Mail Notices.

Mails clone for the following placet a■ ! coder, subject bo the necessary alteration!!: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2 for Northern Ports and West port, per j Tar&wera, ar> 6 30 p m THURSDAY, J ANUARY, 3 For Northern ports, per Zealand!*, at 10,30 » m For Northern Foirti and Westporb, per Rotomabana at 6 30 p n FRIDAY, JANUARY 4 Far Northern Perls, Westport, Australian Coloniei (due Sydney January 10th), also India, China, Japan, Straits Settlement, etc, United Kinsdom (due London Ftbruary 17th), and Continent of Europe, specially addressed via Brtadisi, per Moans, at 10.30 am Express delivery and special messenger ■ernes* will be established at Ashhurton as from let January 1901. Pxpress delivery will cover letter* and parcels bod exoeediag three Iba m weight), for which an extr* fee of sixpence has been paid. The special mes senger service means placing a messenger at the disposal of any telephone exchange subscriber on request being made, and a fee of sixpence for the first mile and threepence ■ taoh additional mile up to two miles or time payment hdng made

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2, 1901. Local and General.

Gardening.—Amateur gardeners will find the work for the month given m detail m another column. Canterbury Times—This week's Canter bury Times rontains an excellent photo of Mr Joseph Friedlander, who recently atteined his majority. Lettbb ]?bom the tbokt—We have been shown an interesting letter from the front, from Corporal Yernon Steward to his parents, some extracts from which we hope to publish m our next issue*

! Fabmers' Olto—Mr Morgan, of Mefchven, who has been interesting himself m the for* matron of & farmern' club m that district, is etill sanguine of Bucoeia,and it is to be hoped that his efforts will era long be crowned with the BUCOBSB they deserve. Labbikinism.— The larrikin element wus m evidence again on New Years Eve m Ash burton when gate* were removed, decorations rora down and other damage created . As 8 result of the removal < f gates several persons have lost the run of their brutes as reference to oar adverHeJag columns will show. Watchnigut Service. —Taere w*s only & f.iir a ten iauce at the united! service held at the Baptist Churaii oa New Year's Eve, but the pr cardings were both profitable sod solemn- Rev W Lamb presided, and ad dresses were given by Rev R Rtine and Thomas Fee. Oub Athletes—At the Rmgoria Sports ysteirdny, J MLynekey secured n*rß*>priz) m alt the amateur events conteßtfld, At the Timaru Caledonian Sports, W Fi zgerald scored first m the pole vau ting snl for jumping, and second m the 120 yds hurdles; Alex Wilson running third m the earns cv n'.

New YbAß's Eve,—The weather waa cold and anything but genial on New Years Eve, consequently fuwei people were about the streets than Is customary, and the retailers suffered accordingly. As the night wore on the streets became almost deserted and the?e was no demonstration when the town clock tolled the hour of twelve which bade farewell to the cloiing year nnd ushered m not only the New Year but the New Century. Doubt less many citizens celebrated the event m the privacy of their homes. A united watch night service was held m theßsptut Cbureb, Sohdat Sohooi TBEAT.--The Baring Square Sunday Sobool held their annuil pionic on New Years day m th» Ashburtoa domain,, wbere"from eleven o\, ok .forenoon i to dusk, both juveniles and adults appeared j to enjoy what the Americans term " a good { time.'' In the absence of aoy public sports or matches, the school had full use of the oval traok and thera was no leek of fun and enjoyment Lunch was provided at midday, and the usual tea m the evening* There waa a moderate Attendance of visitors; The school stuff exerted itself to the utmost to give satisfaction, and the affair passed off without accident or anything to mar the pleaiaro The Peshit Poaffl.— There was consider* »ble competition m Ohrisfcobnrch yesterday for the honor of tending from the city the first letter bearing the universal ptnny stamp. Within a quarter of an hoar of opening the doors severnl thousands h*d been cold, and at half-past 9 o'clock the whole supply ol 7200 was exhausted, and large crowds were turned away from the Post Office doors. — A Press Association telegram from Duaedki to-day states that the firs- issue of the naiversal postage stamps was sold out yesterday within an hour. The office was thronged with persons anxious to buy* The Amount of cbe purchase was restricted to one shilling each customer, and mosß of these were posted the same day to enable the senders to get the letters bearing ths date of the first day of the new century.

A Fire.—Shortly after one o'clock yeeter* day afternoon a fire was discovered m one r! the bedrooms of Devane'e Family Hotel. The bed, window curtains and vanetiao blind were ablaze but fortunately water was at band m the bathroom adjoining and a few bueketsfu! soon quenched the fisines. The room iB that oconpied by Mr and Mrs Devane themselves and the? had been m it bsjfore leaving for the Tinw&ld Baoes half an hour previous to the fire being seeD, On the alarm being given the Fire Brigade turned oat m excellent time but as there were no horses procurable a long delay oooured bafore the engine could be drugged to the hotel which is within a few chains of the brigade station. It was fortunate for the owner of iha property that the fire was discovered so quickly and got under so promptly by those on the spot for the arrival| of the fire engine was so protracted that nothing could a&ve saved the building from complete destruction if its services had been required. There ia bo clue as to the origin of the fire and the contents of the room are insured.

Pakdbr & Sokb' Eucalypti Extract— Under the distingaished patronage of Hii Majesty the King of Italy, awarded Diploma at the International Exhibition, Amsterdam, Acknowledged by Medical Clinics and Uni versities all over the globe. That the crude, resinous oils, which are now foisted upon the public nodptr the same of Eucalypi Extracts, may not be mistaken for Sander & Bons' Pare Volatile Eucalypti Extract, we state :wlt is provtd by teats made by the Medical Clinks oi! the Universities at Bonn and Griefswald (Prussia), thai only products that are saturated with oxygen And freed of acids, resinous andi other substances adherent to primary distillation, will develop the curative properties possessed by the plant. To rtroid tha appalling consequences result ing from $he application of substitutes, etc., m croup, bronchitis, diphtherla.dysentery, internal inflammation, etc., insist fp getting Sanpkb *nd Sojrs' Pbbb Wql^i E ixrsi B3tißA.cn, and be sfo>

W bather—Captain Edwin forecasts .;— t North to west and south-west) gale ; glass ( fa) 1, but fine after 10 hours firm now ; indi cations of rain Lost Bosses—Mr Jao, Wilson of Bur nett Street advertises a substantial reward for the retuta'of two horses* To our BKADERB.—laerestirg reading matter ulli be found on our first and fourth pages. Vital Statistics —The vital statistics for the month ending December 31. 1900, arc — 6 deaths, 17 births, 7 marriages. The Niw Postage Stamp—l'eaterday njormuß there was k brick denund at the Pott Office for the penny universal pottage stamp, many of the buyers being philatelists, who were anxious to get the issuing date impreied on the stamp for collecting pur poses. There are stilt a few of the stamps for sale, and they will be disposed of m very small quantities. Ah Exciting Experience—While engaged m finning from the north side of the mole en Saturday afternoon a Timaro resident had a rather exciting experience. On palling m his line on one occasion he discovered he had engaged an ootopaa. Having had no previous experience with cuttle fish, when he had pulled his haul to the watty [edge he caught hold of one of its tentacles. Luckily he had : a strong hold of a rock with the other hand, or the consequences might have been serious. The octopus, having a good hold of the large stones of which the mole is ootnpoiad, exerted all its power for mastery but help being ai hand, it was landed and dissected. From tip to tip of its longest tentacles it measured 9ft. Bathers m this locality should take warning _________________

A FINANCIAL CRISIS.

Collapse of Several Compasies

United Press Association—By Eleotric Telegraph—Qopyripht Sydney, December 31 The London and Globe Jfioance Corporation directors have issued a circular stating that it is impossible to realise the Company's valuable assets at present, and advise a voluntary winding up

Interprovincial.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Wbllinswgn, Dec 31 The Pipimui brought 162 passengers, of whom 96 have coma to the colony for the first time and intend to settle. Sir A Milner has cabled to the Govern ment that Trooper Mclntyre, of Wellington, | was wouuded afcTuli on 4h December. Lord I Kitchener cabled on the 29th, In answer to an enquiry from the Government, that Lieut Somerville, and the New Zealand wounded are progressing natisfactorily, and are well cared for m the Yeomanry hospitals. The appointment of new inspectors oi machinery will be necessitated by the boom m the dredging industry, and the need for inspection of I'redfgas m the course of con ■ stracttont Two.or three more will be selected after the holidays, and about a dozen pro ' batiooary constables enter the Wellington training dep6c tomorrow. Mr Ward has received a telegram from Mr Birton, m answer to his request for Ane tralian reciprocity, with respect to Id postage and has repeated its contents to the Premier, bit does not feel justified m making it public. The Postmasters General of Wes traiia a- d Tasmania reply that as their coionirs have entered the Commonwealth hey do not sse their way to give »n imme diate answer to the request No d fficultyis apprehended m getting the required number of men for the Sixth Con tingent, a* already ahoub 400 have been pasted m the various districts

General Colville

CHARGES AGAINST LORD ROBERTS STAFF United Pre-s Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. London, Dec 31 General Colville, when interviewed m London, said that he courted inquiry declaring that he was unwilling to be*" come a pc&pagoat because Lord "Roberts; staff bad bungled t>t Lindley. He cited other instances of the incompetence of Lord Roberts' staff

Gardening for the Month.

JANUARY.

Kitchek Oabden —The month of Jan uary iv generally characterised by the absence of rain and the prevalence of parching north-west winds, so thab little canbedono m the way of planting or sowing; if, however, the weather is favour able, plant out full crops of broooli, cabbage, cauliflower, Savoy, Brussels sprouts, greens, celery, parsley, lettuce, etc. Sow full crop of white stone and golden ball turnip, spinach, lettuoe, endive, also broooli and cabbage for autumn planting. Take up and store when dry, shallots, garlic, and autumn-sown onions as they ripen. Finally thin out crops of beet, carrofc s onion, parsely, etc., and keep the ground thoroughly stirred bet* ween tha rows. The more the ground }c stirred the better, both for the welfare ib. the crops and the suppression of weeds Hand weed whero the hoe cannot reach, to prevent seeding; and bear m miad the old adage— ] One year's seeding gives seven years' weeding.

CtfCUMSKR AWD MELON B"RAME3 — Q&~ cambers will require abundance of water darhit; hot weather, and shading from tlie mid day eon Thin out the shoots and cat the fruit when fib to ose; this will prolong the health and productiveness of the plants. Melons will require considerable at tent' ion this month. Keep the vines thm of ehoota, 60 as to prevent confusion and exhaustion of the plant's strength. The number of fruit to be allowed *o set ©n each plaat will depend on the variety; bat m all cases rather under crop than over crop, so as to Becnre thoroughly-matured and weli-f&voured fruit. When the frdib is about three-parts grown elevate them from the soil, and expose them as much its possible to the influence of the sun and lighb. A moist atmosphere of about 85 cleg , with corresponding bottom heat will be required daring ripening. Greenhouse—C>pious watering will ba necessary to plants m bloom. Tie np aftd support every plant requiring such Aid before the branches extend to too great length: even the smaller twigs require this as well as stopping, to form its habit, if fine plants be an pbjesti. Great want of ,ta?te is exemplified m tying up plants; 1 creepers certainly require such aid, but the majority oi other plants are often sadly deformed by a superfluous number of sticks stuck all round and through them. The roots are broken, lacerated, and often the main ones destroyed, by the careless practice of thrusting m ianumerablesticks amongst them. A plant standing upon its own stem Is certainly a much more inviting object to contemplate than one with nearly every branch supported by ft separate stick* Slower Garden ahd Shrubbery—Peg down and arrange the stems of oloae growing trailing plants such as verbenas, petunia, abronla, umbellate etc Plant out and sow biennials, and attend to the tidiness and cleanliness of this department by at»king and tying up tail-growing plants. Commence propagating geraniums petunias, verbenas, etc., by out tinge, and carnation, pinks, and plcotees by layers. Orchard an© fruj?Ga*d#k—Thin oqt aUsupeifiuous young from woodfraittrw Early varieties of apples will now be ready for the kitchen. Thin fully for this per goao, and the crop of fruit for gathering Ipe will be much superior, PrapfMß ground for $ew »6rawbewy bt#»!

The Australian Commonwealth.

THE INAUGURAL CEREMONIES (THE PROOEBSIGN IN BYDNKST A BRILLIANT~PAGKANT

F ydnet, Jan 1 The old year departed and the new century was ushered m with the usual demonstrations m the streets at mid night. Large numbers of guests assembled m the vestibule of the Hotel Austra lia. Mr Seddon proposed the toast of ; the Commonwealth and Empire. With Sir John Forrest, he led off the National Anthem, which was taken up through out the building. Everything m the way of decorations has been prepared on a most lavish scale. The Mother Colony nas accepted the duty of honouring herself, and through herself th« colonies forming the Federation by fittingly initiating the Commonwealth with a full determina tion to make the event worthy of the occasion, For weeks past the Govern ment has bad an army «f men, directed by various sectional committees, pre paring the decorations along five miles of the line of route, from the outer domain to the swearing-in pavilion at Centennial Park. From end to end the route has been j lentinnelied with tali Venetian masto, carrying flags, with connecting strings of streaming bannerettes, while the wealth of bunting, shields *nd mural j decorations fairly smother the build ings. A number of magnificent archee have been erected on various portions of the route, The swearing-in pavilion is a beautiful pure white octagonal structure, surrounded with seats for invited guests, and others. In the centre is a national rising amphitheatre, capable of seating and holding 150,000 sight seers, Every possible available spacf bis been seized on to erect stands, M*ny roofs even having been utilised, Those m the city, the front of Parliament House, Martin Place, and elsewhere, are capable of accommo dating many thousands, while Oxford street, from Darlinghurst to the gates of the Park/ are practically one line of stands, the largest one occupying a large vacant space along the whole side of the barracks

The Red Letter Bay iv Australian history has come and gone, and the political work of years has been con summated Precisely at 10 30 am, the immense cavalcade commenced to move. The M out ted Police led the way, followed by fire brigades with steam fire engines, forming an escort to three cars filled with members of (he Fomfch Estate. The whole route throughout was lined with local troops, who kept the passage wty clear for the procession. Following the Press were two fine allegorical cars, representative of Italy and Canada, the former occupied by officers dressed ix* Italian uniform?, the others iv the costume of Garibaldi's men while m the central cur was a large bust of the great Italian liberator.

After the cars came the members of the local Parliament, City Corporation, and distinguished visitor?; Mr $eddon occupied a carriage with Mr Kingston, escorted by the Maori members of the New Zealand Contin gent. Sir Robert Stout and Judge >dwards shared a carritge with the •Primate, Dr trmith. After carriages of notable personages came wbst formed the chief attraction of the pageant, the military Contingents. The new South Wales Lsocers led the the way with the men returned from South Africa, and the soldiers presett ing the Soudan Contingent, then came the visitors from Qaeensland,Tasmama, West Aus'ralis, South .Australi*, Vic toria, and New Zealand, m the order named. This brignde was under the command of Colonel Pole-Pentou, the New Zealand Commandant,

Next followed the Indians, who pre sented a brilliant specacle m their bizarre uniforms. The cavalry section showed themselves splendid horsemen, and the foot regiments were big, fine looking fellows. The bronzed complexioned eons of India gave a touch of splendour to th» scene with their rich dresses and turbine. Immediately preceding the Governor- General's carriage were the unattached reserve officers and the visiting Commandants, each preceded by his staff officer. Then Lord Hopetoun's carriage, fol lowed by an escort of 101 New South Wales Lancers, Sydney, January 1

Within two and a half hours of starting the Governor General entered the Park, a Royal salute being fired. Cheers, which had been continuous as his Excellency came along from the gabee, were renewed ai he turaed from his place m the procession to the pavilion, looking much better than he had on his official landing a few weeks ago. Lord Hopetoun bowed acknowledg ment to the enthusiastic crowds which followed m the way of the procession. As Lord Hopetoun took bis place m the pavilion the hymn "O God, our help m ages past," was sung impressively by a choir of 400 voices. The Archbishop followed with prayers for the Commonwealth and the Governor-General. Amid cheers the Governor took the oaths of office, then the Federal Ministers were sworn m, including Mr Neil Lewis, Premier of Tasmania, and Mr R & O'Connor, two honorary Ministers; The choir then aang Jackson's "Te Deum," aad the Royal Horse Artillery fired a salute of 21 guns Lord Hopetoun read cables from the Queeo, who desired to express to the people of Australia her heartfelt interest m the inaugu ration of the Commonwealth, and heartfelt wishes that under Divine providence the union would increase the well being of her loyal subjects m Australia. The message was read | amidst great and prolonged cheering. Lord Hopetoun also read a cablegram from Mr Chamberlain assuring the people of Australia of the good wishes of Government for the future of the Commonwealth of Australia. The public sphool choir of 10,000 strong sang ' Federated Australia,* and after the Hallelujah Ohoras' was rendered, { the ceremony concluding with ' God Savo the Queen,' sung by the combined

choir. His Excellency left the park as (he New Sooth Wale" Artillery fired another salpte of nineteen guns. The

visitors had barely reached home before I Nature sainted the new nation with a I violent thunderstorm of some hows' 1 duration, and a very heavy rain fell. / Sydney, Dec 81 . j Midnight services were held at ail the) Protestant Ohurchea to-night, Special prayers of intercession were offered for a divine bhsring on the Empire and Common wealth. At the Synagogue the service included a special thanks giving for the consummation of Federa tion, and a blessing on Lord Hopetonn and the Commonwealth; At St. Mary's Cathedral a thanksgiving mass was celebrated.

Fire in Newcastle

United Pre»« Association—By Electric Telegraph—-Copyright Sydney, Dec 31 A fins m Newcastle proved very deitruo-1 tive. It burnt! tba ■tores and bond of D Cohen and Go with itt immense stock, in cluding large quantities of matches »nd sol phar, and deatroyed the building, which ii five atoreyt high. The firemen, owing to primitive appli»Hc«a, were unable to cope with the fire, and concentrated their efforts on laving the surrounding building*. The main building it still burning; The damage is «stlmMtsd at £56,000 "Sydney, January 1 The Qaos* of the fire at Newcastle ii a mystery The futnei of smouldering ouiphur rendered the work of extinguishing the fhmei difficult; The seamen of the varioui ships m harbour gave valuable aciiatanne. The water supply was sadly deficient* It it understood that the contents of the building were insured, bat Vhe amount is not stated.

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

United Press Association —By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. London, Dec 31 The Daily News Shanghai correspon dent states that Li Hung Chang has telegraphed to Sheng, Director of Tele graphs and one of the Peace Envoys, that the Court has accepted the Powers terms, and authorised the signing of a 1 preliminary treaty. The Pekin correspondent of The Times states that Count Waldersee's harshness towards innocent Chinese and constant practice of extorting contributions and the frequent breach of his promises is injuring the reputation of the Allies and producing a condition of unrest, ■ affording a pretext for the continuance iof hostile occupation. He urges that j the British troops should be removed from Count Waldersee's command, since British officers are never consulted.

Primitive Methodist Sunday School Picnic.

I The annual picnic of the teachers and ! scholars and their friends connected | with the Primitive Methodist Sunday School took place yesterday at the Wakanui Beach, about 300 attending. The pleasure seekers were conveyed m trollies drawn by two traction engines, most kindly placed at the service of the organisers by the Messrs Watkin Bros, and Mr Robert Meaclem, and created quite a stir on their departure from Wills Street m the morning. As the iron steeds lined up with their loads of merry youngsters, to be photographed, the scene was a very pretty and animated one. Each trolley was gaily decorated with flags, the Union Jack and ensigns being greatly to the fore, while both engines were decorated with flowers and bunting, making m all a pleasing whole. On the signal being given " All aboard," and a warning whistle from the engines, away they started on their journey, flags waving, and everyone fully intent on having a good time and well pleased with the Clerk of the weather, and them selves m general. On the Beach being reached it was found that willing hands had prepared plenty of hot waiter and fresh milk, arid no time was lost m refreshing the inner man, there being a superabundance of "everything nice." Games were indulged m by both old and young, all vicing with each other m making the day a record one, and that they succeeded was well testified by the happy faces of the party. Great thanks are due to the Rev. R. Raine, Messrs Robinson, Watkins, and others, not forgetting the genial superintendent of the Sunday School, Mr S. Hardley, jun., for contributing so largely m thus making the day a pleasant remembrance. Town was reached shortly before 8 o'clock, and the youngsters dispersed homewards, having thoroughly enjoyed themselves, while the organisers may rest assured their efforts were duly appreciated, and formed a pleasant introduction to the twentieth century.

THE CROPS.

(From our Special Reporter.) I took a run down to Riverside yester day, and was much pleased by the magnificent crops to be seen m the dis trict and along the line of road. There have been good crops m former years, here and there, but one seldom saw so many evenly grown paddocks of oats and wheat as may be met with any whero at Wakanui. Elgin, and Riverside, m fact all along the banks of the Ash burton between the town and the sea. If a visitor recently from South Africa or Australia were to visit this county now, I think he would form an excellent opinion of the fertility of this part of New Zealand at anyrate. Down the Beach Road there are some magnificent examples of this. Messrs Chalmers, ! Miller, Jameson, and Brown can show ! fields of wheat and oats that could not be surpassed m any part of the world. There is some wheat on Mr Miller's property which is worth going along way to see. Indeed, the same may be said of all the wheat to be met with down to the Wakanui School. From what I can learn these phenomenal crops are continued further down towards the Beach on this road. I was scarcely sur prised to see that m some of the heavier crops the late rough weather had laid the wheat m some places, but the dam age so far does not seem to be serious. Amongst the most promising paddocks of wheat 1 saw were Messrs M. Goskers, S, Thomas, and D. Laddy's, who have also some splendidly grown oats. Mr Gairns has some oats which should go at least ?0 bushels to the acre, There are I am told a number of farmers m the Wakanui-Riverside district who are promised phenomenal harvests this $eason, and I trust to find time to take a run round the northern part of that area within the next few days,, 1 may say that the prospects of the hay crop are equally good; The growth of hay and clover along the route I traversed was a treat to see* In some cases, even where the farmers have not saved foi* hay, their sheep are feeding m grass and clover so high that only the animals heads can be seen. One or two farmers have cut their hay, and I saw m a single large paddock hay cocks which must have represented fully 100 tons of hay— firsfrclaßs hay, too. Some of the pad docks I saw yesterday would be well worth photographing, if our local artists could embrace the necessary space m their cameras.

Willis Street, Wellfnjjton, Mb It Impev 31st Ju:t, 1900 Dear Sir,—Please tend me three more botblea of your " Max Atvlb." I cannot speak too highly of it* It has entirely relieved me from the headaches which used to distress me on busy days; and a, member of my family who used to suffer from chronic palpitation and iodigtfstion has been restored to perfect) health through taking Iwi'Eir's * Ma? Am»«."—l &m, yours grate ally, X W WifrfW, Botcher

TINWALD SPORTS AND RACING CLUB.

President-G A M Buckley, Euoi ViOß pSidbkw-B Gates and D McLean; K?sjrooß-B£r E G Crisp s bum —Mr A A Pooki: Clekk of Ocitbsf—Mr A Long; Clerk of Ko*iw—Mr T Stone» HANDioipPKR-Mr G M Watson ;Tbha- SUBEB-Mr M Lagan; Stewardsi-M«»« 0 Doherfcy, JM Hampton. W Sutherland, J MuWns, T Stone, J Heeeitlne, J Pur ohwe, Jas Small, B Ha D k ß , T Scaly, and N Fitzgerald The first annual meeting m connection with the newly formed Tinwald Sports and Racing Club was held on the Tinwald Domain on Tuesday fo..glorious weather Visitors were present from all parts of the dlstrioti. ft large number hailing from Aen birton, and it is estimated that therei were 1000 or more people m attendance daring the afternoon, a fact which mu«t be very pleasing to the Olab and all concerned. Ine fair se£were largely m attendance, as were also young boys and girls, evidently the £5 for toys, fto., donated by the Club drawing them there. The usual garnet were m attendance on the ground, M were also a number of bookmakers, who, owing to no totalisator being ob the ground. Old a Rooa business. The iports as a whole were equal, if not better, than any yet '-^ Jn «• Ashburton County. The rao« for tne Tinwald Cup In particular, which resulted m * dead heat between Olandeboye and Relio, wm considered to be one of the fintiti *aoes ever ooateitad In the district. (The trotting eventi were all well contested, mow especially the race for the Tlnwald Trot Handicap, which resulted In a contest between Medjidieftnd Mistake 11, the pair trotting together the last half mile from home. Mistake passing the judge's box first with half ft length to the good, but owing to galloping past the post he was disqualified and the race awarded to Medjidie. Mr G M Watson, the Club's handioapper, Is to be congratulated on hie handicapping, and he was the reolpient of complimentary rtmarks from the public for his efforts, which we may state were very well deserved, Mr Wataoo fetching his fields together m capita! style. The athletic events were well contested, R Johnston (Ashburton) and W Campbell (Spreadeagle) scoring equal honors, and is may be stated that the finishes m these events were very close, only a few inches separating the placed men, which is a further proof of Mr R J Henry's capabilities as a bandioapper m this class of sport, Mr A A Fooka officiated as starter m the horse events, and gave every satisfaction, some very creditable starts being made during the day. The starting m the athletic events was m the hands of Mr J Stevens,, who was also very successful m despatching hie fields Mr 0 Bennett, the Secretary, was most courteous and energetic m his work, and eaoh official kept to hit respeotiva duties m the right way, the result of which, was that the meeting was conducted m a manner that earned the greatest praiae for the Club. It is to be regretted that the Club hai not ft band m attendance, and we trust) they will take this matter into consideration for their next meeting. (The racing track was m perfect order and as a consequence some very creditable times were registered, while the athletic events were competed for on a specially prepared track. The publican's booth was m tha hands of Mr M Lagan, while Mr H A Flower had charge of the refreshment booth, and both these gentlemen appeared So be doing a good business. Tha following are results:— , Tinwald Trot, of 15 *ove; two miles. Mr W Laffey'a br m Medjidie, aged, by Biackhawk, 26sec ... (Owner) 1 Mr J G MoConachie's oh g Sydney, 6yrs, Ber ... .. — (Owner) 2 Boxwood sseo, Mistake II 143ec. Danby 14seo, Mont? ose 36>ec, also started. Montrose led for the first half mile, when Medjidie took command, and, trotting steadily, maintained her position till entering the straight the last time round, where Mistake, who trotted very unsteadily, c*me on terms, and a most exciting race ensued up the straight, but Mistake 11, who was leading by half a length from Medjidie, broke very badly when some six lengths from ■ the post, and as a result galloped past the judge's box a half length m front of Medjidie, who came vary faßt inside the distance Time—6.sl|.. A protest for galloping past the post wan entered, and the stewards awarded the rao«.i to Medjidie. ,-',. I Powtr Race, of 15 sots ; four furlongs. Mr G Grice'e b m Topssy, aged, by Parkin Warbeck, 9afc 71b .. (Armstrong) li Mr F Trevu'Zv's br m Mania, aged, 7ab 121 b ... .. .. (Manning) i,\ Mr R Burnett's b h Wee Wee, 7ab 71b (O'BrlenJ I P»ulinr-you-*re a-Belle 8«t-5 Ib, The Dart 7at 121 b, also started. Topsy jumped (fl with the lead, Wee Wet being her nearest attendant, the rest* of the field bunched. Topsy, who led the whole way, won without drawing tbe whip by two lengths. Time—slfmob. Tinwald Cop, of 2Gsovs ; one mile. Mr T Hheenan's oh g Ciandeboye, 4yrs, Clanmmld—Psyche, 9«tSlb (Davis) f Mr J C N Grigg's br g Relic, 6yrs, Parkin Warbeck—Spider, Bit 13! b (Mollroy) f Mr F P Claridge's b m Phryne, Syrs, 9st 131 b.- .. .. (Owner) 5 Yoang Palliser Bit, Cashmore Bst, Actor 7st 101 b, Amezetneot 7st 71b also started. Thia proved the most exciting and best race of tht day. After considerable delay m despatching the field they were got off m good order, Olandebof c leading for the first four furlongs, when Phryne came on terms and the pair raced together till entering the straight), where Relic put m a claim. The trio raced neck and neck up the straight, and one of the prettiest races ever seen on the course eventuated m % dead heat between Relic and Ciandeboye, Phryne a head away. Time—l.4s*, Ashburton Mounted Corps Handicap, of IS eov§ ; seoond horse 2 eovs from stake. IJ Miles Trooper T N Grange's br g Larboard Watch, aged, I3i B'b (Sergeant E. Saunder*) 1 Trooper F Nelligan's b g Tha German, »ged, 12st 81b (Trooper Nelligan) 2 Corporal B Stuart's b m Ruby, 12at 3ib. (Owner) 3 Brunette, 12at>, also started. The German cut) oub the running for a mile when the favourite, Larboard Watch, took the lead, and galloping ewy, won comfortably by three lengths. Time —3 2J Grove Fabh Handicap, of 15 soys; second horse 2 aovs from stake, Four furlongs Mr P P Claridge's br g Bonaparte, 4 yre, 9sb 9lb (Owner) 1 Mr J 0 N Grteg'B b m Lady of the Lake, syrs, 7stlO!b .. (W Davey) 2 Mr R McDonnell's b m Constance, syw, Bst ... .- (Manning) 3 Ma/zg, 9st, Valentine Bat Sib, Actor 7st I2lb, Lady's Chain 7st 101 b, also started, Bonaparte and Constance took the lead, the rest of the field bunched. Entering the straight Bonaparte was io c the lead with Lady of the Luke and Constance close up, and despite a determined challenge by Lady of the Lake, Bonaparte won by a length. Time-J-49|seos ; . . Farmers Trot Handicap^ Optional, of io soys; second horse 1 soy from stake. liMlles MrJCass'sbg Stand By, aged, 6seca, (Owner) 1 Mr A 0 Cameron's b m Moina, aged, 6sec» ... — (F Angus) 2 Mr )BJ Wilson's bm Nana, 6yrs, Ssecs (Owner) 3 John Brown sor, The Snail sir, Alice Gray sor, Battiem sor, also started< Stand By led past tbe stand the first time round, Moina and Nana being her nearest attend ants. Entering the straight the last time round Stand By was still m the lead, bub Moina and Nana, who were four lengths away and coming very fast, broke badly, thus losing their chance of winning, and allowing Stand By to win by several lengths. fimaWf.44l Domain Wultsr Hakdioat, of 1.5 soys; second hone 2 soys from the Btake Six furlongs. Mr IP P Olaridgre's br g Bonaparte, 4yrs, 10«t .... .- (Duff) } Ml M Dlgby's b m Magg, Syre, 9st 71b (Mcllroy) 2 Mr V P Olaridge's b m Phryne, 6yrs, lOat 121 b - ... (Owner) 3 Ciandeboye IQst 51b, Valentin* 9st, Lord Stansfaury dst, Cashmore Bst 121 b, Lady Lillian 8*« 7!b, also started. From a good start Lady Lillian, Magg, and Oiandeboye headed a bunobed field, bub on the straight being reached, Magg and Bonaparte drew put from the field, and, after a dsiperate raw

Beauty 8le«p and proved an iatere pl»oed hones, Lad % length, Beauty . ' ; 51secs, Atbl; | The following v , , v athletic events :-~ 100 Yards Hai ,  I second lOs-R Joht . " , *' bell, syds, 2;HN ' £' foot. ■*.-,-. 150 Yards Ha: second £1 — W o*l . i, son, 11yds, 2; T - , \ t by « couple of inohi , ; -  Boys Sack, 75yd , 1 2i6d-WLarigdon . ' ' / A number of oht s supervision of Met -. w«re conducted thr *,<

UNKNOWN

, Patbgn—J Holme McLean, Est} } Cameron (Springf i J Baker, B MilL H Bio Lean, OQ ■ Judos (horse raou —A Dobbs j Ha." •- Clerk of <rai - • Clebk ov the S* ■ - Junes (athletics) T Mangle ; Hah ■ : • ■ Seobktaby—G H The annual race* ; ■■ : Methven, on the belonging to Mr D ( day. Fine weather - two o'clock in the ef changed to north- • -• quarter ib did not ' »- • pleasure. The atte. •!■ kM T . was large, whilst t * < -;> was also well rep > _r.v ' outsiders arrived 1 • «:, \ » others rode and v■« v , attracted by the p ,-..*,. outing amongst th s -* *'! attendance number horse racing was of ;-■:»•.' ? but the starter of t> <- »-^..*... v be too anxious to - -/ ; :;■.: instances from this ■.. *? -^ neoessary delay oc '' -■■ events.* In the foot ■*' loqal competition o( .• '\. : ' ■ ing of these .events - / '" -a *';«>! runners, and in souio movouuse oulticiera complained of this. The Methven P«ad played various eeieotions daring the after noon. A number of bookmakers presenb appeared to be doing a fair trade* Mr Millar, of the Canterbury Hotel, had two booths on the ground, and satisfactorily catered for the visitors. The racing track laid out was fortunately In a paddock tetj; lightly grassed, and hopes were expressed that some day the Club would secure a 1 ground of their own, on which an Improved j track could be made- The various officials iof the Club worked hard, and Mr G S Alington, secretary, carried out bis duties satisfactorily, Mr CA 0 Hardy, M SB-. was present during the day. The followisg shows results oi the day's sport:— ; HrjRDtK Bacb Handicap, ef 10 sots; seoond* horse laov from the stake. Al»a* 1| miles. Mr J Nee's br m Pohio (Fox) I Mr D O'Reilly's m m Fairy Maid 11,, .. ... (Juddl 2 What might have been a good contest was spoiled early In the race by tho rideir of Fairy Maid 11. losing his stirrup, and giving np competition, Pohio gently centering the rest of the journey home. MaidenTbox Time Handicap, of 7 soys, second horse 1 soy from the stake* Afcosv 1_ miles. X Mr W H Moses* g g The Doppleganger,, .. .. .. (Owner;] • Mr W T Smith junr's m m Diploma, (Jno. Smith) % Mr JOGrady'a bg Galway, .. •* f Cricket, tor, Killaloe, scr, Marewltl Siec, Cardiab, 9sec, W.O S.B. 9aecs Lobelia 12bso, Jubilee Queen, 129 cc, and Do-be-Careful, 123eo a also started, '* Eleven horses competed in this evens sad on the first round the bulk of them bioke badly. During the rest of the journey* however, Doppleganger and Diploma aottlsn' down to steady work and finished first and] seoond respectively. Time—4.6s ' Methven Cup Handicap, of 15 eonis about one mile and a quarter. Mr J W Hard wick's b m Soubriquet, 9abl2lci ... ... (Riley) 1 Mr J Nee's eh g Kaiser, 9st 121b (Tillet) V Mr J Nee's eh g All Saints, 10*t 71b 3 Carlo, lOst /ib, and Rawmore, Sst 7lb» also started. This race was slow in starting. Ki-tser led the bulk of tbe distance, followed, h -• -, Soubriquet until near home, when tbe latf 4 forged ahead before reaching the wituih>« post and secured first place 1 Hanbxqaf Time Trot, of 10 soys; about two miles J Mr J Steward's br m Zefce, Isiect, 1 (Stewart] M Mr W T Smith junr's m m Dlplet^i J lOsecs _ M (JSjsr :_SPfI Mr 8 Baird's b g Sefton, scr .. S May Yellow, Cricket, Killaloe, U*.:. c.m The Doppleganger, Black Angel, and Jubilee Queen also started* This event was an easy victory for ileta and the race was hot of s~ interest lag character. Ladies' Pobsb, of 10 sots ; three-quarters of a mile. Mr J W Hardwick's b m Soubriquet, list 1 Mr J Nee's eh g Kaisar, lOsb 71b 2 Mr A T Richards' eh g Kaiser, list S Nghere and Scrubdasher Sst 71b also started* ■~^~' This proved a grand raoe and the besb of the day, a hard tussle occurring between Soubriquet) and Kaiser for first place. IFho latter kept the lead most of the journey but near the finish was overpowered by Sou* briquet, who won by a length. Hack Back, of 5 soys; about half a inlle -—Nghere 1, Envoy 2. A good race; won by a neck, Rottge-et>Noir close up third* Consouition Back, about t mile—All Saints 1, Rawmore 2, Kaiser 3. A very siloes finish; won by a head, a no«e separating seoond and third. A protest against All Saints for running inside a post Is nek yes decided.

ATHLETICS

Tho various ftthtatla events had a big Ueld of 00-npetitorß and resulted M follows :— Men's Maiden Raob, lOu Y»rdt Hang up ; let prize £1, 2nd lOs.—LadyttooA ! syds, 1; G Baxter, 7yds, 2 Boys' Face, ltO Tards H*ndto«p (uidtr 14 yeMB); Ist prf« 10a, 2nd St.—F. Itw nioo 1 Men's Hubble Race Handicap, 120 ydi. —Gordon and Rends de»d he»t, 1. Gible' Race, (aader 14 years) I Ist prizt box of Tea and sa, 2nd st.—'Harriet Lemon, 1 • Kate Bran 2. Men's lOOYds Handicap, First prto £1, second prlss 10*— G. MoGonnell 3yds 1; ft Hebblewhit» 2yis 2. Obstacle Race, for boys voder 14 yean. First prise, 10s, second prize ss—Burrowii 1 % H Wright 2. 440 HandicjAV, fi«t priaa fil 10s, seoiwd prize, 15b—H J" Gordon scr, I ; G H«bl)l«< white 7yds 2. Consolation Raob 20Otds Handhwf— First prize, £1, eeoond 10«—Kobbletrhitt 18 * yds, 1 $ Ironside 6yds, 2. i

Breach of Promise.

United Press Association—By Kleotrie (Telegraph—Copyright LoirsoN, DMnuber SO Mrs Brodie obtained a voriUeo of J»IO0 damages for breach of promise against • Glasgow mlHionaire

THE ASHBUKTOB^ GUAfi Ufc i ..WBDUfiSDAt, jAHUAfct 1, " lStDi



OONSULTING OPTICIAN Mrßrttest M. Bandsteta ÜBOAI,FB, M<X wh« has lately retitrned after sis years* spaofal study la Ei gland and Con tinent, may be oonsulted on all caani of defective eyesight* Day tig! li not osostsary, artificial light being used, Doctors' [ire* soriptions prepared. Fees moderate. <)s* suiting rooms, Cashel fitnst W., over M SaodstelQ, jeweller, Christ* buroK 930 tw i f BtoB,«»HY



Sgjt>fc«> New Tesui



FOE SALE, PURE & ttALFBRED JDAMWORTH PIGS rpO Farmers purohaelcsr HaHbred PIGS We are prepared to bay them for Bacon, provided they are fattened on graio or Peas, j FARMERS' MEAT SUPPLY CO. 12 5 J H Rulh. THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES Trains leave Ashburton daily for— OHRISTOHUROH—at 7.20 am, 11 am 345 p m, 7 5 p m (express) TI M ARU—at 10.55 am, 3.50 pm DUNEDIN—at 12 54 pm (expreßß) SPRINGBURN—at 4.25 p m Trains arrive daily at Ashburton frorr— OHKISTOHUROH—at 10.45 am, 32.48 p m (express), B pm TIM ARU—at 10.35 am,255 pm DUNEDIN—-at 6.57 pm (express) SPRINGBURN-at 9.45 a m



PolypatMc Medical Institute. Oomec of Olouoester Street and Latimer S«uare, CHRIBTCHUROH, (Immediately behind the Ex Buildings), FIFTH VISIT TOASHBUETON. BTtIDAY AFTEHNOON, JANUARY 4, 1901. 2 o'clock p m until Bpm SATURDAY, JANUARY 5, 9am until 1 o'clock p m CONSULTATION FREW.—GRANGE'S HOTEL. POLYpAThY, the New Method of Healing, It the X y H-iifJPi <r* p»rpsf, &nd moat ripifl System, as it ouree with ftbiolate * , IKAj^SP^JMrilk ? erta'at F 6Uch diseases as Cancer, Epilepsy and Asthma, «PlM^^^SSpjHnjjH^l incurable under the old system, as well as all Chronic fgJ^MK^^^SJp^B^Sa and Nervous Complaints of Women and Men. MOBX jIjfgSPJSBSISPSS^ Ookks madk by PoLYPATHY than any other ayitem H 6 THOUSANDS OF. TESTIMONIALS r^^E^^K^^M^t^M Epileptic Fits Fob Eight Yiars; also heart r ffiffSSSglJlrfligSSflß Your Medicines have dose me & great deal of good. I \ fljriMgS39Jj|^flHH4K *eel Metier m every way, And the pains at the heart) have I^^wHMHHVHm^jk entirely left me. I have not had one fib since taking j9B^^^EfcrjEEXßSilw|K your Medicine—l remain, yours truly, IglKiaMii^fflEtWlßßiß LUNO DISEASE AND EXTREME DE6ILIT7 ffi*^^-gjs^Hj^Bßjjfiirll I have much pleasure m pending thia letter, thanking II§9SS^H|^HHfIHEjB y°u ?«y much for ihu benefit I have derived from your |HS^bP|^Hß|^^^^^B medioine, which I have been using tiz weeks. I was {^SlKwgiriffiiWßHMHnE reduced m weight from 12sb 4'b down to Bst 71b, and I cfflnj^^HlßliyPnK^p had quite given myself np to my Maker; but Ihaok God «w^L^yP^^^*^aJk^BHW after I had been under your treatment nine days my Effi i^^HSSffwBJlE friends could see a change m me, and I oould feel it l^^^^r^^^^^Mm^Sr myself »n(\ hove been improving ever since. You oan ~-^j. a *^-- ML jb*m* w use th^a letter for a testimonial, op refer anybody to me u3Bß^^|^m^^S^'i*^"^ Wiehing you every prosjjErity—Tours respeetfolly, * 12 '17 JOHK KM* HICK _ THB VERDICT OF A« ii PRACTICAL RIDERS IS IN " FAVOUE OF £ BIDING BUILT with ButtedJTabing, Short Heads, Narrow Tread Arehjor Box Grown, |?Q °f Hn pifcoh roller Ohaine. overhaagiag chain wheelsi toy atyli Swidle, Fandlo, Q\i*m, etc. Aaj gear, any height frame ; al*o dust-proof throughout. ONI PRICE TO ALL-£2l iiA.TES, LOWRY AN I CO., Zealandia Cycle Works, I^HH^tt' BURNETT STREET, ASH.BURTON. W^^Kfcteble Life Assurance Society, of U.B ■fl^^^^^^^^H Head Office for New Zealand—Wellington. Hi^HLB|HHHByKS> With power to issae Policies and pay cktms: i Febcy M Thomson, Inspector of Agencies. H^H^^HB^H^V Ml). I E Tsevoe GotTJ-D, Resident Secretary: BflßßKi life assukakob society m the SHHBB^ would ■S^^EH^Lve Financial Position, .., £219,670,058 I Surplus over Jiabilities ... £12,711,975 HHH^Kmd-"' .. £58,373,185 | AnnuaS income ... .- £11,286,145 I^H^^Va Mutual Office. All sarpluß belocgs to the policy holders. H^HB^ particulars of the Guaranteed Cash Value Folioy. JT NICOET BROS, i 847 P% Agents, Aehburtoa, *<»*•« PARENTS ARE INVITED TO INSPECT OUR STOCK OF BOYV CLOTHING, ' ¥>OYfe' Guard Suits 8s 6d j Boys' Bloußee 4a Boys' Norfolk Bnits 12a 6d ; Washing Suits 2i 6d » Abstnt-Mincled Beggar " Suits 18s 6d Best Value to be obtained anywhere. Men's Sac Suits from 21s to 65s Men's Trousers 7s 6d ; Tennis Trousers 12e 6d. A nice variety of Summer Coats m Kharki Serge, Sattein, Alpac*, Utc. .N.Z, CLOTHING FACTOItY- F. H. BBCKINOSALB, Manager. -■ ______«_i______i__^__a__——t~~« WILLIAM PATCHING, EAST & BURKITT STSIETB, ASHBURTON, „_ gADDLEK & HABNESS MAKES. Tt/r V CO'IPBTBIST STAFF now incladeß FIBBT CIjASS COLLAB AND SADDLE MAKERS. Fit and Workmanship Guaranteed. Repairs Executed Promptly and at Moderate R»tes txmmmmi^ ■■riißniiiiin«i« iniiiiii-«in<«'»"i WOOL SEASON 1900-1901 w\r^srs- rt^r. d. ass tsar* Sshburton> ConßiKmnenti will be received at our Aanburton or Tmwald atorea, and;.ent onto riAeTohSCh or Timam, free of..tJl charge, except ra.lage. Clients who wish to send tbok Wool direct from ibelr MUN )> railway etation wIU . ,BABe OOQBigE 08 foIIOWB I — If intended for sale at A-hburton-Ftiefllanoer Bro ß , Ltd Biding, Ashburton If intended for sale at Chrlatolmrefa-Brown and Son. Siding, Addington • If intended for sale or _hipn«Dt at Timaru- Mill & Oo'e Siding, Ttaan If intended for .hipment at L,ttolU».K.Z.Bblpptog Co'e D BB , P tog:Sb.d, LytteHoo WOOLPAOKS, TWINE BRANDING OIL, and ,«ll other Shetring Requisites aapplied at lowest rates. Oaf Next Sale will take place at Timaru oo TBUBSDAY, JAKUAEY 3, 1900 BBOS., LTD