Christmas Decorations.

As usual, at this season of tho year, Bh^p keepers have made an ottr&ctivo display oi their premises, and the numerous town mj country customers have no difficulty in obtaining in Ashburton seasonab'e goods ar-d novelties of all classes and prices. Of late years a good deal of attention has been given given to improvements in thop windows and their fittings, whereby the I roprietors have made the very best uee of those portions of their premises brought most prominently uDder the public notice. Ibis applies specially to the jewellers' shops, and our local ahopkeepais are thoroughly cpto date in this respect* Mr Do B er's Window ib now one of the beat appointed in the colony, the fittings having been specially imported from London by him within the last few months, and this enab'es his i xcellenb display of jewellery of alt olassrt, together with the latest designs in watches, ringp, eilverand plateware, and sun dries, to Btand out so prominently as to bear comparison with almost any similar prtmises in the colony. Mr George Wesson has also an attractive list of articles, both use'ul and ornamental, and there should bo no difficulty in patrons making their selections — Meters Couch, Curtis, and Bobilliard have also a tempting display. The deoorations by means of greenery are this year limited, the butchers principally covering their verandah poßts. The shops of Messrs Rule, Barnard and Siloock, have a ' good collection of mutton and beef. The display in the various grocery and iron mongery establishments stands out moat prominently, and the tempting exhibition of preserves, raisins, currants, tigs, and other edible?, all fresh and appetising should ensure customers obtaining tv^ry possible 'requirement for Christmas cheer. Me:-s.s Fletcher Bros two windows contain varied and excellent aßsorimentß of preserves, ■weets, and new serous goods of every variety and character, whilst the selection i f cruets, clocks lamps vases and crockery should prove ample to suit every p seible r<quire ments for furnishers. John Orr & Co's large establishment holds a tremendous and well aseorled stock of hardware of all kinds and the display of carpenters' and engineers' tools, bedsteads, mangles, sewing machines, fishing tackle, cut'ery, and eleotro plato is well worthy of inspaction. John O.r&Co also make a speciality of cyoles, and their Hollis and Waverly whsels are known and ridden from Auckland to the Bluff. We bad the pleasure of viewlng some BUperb | models oi cycle builders' art. In electro plate, John Orr & Co make a beautiful show, and their window at present would chal lenge competition with almost any In the J •colony. This firm's display of fancy china and glassware, tea sets, dinner sets, vases, ornaments, etc, is most pleasingly and tastefully laid out, while in the adjoining window the full range of fruits and table delicacies suitable for the present season are of the very ehoioest. Messrs Kerr Bfos have a good show of groceries specially procured for the season and their premises are also brightened Up with greenery, and Messrs Shearman Brose, J T Cooch, Corsets and other establishments have brave exhibitions of their various wares. Amongst) the ironmongers, Messrs W H Collins and Coy's fine windows are eminently adopted for showing off their admirable list of silver an 1 plated ware, handßome clocks, cruets, salad bowls, dinner gongs, biscuit boxes, Japanese vases, and rich wall papers. Mr G Mediliris has also a fireb class display of useful and necessary ironmongery temptingly shown in his shop front. The window of Messrs Hardley Bros is mostly devoted to bragsware, the supply of taps and other fixings all well finished appearing ample to meet the demand of the Dew high pressure water supply —when it arrives,—For the young folks the chief interest of course centres in the toy shops, and the marvellous collection <f Christmas and New Year presents displayed are legion, the prices varying from pence up fso pounds and combining the very latest mechanical toys model engines, torpedo boats, railway trains &c, which wound up, speed across the fl >or with great force. Mr H M Jones as usual has a vast co'lection of dolls, Christmas and New Year cirds, faaoy china vasee and glassware &c, whilst > Mr Burgesses' premises called the 'Dual Pan'contains the very latest inventations of novelties, and presents direct from /kmerica, France, Japan, and the Austiala sian Colonies. Mr Burgess has made great, preparations for a slaughter in the toy line, and invites parents to bring along their children. Ab Mr A T H William's shop window he has a well assorted selection of books, Ohriatmas cards and other presents tuitable for gifts to old and young, and he has made arrangements to meet a large trade as Usual this year. The Austral Botanic Company and Mrs Adams have also specially decorated windows. The drapers in their wealth of display dear to the feminine heart are as usual well to the fore, in the very latest fashions, whilst the sterner sex have also plenty to selecb from. Messrs Mitchell and Turner have a unique collection of Japanese vases, screens, fi >wer pots and Japanese plateware occupying one window turmounted by handsome Japanese silks &o, all of which make a grand exhibi tion in gas light or by day, men's clothing, rugs, travelling bags of Colonial make, with endless varieties of ties, shirts, etc, appeal to their male customers moat temptingly, Mr Andrew Orr shows tweeds, scarves, new suitings, tennis shirts, rugs, in the men's department, whilst the ladies' wants are attended to in the choice and dainty selection of muslins, dehlnes, lace tie?, sunshades, temptingly exhibited ab his well known premises,—The Ashburton Drapery Company are showing a splendid assortment of fancy drapery, choice handkerchiefs, drawn thread work, and well selected mechanical toys, dolls, etc.—Mr W H Pearoe has mus lins, laces, ties, and hats, and toys and fancy goods bo suit all classes, and his gentleman's department is replete with the newest makes of shirts, ties, etc—Mr E Gibbard shows novelties in lace collarettes, Housings, check Bilks, belts, curtains, and also men's clothing all well displayed.—Ab Messrs Nortbcote and Hefford's well known empor ium at' The Corner' we no'ioed their ex tensive window Bhow gives an idea aa to their magnifioonb stock of millinery, jaokets, mantles, lace ties, necklets, and a host of ' fripperies * to delight the ladiep. The underclothing, the children's department, are well Bet out, and the window devoted to gentlemen's wear shows thab to get wsll suited they have only to visit • The Corner' to be well satisfied. Ab the furniture warehouses Messra T H Uodrill & Co show they are ready for every demand in furniture and furnishings, their extensive range appealing strongly to the public, oloarly showing there is no necessity to go further afield than Ashburton. Mr Balrstow has a few articles of his own manufacture Bhown in hia window affording proof of his skill. Those attending th» Tennis Tournament are well provided for in the display of the New Zealand Clothing Factory, where tennis goods of all sorts and siz^s are shown, and the quality of their celebrated goods needs no comment. Messrs Craighead and Berrymsn show mens clothing in great variety. House decorations are attended to by Messrs Wilson and Higgs, who have each a very fine show of wall papers of latest design. Footwear both oolonial and imported is attractively placed tn view by such well and favourably known firms as Messrs Nicholas and Pickford, J Mellor, D Stock, J Moison, T Young, and others, and for appearanc- 3, workmanship, and comfort, their boobs wosld be difficult to improve upon. Tha very latest bicycles and accessories are well displayed by the Zealandia, Rudge Whibworth, Colum' mbta, Eclipse, Khaki, Raleigh, and Massey Harris depots, each vicing with the other to meet the fauoioa of their numerous patron® in this district. The Misses Page have confections and fruits of all varieties, and Messrs Bryant, Madden, Beech, Hanra han and James, cakes ka In endless number, whilst Mr Flower's well known premises are as usual charmingly stocked. The music Bhops of Messra Grace Bros, H A Gates and Mrs Lloyd should be inspected by those in searohof musicalnoveltios. MessrsGraceßros celebrated Washing Machines would prove an j eminently suitable presenb ab this time, The Drug Company and Mr H E Bonoing lon show thab they are venders of more attractive artioles than pills and medicine ia their nice B'iow, Mr Jewibb reports the largest demand he has yet experienced for poultry eto» The various premises will be lighted up this evening and wa can safely recommend a walk through the town and a visit to the above placep,

CORRESPONDENCE.

AN IMPROVEMENT FOR ASH BURTON

We do not hold on'wives responsible for opinions p»prense<! i>s our correspondent!

TO THE EDITOR. As one who naturally takes an interest in tho advancement of our progressive and flourishing town, permit me to point oub an easy way to effect a very manifeso improve ment, A new and most oommod.ous Court house is dißticct'y rrquired, and can be provided by the Government, not only ab no cost to the public, but wi»h an enhancement !of the public revenue:—As «hus : The sec tion on which the present Courthouse stands has a frontage of 165fb to East Street. Being in the very best business blook in Ashburton, thab frontage would let tomorrow on a Glasgow lease at; fully £2 a foot, yielding a revenue of £330 per annum, A new Courthouse in brick, in a corresponding s'yle of architecture to thab of the new Post Office, could be built at the opposite corner of the Posb Office b!ook {corner of East and Wills streets) ab a cost of £3500 that sum borrowed at 3£ per cent means an annual charge of £122 10s. De duct this from a rental of £330 derivable from the present courthouse site, and there would be a balance of £207 10s per annum to the good, which, with compound Interest, would pay c-ff the £3500 (cosb of proposed new building) in 15 years. The space | between the two buildings (new Post Office and new Courthouse) would be laid oub to correspond with Baring Square and enclosed by a neat iron railing, and the resulb would be greatly to beautify tha town, while ab the same time promoting the public conveniences and advancing the business interests of Ashburton. And all this absolutely without increasing the public burdens, bub on the contrary, In effect, dirniuißhirg them by increasing the public revenue Surely this is a matter worthy of consideration.—l am, etc, Wm. J. Steward.

MR McLACHLAN, M.H.R., AND THE FARMERS' UNION.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —I observe by the newspaper report* o' his epeeoh on Saturday, that Mr McLion lan took oredit to tho Seddon Government. for having passed a Water Supply and Irri gation Act for the benefit of the fat mere. Mr MoL^chlan mu°t have thought his hearers gifted with very short memories. Tho Act referred to is evidently the Water Supply Act Amendment Act, 1898 but the Govern ment had about as much to do with the passiog of that Acb as the mm in the moon. The subject of irrigation was being much ventilated in the early part of 1891, and a conference of delegates from the Agricultural and Pastoral Associations and some loojl bodies met in Chri*tohurnh to discuss thf .euljjot. This confers nca determined to promote a Bill in Parliament to facilitate the construction and management (f Irrigation works by County Councils, and entrusted me with the task of framing the Bill. Mr Wright, then member for Ashburton, was asked to conduct the Bill through the Lower House, which he did, but extensive amend ments were made during its passag >, members from various districts proposing these amendments in order to meeb th* wants of their particular localities. The Hon EC J Stevens piloted the Bill through the Legis lative Council. The Government did not oppose the Bill, but gave no active assist ance. The first Water Supply Acb, under that name, was passed in 1891, when Mr Ballanoe's Ministry was in office. Ib was nob, however, their offspring. The Bill was promoted by the Selwyn and Ashburton County Councils, aud these bodies arranged for its drafting, Since th; Bill was intended to be of Reneral application, the Government was asked to take it up and carry it through the Legislature m a Government measuro. The Bill was powerfully backed, and the Government complied with the request, although ib wsa not very keen upon the subject. In any oase, ib was not the Saddon Government. I need hardly remind the Ashburton farmers that the water supply system of thia county wis la full swing loDg before 1891, and tho Selwja County Council had also constructed extensive water racea prior to that date. This shows thab the County Councils had power to execute and oirry on such works before any Water Supply Acts [to novum) were passed. In point hi fact, these Acts arc largely of a technical nature. The Counties Act 1836, which was brought forward and passed by the exertions of the Stout-Vogel Coalition , Ministry, contained elaborate provisions in respect of water supply and irrigat'on. So much for the alleged debt of the farmers to the Seddon Ministry in respect, of water supply and irrigation. I agree with Mr McLachlan, however, when ho says that the 'armors do not require much legislation. What they chiefly want is to be let alone by the Government. They do nob want to be harried by hordes of Inspectors ; nor do they derive any practical advantage from the establishment of costly Government departments, ostensibly for their benefit, but really to provide billets for Bupporterß of the Ministry: The importation of stal lions, bulls, and even fashionable poultry c%n b8 managed muob better by private breeders than by Government officials; while it is very unfair thab the Government should be permitted to expend the public funds in carrying on competition with private breeders in these matter?. _ Nobody has ever yet succeeded in showing what benefib the farming community derives from the ' State ' farms wfaioh cost so much money. Bub what has awakened the farmers to a sense of their political insecurity is tha unsalable and ever growing demands of the Trades Unions in the larger town?, to whom Mr Seddon has been pandering for years past, and treating them as though their interests were alone to be considered, al though *he members of these Unions are but a minority in the community, and by no means a large minority, The farmers see their own interests threatened by the selfish and socialistic clums of these Unions, and, like wise men, they are combining for mutual pretection. I trust they will con tinue to bear in mind that * Union is strength,' and thab the way to meeb combination ia by combination—l am &o, Chas. W. Fdrnell, Deoember 23, 1901

Interprovincial

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright

Wellington Decomber 23 The Public Works Department has en gaged Mr Bogue an eminent American engineer from New York to adviae a regarding the proposed construction of ib tunnel of cix miles through the Otira Gorge on the Midland Railway. Mr Bogue, who ia highly recommended by the Chairman of the Canadian Paoifio Railway Company, will also be aßked to inspect the Rimutaka line. He is now on his way from Frisco. New Plymouth, Deo 25 Trials took place today of Trotter's patent range finding rifh sight, when a number of loc*l gentlemen interested in shooting, including Captain Okoy, tested the apparatus at distances from Beven to thirteen hundred yards. The results were eminently satisfactory, and tha invention was warmly praised by those who saw it in operation Dunedin, December 23 The captain of the Discovery signalled bhe Captain of the Ringarooma thab Charles Bonnar, AB, was accidentally killed by falling off the crow's neab James Warnock, dairyman, Green Island, was fined 40s and costs ab the Police Court for selling milk without a license In Nimmo and Blair v Collector of Cua toms, Judge Williams gave judgment for plaintiffs for a refund of £52 12-j paid as duty on a manure mixing machine, bhus reversing the decision of the Customs Department that the article came within the definition of machinery nob otherwise enumerated, and was liable to a du'y of 20 per cent

Thermal Activity at Rotorua.

United Freßß Association—By Elootrio Telegraph Auckland, Deoamber 23 Sheppard, the guide at Waimanu. reports that there wae a graac eruption at 7 p m on Thursday, probably the moat severe since 183 Q. It wae heralded by two loud reports

[likecannon, followed by the upheaval of a black column to a height of 1000 feet, which in descending filled the whole vajley with a noise which was deafening owing to tha atones meeting in mid-sir «nd makir.g a noise like the crick of mirkstry. After the eruption a dence white clou 1 of steam arosfi, ascending thousands of feet above the summit of Tarawera,

THE LATEST

SOUTH AFRICA

A BOER DEPOT CAPTURED

SCIIEEPERS' TRIAL

United Press Aeseoiation—By Kleotrle Telegraph—Copyright

Received December 24, 9 52 a m Lond.n, Pec 93 Potgeiter's laager had long served as a Boer depdt in the Western Trans vaal. Two of Scheepers' commando and an independent witness testified , against Scheepers regarding the murder of native scoutp. The prisoner pleaded that ho acted under Fouche's orders.

SHARP FIGHTING

Received December 24, 2 23 p m London, Deo 23 Thore have been three days sharp fighting in tho Orange Colony and Transvaal, and numerous c*sualtie3.

United Presß Association—-By Eleotr'o Telegraph Dunedin, Deo 24 The Premier has advised Mr Bob?rt Look head, of Mornington, that his eon, William Stewart, was severely wounded in the right leg at Millvale on 13th inst.

Australian.

Uuibed Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright (Received Deoember 24, 10 11 am) SEAMEN'S WAGES £jydnkv, Dec 24 The federated shipowners have noti fied the federated seamen of the ter mination of their agreement in view of a reduction in wages. A conference takes place next week. MR BARTON EXPLAINS Mr Barton in a speech sought to explain his apathy re the Federal Con tingent on tho ground that such a step is not the kind of one to be taken, because someone not with the voice of any Government had heaped insults on tho Empire, and was glad to receive an official assurance that troops would be acceptable from the Commonwealth, and would gladly send th?m, CABLE MATTERS Melbocrnk, Dec 24 Negotiations between the Eastern Extension Cable Company and the Federal Postmaster-General will come before the Cabinet before being made public. The Federal Cabinet meets on January 14th. WESTRALIA POLITICS Perth, Dec 24 The Governor-General has received an enthusiastic welcome. The new Ministry has bern sworn in as follows:—Premier and Attorney- General, Mr Leake; Treasurer and Colonial Secretary, Mr Illingworth; Railways, Mr Kingsrni!!; Mines, Mr Gregory; Works, Mr Bason ; Hono rary Minister, Mr Holmes ; Lands, Dr Jamieson, who also leads the Council,

TO-DAY'S TELEGRAMS.

United Preaa Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph Wellington, Dec 24 The regulations to bring the Public School Teachers' Salaries Act into foroe on the Ist January and al»o the revised regulations under tho Manual and Technical In struction Act, have been approved by the Cabinet.

Arrival of the Frisco Mail.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph Auckland, Deoember 24 Arrived—Sierra, with the Frisco mail; a record passage. Wellington, December 24 The San Francisco mail will reach Wel lington ab 8.15 tomorrow night, and the Robomahana will be detained here to take on the southern portion.

The Eighth Contingent.

Lieutenant Fooks has been advised by Lieutenant Colonel Bailey thab the order re assembling in Timaru on the 27th has been oanoelled, and the selected men are to proceed bo Christchurch by the express on the 3rd January with bhe remainder of the South Canterbury men.

Nkw Plymouth, Deo 23 The total of 107 haveeffered fortho Eighth Contingent, 33 of whom are volunteers. Twenty-eight of the latter were examined today, and ten were finally chosen, including one returned trooper who has been to Africa in both the Third and Fifth Con tingents. The men are a good sturdy lob, and should oompare favorably with the rest of the contribution

fHB ASHBDKTOS GCAftblAft j; TO^SDAY DECEMBER 24, 190),



Smoke New. Veaus



[ J 5™10 NOTICEB __ ST. BTEPB~BN'SOBUROH. CHKISTMAS.DAY.~B 30 am., Holy Communion ; 11 s.m,, Matins, Holy C(.mraurror«, and Sermon ' 6.30 p.m., Even. song and Sermon. The Offertories through the Day, are on behalf of the Sunday Schools. 12 177 IKE ESTATE OF P. MTRPHY, CHERTSEY, DECEASED. ALL claims against the above estate mu-t be rendered before January 6th, 1902, to the Executors, to whom also all sums owing to tbe estate must be paid. J J O'DONNELL) -„„.„, 12 199 T LANGLEY j ftxocato"' TINWALD TOWN BOARD. A LL Rates outstanding after January 4th, 1902, will be charged 10 per cent. A A FOOKS, 12 114 Clerk Tinwald Town Board APPLICATION FOR COAL MINING LEASE, TO THE COMMISSIONER OF CROWN LANDS, CHRISTCHURCH. WE, John Thomas Cooch, and Gkorgb Frederick Sunderland Makeig, of Ashburton, and James Duke, of Btave!eyi hereby make application, under " The Coal Mines Aot, 1991," for a Lease for a term of 65 years, for 610 acres of land situated in | Blocks 111., IV., VII. and VIII., Aiford Survey District, the 1 »nd being required for coal mining purposes, John Thomas Cooch. George Frederick Sunderland Makeio James Duke. Ashburton, 17th December, 1901. 12 135 IEMUKi CALEDONIAN SOCIE Y~ GHAND ANNUAL GATHERING. BOXING DAY, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26,h, 1901 Victoria Patk. Tho Ideal Bporis Ground's. OECORD ENTRIES. Tho Canterbury PIPE BAND will appear in Full Uniform. Trains Return after Sports 12 173 E. OUTTEN, Beoretary. TOWN CLOCK] \ S there are many persons in both Town and Country who have promised support to this object, aud no doubt would like to see the Clock in the Tower, they are Risked to forward their Subscriptions as promptly as possible. Tho sum of Forty-Five Pounds is yet required, and as tho Clock has been ordered, it is desirable that the necessary umount shall be iv hand. ;W. H. COLLINS, 174 Mayor. NOTICE, SPKOIAL BANK HOLIDAY. PURSUANT to the terms of the 'Banks and Bankers Act, 1880,' and the *B*nks and Bankers Acb Amendment Act, 1882,' FRIDAY, the 27th Day of December, 1901, is hereby appointed a Special Bank Holiday at the offices of the undermentioned Sinks at Ashburton ;— The Union Bank of Australia, Ltd, G E Tolhurst, Inspector The Bank of Australasia, C Winter, Inspector Bank of New Bouth Wales, B M Molineaox, for Inspector Bank of New Zealand, James Embling, General Manager NOTE.—WEDNESDAY* THURSDAY, the 25th and 26th December, being Statutory Bank Holidays, the Banks will also bo closed Ashburton, 20bh December, 1901 12 175 FOR PRIVATE SALE. "CORA LINN," A DESIRABLE Farming and Grazing Property, sltua'ed 9£ miles from Fairlle Railway Station, by good road. The P.operty comprises 1150 ACRES, divided into 10 Paddooks, all well waterad, and with excellent fencing. Carrying capaci-y, say, 1200 Ewes and 50 head Cattle, about 200 Acres being drained Swamp Land. Present Year's Limbing, 105 per cent* Oat Crop about 40 bushels Buildings—Six roomed House, Men's Hut, Wool Shed, Sheep Yards, Dip, etc. Farther particulars and terms with GUINNESS & LeOREN, LfD, Timaru, ' or BTRONACH BROS ft MORRIS. 12 133 Dunedin PUBLIC NOTICE IN Pursuance of tho Public Reserves Act, 1886, Notice is hereby given that, Reserve 2639 will be set apart for the Mount Somers Annual Sports on THURSDAY, December 26th, Inst, on which day the Sports Committee are empowered to make the following charges for admission :— For each Adult—Ono Shilling For each Horse—One Shilling. A E PEACHE, Chairman Mount Somers Domain Board 12 117 . 6220 A c RE s CAhw* FOR SALE ««R_KAIA MEAI)."-North Rakala Close to Railway* QUBUIVIDED into 21 Paddocks, well watered and fencedi All In English Grasses except 300 Acres for Turnips. All necessary buildings, and of a substan tial nature, including woolshed, &a. PRICE—£4 Per Aore on Terms, or £3 10s 1 per aore for Cash. Immediate Possession. •] itle—Land Transfer. For further particulars, and permit to inspect, apply B, N. BKALEY, 11 128 Haldon, Hororftta.



PUBLIC NOTICES IN Pursuance of the Public Reserves Act, 1885, clauses 5 and 6, Notice is hereby given that the Tiawald Domain will ba set apart for the Tinwald Racing Club's Annual Meetiog, to be held on January Ist, 1902, on which charges will be mv.de for; admission thereto on the following scale :— ■ For each adult „. oae Shilling For each horse .. One Shilling Entrance to Stand Two Shillings and and Paddock .. Sixpence C. DOHERTY, 12 142 Chairman Tinwald Domain Board DRUIDb* PICfIIC AT LONGBEACH, on BOXING DAY. T"\RAG3 leave Templar Hall at 8 am. Return Fare-Adults 2a 3d, Children under 12, Ib. Seats mus*) be booked TO-NIGHT with D. 6t,CK, Secretary to Committee 12203 AS3BURTON BOROUGH COUNCIL REGISTRATION OF DOGS* NOTICE Ib hereby given thab the Dog Registration Fee for the year 1902 has been fixed by resolution of thla Council at 2i 6d pfr dog for doga kept solely for the purpose of tho herding or driving of sheep or cattle, and 10a per dog for other dogi, Collars may be obtained at) the Borough Oounoil Offices, Baring Square West, whiob ia appointed the Registration Office for tho sale of dog callars within the Borough. H. H. FOOKS, Registrar of Dogs. December 24th 190 L 12 205 Smoke New Venus



DAVID THOMAS FOR SALE OR TO LKT. ; \/V R D. THOMAS ha°. tece.ived insrtue i.vj. tions frnm Mus J M Fubzb to Sell Or To Lot by Ptiva 0 Trealy— -1 Her Va'uab'p Pjojj. riy situated in Cute r'- Terraco, Tinwald, viz —4 Acres of I very rich laud, with dwelling house tf 9 roonin, Wushhcu c, Scullery, and fitted throughout with Venetian blinds; also Ou..hou»ce,.2Stalled Stablp, Workhous*, etc, Good Oichard uud Garden. Tho House is newly painted aud renovated throughout Far further particulars, app'y D. THOMAS, 12 200 Ashburton AKOADE HORSE_ FAIR. FRIDAY, JAN. 10, 1902. MY NEXT HORSE FAIR will be held on the above date, for whioh I am now receiving entries. 12.155 D THOMAS



FRIEDLANDER BROS, LTD FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY "fVyOT lvivicg told Mr FA C'rcKs's F*rm i.\ of 912 Acres ab Mayfiald by Auot.on we arc now prepared to deal privately Lr ittne, Full particulars on application to FRIEDLANDER BROS. Ltd



WAITED. mHK DUST PAN. is no Abattoir, bub a JL Great Slaughter is now going on in the Toy Line. 12 169 JjlOR SALE — Black Currants, Rasj, . berriee, and Cherries, at J. Milli- Ghamp's, Terrace Nursery, Ashburton 12 189 WAIN'IKD, at once—General Servant; good wages.—Apply 'A.M,' Mail Office 12 146 LOST, in Ashburton—An old Cigarette Holder in Caset Finder kindly return bo this office. 6s Reward. 12 WANTED- Grid to aesist la Housework,; —Apply Mrs Maokay, Havelock Street. J 2 156 ANNUAL PiUNIU of the Primitive Meihodisb Church will take place as usual on New Years' Day, leaving the Church at 9 a.m. for Wakanui Beach, Return tares le. Hot* water provided 3d» 12 204 OHEEP SHEARS 1 Sheep Shears ! - O Ab Reduced Prices, TU S and BB A mC 3a 6d each. 11A, Etc., 2s 9i each. Oil doones, Olive Oil, Branding Oil, Riddle, Lamp Biack, etc, at Lowesb Prices.—G. j Meodins, The People's Ironmonger WANTED -All Men to see Colonial Tweed Trousers 7s lid, Two Pairs Black Cashmere box for Is lid, White Washing Hats 1< 6i ab Pkarces, Cash Draper WE Wnnt Room, and During thiß Month are g,ving some Exceptional Bargains in Drapeiy and Clothing—W H Pearcb, Corner East and Burnebb btreet, WAJNTJb.D every one to remember that Mellor's Zealandia Boot Store is selling Boots and fcjhoes at reduced prices. \\ J ANTKD—AiI Ladies to see the Won VV derful Prints 4f i, Lovely Muslin 6|d ab Pbarcb's, Caah Draper WANTED Known—Thab Santa Ciaub has paid a visit to the Misses Page leaving a splendid assortment of Fancy Lilliea and Toys for the G.rla and Boys ; also a choice ansortmenb of Chocolate Boxes. Uadbury s a specially.—The Ariel Omfec- Uoaery, East Btreet. WE are booking ordtrs for Christmas I'uuiuy ul all kioda at J H Ji^WiTX's, Buinett Siiett, Aafchurtou /CHRISTMAS OARIX-i, Nove.ties, Pre \J Seats, i'oyr, Djlla, &H., in Groat Variety, at ThE DUST PAW 12 170 A/| AfcON d t-crcv Top Fruib Jars— IVJL 1 l Jmt 4. 9J, Quart 5■ 6d, £ gallon 6 9J, pet dtz t>.-~John Okb& Co MARK no mistake ; if ib is Boots and Shoes you require, thou go etraight to Mellou s Zealand* BjoC Ssio.'e. J!ou can get hut.droda of paira to pick from at Mellok s. BfilKG THE CHILDREN to Trie Dust Pan to tee the Goods from England, America, Fi anoe, Japan,and the Auatraiaßian Colonies 12 171 WANTED KNOWN—Thit J Moison has made immense reductions in order to clear more quicUly. and make 100 m for his new Uhalstmas Stook of Boots and dhoes, ol best quality juab arrived Repair 'tig done at once, beat leather used ; tho rJaU —next Court House, Ashburtcn. 11 153 4 SHOE thab does nob wear well ie not j\. cheap at any price Our Ladies Ssylish American Shoes, in black or tan, butlooed or laced, at 9^ 6d, wear weil, look well ttDfi fit well; our SBwn walking chocs at 6s 6d an.l 6s 84 »re marvels. Cime and set thorn, ab R Alcorn's* 11 49 2 LB Sere fir Top Jam Jars, 4s dtze.u ; Enamelled and Brass Preserving Pan* of guaranteed quality, and Preserving !■ agur. —Carson & Co., Tancred Street TOYS, TOYS—Every as tide must bo sold by Xmas Eve. Bring the Children to Pearob s, Cash Draper WANTED KNOWN -Mew fruits just arrived, new Currants 4|-1 and 5d per lb,'new Saltanas ab'6&d, new Valenciae s£d lb, new seeded raisins (full weight) 7d per lb, new Cooking figß 7 per lb. Fines Cane Sugar 701b bags 14* 6J, 56!b b»gs 12s, 40 lb bags 8a 9 I ab Fletcher Bros. Caeh Cash Supply Stores JAM or Preserving Jars. If you are waiting any of these, give us a call, Mason's jvre, pints 4s 91 per dozan, qaarts ss 6d, half gallon 6j 91. Masons improved Quarts 7s, half gallon 8s 6 I d( z. Jam or Jelly Tumblers from 2$ 6d per dozan. Earthenware jars from 33 dozen,—Fletcher Bros Cash Supply Stores PURCHASE Early to avoid the Crush, and so secure the besb selection. Open this evening. Great variety of Goods suibible for Santa Glaus, Christmas, and New Year Presentsi New Books—Deep Sea Wonder* ship, Royal George, la Spire of All, Sir Richard Oalmady, Young Barbarians, D'ri and I. Papers and stamps cannot be sup* plied after 6 pm Tomorrow, Xmas Eve,— H M Jones FOLLOWING are some of our Xmas Pricep, which show thab we are not behind the times : 701b bast Jam Sugar 14s 6d, Riisins s|l, Sultanas 6£d, .Currants sd, Peel Bd, Cocoanub 7d per lb, and all other Goods just as cheap ab Kerb Bros, Burnett Street rpHE SHOP will be open every Night This Week until 9 o'clock, Saturday until 11 o'clock, for the sale of Christmas and New Year Cards. A T H WILLIAMS, East Street YES, there nan be doobt, no possible doubt thab Mellor's Zealandia B jot Store leads for value. WANTED TO SELL-Samples Table Centres, Mantle Drapes, Etc, Toi et Sets, Etc, must be sold to make room for the Toys—W H Pbaroh, Cash Draper FOR Christmas—Peek Frsan's London Biscuits in eight varieties. Swiss Wine, • Sans Alcohol.' Auslebrook's and Oa^bury's Chocolates, New Currants, Peel, Almonds, Dates, and Figs of finest quality*—-Carson &Co. WANTED our lady friends to note thab Mellor's Zealandia Boot Store has hundreds of pairs of American Boots and Shoes at pric2B second to none in Ashburton, rOH the Christmas holidays. Wo are offering some wonderful Bargains at Mellor's Zaalandia Boot Store. DO you know thab H Bairstow is selling for cash ab less ban Christohurch prices, as the few following quotations will Bhow :—Brass rail iron bedsteads, extended foot rail, from 50*; Duchess tables from 30s j Duchess chests from 455; inspection and comparison invited. 11 144 TO ANGLERS—A fresh consignment of Fißhing Goods to hand—Fiies, Casts, Waders, Shury's Fancy, Minnowa, etc, etc. All Anglers' Requisites ab Dunedin prices, at I Hardlet Bros., East Street. 11 155 ' , Swoke New Verms



•"■!■!_!! L'J I™ .Li J-iLlJ™™™ IV..'! .'„ J :.. t! !™'l Government Notices. NEW ZEALAND RAILWAYS. FXPRESS TRAINS, December 24th riIHE 11.0 a m Expresß Tra'n Dunedin to JL Christchurch t >day will NOT take passenge 8 from Timaru and stations between Timaru and Christchurch. The 10 20 a m Express Train Dunedin to Cnriatchurch to-day WILL take up or set down passengers at the UPual stations between Timaru and Christchurch. ' Extra Express Train, Timaru to Christ church, at 5.30 p m To-day, stopping at the usual stations, due from Ashburton at 7 31, i Rakaia 8.9. Futfer particulars in bills, 12 202 BY ORDER. | M&W ZEALAND RAILWAYS. Train Arrangements, December 26th. RACES at Mount Somers.—Exouraion Train Ashburton to Mount Somers and Springburn, at 10.15 am, Tinwald 1i*,20, I returning from Spriogburn ab 640 p m, Mount Somers 6 55. Stops ab all Btations, if required. ! An extra train will leave Ashburton for i Springburn, at 835 pm, setting down passengers where required. Cyc:ing Sports ab Christchurch—The evening train from Christchurch to Ashbur ton and Methven will starß ab 5.25, and be due from Rakaia at 7 40, Cne.taey 7 58. The evening brain from Methven to Rakaia, and Rakaia to Methven, will run 35 and 40 j minutes later than tim-table times rospecl' tively Night trains Cnriatchurch to Duuedln and Dunedin te Cnristohuruh, at 820 and 810 p m respectively No goods troffia oa the 26th inst Excursion fares auy station to any station, Fee haudbiils 12 178 BY ORDER - BUSINESS NOTICES NOVELTIES FOR THE Holiday Season, AT 46 The Corner," MILLINERY-Otir Millinery Depart ment never presented a more pleasing or at racbive appearance than ab present. Come early nod secure the latest production* in Trimmed Hate, Sailors', Sua Hats and Bonnets ladip:s' silk & cotton blouses— Sby'e, fit and fiuifih is in our ready nude Blouses, and can be had all prices from 2s 6d UPWHITE & FANCY SKIRTS—A splendid assortment of White Underskirts, Trimmed Laoe or Embroidery, also Fancy Silk in all the leading colors. Call and see these wonderful lines LACE TIES, FICHUS, RIBBONS & LACES—We have jusfc opened up a very large shipment of these Goods suitable for Holiday Wear, at very low prices ; call and inspect HOSIERY & GLOVES in Lace, Silk and Cotton—Fpecial value in Hosiery at Is, 1 j 6d, 2s per piir ; K'd Glove?, all shades, from 2s 6d. Everyone should secure a pair of our 2s 61 Gloves, very reliable DRESS GOODS in Popular Serges, Alpacas and Fancy Blacks—New Shadea and marked at low figures to sell MANCHESTER GOODS in Fancy Prints Mercerised Priats,Fancy and White Muslins, Drills, Piques, Oretonneß and Art Muslins In endless varieties, best deiaignsi We hold a wonderful stook of CALICO OUR MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING & MERCERY DEPARTMENT is now replete with a very choioe selection of Men's and Boy's Suite, r»ewesb Frame Felb and Straw Hats (specially imporoed), Choice Shirts, Ties, Underclothing, Sox, etc BOOTS BOOTS Special Shipment of Lidiep' Fine American Shoes, also Children's Tan and Black Shoes, Canvas and Tetania Shoes, Gents' Boots and Shoes ab all prices Call and inspect before the HOLIDAY SEASON. NORTHCOTE" & HEFFORD ♦THE CORNER, 5 ASHBURTON, FOUND -The Ready Money Shop in Tancred Street (opposite Arcade)— I Best value in Men's Merino Pants Is lid, I Brown Cotton do Is 6d, Heavy Ribbed do Is 9d, Singlets Is lid, Cord Trousers 4s lid, Strong Saddle Tweed do 8a 6d WANTED Known—Lovely Prints from 4£d, Fancy Pinafore Muslins 3£d, Madras Muslins for Blouses in Pink, Oream, Blue and Black 7|d, Lwrge Aprons ll|d, Corsets 2a 6d, Cashmere Hose is, at the Ready Money Shop, Tancred Streeb *»*•» mHE Scene has Changed," say J. Visitors to the Ready Money Shop. Large Hearth Rugs 2a 9d, Door Mats la, Best Wool do 3s lid, Yard wide Carpet la Sd, Yard wide Floorcloth Is 4^d, Latest Carpet Designs and Tiles in two yard wide do at Lowest Spot Cash Prices LOOK HERE—Crepe Crotonnes 4£d, Double Width Reversible do 9,|d and Is, Lace CurtaiDß from Is 6d, 70 inch White Twill Sheetings 10£ d. Strong U.B Tab'iog 10£ d, Nainsook, fuil 421n wide, 5s 9d a dozen ab Gibbabd's, Ready Money Draper DRESSES— Broohe Silk Lustres 6a lid, 7s lid, 8a lid. dreas length, Summer Beiges 6s 9d, Nuns' Veilings id a yard, Summer Tweed Effectß 5a lid dress, French Poplins 8a lid, AH Wool Serges 6s 6d, Reversible Zephyrs 5s 9d, at Gibbard's, Tancred Street, opposite Arcade WANTED KNOWN-Gibeard has pur chased the stook of G F Smith, Rangiora, £1 worth of Drapery for 10s; Is Straw Hats for 6d ; 4s Felt Hats for Is lid ; Paper Collars, 4 boxes for Is. The stock must go ab any prioe space limited, price no object. Come at once to Gi*bakd's for bargains,



_ BUSINESS NOTICES ■■UJIP..I-.—mi,,. ii»..m ,»..i. lll ■ ii.i„. , . „ umml ii I.TT-M—iii.ii . ■ _..._ ryu ||t vm Bmmmmmmmam^ f*)~. OHM MPMf 1/lUB ■f, .? mIIII Wo. IMb, BY I'URCHvSING YOUR 13= -OROPIJDTWQ FROM FLETCHEB, BROS., Special Notice to those »ho boy on credit—Hard facts for Hard Fignrei Pay Cash and Save £ £ £ a Year. Are you good at 6gures. Can you make mental calculations or do yon na« P.nail >.^ Paper. Were you proficient in school at subtraction ? Try the fo!lowlVitff£t£S problem, propounded by our Price List-in your head or with penoU~»ubtr»cb our Prt«M from the pr ces yon are charged by buying on Credit, and see the Pouuda you wenM ■**• In a year by Purchasing your Groceries from us * «»■«■ ■■▼■ LEADERS IN OUR LINE J^ IMITATED BUT NOT EQUALLED Like a Oat Watches a Mouse-—We watch to give you Lowest Prices and Highest Values. It is a mystery to m why some people will go and pay from fire to twentj per cent, or la to 4a in the Pound more for their Goods to get a miserable three per cent, or less than 7§d in the Pound back again at the end of 12 months. The only conclusion we can come to is that they have not compared Priest! Remember we have no big salaries to pay, make no bad debts, and each article is bought at the lowest bed rock prices for spot Cash. COMPARE oar PRICES with the Prices yon are paying. :o.——— FLETCHER BROS. DEOEMBER PRICE LIST Finest Cane Sugar, 7Glb bag 14s 6d ; 56ib bags, 12s; 401bs 8s 9d : or £23 nn ton ; Brewers' Crystals (special Preserving Sugar) 2f d per lb, or 701b bag 15g 6d OUR NEW SEASON'S FRUIT FOR CHRISTMAS s d \ Finest VisiozzaCurrants, per lb 0 6 Finest New Sultanas, per lb 06* Fine New Currants, per lb ... 04£ Finest New Valencias, per lb '" 064 Finest New Layer Figs, per lb ... 0 a Finest New Dates, per lb '" M Finest New Cooking Figs per lb 0 7 Finest New Muscatels, per lb *" 1 0 Good Old Figs, 31bs le, or per per lb 04f New deeded Raisins, full we.'ahfi'" 0 2 lib Boxes New Figs,per box ... 0 8 j New Californian Prunes per lb 0 8 New Sicily Almonds, per lb ... 1 2 | New Mixed Peel, per lb *" 0 8 New Valencia Almonds, per lb .... 1 6 1 71b Tins Lemon Peel per tin '" 8 ■ New Jordan Almonds, per lb ... 2 4 | Good Old Muscatels, per lb 6d a'ndO 8



Now that fresh Meat is so dear, it is more economical to use the following - 21b Tins Corned Beef. (tk Past)per tin 1 0 21b Tins Spiced Beef (Belfast) per tin 1 0 21b Tins Corned Mutton, per tin ... 1 0 21b Tins Spiced Mutton, per tin ... 1 0. 21b Tina Preserved Rabbit, per tin Oil lib Tins Preserved Rabbit, per tin 0 7 2h Tins Rabbit and Bacon, per tin 1 0 3!b Tins Ox Tongues, per tin ... 3 6 lib Tins Camp Pifc, per tin ... 1 3 lib Tins Oar Flag Salmon, per tin 0 8 lib Tins Red Oregon Salmon, per tin 0 9 ■ lib Tin Salmon Cutlet, per tin ... 0 10 lib Tins Red Socksge Salmon,per tin I 0 Iqual to Cocktail) lib Tins of Salmon Steak, per tin 1 0 lib lins Cocktail Salmon, per tin 1 1 Jtlb Tins Salmon Cutlets per tin ... 06| lib Tins Fresh Herrings, per tin ... 0 .7 lib Tins Star Mullet, per tin ... 0 7 lib Tins Herrings in Tomato Sauce per tin ... ... ... 0 10 lib Tinß Kippered Herrings, per tin 0 10 lib Tine Lobster, per tin... ... 0 10 lib Tin Preserved Bloater, per tin 010 Smoked Sardines, large tins ... 1 0 lt small tins ... 0 6 Good Sardines, large tins ... 0 8  small tins 4d and 04| Albert Sardines, large tins ... 1 0 Finest Boiled Bacon 7£d by roll, per lb ... ... ... 0 8 SAUCES Mellor's Mild or Piquant £pint bottle 0 8J Mellor's Mild or Piquant 1 pint bottle 1 3 Lea & Perrln's 1 pint ... ... 2 6 „ | pint bottle ... 1 4 Worcester \ pint bottles 3s 9ddez, or per bottle ... ... 0 4 Worcester 1 pint bottles 7s 6d doz, or per bottle ... ... 0 8 Our Own £ pint bottles sd, 1 pint 0 9 Tomato Sauce (Flag brand) ... 0 9 Catsup (Flag brand) 0 10 Anchovy Sauce O& B § pint bottles 1 4 JAMS, MARMALADE, Etc, 21b Jars Plum Jam, pea jar ... 1 0 lib Jar Raspberry per jar ... 0 9 lib Tins Jam 3s 9d doz, per tin ... 0 4 211. Tins Plum Jam 0 8£ 21bTins Raspberry Jam per tin... 0 11 lib Tin Raspberry Jam per tin ... 0 6 lib Tin Keilders Marmalade per tin 0 8 21b Jars Keilders Marmalade, per jar 1 9 Jelly Powders to make 1 pint, assorted flavours, per packet 0 6 FLAVOURING ESSENCES Cross & Blackwell's Lemon, Vanilla, t Almonds, Cochineal, Peppermenb 0 9 Colonial Essences loa bottles ... 0 5 Colonial Essences l|oz bottles ... 0 7 Colonial Essences 2ioz bottles ... 0 9 • CANDLES Colonial Wax Candles Plain or Fluted by the box 6d, or per lb ... ... 06£ Prices National Sperm 6f d by box, or per lb ... ... ... 0 7 BAKING POWDER ETC Edmond's, large tin lOd, Edmond's, small tin ... ... ... 05h Edmond's Egg Powder 7d, in tins 1 0 Morton's Cream Tartar, per lb ... 1 3 „ Tartaric Acid, per lb ... 110 Branner Monds Carb. Soda ... 0 3 FARMERS SUNDRIES Save money by buying one of our thrifty House Wife Kerosene Pumps at Is andlsOd. Thrifty House Wife Pump saves its cost in a very short time OILS, ETC. Draught Castor Oil 16a 6d tin, £1 12s 6d per case Raw Linseed Oil, per drum, £13 9 Neats Foot Oil, per gal. ... ... 3 6 Neats Foot Oil, per drum ...15 6 Turpentine, per gal ... ... 4 0 Valvoline, 4 gal tin ... ...17 6 Raddle, per lb ... ... 0 4 Nails sibs Is. per ib ... ... 0 3 Staplers, per lb ... ... 0 3 Molasses lor cattle, per cwt ... 7 6 SCO doz Tumblers and Wineglasses from 2s 6d per doz. If you are wanting any ii will pay you to give us a call 500 Gross Corks from Is 31 per gross Finest Nelson Hops, per lb ... 1 0 Bleached Ginger, per 1b... ... 1 3 Herbal Beer is cheap and wholesome i



SEASONABLE GOODS At first hand prices with no middle man's profits SI? ml* 18 £ re 6, APr!cotß» per tin 0 8 S? v m-DS £ reb" Wneapple, per tin 0 » of v m Pxm pe aohes. per tin 0 9 Apo line Pres. Pears, per tin 0 9 2£ib Tins Pres. Tomatoes, per tin 0 9 Snips Lime Juice, per bottle ... 1 0 Monseratc Litre Joice, per bottle 2 4 Paramatta Lime Juice, per bottle 0 9 L/ mon Squash (MunnJng'e) bottle i 0 1 Munning's' Raspberry Vinegar, per bottle ... ... 19 Raspberry Vim-gar (St George) per bottle ... ... a># ■|_ g Lemon, Raspberry, Pineapple, Cloves and Peppermtnb Syrup per bottle 1 0 Kowntrees Lemonade Powder,|bottie 0 9 Herbal Beer extract to make 8 gal lons, per bottle ... „. 0 7 Timaru or Christchurch Oatmeal 251b bags 3s 3d Wheat Meal 261b bags 2 8 NeavesFood, per tin .... ,'„ Oil Dr Brandt's Food, per tin ... 1 0 Meliin's Food 3a and ls9d per tin" Patent Groatß & Barley, per tin ... 0 9 Benger s Food, per tin ... ... 1 9 Finest White Sago, per lb ... 0 2 Brown's Corn Floor, per lb ."" 02? Finest Peari Tapioca, per lb ... 0 2 Finest Fiake Tapioca, per lb . 0 2 Fineet Pearl Barley per lb ... 0 2 Quaker Oats ... , ' gig Finest No 1 Japan Rice, per lb !" 0' 2 Finest Rolled Oats 7d and Is Split Peas, per lb ... ... o 2 CONDENSED MILK Swiss Milkmaid brand, per tin 0 7* Murray's Milk 5s 9d doz, per tin « 6 Golden Vale 3s 9d doz, per tin 0 4 ALMONDS, NUTS ItO. Sicily Almonds, per lb ... 1 2 Jordan Almonds, per lb t „ 2 4 Valencia Almonds, per lb ... 1 6 Shell Almonds, per lb ... ... 0 It Barcelona Nuts per lb ... ... 0 Pea 'Nuts, per lb ... .-'",' Q New Walnuts, per lb ... ,'*,' 0 CONFECTIONERY Conversations by tin sd, per lb ... © Scotch Mixtures by tin" sd, per lb 0 8 Milk Kisses (delicious) per lb ... 1 0 Cream Caramels per lb ... ...... 1 0 English Hard Jujubes per lb .„ 1 0 Frosted Caramels per lb ... 1 4 Cream Dates, per lb ... ... 0 11 Eating Chocolate 3|dand 7d peroaka Princess Mixtures perf lb , 0 The Trade Supplied PICKLES AND VINEGAR Captain White, per bottle ... 2 4 Hey wood Round, per bottle ... olt Heywood Patent Stopper*, per bottle 1 1 Hey wood Sweet Pickles, per bottle 1 4 Vinegar 6J, Bj, lOi per bottle. Is 6d, 2s per gallon ETC, ETC. If you are wanting Fencing Wire note these Prices- No 8 Black Fencing, per cwb ; H 0 (Johnson Best) per ton £11 7 8 Galvanised Barb Wire, per cwt 0 16 6 (Best English Wire), per ton £15 ''$■' 0 SHEEP SHEARS. . 8.8.A. and Union per pair ... 3 6 5 Tons Rock Salt to be cleared out at 4s per cwt Castle Brand fine salt, per cwt ... 4 3 Blue Derwenc Potatoes per sack 6 9 NORTON'S EGG PRESERVATIVE | Gal. Tina to Preserve 20 doz, per - tin , M | 9 4 Gal, Tins (o Preserve 200 doz" ' Pe** fi" ... .10 0 Eggs all the jear round ia the result of u-lt.g - inger's Egg Producer la 9d per packet i . ' ■ , •, , •



CHRISTMAS PRESENTS—We are a'lowing 10 per tsent. discount-, (2a in the B) of all Plated Ware, Clocks, Watches, Etc , d-r in*- December. Al2 months guarantee given with every Clock or Watches fold. Ar-s^'mia W>tchee, stem wind, 9a 6d each, Water* bury Watches, short wind, 10a 6d oabb, Lad c*> Watobes, 12s 61. FLETCHER BEOS. OASHSUPPLY STORES, EAST STREET, ASHBURTON, & HIGH STREET. CHRIBTOHURCH.