to report to the local authority; threshing machine owners are to clean their machines after use ; inspectors are to be appointed with power to enter and clear infected land ; tke coat of clearing land to be divided between the owner and occupier; public reserves and Crown lands to be cleared at the cost of Government ; roads, riverbeds, etc , ara to be okareJ by the lcc*i body.

Mr Pirani moved the ercond reading of the Contempt of Court Bill, the olj^ct of whioh was to invest Judges, Magistrates, etc., with less power in dealing with offences under the contempt of Court. Mr Napier moved that the Bill bo read thab day ex months. The debate was interrupted by the 10.30 adjournment. Mr McLiohlaa supported the second reading, but reserved the right to move alteration's in Committee.

After further debate the motion far the second reading was negatived by 35 votes to 24.

COMPULSORY DBILL IN STASE BOHOOL9

Mr Guinness moved the second reading of the State School Children Compulsory Drill Bill, which provided for compulsory drill for boyi attending State schools, and over eight years of age. Physical and military drill, he said, were necessary for the develop ment of the boys of the colony. The Bill did not apply to schools of lets attendance than ten, and grants to Boards would be stopped if the Act were not complied with. Mr Seddon said it was a question if ib would be wist to take the power out of the hands of the Boards, and place ib in the hands of the Education Department* This really meant an amendment of the Education Act. Why take the power out of the hands of the Education Boards when there were 550 sohools in the colony where drill was at present taught. He believed in military drill, bub it was a moot point whether it was wise to take power from the Education Boards, whioh they already possessed. Mr Meredith said the Boards were willing to give military drill, but an increased capitation grant would be necessary before they would be able to carry that out.

Mr Pirani advocated the eatabliihmenb of a G&det corps, and greater encouragement to volunteer corps.

Mr J Allen, while agreeing with the principle of the Bill, objected to the pro vision io stop the education grant if the Act were not complied with. More encourage ment should be given to cadet corps. Mr Hornby did nob think ihe Boards did as much they might in the way of imparting military drill to boys. Ninety par cent of the boys in the public schools walked along in a ilouched, careless manner, and a snisrb and active appearance was entirely absent from their carriage.

Mr Fisher contended that the provisions of the original Education Acb had nofc been given effect to in the matter of the military and physical drill. Mr J W Thomson moved the adjournment of the debate.

This was carried by 29 votes to 23. The House rose at 12.30 am.

THE CHINESE CRISIS.

Former Wars With China.

(By An Ex-Naval Officer)

Few, if any, of the forts in the world are more difficult for an attacking force by sea than those at Taku. Strongly built, at a great elevation, one on either side of tbe entrance to the Peiho river, they command a complete swoep of the approaches from the Gulf of Pecbiii. Veßsela only of very light draught can venture nearer than within six miles of the river's mouth, so that the attack has to be made by gunboats unless the long range guns of the ships outside are brought to bear, in which case the positions of the former Would be untenable. The statement \ oibled thife a man of war of the No. 2 A.. P. class bad silenced with a 47 gun a Krupp gun afe Tientsin mast be a mistake, as she could not possibly approach within range of that place. After the treaty made by China in 1858 with the allied forces was broken, and China utterly repudiated her liability for the indemnity which she had then agreed to pay, ft'o attacking force w&8 despatched under Admiral Sir James Hope in 1859, and retired after suffering severe lost, no leas than one hundred and fifty men from one ship having been shot dowH whilst trying to e&sot a landing for the purpose of scaling the forts, j Two gunboats were Sunk, Sir James Hope { wai seriously wounded, the Lieutenant- Commandex of bis vessel and several others were killed, and the force was defeated. The: American Admiral at the present) time is blamed for bis inaction, and this will probably be accounted for by the fact that his own vessel was of too heavy draught to approach the forts, and he had no small vessels to take part in the engagement It is highly improbable that when In 1860 a further attack was made by the allied fleets of England and France, the forts would have been taken by sea, as it was imponsible to land, and the gunboats, were unable to get a platform sufficient

for elevating their guns so as to effeot any great damage—the rocket boats! alone being effective. To land was im-' possible, because there was no solid landing place, and when the bluejacket* of the Naval Brigade of H.M.S. Chesapeake attempted to go ashore in 1858, they sank to their waiats, and were completely at the mercy of those on the walls of the forts, crnde as were the weapons then used. In 1860 a large force under Admirals Hope and Lewis Jones assembled in Talionwan Bay, and when in due course the numerous transport* with troopa from England and India arrived, over 300 vessels sailed from this magnifloeat bay —now in the hands of Russia—and anchored in the Gulf of Pechili. On arrival of the fihet a Bussian line of battleship bearing the

Admiral's flag was at anchor, aDd a ganbo&fa j o! the same nation was close to the forti. As the guns (some 32 pounders) were used with precision by the Chinese in the 1859 engage, menfc,-U; was no difficult matter tocor.jscturfl who had been their instructors. Between the defeat of 1359 and the attack in the following year fl*t bottomed boats had been sent from England, and in these the troops were landed by way of the Pol.-bang Ho, a river a few miles up the coast) from the Peitio, and thus worked round to the rear of the forts, which was quite unexpected by the Chinese, as landward no attempt at defence had been made. It waa tben for the first time in actual war the Armstrong gun was used, and a shell from one of these finding its way to the magazine, the fort was won. It i was a simple matter and speedily accom plished, yet the navy would have found ib an I almost impossible task for the reasons stated. [ The weapons found in the forts, besides tbe cannon, some of which had been taken from the Saaken gunboits, were a very mis cellaneous lot—rusty boarding pikes, pieces of iron on long sticks, bows and arrows, a few old bayonets, and come very old match i looks. The reatof that brief war wassimply a march to Pakin, a snvill compacb force with the Sikh Cavalry in advance, Fanes 1 and Probyn's Horse on eithar wing. The Panj&ub Native Infantry and some Briish and French troope, musteriug in all some six or seven thousand, drove the hordes of yellow Bkins like mobs of sheep. The Tartar Cavalry once or twice made a feeble stand, and the mob of infantry formed under cover in crcaaenfc shape, thus attempting au ambush, but on tho sight of the turbaned dusky warriors they fl. w like chaff before the wind. The treacherous entrapping of the late Lord Locb, Sir H Parka Brabez:>n, and Bowltby of the London Times, and their brutal treatment, reminder us that thn Boere are not the only people who cutrag- the fhg of trace. .Since the termination of that war which followed the surrender of Lech and Parks ('he obhora h%d baen tortured to death), and the sacking of tho Summer Palace with its wealih of gold, silver, silks, furs, precious stones, etc , and its. subsequent destruction by fire, our nation h*s been at rest with China, until now when the vile hordes of pirate?, raiders, thieves and murderers, numbering over 40,000,000, have startled the world with their organisation, and power, backed as it is and as it no doubt has been by Imperial encouragement. Those alone who have witnessed (as the writer ha ) the atrccious cruelties of the Ghineffe piratse, from whom in a large measure the' Boxers are drawn, can imagine what the devoted missionaries and others who fail fcul of them have to endure from these outlaws with whom refinement of torture has Ions; been a fine art, and if they thus practice their atrocities in spite of the law, what "will they not do under its shelter ? A great, deal of speculation is rife as to the motive of the various powers in interfering with a nation whose ostensible desire is only to be left) to itself. Some there are who utter the usual howl of " uarth greed," and predict a general "burst up" among the nations who are uniting (it is said) to burst up the Chinese Empire, and doubtless there will be many burning questions to bs settled between them, and possibly Japan may nob ba 30 easily despoiled of her share of the fruits of victory as she was after the Japan- China war. But we cannot regard the I united action of the Powers in any other 1 light than a determination to keep what is i known as the open-door with regard to trade, ; to prevent) the possibility of the toleration by the authorities of lawlessness, rapine, I murder, and other horrors, and to settle the country by having it ruled effectively by a power other than that of an Emperor or Empress who can wink |at these things so long as they themselves are not reached. That the people have been to a very great ex'enb rrisled by fche placards posted everwhere through the agency of unscrupulous agitators and leaders is certain, It is also certain that the Boxers themselves who come from tha country round the Hoanfc-ho, and whose name is legion, live by piracy, raiding in provinces outside their-own territory and by any meant) rather than industry. They have agencies for the purpose of stirring up discontent everywhere throughout the vast Empire, and have only been held in check by theManchee people, who are also spread abroad, and are superior in intellect), courage, and training in military exercises. Numbers of these latter people have during the past thirty years acquired under European gu'dance, considerable 'skill in the use of modern weapons, bo that a comparatively small number _of these, well led, would be more than a m^toh for a 6warm of Boxers, whoße metier is not to fight, bu^by the force of numbers to overawe the unprepared or unprotected. The brilliant defence of Sir E H Seymour shows that numbers count for very lictlo where Chinese are concerned, and despite what has been said to the contrary, they are even when ab!y,led, a sorry lot of soldiers, crushed by the firsb reverse, given to panic on slight occasion, a disciplined force will very soon bring them to their knees, and what then ? Settle tho country, but how 1 They will agree to any terms at once, and ignore them bB quickly. To keep a strong force in the country would be too great a tax upon any European nation, but a combined Europe may at least assure the open-door policy without the several in terests clashing, and the protection of foreigners whosa interests either for busi ness or religious purposes make their resi dence in the country necea«ery;aad no single nation would in that case be free to pursue such a course, aa it is too evident) Russia has been so steadily following. The mutual interest* of the nations would bs their great safeguard against any nefarious projects of one or other of them.

HOCKEY

ASBBURTON V BAKAIA.

The irefcurn match between the above Gluts was played in the Ashburtoo Domain yesterday afternoon. From the bally off the game was fat t, Bakaia Ms first pressing the local team, bub by some good play on the part of the Ashburton forwards, B Amos and Silcock, the pressure was relieved, and ashburton getting hold of the ball F. C'ark, Jan., by a good run scored for Ashburton. On resuming play Asbbarton again pressed the Bakaia team, but by some good play OQ the pans of the Bakaia backs, Austin and May, the ball was taken into the Ashburton circle, e,nd Bakaia nearly scored, the ball i going just outside of the posts. On bully- I iog off from the twenty-five Ashburton got tbe ball and a good run resulted in G Doddt adoring, Shortly after half time Was called, scores—Ashburton 2 goals, Bakaia nil. On resuming play the Eakaia team ' was determined to avert deftafe and by tome good play all round O May (back) got the ball, and pastiing to W Scargess (forward) that player suored. The game bow got very fast, the ball going from one and of the field • o th« other, Rakala getting the best of it i and Athburton committing v breach of tht rain inside of the circle, Bakaia appealed for penalty bully, which ths referee allowed, O May scoring. Until time was called oo further cioore resulting the gains ended in a draff. For Bakaia Rev. Maihlas, May, and Sturgess played well;for Ashburt«nFCUrk, jar., Silcoek, Amos, and Doddn. Mr F Clark, sen., acted ai refer«e«

Hookey aa pastime ii still gaining point* larity. The latest development is the for* mation of a Ladies 1 Club at Bakaia, Thia club was formed recently, and hat already m good liet of members who are practising assiduously. Having; been formed at tht patriotio juncture it hat bees entitled " Bob* "; and the colours are kharki, red, whtte,and blue. The ladies of Ashburton might well emulate this. We with oar Rakaia friends every sue cess.

TRANSVAAL WAR.

United! Preca Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright

2A\t Steya's ICowme&ta

The Captured Yeoaamv and Militia

Their WretcaeA Flight

Capture of BetHebsm

Escape of De Wet

United Preis Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright

Capetown, July 10

Mr Steyn and Commandant Chris tian De Wet, with 3000 Boers, havt retreated to Fouriesburg, twenty-five miles south of Bethi^bem.

The prisoners from the Irish Teo* manry and the Derbyshire Militia who were thrust across the Natal border were nearly starved, Their uniforms had been stolen, and they were wearing filthy do'hes of the Boers.

A detachment of Australian Bush men made a forced march from Zeeruat to Rustenburg, and took part in the defence of the town against an attempt to re-c»pture it*.

London, July 11

Generals Clements and Pager, after two days' sharp fighting, captured Bethlehem, recovering a gun lost at Stormbotg. There were forty-seven casualties!. Commandant De Wet escaped iato ragged country, preventing pursuifer

General Bundle has occupied Bid- Sulphsberg.

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

Tbe Attack ca Tientsin.

Bus Sim Forces in tbe Bast

Fxi&ce Tuaa's Proclamation-

Th.2 Pekia Legations.

United Press AißOoiatloD—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Hongkong, July 11 The artillery practice in the attack on Tientsin amazed the allies. The bad water supply at Tientsin is seriously hampering the allies.

Russia has 125,000 troops in the Vladivoetcck and Fort Arthur districts

Prince Tuan, as Emperor, proclaimed the Boxers his cherished braves, pro* arising abundant rewards. The Governor of Shantung reports that the legations were safe on July 5, and that the rebels were dispersing. Reports from other sources state that! the foreigners have occupied Prince Szu's palace opposite the legations.

Lokdok, July 11 The Times states that all Chinese news is tainted. If the officials were sincere they would facilitate direct communication with the legations. Mr Brodrick declares that Great Britain has been pressing Japan, to act since Jun«i 13. Japan attached no stipulations to her aid.

ATHLETICS.

AN AUSTRALIAN VICTORY.

United Prona AssooUtion—By Bteotrifl Telegraph—Copyright London, July 10 Stanley Rowley, the Sydney athlete, won an Invitation 100 Yards Race »t Stourbridgc in even time (lOaec).

THE ASHANTI RISING.

Junction of the Relief Columns

A British Failure.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—-Oopy right London, July 10 The Kumasei relief columns, under Lieutenant-Colonel Willcocka and Lieutenant-Colonel Traiil Burroughs, effected a junction at Dompoasai, two miles north of Kwiss%, on July 3. Colonel Burroughs failed to capture Kokofu, losing six killed and 83 wounded.

THE PACIFIC ISLANDS.

MR SEDDON'S SCHEME.

Orltsd Preß3 Araooifttion—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright Lohdon, July 11 Mr Chamberlain stated that Nqw Zeaiaud'awggestion for the incorpora tion of certain Pacific groups must be discussed between New Zealand, Great Britain and the Australian Common wealth.

THE A'-HbCBTON GUARDIAN; THuBSDaX, JULY 12, 1900



First quarter Full moon Last quarter New moon

D H M 6 11 44 ai 13 0 52 ai 19 5 1 pi 27 1 13 »i



Date July 12 „ 13 „ 15 „ 16 •. I? 118 „ 19

• •

Ri«es 7 33 7 33 7 32 7 32 7 31 7 30 7 29 7 29

Seta 4 38 439 4 40 4 41 4 42 4 43 4 44 4 46



GKEAT WINTER SALE (For 31 Days) COMMENCING FRIDAY MORNING JULY Bth GRFAT REJECTIONS I* GENERAL & FANCY DIAPEbY, CLOTHING, & BOOTS. Eplondid Opportunity for Cash Purchasers. T) OSLYN Blonfeeta from 16s 9i X\» English Blnnk^ts 8- 6d to 12s 9d Men's Saddle Tweed Trouserp, Colonial, 10s QA to 12s 6d Men's All Woo! Kiiapoi Trousers 5« 6d, 6a 9d, and 7s 6d Men s Waterproof Goats, sewn seams, greatly reduced Ladies' Jackets, Gapes, and Mantles half price 60 Maids' Macintoshes at 4s 6d; Ladieb' 7s 6d Black Cashmeres from Is 6d per yard Grand Stock of Ladies' Oorßets much undar usual prict Navy and Black Serges, all wool 9 much reduced Erery Article in Stock largely Discounted TAILORING DEPARTMENT.—Having secured the services of ft first-class cottbr, Suits now made from £3 38, perfect fit. j DRESSMAKING.—This Department is giving every satisfaction ; fit and style, at moderate prices. A N DREW 0 R R . fNEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. Boy's Tweed Sailor Suits from 5« Boy's Serge Sailor Suits from 7s 8d Boy's Tweed Melville Suits from 9a Boy's Twt-.rd Norfolk Suits f-om 12s Bey's Sac Knickcr Suite from 18s (>d Bey's Coven Coatfl from 14a 6d Boy's Tweed Overcoata from 6s 6d Boy's Reefer Jackets from 6-r 6d B;>y's Football Jerseys fr> m 3s 3d Boy's Caps 6d each Boy's Sailor Tama Is each FOR GOOD VALUE, GOOD WEAR, LOW PRICE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. F. H. BEOKINGSALE, Manager. SALE FOR ONE MONTH AT " THE CORNER" XlTja WILL Otf-FISR SPECIAL INDUCEMENTS to reduce our Stook— ■"* PRI R TO STOCKTAKING. 100 Yards Bhck C^bme^a, a*c\ Sale Price Is lid, 2s 6d, 2<s lid, 3s lid 40 Yards Blaeq Fancy Prem. 8«lo Pric« I* 36 Yards BUck S Ik S-ximd. Credot), Sale Pric" Is 6d 80 Yards Bltck Fancy Brooke, Pric«- Is 111 200 Y^rdF Kancy D.-ans 'I weeds (.11 tholes) 8$ 1 yard, worth 3a 125 \ardti Check Dre*?3 Tweeds I*, v x ay 1- 1W 100 Y-rda H^avv M-lton Cloths (new shades) 1^ Md 2 Pieces fi«cb BHvck V.-lveteen HH 1- 9J, 2i. 2 111 yard 3 Pu<c« each (ul nhidsi-) Oolore-i Velveteen la 6J and 2a 6J yard 25 P-eo-a Wi aFa cy "lUban from Is to 2< jar,*. Sain I'no* 4$ I e5 PUce New Shades Fancy Ribbon 3% Sale Pries6£d and 8£ 2 f» T)i>z*n Children's School Handkerchiefs I<\ 6o per dozen 60 Dozen 'Vomen's 'lack Cashmere Glovea, 6 pairs for 1$ 18 on-y Indies' Silk Sc rfsl* each ... 30 only «'rh* Mackintoshes 7* lid, 8i lid, 9s lid each, Job 25 LadW Flannelette Nlfchta 3s lid, 4' lid racb, Job 6 "illy LkH. s' F.anne lfctte Skirts, Sale Prict 3s 61 200 Pairs Laciicß' and Children's Corset* 2 61 40 Ladies' Capes (to be cleired 1, 6\ 9a Hi 14s lid 65 Fea'-hera w.glng from 2i 61 to 7s 6d, in 6 1 and la lots 6 only Indies' Trimmed Hus 4> lid, worth 13 6i 6 only Ladies' P»ris Hats .12* 6 \ worth 26< 61 12 only Child's Cloth Tunic 4 IU, worth 7e 6d lOP»irB only Men's Tweed Trousers 4<s , „, M ol o „, 200'P-ira Men's Colonial Tweed Trousers 5. 63, 7s 6d, 8s 6d 20 D :zen Boys' School Caps 3d each 100 D< z >.h Bow Ties 6 for Is 80 IJSen'a Regatta Shirts 2s 63 each 300 Ladies' and Children's Slippers U each pair 20 Pairs only Women's Calf Shoes 3s 61 pair, very sp ctal 225 Yards Fancy Art Maslin 3d and 4M 800 Yards Cretonnes (new goeds) 4|d, fid, B*d 60 White Qdllts 6a 6d and 6a 6d 40 Dozen White and Bcown Turkish Towels from 6d each 75 Pairs White Blankets 7s 63 and 12s 6d pr pair 1 Pit cc eseh Hemp Carpet 4£d, 7|d, and Is 2SO Pairs Lace Curtains from 2* 6d (specially remarked) 50 Pieces Striped Fi&nnellettes 2a lid 3' lid, 4s lid, 5s lid dozen 21 Pieces Fancy Blouse Flaanellettes 3£d, 4£d, 6d } Job 4 Pieces Bordered Apron Cloth (to clear) 6d A Line of Ladies' Straws afc Is lid, were 3s 6d. Worth yonr special notice. NOTE THIS SALB, AMD CALL EARLY TO SECURE NIBBLES. SPECIAL. DRESSMAKING AT 10S 6(1 FOR ONE MONTH. KORTHCOTE & HEFFORD



GBOSVMOR HOTEL, South Belt, Christcburob. HAVING taken the above Hotel, which is close to the Railway Bridge, Madras Jtre«r, 1 bey to inform my Ashburton friends th«t if they favor me with their patronage whea they visit Chnatehureh they will receive every attention. Bast Wines, Spirits, and Beer, and good tceommod&tion. P. KELLEE, 7 PROPRIKIOR. 7 FOR f% | YEARS



J. V. DEBEEB, . WATCHMAKER & JEWELLER. NEW GOOD?. NEW GOODS. A VBRY CHOICE AND HANDSOME COLLECTION OF Opal Jewellery. This Gem is now more fashionable than ever, and is at last receiving the attention thafc its beauty always warranted, but long withheld, owing to unreasonable superstition, PEN DATS TS, BROOCHES?, PIFS, igned as a memento of the War. SCARF PINS, An exact miniature in Gold of the Lee-Metford Cartridge. A Beautiful Assortment of GOLD MUFF CHAINS. INSPECTION INVITED. J. V. DE BEEE, Ea«fc Street, Aahburton,



PPBJjIO NOTICES. I S ■ g 1 \ 2l C * P5 QD ■ ■ S -1 k^ S td i- a ■ 231 O * 3j B g g hH -s *„ /^ ps 4 If H g LARGE IMPORTATION OF WALL PAPEBS- I HAVE j«b received (ex s.e. Paparoa) a Shipment of the NEWEST IN PAPER HANGING, to which I invite inspection. These p&pera »re exceedingly tioh in design and colouring, People deßirons of decora biug thoir rooms later on, may chose their Hangings from the pruonb fall Stock, »nd I will lay them aiide until required. J. WILSON, HOUSE DECORATOR, BURNETT STREET. ArttstB 1 Material Depot. OATES, LOWfiY AND CO. FOB Gas Lamps, 15s lach* Shipment of Bells and Carbide Just to Hand. OAIES, LOWHY MO CO, Burnett Street "~~ MIST HUNT. " REFRESHMENT ROOMS Mkals at All Howrs; Tancred Street, opposite MeCONBLi's Stableß. Busiest shop in town. 7 30 OSBORN COOMBB, PIANO TUNER & EXPERT (Late of London), TTTILL make his usual business Visit to VV Ashburfeon on MONDAY NEXT, 9th July ORDERS may be left with MR LLEWELWN OWEN »1> his Mu»io Studio, Arcada Chambers, Aahbarton. or at Commercial Hotel. PUBLIC NOTICE. GEO; WORNER, Batcher, bega to notify the Publio of Ashburton and ■unrounding Districta. that be has com menced Busineis on the Premises lately occupied by O. Digby in East Street. First Qlasa quality Meat always on hand. Small goods kept. Families waited on daily. ~"~ WANTED KNOWN? J. L. HIGGB HAS Paints, Oils, Turps, Glass, Scrim, &c, also choice Paperh&ngings. PRIOEB LOW. High Class Decorative Work a Speciality. Dou't forget. 7 64 Colkmak's Building, Tancred Street NOTICE. Tl/TRS C. BJCTTS, of Hampstead, has just opened the Shop lately occupied by Mr Mahood, as a Grocery Shop, on corner of East Belt-. Strictly Cash. 7 57 AMBULANCE CLASSES. A MEETING of intending etudenta will be held at the Wakunui Koad Board Boom, Ashbnrton, on SATURDAY next, 14th inei., at 230 p.m. BOSINBSS.—To arrange dates and houra of classes, etc. All interested are invited to attend/ 7_SO PIANOS, PIANOS. ALARGR STOCK OF INSTRUMENTS by the beat English, American, and German Makers, are now landing for the Season 1900-1901, and during the next few days a number of First Giaßß Pianos, thoroughly warranted for ten year?, will be offered to the public at euch prices, and on suoh terms as will defy competition. Call at Hbnby Btbfhenson's Salerooms in Havelook Street 1, and inspect the Stook of PIANOS AND ORGANS.- This ia positively the best chance yet offered to anyone who has not yet obtained one of our Instruments. ! Satisfaction in every w&y Guaranteed. No one pressed to buy. | THE DEESDEN PIANO Co William Stevenson, Representative. Hekry SiEFHBNgQH, Agent. 7 74 ANTED KNOWN-I hats our Ladies Winter Jackets and Capes are an exceptionally choice lot, being at once stylieb and moderate in Prices.—MlTOHßLt,



1 Smoke New Venas



"For thh Blood is the Life"— CLARKE'S WORLD - FAMED BLOOD MIXTURE ia warranted to cleanse !;he blood from all impurities from whatever cause arising. For Scrofula, Scurvy, Ec zema, Skin and Blood Diseases, and Sores of all kinds, its effects are marvellous. Thous ands of testimonials. Sold in bottles, 2< 9d, and Us each, by Chemists and Patent Medicine Vendors everywhere. Sole Pro prietors* The Lincoln and Midland Oobn« tiks ])p.dg Co, Lincoln, England THE MOTHER'S FAVORITE Chamberlain's Cough Remedy ii the mother's favorite. It is pleasant and sale for children to take, and always cures. It is intended especially for coughs, colds, croup, and whooping cough, and is the best medi cine made for these diseases. There ia not the least daeger in giving it to children, for < it contains no opium or other injurious drug, and may be given as confidently to a babe as to an adult. For title by Ashburton Drug Company <



Unequalled and Invincible, Woods' (Jreab Peppermint Care for Oongha and Colds, la 6d and 2s 6d< Smoke New Team