THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICE

Trains leave Aehburfcoa daily for— OHRISTOHUROH—at 7.20 a.m., 11 a.m., 3.15 p.m., 75pm. (express) TIMARU-at 10.65 a.m., 3 50 p.m. DUNEDIN—at 12.54 p.m. (express) SPRINGBURN-at 4.25 p m. Trains arrive daily at Ashburton from— GHKISTOHUROH-at 10.45 a.m., 12.47 p.m. (express), 8 p.m. TIMARU—at 10.35 a.m., 255 p.m. DUNEDIN—at 6.57 p.m. (express) SPRINGBURN-at 9,45 a.m,

EPHEMERIS.

Phases of Moon for August

SUN.

SECOND EDITION Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. MONDAY, AUGUST 13, 1900. THE PUBLIC LIBRARY.

The question of improving oar Public Library ia one urgently requiring the attention of the Borough Council, under whose control it is, Doubtless, there was a time in the " tussock" days of Ashburton, when the Library was a great institution—considering. It was, at anyrate, aa good as could be expected then, and those whose names were identified with it, were entitled to the thanks of the community. But now that Ashburton is rapidly increas ing ia size and importance, the present Library is altogether unworthy of it. We are to have a bran new post office, and an almost, bran new Council Chambers, and it ia to be hoped that when the changes resulting upon the completion of the latter work have been completed, there will also have been provision made for filling the shelves of the Public Library with really useful books. At present the books are mostly works of fiction-— classical and otherwise: fairly well selected for this class, but at present of no use to anyone except new members, as they have been bo long on the shelves that nearly all the subscribers must have read them ages ago. In faefc, we know that one reason why the list of members is so much smaller than it should be in a town like this, is that there are not enough new books to choose from. And what new books have been added of late do not include a sufficient proportion of the works which attract public attention outside of the sphere of romance. Fur example, the books which refer to the great events now passing in Africa and China, which are of such absorbing interest just now, are almost unknown to the members who have no other libraries within their reach. Lord Roberts' " Forty Years in India" and Henry Norman's work on China and the East now so frequently referred to—cannot be found in the Ashburton Library. And we could mention scores of others which ought to be in such an institution, provided, of course, that it is to be equal to the requirements of the com munity ia which it exists. We trust the Borough Council will take into consideration, at an early date, the question of making the Asbburton Public Library worthy of this important town and district. For we must not forget that a really goed public library in Ashburton would prove of the greatest benefit to the whole of the inhabitants of the Ashburton county s

Local and General.

• # * Interesting reading matter will be fouud on the first and fourth pages of this issue.

Volunmkbino* — The members of the Ashburton Guards are reminded that there will he an inspection parade at the driilahed chia craning by Colonel Moore, and thac a large muster is requested:

Stcck Tiuins.—A special train of thirty* three tracks of sheep from Invercargill, consigned to Mr Fraaer, arrived at Kangitata yesterday, Another special of forty-nine trucks oi sheep parsed through yeatarday to the Islington Freezing Works.

Trke Pjcansik<j—Mr Coward, manager of the Ohatmosa estate, is having most of the frost ■ blighted gums along the railway frontage of the estate cut down, and he intends planting maorocarpa and piuue ineigaia in their place.

The Mails—The colonial mailer, which lef b Auckland per the Alatneda on July 9, arrived in London qh Thursday last—one day late. The Alameda, with the English mails, left San Francisco ott Wednesday last—due date.

Gbass Grubs — Farmers inform the Bruce ffetald that) the ravages of the species of white grub, which attacks grass, are more noticeable this season than formerly. In a few placeß considerable areas are affected, while in others the grub appears to be located in small round patches, varying from three to seven or eight yards in diameter.

Ambulance—Arrangements Jare well in hand for the examination of the work of the Ambulance students, to be held on August 25 In addition to doctors Trevor and Hunter, who will conduct the liamin&tion, Miss MoAndrew will supervise the bandag ing portion of the work.

A MAORI PjEDGBS—The following ia a notification by the Pictoo Maoris '.—"We, the Elect of Te Aroha Nui, Waikawa, hereby give notice that under the Seventh rule of Jehovah, moo, women, and children have strictly agreed nob to take spirits of any kind ; also that) any person or persons intoxicated, or having bottles of spirits on them, shall not be allowed to enter within our gates or round about."

New Publication—With thia issue we distribute a ciroular announcing that on August 16th The Sportsman and Nno Zea~ land Cyclist will be published. The New paper will (give up todate sporting and dramatic news and will be issued at the smaliesb silver coin price of 3d. The circular also contains particulars ef the Cantttknry Times mid-winter pim'e oompe fciou,

Railway Staff Changfs—Mr 0. Turner, otationmaster at Hinda, has been promoted to Thornbury Junction, in Southland, and Mr Reid of Washdyke comes to the Hinds* The change will take place aboub the 2Cbb, inst. Mr Geo. Bryant whose transfer from Timara to Aahburfcon we noticed » week ago wm presented on Friday evening with a handsome dressing oiae by Mr Marcus •feationmasfeec at fEimwu oa bttalf of the ■t»ff there.

Obituary—A cable message from Ballarat announces the death of Mr W J Payne, of the bdlringer family, aged thirty-bwo,

Hobsb PABADH-rThe date of the Timaru horse parade has been fix«d for Saturday, September 29.

Thh Yoong Jdba:—A Melbourne boy, charged with stealing pigeonß, assured the Magistrate that he had only commandeered 'em!

Tinwald Sports Club. —Th« meeting of thoss interested in the formation of the TinVald Sports Club has been postponed until Tuesday, 21st) inst, at 8 o'olook

New Shabk Issue—For the new Issue of 2000 shares in the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association of Canterbury ap plications were reoeived up to noon on Fri day for 3026 shares, and the allotment was made on Saturday.

D» HosKiNG—The NZ 7«««(Wel!ingfco») gays:—The Rev Dr Hosking has received a gift of a seotion of land in the Wellington district from a reiident of the city for the use of a Free Methodist Church* Arrange ments will be mads to erect a church and parsonage on the site. This gift was made to Dr Hoiking as President of the Fret Methodist Churches in New Zealand. The name of the generous doner haa not tram pired.

Nkw Zbalahd Thermal Springs-The Surveyor-General says: "It is perhaps aoaroeiy appreciated by the public generally what fcbis stream of tourists, that every yew visits the colony to see our scenery and natural wonders, means to the peopls of the colony. EsbinxAtes made by peop't who have opportunities of gauging its volumt make the sum annually spent in New Zealand by these people over £100,000 in hard oath, besides the indirect contributions to the Customs revenue.

Ah Unkind CuT.—S»ya the Wellington correspondent! of the Dunedln Star :—On Thursday Mr Piruni was speaking after 2 a in to hi* amendment to the Ministers' Salaries Bill, when Mr H*)l interjected : "Guti it short." Quick as a Sash, Mr Pirani retorted : "Id would be impossible to out your hair short," and as the member for Waipawa wears a wig the observation was " the unkindest cat of all." The House laughed when the Chairman of Committee* ordered the withdrawal of the remark owing to its offoosiveueai.

Thb Cheviot Estatb.—The Lands and Survey report for the year states that the Cheviot) estate continues to progress satis factorily. It is now six years ■moo the estate was taken ever, and it is interesting to note that whilst the value of the improve ments required by law is £46,590, those actually made by the 222 holdtra Amount to £63,274, twenty of the selectors being somewhat in arrears under this head. The arrears of rent on March 31 amounted to £218, due by thirty-three Bottlers.

CoBPOBAii Upton.—Mr T E ¥pfcon has received the following wire from Mr Seddon, —" I have received a cable from Mr Piloher: Capetown, dated 11th, to the effect that he is prosecuting enquiries regarding your son, and that the delay has been caused by congestion in traffic. As soon as news ia received I will communicate with you again. I hope it may be such as to relieve your anxiety.—R. J. Seddon." The above will answer the numerous enquirers who have applied to us for information on this matter.

St John's Ambulance Sooibtt—The fourth leoture of the Aahburton branch of the Sts John's Ambulance Society was given on Saturday last, when there was a full at tendance. This lecture was given by Dr Trevor, who explained that he had oeen suddenly asked ts do so by Dr Bolger, who had bsen o&VSed into the country, and fchab therefore tie was scarcely prepared to do much, bub that they must look on it ai a pleasant chat, The Doctor gave a most interesting and instructive discourse on the various forms of insensibility, and how to treat them. At the close of the lecture a very hearty vote of thanks wai accorded to the doctor, for his kindness la coming for ward at so short a notice, and for the very interest,ng lecture he had given them.

Ths Boxebs— Mesarß Symes, Millar, Gi! fedder, and others hare been playfully Dick-named by their fellow-members the Boxers, and they have been putting the screw on the Premier. This is what, accord ing to the Dunedin Star, took plaoe on Tuesday re the proposal for an additional Minister ;—The whips reported to the Pre mier thac they could not rely on more than thirty-seven members' support for the pro petal for an additional Miniater. Mr Seddon, fearing defeat, asked the " Boxers " to submit a suggestion, and they came back with a round robin, in wnich they explicitly stated thafe they would op. pose that portion of the Bill providing for additional Ministers until an amendment is the Representation Act was passed providing for an increase to eighty members. Mr Seddon pointed out thati the Council might reject the Bill, or it might) be blocked In committee, and he interpolated in the memorandum submitted by the deputation " until every reasonable means have been made bo amend the Representation Aot," and this was acoepted by the deputation.

METHVEN

From a Correipomlent

The newly organised branch of tha IO 6 T in Methvea is, I am pleased to report, flourishing, and, judging by the stamp of its members, ife bids well to ba a success, and its power for good will, I venture to prophecy, be felt in the noted " Highland city." It has just entered on ita second quarter. The officers ot the previous term were reinstated. An open meeting was held in the schoolroom on Saturday night last, f»nd proved quite a success. Many visitor* were present and aimoib a full attendance of members. A very lengthy programme of songs, readings, and recitations was gone through. Refreshments were kindly provided by Bra Blair and Sisters Blair. Muoh credit is due for the able and splendid manner ia which they were dispensed. Il was quite gratifying to the lodge to see so many visiting friends. Ib showed to them that) they had many around them who were also sympathisers with thorn in the cause of temperance, although they were nob members of the Order. I feel confident that the members will all be encouraged in their work for the right, as they remember the many friends they have—if not brothers or sisters—who are with them in this good cause. The lodge meets weekly now, instead of fortnightly, as formerly, Satur days, Methven, August 11.

North Canterbury Educational Institute

A meeting of the Ashburton Section of the North Canterbury Institute, was held in the Borough School, A«hburtoa t on Saturday.

In the unavoidable absence of the Presi dent (Mr Brook), Mr Mitchell occupied the ohair.

A discussion took place on the circular from the Education Board re Instruction in Drill, and the following resolution wm un animously passed—" That it be recommcßded to the Board of Education that teachers attending drill otasiea should be allowed the same privilegee as volunteer! attending drill, namely, a free pass on the railway.

A paper oa " Appointments of teachers," by Mr W Stoub, was then read by the Secretary, It proved aa exceedingly able 1 and interesting paper, and showed very clearly how unsatisfactory the present system li» A very useful discussion followed, and the following resolution carried unanimously.— " That; it be a recommendation io the New Zealand Educational Institute, th&b a systematic agitation be set on foot in order to bring about a better system of promotion and appointments among teachers, and that merit and not local influences should be the principal factor in determining appointment* —that therefore a determined effort should be made to shift the responsibility from the local School Committee! to the Board of Education and Inspectors." The thanks of the Branch were accorded to Mr Stout for his paper, and the meeting adjourned. ,

OBITURARY.

LORD RUSiSELL OF KILLOWEN, United Press Association—By Electric

Telegraph—Copyright Lokdon, Ang 10 Lord Itassell of Killowen ia dead. He succumbed daring an operation.

DEATH OF A DUNEDIN CITIZEN.

Sydnby, Aaguafc 12 Mr Hagh MaoNeil, a well-known Duaedla citfzen. is dead.

The Anarchists

THE ATTEMPTS TO KILL THE

SHAH

United Press Association--By Electric (Telegraph Paris, August 11.

Valetbe, the anarchist arrested for an attempt on the life of the Shah, has been discharged.

The New Zealand Contingents.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

WEMiIKGtOK, August 13

Captain Major has written to the Premier •tating that the men are rapidly learning battery work, and practically all on their own, as there are only two Imperial men with eaoh gun. He advises the Premier to ask for a battery after the war, and thinks the authorities would hand it over, as the New Zealaindera have saved them a vast amount of trouble. Or De Beozi has ob tained an excellent position as Principal Medical Officer at Buluwayo. He speaks highly of Colonel Wallook, who is a man who has done most for New Zealand®™, also of Major Powell, who commands a battery. Major Francis, in a letter of July 2, reports the death of troopsr Mclntosh, ab TJmtali. £40 has been collected to ereob a tombstone. Much sickness prevails, but New Zealanclers have not suffered to the extent othem have. All the aiok were then progressing favourably. They left Maran dellas, June 1, with Companies 9 and 10. now A and B squadron of the fourth regi ment, second brigade, and arrived on July 2. Captain Davis in charge of the Third Contingent) horse put its foot ill a hole, and threw him hurting his knee, Th« Dr expects him to recover in a few daps. Lieutenant Seddon is well, and has been acting as quarter master on the march. He improved very much since leaving New Zealand, both in work and weight. Mb|-« Francis says, he is commanding the fourth regiment brigade being under Colonel Grey, late f the Life Guards, He adds, " I H,m proud of my command, and there is a pro bability of my getting my old rank. Have just informed our men that they will receive the same pay as the rest of the Rhodesiun field force*. We go to Tuli."

Undesirable Visitors

The Press says that the approach of a racs meeting in Christohnrch is always haralded by the advent of a band of undesirable visitors, and this year the evil seems to be more pronounced than ever, Indted, ate the Magistrate's Court on Saturday, Inspector Ellison declared that the town is "swarm ing with them." Little can be done 10 deal with this semi-criminal floating population, unless the police of the various districts of the colony unite and take concerted mea sures. The police brought up three young men on Saturday in Chriatchurch under the Vagrancy Act, bub the Magistrate did not consider the evidence sufficient to commit).

A CANVASSER'S DILEMMA.

ATTACKED BY TWO DOGS

I A Canvasser for ringer s sewing ! machines named Amos Daniel Kiss, of 79, Palace street, Petersham, Sydney, had a rather unpleasant experience a few weeks ago, while engaged in soliciting orders for his employers, as a result of which experience he brought an action in the District Court againsfe Matthew Hill, of Cromwell-street, Leichhardt, claiming £200 damages, for injuries alleged to have been sustained through being" attacked and bitten by a dog of a fierce and mischievous nature " belong ing to the defendnnt. The defendant pleaded not guilty, and that the plaintiff was a trespasser on his property when the alleged attack was made Plain tiff's evidence was that about eleven o'clock on the morning of March 12 last he entered the defendant's premises by the front gate, in order to solicit an order. He had got about 15 yards away from the gate, when he was attack ed by « black dog, resembling a collie, which commenced worrying his legs aud trousers. While endeavouring to shake the animal off another dog rnshed out of the house, and assisted in the fray, The defendant's wife, seeing the predica ment he was in, advised him to scale a fence close by, which he managed to do with difficulty, both dogs attacking him until he got out of their reach. He scrambled on to the top of the fence, whence he fell on the other side, to a depth of about 12ft. He was picked up by a man named Hyland, who took him to the Leichhardt Police Station, whence he was accompanied by a constable to Prince Alfred Hospital, where he bad one stitch put in his chin, and four others in another part of his body, Accompany ed by the policeman, he then went back to the house where he had received his injuries, in order to get the name of the occupier. It was the first time he had ever gone to the defendant's house to do business. The evidence for the defence was to the effect that there was a side entrance to the premises for trades people, etc, and although there was a chain on it, the gate was not locked. On the wall near the gate, where the plaintiff entered, and also on the steps inside the gate, there was a notice, •« be ware of the dog. "

His Honor (Judge Murray)said ha thought the plaintiff was most decidedly entitled to a verdict, as ha had been in vited into the premises—the gate leading to the premises being unlocked—and been seriously injured. He considered that owners of vicious dogs trusted to broken reeds when they trusted to notices for, in the first pi ice, it must be proved that persons about to enter premises where they were set out could read the notice, and in the next place that they could pee it. He must find in favour of the plaintiff, whom he awarded £20 damage*.

Yachting.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph * London, August 10 Mr Millar's Australian Cap yacht race at Oowes has been declared off, owing to the lack of entries.

Transvaal War.

United Presa Association—By Eleotric

(Telegraphs— Copyright

London, August II

There is much excitement in Eng land over the Pretoria conspiracy. The public and press loudly demand more vigorous treatment of the Boers, and exemplary punishment of the con spirators.

Major Maxse's new Pretorun police discovered the plot oa Tueßday, and arrested six leaders after dark, just prior to an attempt to execute the conspiracy. The others were subse quently arrested, and all were lodged in separate cells.

A number of burghers and Hollan ders are implicated, Thty maintained communication between the conspira tors and outside Boers:

The bulk of Commandant Christian Da Wet's troops are at Boffieehock, north west of Potchefstrotn.

Pretoria, August 11

The conspirators intended to set fire o ths western extremity of Pretoria, and hoped whilst the troops were extinguishing the flames to enter the officers' residences, and assassinate the occupiers, and them convey Lord Roberts.to the nearest Boer commando. Horses were held in readiness in the nearest suburb.

Many townspeople connived inihe plot.

The indignation of the army is intense. Every conspirator heretofore enjoyed entire personal freedom under oath of neutrality,

Arrangements have been made to court-martial ten of the conspirators. The latter are indulging ia mutual recriminations.

General Mefchuen, pushing rapidly ahead, has arrested De Wet's march. Lord Kitchener is pre&aiog De Wet's r«ar.

Lord Kifcchaner engaged De Wet's rear guard on Thursday afternoon near Litidogue. Simultaneously Lord Mefc huen's guns were beard six miles to the north-west.

London, August 10

General Buller's column, with a marching front extending twenty miles has reached Klippart's Drift. The bulk of the enemy is retreating with six guns. There was a little skirmish ing on tha British extreme left

A latar report states that the Stan derton burghers, who composed the bulk of General Botha's followers, have separated and gone westward. They are wavering in their determination to continue the struggle : ' .

August 11

General Bailer has crossed the Yaal and arrived on the Goldihock'Ermelo road. The enemy, uader Botha, are retreatiug

Corporal F Mackay, of the Gordon Highlanders, has been awarded the Victoria Gross for valour at Orow's Nest Hill, during the fighting round Johannesburg

Mr Oopeland, Agent-General for New South Wales, in the course of an interview, uttered a strong warning against the scheme of Mr Rhodes for introducing Chinese iato Rhodesia.

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

United Press Association—By Electric

Telegraph—Copy righb.

Hong Kong August 11 The British and Americans led the attack on Yangtsun.

The Chinese occupied seven lines of splendid fortified entrenchments two hundred yards apart. They retreated steadily, volleying uatil ejected from tha last line, »nd completely routed, they fled towards Pekin.

The British had two hundred killed and wounded, and the Americans two hundred and fifty.

The priseners say the British poured poison into the trenches, meaning lyddite fumes from shells

Japanese sailors landed and assisted the Russians in sucees fully defending the Niu-Chwang settlement against the Boxers and Chinese auldiers. The lighting lasted the entire day.

The Russian gunboats ia the after noon bombarded the native city forts.

The Bussian soldiers stormed and captured Niu-Ohwang, introducing Riusian administration there.

Sir Olaude Macdonald, in. a cypher message on the 4th, confirms M Fiction's massage in reference to the negotiations for the Ministers leaving Pskin.

Mr Conger, in a cypher messagr, states that seven American marines have been killed and sixteen wounded ia the attacks on the Legations, London, August 11 The Yokohama correspondent of the Daily Express states that a strong Russo Japanese force is secretly ad vancing on Pekin from the northward, ■ St Petersburg, Aug 12

The Ozir has authorised M De Giers and his staff to start for Tientsin, conditianally on the Yamen and the Emperor affording a sure guarantee that no danger would beget the members. He has warned China that tho slightest infraction of inviolability will be visited with the heaviest responsibility

CABLE NEWS.

United Frees Association—By Eleobrio Telegraph—Copyright

London, August 11 Major Lothaire, manager of the Congo Free State Trading Company, who won notoriety some time ago in correction with the murder of a British trader named Stokes, faas been cashiered for illtreating natives. Several mem bers of the company were murdered by natives, the result, it was alleged, of terrible atrocities practised by Lothaire and other officials. The Belgian Press took the matter up and demanded an enquiry into the charge.

August 12 The 18150 exhibition science research scholarship granted to Mr Mellor, New Zealand, is to be continued for a second year.

August 10 Lord Brassey has arrived at Hast ings in the yatch Sunbeam, and was warmly welcomed. Replying, he said the Victoria was again on the crest of the wave of prosperity, and the Federa tion of th« Empire wa« growing ftt&r.

Sydney, August; 11 Oswald Oullen and J" Reynolds wera

arrested on arrival of the Tarawera, charged with stealing £34. The money, with the exception of one pound, ba« been recovered. They have bean ra manded till the 18tb.

August 12

The Government has ordered several 4.7 guns and Vickers Maxims. A new field battery of 15-poanders to replace the one sent to the Cape, ia to arrive n three weeks.

Sporting.

RIOOARTON TRAINING NOTSSt

United Press Association—By Eleobrio Telegraph

Ohristckdrch, August 15 Useful work was done by Kanaka, Tha Spinner, Sir Launoelot, Ideal, Camec, Sword* fish, Cadet, Silver Ray^Phryne, Sub Raw, Coeur de Lion, Xsehan, Rawai, Torpina, Roller, Buamahunga, Hauriri, Huntingdon, Sundial, Halcyon, Kauri .Gam, JTatar*moi| Paria, Kowahi, Iluku, Gillie, Strathnaim, Straybird, Honors, and Rex 11. Waibora, Dundee, and The Whip; Record Reign and Ilex, and Johnny were schooled. Dundee struck one fence, and Ilex jumped hotter thnn the hurdle favourite. He is, however, sore. This morning a heavy misb enveloped the oour«e, bui a lot of good work was doM. Torpina, Hauriri, Dr. Bill. Record Reign, HukuGillie, Ideal, FemaleFrauohiie, &i»r»ff, Honors, O»meo, Ccear de Lion, Lapidary, Hair Trigger, Halooyn, RighO Metal, Sir Launcelot, Ruamuhunga, Crocus, Hunting don, Phryne, Rawai, St. Denais, Popgui, The Guard, Black Dusb, Tat»ramoa, Jack, Izal, Kowhai, Ejeebor, Goldspur, and others pat in useful work. Ths I&teab betting straight "ut v 4 do i on tho field for the N.Z. Grand National Steeplechase, which i« regarded ai very open. Doublet—loo to son the field. Morag and Dundee, with Record Reign, IHx, Cosur d« Lion, and Torpina, are the favourite selection*.

ADMIRAL SEYMOUR'S DESPATCH

He Reached Within 13 Miles ef I*ekin

London, June'3o,3 am.—-Theadventure! of the hard fighting allies under Admiral Seymour—their reaching Anting, twelve miles from Peking ; the decision to retreat, the capture of rice and immense stores ol modern anna and ammunition, tSording material for a strenuous defense until relieved—all this was told in a despatch from Admiral Seymour received by tha Admiralty at midnight, which runs as follows:

"xibn-tsin, June 27 (via Ohefoo, June 29, 10 05 p.m.)— Have returned to Tien-Tsng with the forces, having been unable to reach Peking by rail. On June 13th two attacks on the advance guard were made by tha Boxers, who were repulsed with considerable loss (o them and none on our side. On June 14th the Boxers attacked the train at Lang Yatrg p large cumbers and with great determination. We repulsed them with a lose of about 100 killed. Our loss was seven Italians.

"The same afternoon the Boxers attacked the British guard left to proteot Lofa station Re-enforcements were sent back and tha enemy was driven off with 100 killed, Two of our seamen were wounded.

"We pithed forward to Asking and en gaged the enemy on June 13th and Jane 14, inflicting a locs of 175. There were so casualties on oar Bide. Extensive destruc tion of the railway in oar front having made further advance by rail impossible, I de cided on June 16, to return to Yangtsuc, where it was proposed to organize an ad' vance by the river to Peking. After my departure from Lang Yang two trains left to follow on were attacked on. June 18, by Boxers and imperial troops from Peking, who lost from 400 to 560 kil'ed. Our casualties were six killed, stid forty eight) wounded. These trains pined me &t Yang tsun the e»tne evening "The railway ab Yangtsun was found entirely demolished and the trains could not be moved, The force being short of provi sions aad hampered wifh wounded com pelled ua to withdraw on Tientsin, with which we had not been in communication for six days, and our supplies had been cut) off.

"On June 19 the wounded, with neces saries started by boat, the forces marching alongside the met. Opposition was expe rienced during che whole course of the river from nearly every village, the Boxers, when defeated in one village, retiring to the next and skillfully retarding our advance by occupying well selected positious, from wh:ch they had to be forced often at the point of the bayonet, and in face of a galling firs, difficult to locate.

"On June 23rd we made a night march, arriving at daybreak opposite the imperial armory, above Tientsin, where, after friendly advances, a treacherous heavy fire was opened, while our men were exposed on the opposite river bank. Tha enemy were kepti in eheok by rifla fire in front, while theif position was turned by a party of marines and seamen under Major Johnson, who rushed and occupied one of the salient points, seizing the guns. The Germans, lower down, silenced two gum and then crossed the river and oaptured them, Tht armory was next occupied by the combined forces. Determined attempts to retake the armory were mads on the following day, but unsuccessfully*

" Found immense stores of guns, armi and ammunition of the lataek pattern; Several guns were mounted in our defenoe and shelled the Chinese forts lower down<

" Having found ammunition and rice, we could have held out for some daya • but), being hampered with large numbers of wounded, I tenb to Tientsin fora relieving force, which arrived on the morning of Jane 25th. The armory was evacuated and t)h« forces arrived at Tientsin on June 26th. Wo burned the armory. " Casualties to date : 11 British—Killed 27, wounded 75. , " American- -Killed 4, wounded 25. IS French—Killep 1, wounded 10, " Germans—Killed 12, wounded 62: " Italian—Killed 5, wounded 3. " Japanese—Killed 2, wounded 3. " Ausfcrians—Killed 1, wounded 1. "Russians—Killed 10, wounded 27."

Niw Yobk, June 29—A cable to the World from Taku says : That Admiral Seymour's expedition, with all the sick and wounded, is safe at Tientsin, though terribly exhausfcsd, ia duo to Qipfcain Bowman H McOallk, commander of the detachment of the United States marines with the force. On landing Captain MoCalla took two weeks' supplies for hia men, whereas the allies had only five days' stores. When the rations of the others were exhausted Captain MoCalia shared his supplies with the rest of the allied force, and thus actually saved ths whole body from starvation-

Correspondence.

(We do not bold ourselves* responsible for opinions expressed by our correipoßdentg

GERMAN CEMENT AND ITS COST.

TO THE EDITORS

Sib,—As there appears to be some mis conception about th« cost of cements landed in Aehburbon, kindly leb me give the fallow ing information which I have gleaned about the matter :—Cemtnt, ex ship at 3s 9d per cask, will cost in store at Aehburton 15i sd. With reference to the Mayor's atatement that a saving of £100 had been saved by his purchase, allow me to Ray that it must have been intended as bluff, in order to eic&pe out of a difficulty, only the simple-minded Couuciilore could not see through tha position, and took it all for gospel, It is not often (hat the Mayor is cornered,-bubJn : this transaction he ia left without even a shred of justification for the unusual coarse he has taken. Tho Mayor evidently tKinks he is tha only individual in Aehburton who ia capable of purchasing cameni; for the Council, and being overwhelmed with a deßire to make a saving, he evidently ignores the Council as a body, and makes hit purchase. Now, how does he know he hai effected-;* caving, because he hM given no on* th« opportuuity of wppitißg ftgtiai|

THE ASHBUBTON GtJABDIAK: MOHDAY, AUGUST 13, 190G



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S. H, GBAVES,) SHABEBEOKBR { AND FINANCIAL AGEM, 186 HEEEFOED STEEET, CHEISTOHUEOH. "O ELIABLE Information on Dredgip XX Stocks. Correspondence Invited. OOPIS : Bedford McNeill's, Moreing and Neal's, A.8.0. Code (fourth Edition. 4iR ALBERT ROBERTS, Ashburtoc Reprosentative ÜBiwiiiMite ADDRKBifi GRAVES. Obrlstohuroh. 3 21 *3 s c „Ss ■ 111 ° H B ■ & w op FOR g\ I YEARS i WPATFuro's I Wf Harness, "" "" Machine Belting, Etc, Rroafsefi with BIfUKCATED RIT«TS SET wifch » Hammer. From all Iron mongers and Storekeepers. JJIFETBOATED RIVET CO., Ltd., LondoD, England. Fall partic»l«e» from H*rrisen k Webbr Aveklftnd. (Onti thin out and show your Ifoamonyer.) 6 33 KE-PLATED AND RK-ENAMELLED la »1( Ooloori, including the liATBST KHAKI, with Silver and Gold Decorations, JYom SOs. OATES. LOWRY AND GO. KEALANDU CYCLK WORKS, Burnett Street Harden Fertilisers, (In S6lb and i!2lb Bags.) MOS7 of the Annnftle and Vegetable ■which wera awarded ptltes ab the Caaterbary Horticaltnral Society's Autumn Show» 1899, were grown with thh Fertiliser. Elm wood, Papsnui Eoad, Jane, 1899 Gentlemen,—l have nsed Islington's Fertilisers for several yearß. ... In the bibchen garden 1 use it freely and find it advantageous for all sorts of vegetables. As ft liquid manure I have never used a batter for pob plants an<& vegetables. In f»cr, I always have a sack of yonr Fertiliser in my shed for an immediate use. JOHN JOYCE, Gardener. NICOLL BROS. tMatrtc*. Agttita W ANTED KMOWN-Ttaat J. Moison h»a received a large stock of Winter Boot! and Shoes of the best material, also ftlMßfe to arrive new stock of French Goods, and invites the Public for inspection. Sale for one month, commencing SATURDAY. to clear the way. J. M, being the only reliable and practical Bootmaker in the town, this gives him superiority and facility to know the best value and quality. Repairs carried on jnst the same, in the cheapest, neatest), and moat fashionable style. Best }tftthtrs used, and workmun&hip by the best •f tradesmen, »t The Hall, Bast Street, Ashbamai 1 Ttt ANTED KNOVVN-Ladics' Jackets, WW formerly 27« 6i! now 4« lid, Ladies QftMt lormeriy 20s, now S* 6d, Indies MftoiiitOfiheM 4« lid, Girls' 2s lid, Ohildrab'a IJiiterw from 2e 6d, Ladies' Corisetf. from la | U, Hollftna Avrepi 18.—AKDBIW Orr's, ,



S-% UNB 1 Guns ! Guns i Double-Barrei \JF Bcesoh loading reduced to £3 10a ftli i"Bti eiass guns reduced to prices to su I any aportsmaoat Bardlet Bros- ,__ "»3ATHS, Tanks, Sinks, Coppers, Spout- Jt3 ing and Ridging, etc., made to order, and all Plumbing work done at the lowest figure at Habdley Beos 171 EW Pain White Blankets left at 7s 6d, ■* 10s 9d, 12a 6d (sellinjt? fast) at the •• Ooro«r " SaIe.—NOBTHOOTH & HEgroap. W*"* AJWTED KNOWN-The Stocktaking Sale is a success ab the Corner Mor» startling jobs for Satoeday. —North, pom k Hsygoßp. ti PELHAM POULTRY YARDS. nnHE Proprietors are largely reducing X Btock, to make room for coming aeaton young birda. Some first class Andalusians, Houdane, Orpingtons (buff and black), Gol den Pencilled Hamburg*, »sd Partridge Cochins will be for sale for * nbord time at ezfcrwnely lowpriees. 7*^9



BELFAST AND FAIRFIELD FREEZING WORKS MANURES, ARE THE BEST TjiOß IDURNIP, RAPE WHEAT, AND ANY OTHER CROP. SPECIAL MANURE can be madb for any kind of Soil, or description of crop. SATISFACTION GIVEN EVERYWHERE LAST SEASON. MAjNUBE CAN BE SUPPLIED IN 1 Cwfe, or 2 Owt. SACKS Ordera reoeived b/ s^HXESOXudLKT^siB. bkoh,, Limited., GATVm THOMAS, OR I?Hm j».sft. FARMERS CO-Of»IQJBAXIVKS A SJSOCIA.XIOIV OF CANTERBUBY, Limit©*!., OANTEEBUBY FROZEN MEAT AND DAIRY PEOPUOB EXPORT COMPANY. LIMITED, 8 80 F. WAYMOUTH Secretary. "IT ISN'T" A LEAP IN THE DARK, YOU KNOW THAT THE QUALITY AND VALUE ARE THERE WHEN YOU PURCHASE A PACKET OF HON DAI-LANKA CEYLON PACKED AND SEALED TEA KEVEE SQID LOOSE—Packets and Boxes only. FENCING MATERIALS. STAKES, STAKES, STAKES Barbed Wire. Plain Wire. IKON STANDARDS to 'order in any quantity. COAL. COAL. COAL. TB 1 YOU Want Good WISTPORT COAL! - IF YOU Want Good BLACKBALL COAL! IF YOU Want Good NEWCASTLE COAL! IF YOU Want the-Most Economical Goal in the ;markefe, rget] "SHAG POINT." Send your Ordera to as, and you will save money, and keep year tsmper good. We have all the above Coals, and can supply your wants immediately w. h. collins & co., REMOVED TO MITCHELL & TURNERS OLD PREMISES, TANORKD STREET _ INFDLLSWING. STOCKTAKING SAL*] AT ki THE CORNER." (COMMENCING OUK LAST 14 DAYS.) ANOTHER BATCH OF EEAL JOB LINES. ■ '(Must be 8(14) 6 Only* Men's Tweed Overcoats, 7s 6d, worth 21a 1 Only Assorted Men's Tweed Sac Coats, 9a to 12s, worbh 21« 3 Only Trousers and Vests, 12a 6ct, worth 22i 6d 6 Cardigan Jackets 4a 9d, were 8a 6d 13 Assorted Boy's Tweed Knicker Suite, 6s lid and 7b 6d, (must be wea to be valued, worth 12s ) Large Turkey Handkerchiefs, 3 for Is Silk Striped Mufflers Is 6d, usually 2s 6d 9 Pairs Women's Lice Kid Boobs, usually 12s 6d, now 6s lid 16 Dczon Derby Soarfs, 4 for a lt{worth treble the money) 16 Only Men's Flanael Undere gt lid, usnally 3a lid (a reaHbsrgaln) 48 Pairs Women's leather Slippers 3s 3d (Sewn), wort 4s 9d, (beaft.ralue in Ashbarton without doubt) 125 Pairs Ladies' Kid Far Topped Gloves, 2a lid, (during sale only) 24 Pairs Men's Lamb Wool Pants, 4s 6d (worth 6s6d) „ 300 Boy's Tweed Gaps, 6 for Is (look ab these) 46 Hearth Bugs 6s 6d, worbh 9s 6d (hard to be equalled) 3 only large Kidder Carpet Squares, 29a 6d (worth 49s 6J) 40 Dozan White Turkey Towels, 6d, 9d, la 60 Dozen Brown Turkey Towels, 6d, 9d> 1b 250 Yarda Bordered Apron Clothe, s£d, p>jrth 9-i 10 Pairs Fay Blouse Flannellett**, i^i^^l &d A large lob of Plain Colors at Sale value 22 Dark Tapestry Qailtß, 5a 6d 75 White Blankets, 3s 9d each 80 Grey Blankets, 6s 3d each 1050 Yards Cretonnes (all designs) 4£6% s£d, &$d 49 Pairs Lace Curtains 3s 3d, worth 5a 6d 35 Holland Aprons, Is, Is 6d, Is 9d 16 Child's Tunics, 3s lid, worth 6a 6d Special Reductions during the last 2 Weeks on the Balance of our j Ladies' Trimmed Hats, I/idies 1 Capes, and Ladies'. Jackets. 14 Children's Mackintoshes, 3a 63 to 6s lid, must be cleared 187S Yards Wide Fancy Ribbons, for ne-cfc wear, 4d, 4§d, sp, 6d; worth up to 3s per yard 115 Yards Fry Dresa Tweeds, 7|i j jrere Is 3d 66 Yards Silk Btriped Crepon Is 6d a yard (was 2a lid) Ladies' Belts 3d, 53, 9d (worth trablfc) 60 Pairs Coraets. assorted from Is lid to 4a 6d, all |odd sizes and mak —• originally 2a 9<3 to 9a 6d 12 Pieces Colored Velveteen le s^l, all shades 2 Pieces only Black Velveteen, 11^1 37 Yasda Evening Tinsel Dreaa Stuff Is 3d (was 2a 3d) PtfTi^tibuiafcor Quilts, new and worth inspecting. Cot Quilt!, new and W " dospectiDg. Full size Bedstead Quilts new and worth inspetting, SPEND>SOUK OASH_AT THIS SALE NORTHCOTE X& HEFFORD » THE CORNER.



LARGE IMPORTATION OF WALL PAPKBS. I HAVE jusb received (ex 8.8. Paparoa) a Shipment of the NEWEST IN PAPER HANGING, to which I invite inspection. These papers are exceedingly rich in design and colouring, People desirous of decorating their rooms later oe, may chose their Hangings from the presoat full Stook, and I will lay them aside until required, J. WILSON, HOUSE DEOORATOE, BUKNETT STBEET, Aitiuts' Muter*! Dspot.



The reliable Family Remedy Woods' Great Peppermint Cure for Coughs and Odds- Is 6d and 2a 6d Smoke New Venae .



TO THE DEAF—A rioh lady, oured of her Deafness and Noises in the Head by Dr Nicholson'* Artificial Ear Drums, gave £501 to his Institute, so that deaf people unable to procure the Ear Drums may have them free. Address No. 6670. The Nicholson Institute, LoDgcott, Ghißnersbury, London 4 Cinnamon Care, Wahoo, Koolibafcor. Benjamin Gum s>o 2 Ashburion