KPHEMERIS

BUN.

Phases of Moon for November

THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

| Trains leave Ashburton daily for— OHRISTOHUROH—ab 7.20 am, 11 a"m, 3.15 p m, 7 5 p m (express) TIMARU—at 10 55 am, 3.50 pin DUNEDIN—at 12.54 pm (express) SPRINGBURN—at 425 p m . Trains arrive dally at Ashbnrton from— CHKISTOHUROH—atK 10.45 am, 12.48 p m (express), 8 pin* TIMARU—at 10.35 am, 2.55 pm DUNEDIN—at 6.57 pm (express) SFRINGBURN-afc 9.45 » m*

SECOND EDITION

Mail Notices,

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23,

For Northern Ports and Westport, per Tarawera, at 6 20 p m

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 24 For Northern Ports, per Te Anau at 10 30 a.m.

For Northern Ports, and Westport, per Rotomahana, at 6 30 p m.

Note,—Christmas cards to pass at book rates, muob be posted in open cover with flip turned in, or tied with etring. If closed against inspection the postage must be paid at letter rates. Important—There will be no despatch of English mails via San Francisco in November, but arrangements have benn made for close connections with Federal and Vancouver services. The new service, every three werka, via San Francisco, Is expected to start wirh first steamer leaving Auckland about the Btb December. On account of there being no despatch of Srm Francisco mail in November, parcels for United States of America caunot be sent until the despatch of mail leaving Auckland Bth December.

Ashburton Guardian Manga est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23. 1900. THE POSITION IN CHINA.

The position in China hai been very unsatisfactory for some days, notwith standing the beneficial eff»c* of th*e Anglo-German agreement, m ci eating a closer and better understanding amongst the Allies. The history of former conflicts between the western nations and China proves tbat it it the custom of the rulers of that country, to carry on friendly negotiations until the very outbreak of hostilities, in fact until they think they are quite ready for war. It seems to us that in the present case, history is repeating itself pretty closely. In the war be tween Great Britain and China in 1810, the former power was held oft for months by the specious negotiations and promises of a wily mandarin named Lin (Commissioner Lin). The reputation of this statesman (for he was certainly that) for cunning and astuteness was probably the text, which suggested Bret Harte's quaint description of the national characteris tic in "The Heathen Chinee." For ways that are dark and tricks that are Tain he certainly is very peculiar. It is, therefore, no new thing to md the Chinese statesman endeavouring to outwit their diplomatic opponents, nor is it a novelty to find tbat their efforts have been quite successful. This being so, we should not be at all surprised to learn that Li Hung Chang had also succeeded in bamboozling the Allied leaders in China. We doubt whether these soldiers, however gallant they may be, are a match, even combined, against the artful celestial plotters. It has frequently been asserted, even by some of the Chinese, that the negotia* tions being carried on by Li Hung Chang and others were only to gain time; and the telegrams in this connection published yesterday are by no means reassuring The Allied Generals are in a very awkward and delicate position, they dare not assume the aggeessive at the present juncture, and yet they are probably aware of the complications thickening around them. What these are likely to be may be gathered from an interesting article which will be found in another part of this issue. If there is any truth in the statement just published that China is preparing for war, we may shortly expect some startling developments in that quarter of the world.

Local and General.

The Land Tax—The land tax fo* 1900. 1901 is due on Tuesday, November 27th

Coming.—Mr R S Smythe, the veteran impressarlo, is at present trying to arrange for a short season hero of " Banjo" Pater son, the war lecturer.

Caledonians Stern and Wild—There is * movement on foot at present to resuoitate the defnnct local Caledonian Society. Soots men are expected to rally roucd the flag.

Post Oraicc Tsndkb Lira—The suocessf nl tenderer for the erection of the new Post Office at Asbburton is Mr Peter Hyndman, of Cbriatohnrobi

The Wiris Down—The telegraph wir m were down for a portion of the day yeater day, and no commnnieation could be obtained with stations south of Orari. Communication is now restored.

An Artesian Sppplt.—Tha boring opera tions at the Fatrfield Works for an arteaian supply are still proceeding satisfactorily,* thfl bore being now.down 120 feet. The last length of pipe had to be driven through very hard rook of the oemsnt-like nature met with higher «p.

TxCHNIOAIi AMD MaSUAIi! iNSTRtTOMOIf.— The Inapeetor-General of Schools is at present in Timaru, and intends addressing teaohers and others interested on the bearings, snd principal olsuses of the new Teehnioal •rid Manual Instruction Act.

Thi Half-Holiday—Yesterday was the first real summer's day ire have had this season, and it was takes full advantage of by- the majority of Aahbartonites in the open air. In the Domain the various games lawn tennis, bowls, croquet and crioket— were atl in 101 l swing during the afternoon. The bathing ponds were also well patron ised.

Hornet Sports—The annual Hornby sports were 1 held yesterday afternoon at Plump ton Park, in fine weather. \ Ashburton competitors were successful in the following events:—Maiden Handicap—H Barrett 2; Half Mile Flat—J Feohney 1; One Mile Flat—J Feohney 1; Hurdles—J MoTigue 2.

A Visitor—Mr Edwin Geaoh, who has just returned from the West Coast 'after a very successful trip with Donald Mao Donald, the war lecturer, spent yesterday and to-day in Aahburton, in the company of his friend and brother lmpressario, Mr L J Lohr. Mr Geach left by the south expresn to-day for the Bluff, en rtute for Western Australia, the next and last of the colonies to be toured by the famous lecturer.

Imperial Politics. —Home papers just to hand are foil of the election Bpeeohes of can* didates for seats in the Imperial Parlia ment. Speaking on the Boer war, partisans of both political sides agree, that the invasion of the British colonies of Natal by the Boers rendered war inevitable ; they also agree on retaining the conquered republics. We give extracts from some ot the speeches on our fourth page. On our first page an article on The Policy ot Russia is worth reading.

The Demand for Domestic Servants— Servant girls are in a great) demand in all parts of the colony at the present time, bo much so that were a consignment: of a hundred to arrive in Wellington to morrow morning, they will be "placed" before night, i'our Bingle young women who were among the last party of''Clarion settlers" to arrive in the colony were, it is stated, completely bewildered ab the choice of plaoes offered them for employ ment sa domestic servants.

Athletics.—The Pioneer Bicycle and Athletic Club hold an Athletic and Cycling Carnival at Lancaster Park, Ghristohuroh, tomorrow. The A.a.O and A.C will be represented at the meeting by Mr M J Lynekey, who his already some N.Z. Championships to his credit for rvnning events. He is entered for the 220, 440, 880 yards, and mile running events, and we expect him to return with something to his credit. He has also a chance of securing the One Hundred. Guineas Ladies' Champion Cup, which falls to the competitor securing most; points in the pedestrian events, and i* held by him for a year. Mr Ba»il Stephens, another member of the A. AC * A.C, will compete in the cyoliog events. "

Sulphate op Ammonia.—Mr Hunter the ojunty Analyist, Edinburgh, points out that the rational use of sulphate of ammonia implies the conjoint) use of all the essential inorganic constituents of which lima and magnesia as carbonate* are as important—if not more bo—than phosphates or potash, or anything etae, and It is the inattention to this all-import, ant fact, which has been the cause in the past of probably every one of the disappointments' that have been exper ienced in the using of sulphate of ammonia. He is of the opinion that, with this neglect remedied, there is no other puraly nitrogenous manure that will not compare unfavourably with sulphate of ammonia. Mourning For a Man Not Dead.—Pome days ago news was received in Wellington from South Africa which was interpreted by those concerned as relating to the death of Trooper Percy Orabbe, eon of Mrs Richard Grabbe, of Hill street. The death (sirs the Post) was advertised by the family; which also proceeded to procure mourning garments Later, however, Mrs Crabbe was advised that a mistake had been made—that the soldier who bad died is either Peroy Crabbe's unole, or another relative who is wittt t Victorian corps. A psrtioularly distressing feature in the matter is that a daughter of Mrs Orabbe has been completely prostrated by the erroneous, (aqaotineement of her broth er's death, an<i'tnai her condition itill afords grounds for great concern.

Tot FAiBKttB Works—The Fairfield works have b»Mi oloeed down for about three months on account of the shortage of sheep, and many enquiries have been made about when they are likely to resume opera tions. We are glad to be able to state that the Company are making efforts towards getting the works opened at an early da c, and have issued a circular to farmers asking them to state when their first drafta of sheep and lambs will be ready for freezing. In common with all who have the best interest of the district at heart, we trust the response will be beyond all expectations, both »s regards the number of sheep and iambs offered, and the date of delivery. It is pleasant for us to also record the fact that last season fully 60,000 sheep from thsgeuth Canterbury district;, were frozen at the Fair field works, a large number having been sent from as far south as Waimate, and that fully double that number is expected to come from that district this season*

The Chinbsjs Oath —After the con clusion of the case of alleged perjury against; ft Chinaman at the Wellington Police Court, a Chinese interpreter discoursed to a small audience on the matter of Chinese oaths. The blowing out of a match, he said, was nob of much avail as & means of getting a Chinaman to speak the truth. "That only means he will get no light/ he explained. A Court official suggested thab the breaking ot a saucer was a more effective form of oath, but the Interpreter discounted that form also. **Cut the head off a roaster," he Bald; "that is the way; it means something terrible! If that be done, either in a Court of Justice or in a cemetery, a Chinaman will generally speak the truth. He considers that a He under such circumstances will cause him ill-luck all his life, and a horrible experience after death. Cut off the rooster's head," ha concluded, ,'that is the only way to gat the troth

SPORTING

WELLINGTON SPRING MEETING

United Press Asapoiation —By Electric ) Telegraph i Wellington, Nov 22 The Wellington Racing Qiubwai fa voted with perfect weather for its opening day of the spring meeting. The course was in splendid -order, and the attendance larger that usual. Following are results ;— , November Fahbkjaf—Rubin 1, Aide-de. Camp 2, Crusoe 3. Scratched—Propo*al, Rn&mahnnga, Volley, and Sirius. Won by a head after a great raoe ; three quarters of a length separating the second and third. -1435. Dividend £13 Bi. Maiden Hack—Transport 1, March 2, Herit»s3. Scratched—Art Jewel, Papara {»a, Ziska. Won by three quarters of a engtb. Time—Ll7s. Dividend—£3lo* WiLtiNOTOK Hahdioap—Tortulla l,C«ar de Lion 2, gkobeloff 3, Scratched—Otnsoe and Battleate. Divldend-£5 13s Bcbolis—Hotn 1, Hangfire 2, Waiwera 3 Divldeh*-£& Ss Shorts—Ostiak 1, Kusmary2, Kgaparu 3. Dividend—£2 13* Hack Bacb—Lady's Link 1, Redoubt 2, Tnkapa 3. Dividend—£7 17s Wiltii — Whitney 1, Whitirea and Ruamahanga dead heat. Dividend—£4 6a Fi/rnia—The Shannon 1, Chasseur 2, KtssmaryS. Dividend—£2 17s

The Tugeri Head Hunters.

, United Press Association—By Bleotrio Telegraph—Copyright.; Brisbane, November 22 In a conflict »b the month of the More' head Biter, New Guinea, between the police and the notorloai Tagerl bead hau* tars, the police destroyed five canoes, and 30 of th>Tngerl were drowned or killed. The Tagerl had previously raided a native Tllliaße, and killed 15 of the tribe. The ponitlve party suffered no casualties

Transvaal War.

ACCIDENT TO LORD ROBERTS

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright *X*«* v.  . ; Lohdon, NOT 21 Liohtenburg is deserted, and 500 of its : InhabiUnte, including 12 Boer families with cattle, have trekked to Mafeking. | One handred and eighty Boers narrowly I esoaped an ambush north of Lindley. November 22 Lieutenant Seddon has been appointed extra aide.de.camp to Lord Roberts. I A gale and haze have delayed the Qelder laad, which Is signatled, a day late. The rain has spoiled the decorations, which are confined chiefly to the quays and yachts. Owing to the prepondereooa of Nationalists the general public are listless, although many workmen have been granted a holiday. The British Consul has forwarded to the authorities a number of|letters offering pro* British demonstrations for cish. Dr Leyds has advised Mr Kruger to act with caution. Some angry scenes have been witnessed in the reception committee's room, some attributing the postponement of Kruger's landing to political motives. Lord Roberta's horse fell with him on Sunday. The Commander in Chief was slightly shaken, but cabled that) he felt no ill effects from the accident.

COMFORTS FOR THE CONTINGENTS

DEATH OF A NEW ZSALANDEtt.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

WBLiiiHOfOK, November 22 : Ai Mr Filoh r, the Government agent of Capetown, has exausted the fnnds at hii disposal to provide oomforta for the Con tingents, she Premier it communicating with the various patriotlo committees in the colony, asking for farther contribution*. Sir Alfred Mllner cables to Mr Seddon that 2483, Trooper H V James, of the Fifth New Zealand Contingent, di«fl of enterio %t Zeerast on November 20th. James was a member of the thirteenth company, and hailed from Oollingwood, in the Nelson district, where his father resides. Mr Pllcher, writing from Capetown to the Premier, iky* the presence of None Hay in the Johannesburg and Middlebarg hospitals is very valuable and that the money tent her for distribution was most timely.

The Ashburton Moanted Rifles

The Ashburran Mounted Rifles mustered in good force »t> Tinwald yesterday after noon, and were pub through a variety of movement* in connection with company drill. In the evening the men assembled at, the Commercial Hotel, where after* sub stantial repast, tbey were addressed by Captain Buckley on 'Outpott duty and reconnoitring.' The' address -or lecture lasted nearly two hours, owing ohlefly to the number of questions asked, an excellent indication of the keen Interest the members oftbe aorps take in tbsir work. It is understood that Captain Buckley is pre paring to take bis troop out in December into what is called ' a flying camp, 1 when the work they will be called upon to do will be as much like that required by the exigen cies of modern warfare as it Is possible to make it

CRICKET

The cricket match Ashbrirtoa Imperial! v Ashburton Tennis Club was played in the Domain on Thursday afterneon, and resulted in an easy viotory for the Imperial!. The winning team •bowed first dais form, both In batting, bowling and fielding), and they have every ohanoe of becoming one of the beat teams that haw been in Ashburton for years. Jt only depends on the member! getting plenty of practise - The scores were -poAsbburton Imperials, 8 wipkets for 164 runs i Aihborton TenDW Club, 37. The veteran G Andrews made 62 and retlrtd. T Riohardi 24 (retired), E Nicoll 32 (retired), A Pilbrow 12, F Pritehard 24, and B Amos 10, were the principal scores. The bowling honors were divided between J Friedlander (four wickets for 12 rnns) and £ Marsden (fire wickets for C 3 runs)* For the Tennis Club, E Crisp 10 and L Nicoll 16, were the only two to reach doable fignre*, and the bowlers were L NiooJ), E Orlsp, Seldon, F Oox, and Denshire* The matoh Imperial Juniors v Ashburton High School wa» also played in the Domain on Thursday afternoon, and resulted in an easy win for the High School by 81 rnns on the first innings. The scores were—High Sohoot, 101 ; Juniors, 20 first innings, second Inning* 57 for two wickets. P Prebble 22, W Fee M, H Revell 14, J Sinclair 10, were th« principal scorers for the High School, and the bowlers were Prebble, Revell, and Baxter. For the Jnnion, G Robinson 1$ and R Johnitone 10 were the only ones, fp reach double figures, the principal bowler being W Berry man, Who took seven wickets. The High School play a very good game, and are the makings of a good team. There is nothing iike practice, to which ii due their good form.

ANGRY CLERGYMEN

STORMY SCENE IN A PRESBYTER IAN ASSEMBLY \

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright | Melbourne, Nov 22 A stormy scene bas occurred in the Pres byterian General Assembly, when a report of the Pabiio Questions Committee oaroe up, in which an address to the Duke and Duchess of York was recommended. Professor Bentcul, of the Peace Humanity Society fame,Js convener of the Committee, and, in a speech bristling with loyalty, pointed out that the responsibility of drafting the addresses rested with him. The K«7 Dr Marshal moved for a Special Committee, in order to prevent the respon' sibility resting with one man, and especially Dr Rentoul, who, on the B >er war question, was hopelessly out of sympathy with the Church, and grossly misrepresented it. A man who had spoken about the National Anthem as Dr Rentoul had done, made it look as If the Church was making a profes* sion of loyalty with her tongue in her cheek; To accept Dr Rentoul's proposals would do gross and serious injury to the Church, j Dr Rentonl replied that the present' was the most extraordinary state of things he had ever known in the Presbyterian Church He felt ashamed of being a Presbyterian. All the trouble was wholly unnecessary. The atta«k had been' flung at him harshly, rudely, and ignerantly. Dr Marshall had done more harm to the Church than any thing he (the speaker) had done On Mafeking day, if reports could be believed, all that oould be s»en of Dr Marshal! was a big, red fist, in the midst of a mass of half drunken people. (Cries of 'Shame I shame V biases, confusion, and great disorder) Eventually Dr Marshall's amendment was lost by 4 votes

Dr Marshall announced that he had no alternative bat to resign all connection with the administration of the Assembly

Beautifying Association

A meeting^ the Beautifying Association was held in th« Borough Council Chambers laeb evening. Present—Dr Trevor (chair* man), Messrs Timmins, Collins, Goleman, Smith, Willis, and Barrett. An apology was received from Mr Bullock.

The Secretary (Mr Leohner) read the minutes of last meeting,

The chairman reported that the eom tnitteo appointed co wait on the Borough Council had done so, and the Council had met the deputation vary favorably, and had given a donation of £25. CORRESPONDENCE! A letter defining the terms upon which the Council would . give the Association authority to deal with Baring Square, was read.

From Mr E Herring, stating his willing* ness to become a member and donate some plants, Ac. From Mr J C N Grigg, enclosing cheque for £5, and expressing approval of the objects of the Association* From Mr G A M Buckley, also enclosing cheque for £5, and similarly approving. From Mr J McLachlan, enclosing cheque for JB3 3s, and congratulating the. Associa* tion on .taking action. From Mr G Coleman, enclosing cheque for £5.

Donations were also received from Messrs Tabatean, Purnell, A Harrison, and others, for lesser sums.

On the motion ofJMrJOolHns it was resolved that) the thanks of the association be accorded to these gentleman who hare so promptly responded to its application for assistance. Dr. Trevor (Chairman) authorised the secretary to put hit name down for £5 3s, and Dr Bolger'a for £1 Is. After considerable discussion it was de» oided on the motion of Mr Collins seconded Mr Timmins that Baring Square remain unploughed,and the grass De pat in good con dition, which was agreed to: Mr Collins moved and Mr Willis seconded that the grounds be immediately laid ont Jin beds on a plan to be mutually agreed upon between the Council and the Association.

Mr Timmins moved that sheep netting be put od the existing fence,—Seconded by Mr Collins and carried.

On the motion of Mr Timmins, seconded by Captain Coleman, it was resolved that those interested in beautifying Baring Square be invited to %end in pi*us for laying out the name, such plans to be delivered to the Hon Secretary by Monday, at noon, and the same to be considered by the Association on Monday evening, at 7 o'olock, and that one or more be submitted to tbe Borough Council

Mr Collins moved that a Works Committee be appointed, consisting of Messrs John Orr, Coleman, Smith, and the mover, (the chair man, ex offioio), to carry tha instructions of the General Committee;

This was all the business.

The Fifth Contingent at the Front.

Following are extraots from a letter to bis parents, jus!) received from Corporal Yernon BUward :—

Ox.irHANT'gNsK, Oct 5,1900

■ (Six miles from Rustenberg ) The march to this place has been long and tiring, bnt we have not had much fighting on the way. Every day there has been a •kirmiih between >he advance guard and the enemy, bat there hare been very few casualties. One morning, aboub five days ago, twenty-five Australians who were on the left flank of the advance guard, were ap proaching a Kaffir kraal. They got within fifteen yards before about 160 Boers, who were concealed in the huts, opened firs on them. Five Australians were shot dead and eight wounded, and lots of their horses shot. Of course the only thing to do was to retreat to the main column, which they did. War is oarried on in a peoular fashion nowadays. A few minutes after the incident I have just related, a Boer came, in with a letter from the officer in command of the kraal party, telling our General exactly where our dead and wounded were, exchanging courtesies, and aiding our ambulances in every way; and yet next morniog we are shooting one another again. I was going round a kopje on the extreme flank the other day with three others, when the Boers opened fire on us at about 30Q yards' range, I escaped scatheless, bat too of my companions had their horses shot, and one man received a bullet in the leg, I was very glad when our artillery opened fire oa the Boers, who 1 scooted' immediately. The beggars were using those beastly explosive bullets, and the horses that were shot were shattered terribly. We have been passing through very decent country. Some ipots »re lovely. All the trees planted here for shade, fences, or shelter, appear to be frnit trees Peach, apple, quince, and pear trees surreund pad docks of green "oats and wheat. , They are absolutely loaded with fruit, just forming in some parts , the trees being stiH in foil blossom. And oranges, too IBy jove J the sight and smell of the orange groves! There was no doubt about the fruit being ripe in this case. We camped dose to a large grove three days ago, and I am speaking within bounds, when I lay I believe that if every man here bad taken away a sack full it would have made no appreciable diffarenot. Such oranges too! They were delicious,]ust picked off the tree. Mandarins and lemons also in abundanoa, and limes, without any exaggeration as big as a well inflated footba'l. You can peel and out these just like an orange, and they are not very acid. There was a fence of green fig trees a mile or so long, but alas the ; figs were indeed green. Tommy Atkins is i the funniest fellow imaginable: They (the Tommies) seem quite like foreigners, they are so different from our New Zealand boys, and I oould spend hours listening to their queer way of talking* It takes too long to give anecdotes in letters, but when we meet again I shall have lots of yarns to spin about the' Tommies." Poor beggars, they only get Is 3d a day here, have to w»lk all the way while we ride, and tome of them have 1 signed on' for as long at 21 years. Lots of niggers came along with the oolumn for protection {whole families carrying ail their household possessions marching with ns. It is a wonderful sight tolee little picoa* ninnies '—some, I am certain, not mere than three or four years of age trotting alongside the waggons doing their twenty or thirty miles a day. Those above four or five yean old bare to help to carry the household goods, and I have seen a little buffer striding along with ft load, whish would bs heavy for

a wbite man, and never ottering a murmur. The women do most of tbe heavy carrying, and they invariably have a large baby strapped on the back whose head alone you can see. The women carry all loads on their head* and balance thiDga in a marvellous way—a bucket full of water, or even a pitcher with a rounded bottom, a sack of oats, or an iron pot: full of meat or soup, it is all the rame, always carried on the top of the head and never touched with the hands. You want to see these things for yourself to believe them. We are to rest here for four days and obtain supplies from Rusten* berg Pretoria is only 36 miles farther on (from Rustenberg), but we do not go on to there having to ■ return to Mafeking. Lord Roberts and Generals Buller and Kitchener are all in Rustenberg, with Heaven only knows how many troops. They leave with us (or rather we with them) in four days to sweep the country between here and Mafeklug. All the fighting is over in the country on the other Side of Rustenberg, and I think there will soon be very little more anywhere. Rumour says that we, under Methuen, are due in Mafeking in fifteen days ; thence we (It Is said) proceed to Capetown, and are to be on the water by the middle of November. I don't think any more will be heard of a trip to England. No one seems to say anything aboub it now. I think you will see me as soon as the war is ovr r I have a great longing for home, and I uo.ur regret otming here, no matter what happens, so long as in the end I retarn to you safe and sound. Ib is a strange experience this saddling up in the night and marching in the pitchy darkness throdgh strange eonntry to the music of the clanking of the chains of the artillery horses, and the creaking of the waggon*; strange and never to be forgotten. Remember me very kindly to all friends.

THE BAPTIST CONFERENCE.

Christchuboh, Nov 22. j The Baptist Conference Session resumed this morning. It was resolved to author ise a commltte to aid by grants the build-' Ing of new churches. In connection with the forward move ment, an enthusiastic discussion took place on Home Mission work, and some strongly practical schemes were under discussion. The Conference resolved, on the motion of the Rev W. L. Salter, to encourage and organise the work of local preachers I as now before it.

Speech By the Hon. J G Ward.

NEW ZEALAND'S ISLAND POLICY.

I»r EBOiRGiLL, Nov 22 < The Hon J 6 Ward was banqueted in the Bluff Drill Ball lant evening. Referring to ; the Island annexation, Mr Ward said that had Somoa, or Dutch and German New Guinea, been originally the property of Australia or New Zealand, even Great Britain would not have attempted to wrest from her children the Islands that rightly belonged to them* The Islands were iv the highway between New Zoaland and the old world, through the Nicaraguan Canal, and in the future the Islands recently acquired would be Irrevocably joined to New Zealand. The movement was a national one, and though trade would be done that was a small matter at present. Australia had formed a Commonwealth, out of which New Zealand decided to stand. The annexation of the Islands, and tho Federation with Fiji, would be a great lever in inducing Australia to agree to reciprocity, and.add preatly to New Zealand's power and prestige. When he I proposed, at the Postal Conference, in 1893, that it was desirable to lay the Pacific Cable, ho was laughed at. That) evening, howtver, he bad received a cable from the Imperial Government, stating that they had accepted the tender fur the work. They saw for the first time in the history of Greater Britain, a matter looked upon ft few j ears ago as extremely Socialistic, now in coarse of accomplishment, and the State ob taining property for tbe use of the people. Instead of tbe people having to pay the high tariff of 4s 6d ia word, reduced from 93 some time ago, thej would be able to send a mes' sage of ten words at 2s 6d a word. These facilities would be a great boon to merchants and farmers. Regarding penny postage, there waa not a country in the world that had done what New Zealand would inaugurate on tbe Ist of January, granting at one stroke universal penny postage. He paid a high tribute to the Hon John M'Esozie's land ad* ministration, and its effects on the prosperity of the colony. At the present time twenty millions sterling of tho people's savings were deposited in the banks of the colony—a sum almost incredible in a population of 750,000 He announce* that the Government intended to invite tenders from: shipowners for two years service, sailing at five colonial ports, and at least three in South Africa, to open up trade there. Mr Ward w»s loudly cheered at the eon elusion of the proceedings.

The Murders by Blacks.

TRIAL OP JIMMY GOVERNOB.

United Press Association—By Electric Tele&raph—Copyright Sydnb*, November 22 The trial of Jimmy Governor hai began. Counsel for the prisoner submitted a plea in bar, and asked that accused shouid be acquitted. He based his plea on the ground that Jimmy Governor was outlawed, and could not plead in the usual way. He was practically con victed by outlawry of the offence in the indictment, and the Sheriff oould take and execute him without further process. The Judge rejected the plea, as the local law provided for an ordinary trial, even in outlawry. The prisoner then pleaded "Not gailty." The trial is proceeding.

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

Berlin, November 21 j In the Reichstag, Herr Bebel, who created feeling by blaming the German Emperor's 'no quarter' order for the atrocities by the troops in China, referring to cruelties of German soldier*, satirised the Berlin news papers for their moral indignation against the English Atrocities in Ssttth Afuoa* General Gossler, Prussian Minister of War, defending the Kaiser, said what the troops were doing in China was merely retaliation for the Hun invasion of Earope. London, Nov 21 The Washington correspondent of The Times states that politicians imply that the Powers are asking an Impossible Indemnity from China, in order to make partition inevitable. - : November 22 The Shanghai correspondent of 7he Times , Btates that Luk Hwani declares he sent only strictly necessary supplies to Sioganfu. He gives assurances of the stability of the Viceroy's neutrality. HONG KONQ, NOV 22 The Peiho River, north of Tungohan, is freezing, and shipping is impeded. The Dowager* warlike order is attributed to long fah Siang. Bbtosjbls, Nov 21 King Leopold has reotified the Khru Central Afrioan boundary question in favour of Germany, in return for German support in obtaining a strip of territory on the left bank of the Peiho River, below (Tientsin.

A Lyttelton Sensation.

ALLEGED ASSAULT ON A MARRIED WOMAN,

DEATH OF THE V OMAM.

At the Lyttel too Police Court yesterday before Mr S 8 Webb, J.P., Charles Bowden was charged with having about 9th of November, unlawfully aeeaaHed, with vio« lence, May Violet) Brown, whereby her death way caused. Sergeant Rutledge ap plied for a remand tot eight days, and the rtmand was granted. The accused applied to be admitted to bail, but the Bench de clined to grant it as an inquest is to be held this afternoon, when the application can be renewed before the Coroner.

The alleged facts of the oast, to f*r as they can bo ascertained at present), appear to b«v tnat on the night of the Prince of Wales' birthday, the accused, who ii about twenty five year* old, and a dairyman, residing In Hawkbursfc road, oailed at the home of the deceased in Winchester street and she refused him admittance. She was a married woman, aged twenty-seven, her husband being Joseph Brown. The accused cam* again to her house saying he had a letter for her, and then she admitted him. Having thu ob tained admittance, it is alleged that ha barnfe the paper he had spoken of at a letter and began to take liberties with the deosassd, who resitted him. She was thrown on thi floor and then on to a sofa, and, as is alleged received in juries from which the fatal result) has followed. Though thi* violence la said to have occurred, the woman mads no com plaint of it to" the police, but she did com* plain of the accused annoying-her by coming to her place. It is stated that Mrs Brown had been ailing for some time, and bad been attended byDr Upham, and more recently, by Dr Russell, on whose recommendation, 16 is understood, she was sent to the hospital on Tuesday afternoon. In consequence of statements made by her In the hospital, where she died on Wedneday, tbe accused was arrested shortly after mid night and brought up as above stated. Evidence will probably be brought at the inquest to show that the deceased bad told people that she had fallen down some stops more than once and received severe injuries from the falls.— Frets. ■

CABLE NEWS.

London, November 2)

Mr Zimmerman, the Cincinnati millionaire, whose daughter w»b quietly wedded to the Duke of Manchester without her father's consent, has relented, and welcomes' the newly married couple. In response to a request by the Hon Henry Copelaod, Agent General for New Sooth Wales, the War Office, has instructed Colonel Hunt to purchase some Australian horses.

The Nationalists will nob attend the December session of Parliament, preferring to be pment at the Dublin Convention and arrange a plan of campaign. Lieutenant Kingston has captured tbe Ashantt Generalissimo,' Koblna Cheri, with many follower!. In tbe case of the New Zealand barque I Embleton v tbe Canard liner Campania* tbe Admiralty Court hat delivered judgment in favour of the barque, declaring that the speed of nine knots an hour in a fog waa greatly excessive for a Btcam«r« An Anglo Egyptian expedition has started to explore and establish military. posfee on 1 the Bahrelshlzd river, one of the ohicf tributaries of the White Nile which iarae* from Lake Chad. November 28 The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, after paying interest on the third debentures, haaa profit of £61,986, which has been placed to the reaerve. The warship Pheasant hat been ordered to Panama,. owing to Colombia seising* British steamer to convey troopa against the insurgents. New York, November 22 By a tornado In Tennessee and North Mississippi 100 persons were killed* Ssdney, November 22 News from Noumea states that the local Parliament has been asked by the French Government—a rrqueer which U tantamount to a command—to vote £80 a head, to tend within six months, to the Maritt priests who recently arrived at the Hebrides. Mejcboubnb, Nov 22

November 28

Mrs Wright, who shot her husband in Oarlton, and against whom a verdict of manslaughter was returned by the coroner's jury, has been' acquitted on the oharge of murder. Before tbe husband died he ad mitted having angered and taunted his wife. [Wright, who wu a financier, living at Nicholson street, Carlton, was shot by hie wife during a quarrel between the two in their house* In bis dying depositions, Wright; sought to shield his wife, saying il was all his fault, as he had " aggravated ncr, and jawed her."] A rule nisi has been granted in the divorce suit, Row v Row, husband's petition. The respondent is the well known actress Nellie Stewart, and the suit was brought on the grounds of desertion. .

THE STOKE CASE.

THE FIRST CASE CONCLUDED

VERDICT OF NOT GUILTY

United|Pre«a Association—By Eleokrlo Telegraph |Whj.inotoit, Not 28 Messrs Skertett and Wilford, oouasel for the defence, oloiely cross-examined the witnesses for the prosecution, in the ease against Brother Kilian, They have brought out some discrepancies between the testimony given before the Royal Commission »nd in the Magistrate's Court anl that now deposed to. Mr Wilford, in opening the oMe for tba defence, said that Brother Kilian, being ft schoolmaster, had under the law the right to use reasonable force in correcting biyi under his charge. Accused, in giving evidence on ' bin own behalf, said he remembered the oircumstanoee ofhta alleged assault on the boy Owens. A day or two prior to the occurrence he bad punished the boy for disobedience in school. He gave him a few smacks on the band with a supplejack. On the evening in question the boys were formed into ranks to go oat, He noticed Owens talking and requested him to maintain silence. The boy answered him bark, and witness boxed hia can. He kiofctd at witness, and witnees slapped him again. The boy then "threw himself on the groucd and atartei screaming.. Witness denied having punoaed Owens in the eye or kicked him. At the time then was a

mutinous spirit In the school; By Mr Bell—Witness asked to be allowed to give evidence before the Commission, hat the director of the school said that it wae not necessary. He understood the reason he had been ordered to leave the orphaaag* wai that it was considered that his ooadnofe bad not been tatisfaotory. Witness had never pat boys in the cells. He had never struck any boy with his fist, nor did be lorn his temper with Owens. His Honor, in summing up, said it was beyond doabb that at the time a itrong spirit of insubordination existed in the school, and it was before all things neoemry that disoipltne should be maintained. Aoooted did not; seem to bs a strong man, and Qwent was a sturdy youth. H« directed the jury to dismiss all prejudice from their minds, and reminded them that one of the growing evils of the day was the insubordination of

the young. (The jury, after the retirement of a quarter, of an hour, returned into Court with a verdict of not guilty, and accused was discharged.

The Commonwealth

LORD HOPETOUN'S ILLNEBB

United Press Association—By Eteotrfo Telegraph—Copyright Bombay, Not 21 Lord Hopetoub, Federated AjMtrelia't coming Governor-General, an eailed from here (or Colombo. Hjwmm wee* aftor bis attack of dysentery that he had to be carried aboard tbe vessel in a dHoo!y i M»jor Philson, of the Army medical de partment, accompanies him London, Nov 31 Ihe Contingent of repr'eseatatlvei of I»«

THE ASHBtJRTON GOAR rlAtf: *>RtDAt KOtBMBEB 23, 190 C



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WOOL SEASON 1900-1901 WE SHALL BE REPRESENTED %t the Ohristehnroh and Timaru fixtures, ani have made satisfactory arrangements for disposing of CLIPS privately Ashburtori* Consignments will be received at our As»bur*en or Tinwald stores, and MDt on to either Christen arch or Timartt, free of all charges, except milage. Clients who wish to send their Wool direct from their nearest railway station will fleas* consign as follows :— If intended for sale at Ashburton—Fried'ander Bros', Ltd Siding, Ashburton If intended for sale at Ctaristohuroh—Brown Rod Sob's Siding, Addington If intended for sale or shipmnnt at Titn&iu—Mill & Co's Siding, Timaru If intended for shipment.at Lyttelton-N.ZJSbipplog Co'^Dum plagued,'LytUlton WOOLSACKS, TWINE? 88-ANDING OIL, and all other Shearing | Requisites supplied at lowest rates. i Oat First Sale will take place at Timarn on , FRIDAY, NOVEMBEE 30, 1900 JRIEDLANDER BROS., LTD. ZEALANDIA CYCLES. BUILT with Narrow Tread and Overhanging Sprocket;, Patent Head Tube, Batted Tubing Throughout Genuine English Daolop Tyres, and Guaranteed for 12 Monthf, Easy Payments Arranged for. BURNETT STREET, Largest Oycle Manufacturers in the Colony THE COMING BEARVJaST BINDEIi I AM THE AQENT* FOR THE Piano Jones Layer Binder PRICES AFL TERMS ON APPLICATION. <. I Guarantee to keep all Extras. E, W, HANMER J. WILSON, SIQN-WEITEB AND DECORATOR. IMPORTBB OF AETISTIO WALL PAPERS. BURNETT STREET, TELEPHONE 85. SOLE AGENT FOR ASHBURTON AND DISTRICT FOR HALL'S ' -Sanitary WATER PAINT," As used in the principal Hospitals throughout) the world, Ib will stand washing. It kills insects, and is a considerable saving compared to oil paint. THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY MENV. Silk Striped Tennis Shirts from 3s 6d Men's White Canvaa Tennis Shirts 4s 6d Men's Fancy Tennis Shirts, splendid variety Men's Straw Hats from 3a Boys' New Straw Hate from Is Men's Frame Hats in New Shades 4s to 12s 6d The Largest Stock in Aehburton, CYCLING SWEATERS in Fawn and White, from 6a Men's and Youths' Cricketing Trousers, all the Latest Novelties, AT THE NZ. CLOTHING FACTORY- F. H. BBCKINGSALB, Manager. DID IT EVER OCCUR TO YOU ha* lien so called "Just as Good" substitutes are recommended by yonr Dealer the motive Is for self gala, because of increased profit, SO BEWARE!! HONDAI-LANKA CEYLON TEA on a SEALED LEAD PACKET is yonr guide and safeguard. Gold Medal PaEla Exhibition awarded to Maharajah Brand No 1, In Commercial lea Glass. Local Agents—Messrs Shearman Bros., Carson and Son's, Cooch and Co,, Asbburton ; inwald, Mr Gudsell; Methven, Hibba Bros.; Rakaia & Chertsey, Messrs Shannon Bros, BEAD "THE SPORTSMAN," NOW PUBLISHED. OBTAINABLE FROM ALL NEWSAGENTS, Priob—Thbictbnge. Apply for specimen copies, which will be given free, to th« local office of the " Lyttslfcoa rjimes " Company, Ltd, Burnett Street, near Arcade E- NORDON* ishburton Bepreaentatire. 233 ,'



ASHBU RTON OFFICE j "LYTTELTON TIMES" j "CANTERBURY TIMES' "STAR" "*S*PORTSMAN ' WHERE Advertisements and Subscrip tions will be received, and files can be inspected. E. NORDON. Managing Agent for South Canterbury, BURNETT STREET, (Entrance to Ihema*' New Auotion Mart) i 11 10 STILL ADVANCING.



CBAIGHEAD & BEKRYMAfI HAVE just opened oat, ex s.s. Paparoa from London, thellargest shipment of New Goods bitty have hitherto Imported, comprising the moat up to date Suitings from the beat Manufacturers as now worn at Home. (Their immense stock of Fashionable Tailoring Goods now affords customers snob a splendid range of new materials of guaranteed quality and atylish patterns to choose from as ahonld please even the most fastidious, and their prioea, workmanship, and fit will compare favorably with those of the leading firms in Chris tohuroh or other cities. They are also showing a grand lot of new Hats, Shirts, Tiea, Boota, etc., this season. Customer! would do well to place their orders early as O. &B. have already a large number of suits on the books promised before Xmas. 11 140



0, lovely lain, prond Maorlland With sky so blue and landscapes grand, All radiant with the summer's sun, And foliage green, when winter's gone; That season with Its atoms and gales Brings coughs and colds, then grief and walls, Unless we do good health assure Bf taking Woods' Great Peppermint Care| '



Mr Ji 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 Faint, as used for renovating all the principal hospitals, hotels, etc., throughout Great Britain and the polonies. Before renovating the Ohrfatcharph Hospital some time ago, a competition was held to decide upon what kind of distemper or paint would be used for cleansing and decorating the buildings. After exhaustive tests and trials " Hall's Water Paint" was considered by far the belt, and has been used in tbe institution ever since. It is very suitable for applying to walls and ceilings of kitchens, whether wood or plaster. It has an advantage over oil paint, inaamneh 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 j)»s a shipment just to hand,—(Ady^ \% <



A oongb ii not ft disease but a symptom? Consumption and bronchitis, whiob are the most dangerous And ftbt«l diseases, have for th«ir first indication a persistent oongb, and if properly treated at soon as this cough appears, are easily cared* Chamberlain's Oough Remedy bar proven wonderfully snoeessfat, and gained it* wide reputation and extensive sale by. its success in earing the diseases wbiob cause oongbing If it is not beneficial it will nob cost you a cent For sate by Ashbnrtoa Dtag Company. ■ consulting opmoian Kr Ernest M. Sanditeio, DBOAI, FS, MO, who has lately returned after six years' special study in England and Con. tinent, may b« nonsuited on all oases of defective eyesight. Daylight not necessary artificial light being nsed. Doctors' pre scriptions prepared. Fees moderate. Con salting rooms, Oashel Street Wj, over M Bandstein, jeweller, Christohtirch. 930 to 1,2 to 6 daily ALL LoAsmr's Preparation —Cinnamon Cure, Koolibah, Wahoo, and Benjaman Qum—at JTQooob Storekeeper!



OWING to a great increase In business we have arranged for extension o premises, and to avoid removing and storing » lot of oar Stock, will hold a Genuine Olewln. Sale tor One Month, previous dp the build n commencing operations. Thia is an opportunity rarely met with of obtain* ing New and Seasonable Drapery and Oloth ing ft t Greatly Reduced Prioef.—RoMßi