COMMERCIAL.

THE LONDON MARKETS.

London, Deo 22 Mutton—Crosabred wethers and maiden ewes, Canterbury 3 5.161 s Dunedin and Southland 31, North Island 2 13 161 Limbs, prime Canterbury 4|3. Fair average, Ino'uding Dunedin, Southland, Wellington secondary, and Canterbury 4§ 1. New Zalard bee f, 180 b to 2201b fair average quality, ox fore*, ffl; hinds, 4| I. River Plata cross, bred or merino wethers, heavy and light, 2U.16d

THE AGENT-GENERAL'S CABLE

Wellington, December 23 Tho following is tho Agant-General's cablegram, dated London, 21st Inst ; — Mutton market depressed, stock accumu lating j average pn'Os of C»n*erbnry 3| I, Dunedio, Soub dand, and W M E Co, 3d j other North Island, 2§ 1. Limb is quiet, Canterbury 4| 1, other brands^! Au«'.r*Uan 4| I Many ctrcvees of stale lamb are being placed on the market. There is a better demand for New Zealand beef. Hinds, 4\'t, foren, frsl A good demand for butter. The Gothio butter arrived In good condition. New Zealand butter is giving satisfaction to buyere, price 106<t to 109 ; oheese, firm. The Gothio cheese arrived io good condition*

ASHBURTON GRAIN MARKET.

The Ashburton Agency of tho New Zealand Farmers 1 Co-operative Association of Canter' bury, Ltd, quote as follows on December 23, 1901:- Whoat— Prime milling Pearl -. 2a 6d to 2s 7i „ „ Tuscan.- 2s 7d to 2s 8d Hunter's 2s 6i to2s7d Oats—Dunß 2s to 2s Id „ Danish 2s to 2a Id  Sparrowbills 2a to 2a 21  Canadian 2a 2d to 2s 31 Barley—Malting, prime 2s to 2* 3d Inferior la 6d Peaß—Blue Prussian 3s  Partridge 3a 6d to 4s Chaff—Good oatsheaf 47s 6d to 603 Grass Seed—Farmers 2* to 2* 31 The above are prices current paid to farmers on trucks ab Ashburtou

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24, 1901.

Notwithstanding Time's daily re minders that he is ever marching on we can hardly believe that there have been three hundred and sixty-five of these reminders since we last wished our readers the compliments of the season. Swiftly as the days have followed one another they havp, never thelesß, left an enduring record behind them, a record that is alternately marked with joys and sorrows, with pleasure and pain. Fortunately for most of us, in a general way the paiu and the sorrow are altogether counter balanced by the pleasure and the happiness that has fallen to our lot. There are somp, however, who have suffered bereavements, and some who are not in a position to take full advantage of the opportunity for enjoyment which the Christmas season offers. It should, therefore, be a pleasure to those who are more happily circumstanced to endeavour to cheer up their less fortunate fellow citizuiß by every means in their power. Their own common sense, tact and good feeling will doubtless suggest the means of doing so in the way that will be beat appreciated. As for those amongst as who are determined to have a good time, they will not find much difficulty about that. What with cheap railway and sea trips, sports and pastime^ of every description, the choice is wide enough £>r the most exacting ple&sure seeker. All that is wanted is good health and a fine day. We wish all our rraders the first, and believe that the proipFct for the latter is fair, and we hope they will have a good time and a Mebuy Christmas.

Local and General.

To Oob Readers—Tha Ashburton Guardian will not ba published on Christ mas Day and Boxing D*yi Personal—Mr and Mrs Hugo Friediander lifr. Ashburton on Saturday evening en route to Auckland, where thfy spend the Christmas and New Year holidays.— Mr Rudolph Friediander arrived lv Auckland today, on his return to Ashburton* A Sign of thk Times—The hobelkeepers atMentoue, which used to ba considered the Paradise for consumptives have combined to refaao to take in consumptive visitors in future Mount Somers Races—A special train | will leave Ashburton on December 26th at 10 15 a m for Springburn, returning from Springburn at 6.40 p m and Mount Somers at 6*65 pmi Passengers will be carried at holiday excursion fares The Small Birds' Noisancfb—The sma'l i birds this year appear to be more numerous than over in this district, and are already creating great havoc amongst the crops. In Tuscan wheat especially, they are very busy, and appearances indicate that mo c damage than ever will occur through these small depredators amongst the crops and fruits. Rangitata District—During the pasb fortnighb the Rangitata district has erjoyed an unlimited supply of rain. The crops of wheat and oats are looking exceedingly well, and promise an abundant harvest. Root orops, too, are making very gbod progress, and some fine yields of clover hay are noticeable Mills, Dick and Go's Almanac—We have received from the publishers a oopy of thrir Otago, Southland, and Bouth Cinter bury Almanac and Dirootory. It is intended apparently as a commercial direotory for Qago, there beincj very little reference to any parti of South Canterbury. However, as a work of reference and an almanac ib is undoubtedly a useful book, There should be a good deal of information within its 286 pa^es A Man Missing—Chris'church papers report that there are so far no tidings of the mac L fney, who ia missing from Kawai Bushi On Tuesday last a thorough search of the neighbourhood was made by Constab'e Barrett and a detective, bub no trace of the man could bo found. Search parties have also scoured the locality on more than one occasion, with the like result; Grave fears are entertained as to L3ney's fate The Crops—Reports from all quarters] judicata thab the reoenb rains have made a ! vast d fforencs to the growing crops. In the Wakanui district quite a transformation has occurred since the rain. Harvesting in the district has in some former seasons commenced before Christmas, but this year it is anticipated cutting will nob be general until about the end of J*nuary. The Wakanui crops appear to have plenty of straw and to be well headed, fine weather ' only being required now to produce a good yield. Imitation—Those In search of Chrlstmrs and New Year novelties are invited, together with the old clients, of Messrs glrange & Co, to \isit their sample rooms in Burnett Street, where Mr Sandrey has specimens of all classes of drapery, furnishings, aud fur niture, together with • Eldrk'ge B' cele brated sewing machines. The attractive premises will b3 specially lighted up this evening, when patron 3 are requested to pay a visit. Before the Bolidavs—Cyclists are noti fied that the beat place to have their bicycles thoroughly overhauled or repaired in at Gates, LoWry and Go's, Burnett street, lb does not matter to them whab nuke the machine is, they can either manufacture or replace any parts required, and their work is turned out neatly done and guaranteed.

Weather Forecast* — Captain Edwin ' wires*.—JNorthe*Bt> to north and wesb gale after 12 hours from now ; glass fall* Druids' Picnic—Members and their friends are reminded that all seats must be booked tonight. The tickets are obtain able from Mr D Stock, A White Sparrow —Mr J D.vldaou, of Hawera, caught &■, his farm, whab is cer tainly a rara avis, a whito Bparrow. It had a yellow beak and red ryes, bub no traces of any co'our on the body, b^vs whi:e. A Discovery Us BRTKR—A m»n has been arrested at Timaru on a ohirge of having deserted from the Discovery, He will be kept in cus'ody at Tim uu until Inspector Ellison receives information from the com mander of the Dieoovery, at Dunedio, as to what action should be taken In the matter. Court. —At the Police Court this morn ing, bafore Messrs George Coleman and Robert Alcorn, Js.P,, William Meaciem was charged with assaulting one Thoa. Andrews. He was fined 30; and 18 1 costs. Christmas Eve. — Large numbers of visitors were in town today, and the various tradespeople had a busy time. This evening the soups are a!l to be lighted up, and the streets will doubtless be orowded with pedestrians on a visit of inspection. A Goon Suggestion—At the meeting of Marton branch of the Farmers' Union, held on Monday, Mr W J Birch said that i. had occurred to him that it would be a pleasant and advantageous thing if they conld arrange an annual picnic for members and their wives and families. It would bring them together for a pleas mt day, and cultivate a spirit of union and friend ship. He hcpod after the harvest that they might be able to work up something of the kind. Fire- The largest fire that has occurred in Christchurch for nmny months broke out last evening in Messrs G G Stead and C) 'a grain stores, at Addington. The Brigade was npon the scene within a very short time of the alarm, but a large quan tity of machinery for cleaning and dressing grass eeed, together with a gas engine, were absolutely destroyed, and a number of bags of seed were either burned or mined by water. Pazub.—A be_nar, promoted by the .Roman C»tholio body, was opened this afternoon in the Arcade Auction Room, when a splendid display of art needlework, oil paintlngi", carvings, embroidery and toys for sale was made. Refreshments were also provided, and the bszvar is announced to remain open until the New Year, and it will well repay a vißlr. The admission ticket fixed at a low sum will be accepted as equal value by the various stallholder*. A full report will appear in our next issue. Funeral.—Yesterday afternoon a large number of friends of Mr Wm, Harding, of Willowby, attended the funeral of his daughter, forty vehicles following from the honse to the Ashburton cemetery. At the Willowby church, an Impressive tervce was held by the Ray J Jory, and at the grave he was assisted by the Rev T Fee and Mr S S Chapman. Members of the Willowby Sunday School were present and sang hymna at the services. Amongst those who attended as a m»rk cf reipeofe to deceased and her relatives and family, we noticed Messrs Mobos, Prebbte, Leadley, Anderson (2), Wheeler, Osbnrne, Alcorn, Bland, Jonea, Rivelt, Watson (2), Frampton, Ltll, Gray burn, Williams, Taylor and Chalmers. Rangitata Station ScuooL—The annual picnio and prze distribution in connection with the Rangitata Station School took p'aoe on Friday last* The children's parents and friends assembled about midday, and after haviog lunch, the usual games were indulged In and races contested: The hoist ing of the New Zialand ensign was the prinotpal event of the afternoon. Appro priate speeches were made by the Rev A R Todd and Mr J R Brodie, and the children sang God Save the King, and tho Red. White and Blue. The prices were then distributed, each child receiving a book, The custorra-y oheera terminatel this part of the proceedings, and an adjournment made to the show ground and games resumed; In the evening a social was held, which was largely attended. Tennis Tournament—Lovers of tennis are promised a splendid exhibition of fkill In this game at the forthcoming tournament, to be commenced at the Ashburton Domain on Thursday next, and as the weather now gives prospects of being fioe, an exceptionally largo atten dmce may ba *xp eted. The single cham pionship bstween Messrs Wilding, who holds the Canterbury championship, and 0 H Broad, holding that of Oi;ag3, will be a most Interesting test and worth going a long way to witness, This will eventaate about 2 o'clock on Thursday, and in the forenoon Messrs Collins and Harann will hold their championship double- A num ber of players from Danadln and other centres have already arrived in Ashbarfcon for the tournament. The Christmas Holidays—Any persons wanting to hire a bicyole for the Christmas holidays cannot do better than go to the Rudge Wbitworth Cyo'e Agency, Burnett Street, where first class machines are always on hiret Dried Fruits—lt seems strange to us that New Season's Dried Fruits, such as currants, sultanas, etc, are sold cheaper in Ashburton than by any of the Christchurch housefl, which any of our readers will readily see by comparing Messrs Fletcher Bros advertise ment with any of the Christchurch store keepers' advertisement). We consider they should be well patronised on account of their keeping the prioes of groceries to the lowest payable level. There Is no doubt about-. It, if they were not doing business in Auhburton our readers would have to pay far higher for their goods. So therefore it is to your interest to give them all the business yeu can

News in Brief.

An important notice regarding the express trains appears in our advertising columns, The Cable Company advise the following hours for Christmas Day :--9.30 a m to dear and 4.30 pm to char. Boxing Day, 8.30 a m to clear and 6.30 p m to clear, Messrs Fletcher Bros are giving sevenpence pn- dozan for fresh eggs in any quantity until further notice*

CRICKET.

United Press Assooiation-—By Electric Telegraph—Oopyrighb Melbourne, Dec 24 Blytho is suffarin^ from an iDJury to his hand, but is expected to be able to play In tho seoocd test rmtoh next week.

The usual fjrtnfght'y Committee meeting of the Ashburton Critket Club was held ab McConnelPa Rooms last evening. Present —C J Taylor (chairman), LF Andrewes, Percy Orr. A W Lane, Fred Prltchard, and W'Powell. Correspondence was dealt with, and it was decided to accept the challenge of the Wisden Competition Team to play them in the Domain on New Year's Day. Tde Geraldino Cricket Club also wrote for a fistore on the same day, bat it was resolved to postpone this match sine die. Mr Taylor was deputed to register the number of points after each niafch, so as to enable a eelec'ion to be made at the end of the season of the best fielder for the Lane trophy. Numerous minor matters were discussed in Committee and the meeting then closed with the usual vote of thanks to the chairman.

SWIMMING.

United Press Association—By Eleobrlo Telegraph—Copyright Sydney, December 22 The Quarter-mile Swimming Chimpion« ship of .New South Wales was won by Read who easily beat R Cavill In the Australian record time of smin 42 sec.

Borough Council.

The mual fortnightly meeting of the Birough Council was held last evening. Present—Hi* Worship the Mayor and Crs Davis, Davison, Jones, Clark, Timmins, Willis and Reil FINANCE The debit balance at the Bunk was reported as £1862 16a 10d, and receipts since last, maetiog were £48 13i 6d O(RRE6PONDBNOB Correspondence was read— From the Inspector of Faotorles re weekly half holiday, asking thab the day be fixed and advertised.—lt was resolved, on the motion of Cr Raid, to adopt Thursday From A H Anderson, re price of Steam Ro*d Roller, £600 bging the price for a ten ton maohlne and £710 for one of 12A tons — Reoeived From 0 W Puroell, forwarilng agreement ro abattoir between the Borough and the Fait field Works,—The Mayor and Or Raid were appointed to affix the Borough seal to the agreement,—Crs Timmins, Davis and Willis ooneidered the document which waß before the Oounoil should be read, or a short abstract given on the ma;n po nts in the deed.—The Ma^or sail thab the Committee appointed bad carefully considered the deed, and he thoughb it> was their ofthotodeai with the agreement and not the whole CouDci'.-Ar the result of a vote, however, the Mayor gave a rcaun « of the main points! —The date on which it is to coma into force was left in the hands of tho Abattoir Committee From F Ferriman, asking for the Council's consent to the transfer of a private righb of way to Mr Gtbbard, wh'ch was agreed to provided the Council's solocitor was favour able to the change From Mrs Elliott re wages for cleaning offioes, asking that these be raised on account of the * xbenslona to the buildings.— lb was decided to increase the allowance to 10s per week. WORKS COMMITTEE'S REPORT. 1. Formation of William Streeb-Your 0 .'remittee reoommend thab the work of forming this stroet from Peter street bo the Bait and the S.E. portion of the N.E. Belt be hi Id over till March nexb, when tenders should be called for the work.—Adopted. 2. Site for deposit of Rubbiah—Your Com mittee have vtnlted the Reserve lately granted to the Council as a site for a rubbish depot, and beg to recommend (») that the present tenant rcoelve due notioa to termi nal hia tenure of this Ressrve, (2) that this Committee be authorised to have the broom and gorse cleared, and a fence erected and other arrangements made where thought necaseary befere opening tha depot for receiving rubbish, and (3) that a road be formed frem the <orm>r of Dobson and Park Streets to give the necessary access through the reserve.—Adopted. 5. Thomas Andrews' Aocount—Mr And rews having informed the Chairman thab he will accept a sum of nob less than £18 in , sattlemenb of his aocount for the erection of ' the office outbuildings, your Committee re port that this amount he paid—Adopted. 4. Repairs to Grain Store on T.S. 211— Your Committee recommend that this store be put in good repair and the woodwork painted, and that the necessary work be done for improving the drainage at the back of the store—Adopted after considerable diaoussion, and authority given to the Works Committee to do cer aid work. 5 Fencing the Hinds Reserve—The Fore man having visited this' Reßerve and reported to the Committee that Mr Sutherland has satisfactorily carried out the work ot fencing (ff the gravel Reserve, the account for half cost of the fenoe has been paid—Agreed to. 6. Grass in Domain — Your Committee have accepted the tender of Mr A Betta for cutting and stacking the grass within the Domain at 203 per aore. The report as a whole was adopted. inspector's repori The Inspector's report on the Borough was satisfactory as regards saoitatioa Or Andrews drew attention to to the ponds nexb the Catholic school, and lb was decided to request the owner to have the holes filled up The Foreman of Works and the Fire Brigade Engineer forwarded reports, the Utter uvimating th^t the result of an inspection shewed the Fire engine to be getting out of repair, and advising that a new boiler would be rrq >ired shortly It was resolved to refer to the Fire Brigade Committee MISCELLANEOUS Cr Timmins complained that some con tractors had a preference In the use of keys to the new roadway into the river* The Chairman of the Works Committee replied that he had gfven the use of one key only. No special preference had been given It was decided to shingle Wakauui West Road and the footpath also to be covered with light uhing'e Cr Willis asked when the partially as phalted footpaths from Mr Mueller's to the Hospital would be finished The Chairman «,f the Works Committee stated it would be some time- before the asphalters could complete, as there was other work previously promised to be finished. Upon Cr Willis pressing that the work having been baguo, shoa'.d becomp'eted, it was agreed that it should ba attended to Cr Timmins moved thab a shed for a covering over the Borough yard ba eraoted for that portion required for mixing concrete, but this was lost ' The fee for registration of d°gs in the borough was fixed on similar terms to those of last year LICENSES Auctioneers licenses wore granted to D Thomas, R Curtis, R Friedlander, H A Lloyd, and H Stephenson ACCOUNTS Accounts amounting to £122 8) 21 were passed for payment TOWN OIiOCK The Mayor reported thab the carriers in town had forwarded a subscription of £2 2j towards the new Town Clock, and the same was received with thanks The Counoil then sat as a DOMAIN BOARD. Messrs Willis and Andrews complimented the chairman on his article upon the Domain, which had been published by the Christchurch papers, the opinion being expressed that this was an excellent adver tisement A letter was recoived from the Sporta Association enclosing cheque for £50 for the asphalt cycling track, and asking that the Board see thab the work be done thoroughly before payment be handed o^er—Received Permission was granted to the Rakala Sunday School bo hold a picnic in the Domain Mr Willis suggested that the centre path la the Domain, now covered with loose shingle, should be blinded with clay and cinders Mr Raid agreed thab the work was necessary, and it was decided that It should be done

CYCLING.

Per Press Association— By Electric Telegraph Christohuroh, December 23 At a meeting of the League of New Z jalaud Wheelmen tonight, a solicitor's opinion was read with regard to the Workers Compensa tion for Accidents Act. In order thab a portoa who is inj ued, or his representa tives if he iskiiled, could obtain compensation, ib must be established thab he was engaged in an employmenbto which the Act referred ab the time of the injury, and thab the relation of master and servant existed ab the time of the accident; An opinion was also expreßßed thab the club committees might be liable for damages to a rider on a track while racing if ib could he proved the injury was caused by negligence of the Olubi Ab a special meeting, a motion thab the League take over control of riders in road races was lost, bub ib was decided to refer tha whole question to the Centres. A motion regarding entrance fees was altered to enable fees to be charged not exceeding five per cenb of 'he pri>3 money,

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Eleotrlo Telegraph—Copyright

j AN UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY. ' London, Doc 22 Mr Haydn, member of the House of Commons for Roscommon South, and a > iinrflber of others, have received sen tences of twenty-one days impriso ment in Oastlebar on a charge of taking part in an unlawful assembly. An appeal haa been demanded on the question of the jurisdiction of the Court. INDISPOSITION OF THE QUERN. L- ndon, December 23 The Court's departure for Sandring ham for Christmas is postponed, owing to the fact that the Queen is suffering from slight indisposition THE PERSIAN GOLF AFFAIR. Renter's Constantinople correspon dent states that when the Turkish fUg waa hoisted on Mabjiroukh's Palace the commander of the British gunboat hauled it down, substituting Maba roukh's fl >g as a token of his iudepen. flflTlCfl RUSSIA AND CHINA. Ohing and Wangwensha, conferring with M. Loasar, requested the early withdrawal of Russian troops from Manchuria, except a limited railway guard. They oppose the limitation of Chinese troops in Manchuria, and ask for the early surrender of the Niu ehwang-Shanghai railway and abandon ment of the Russian claim to a mining monopoly, CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR BOER CHILDREN. Berlin, December 22 The children of the Rhine Provinces sent Kruger 10,000 mirks as a Christ mas present for the Boer children. RAILWAY COLLISION IN A FOG. A horse straying on the railway at i Altenbeke was mangled by J he engine, j the wheels were clogged, and the train j stopped. Duting the prevalence of a fog a train coming up from behind collided, and fifteen were killed and thirty wounded. ' AN UNEMPLOYED RIOT. Buda Pksth, Dec 22 Eight thousand unemployed paraded the streets of Buda Pesth, and hid a fierce tight with the police, who wounded many with their swords. The shops were stoned and pillaged and hundreds of tradesmen and assistants were injured. Thirty arrests were made. STUDENTS SENTENCED. St Petersburg, December 23 Twenty students of Warsaw have received sentences ranging from a fort night to three months for the recent outrage at the German Consulate. EXPRESS TRAIN AND TRAM CAR COLLIDE. Paris, Dec 22 An express collided with a tram car at a level crossing in Lyons, killing four and injuring twenty. THE CAPE AND PACIFIC CABLES. Melbourne, Dec 23 The Federal Postmaster-General opens negotiations to-day in respect to a uniform agreement with the Eastern Extension Company and the Cape cable. The Attorney-General points out that when tho Federal Government took over the State Post Office, it took over the obligations in connection with the Cape cible, and was similarly responsible for the Pacific cable.

The Schley Inquiry.

__ (HIGH OFFICIALS CENSURED.

London, December 22 The Hon J D Long, secretary of the United States Navy, approved of the Court's findings of fact in the Schley- Sampson case, and re commended that proceedings be dropped, but at President Roosevelt's instance he demanded the resignation of Mr McLay, the historian. The Hod E Root, Secretary of War, acting on President Roosevelt's in structions, reprimanded General Nelson Miles, Commandant ef the Army, for commenting on tbo case, and infringing the Army regulations. General Miles explained that he merely blamed indi viduals for impugning Admiral Schley's courage and eJiciency. He did not intend to criticise the Court.

A Steamer Aground.

United Press Association—By Eleobrio Telegraph—Copyright Brisbane, Dec 23 The steamer Devonshire, which went aground at the Hnnter reef near Hanni bal Island, Torres Straits, last Sunday, is in a safe position. Her cargo is being lightered. _______

An Anti-British Speech

United Press Association—By Elootrlo Telegraph —Copyright. Sydney, December 28 A large gatheriug of Irish resdents entertained Mr O'Brien at a banquet at a pleasure resort on the Paramatta River. Speeches denunciatory of the British Government were delivered. The keynote of the proceedings was struck by a well known doctor, who attempted to tear down the Irish fUg with the Onion Jack In the corner. Mr O'Brien, replying to the toast said thab Ireland was now united, and the union would stand the lest of tirnel Such dissension as had occurrei in tho past ' would never again in their generation | darken Ireland. The Irish party today ! was the one dreaded ptrty in the English Parliament. Tha great Liberal party was divided. He referred to Lord Bosebery as a half-caste Imperialist. They hid heard of the proposal to curtail Irish representation. They cared nothing for the threat, which was the reason why tho Government did nob carry ou, the threat. Thank G«d they had plenty of work elsewhere without declaring war on Ireland They wonld find her a nnited disciplined fighting power. The Irish must put a stop to the cureed system of landlordism. The present administration was going to its doom. It wa? most cowardly, weak, and blood-guilty, and had made the name of England detestable.

The Federal Customs.

London, December 21 Count Yon Bulow, German Imperhl Chancellor, is in communication with Great Britain rfgarding the prosecuti ms In Australia of the North German Lloyd's Company's steamer for breaking the Customs seals. I The Daily Chronicle advises the Com. monwealth to amend the Customs Act in, order to ayoid international complications.

SOUTH AFRICA.

BOER FORCE NEAR BARKLY EAST.

THE MARGEKDOOL AFFAIR.

United Press Association—By Sleotrlc Telegraph—Copyrigh London, Dec 22 Commandants Fouche and Myburg, with 300 men, are southwards of Barkly Bast. Colonel Munro .captured 15 of Myburg's commando. Leyds, commenting on Lord Rose bery's speech, declares that Morgendooi was coudmartialled and *hot for urging the Boers to desert. The Times shows the utter falsehood of this statement.

A COMMANDANT KILLED.

MURDERS OF NATIVES.

London, December 23 Commandant Hasbroek and two others were killed during an encounter with Colonel Barker's column at Doornsberg. Several Boers were captured. Lord Kitchener states that the Boers are rep3rced to have murdered thirty seven Kaffirs in the Kimberly district, and twenty-three northeast of Orange; Natives allege that the Boers rolled a Kaffir driver belonging to the captured Rnstenberg convoy ia a sail, pild bags of oats on him, sprinkled the pile with paraffin arid burnt the man alive. Four Boers, including Piet Oronje'g son, have surrendered at Ventersdorp. They report that the Boers' horses are dying, and that ammunition ia scarce, though food is plentiful.

VIEWS OF A 'PEACE' DELE GATE.

New York, December 21 The Herald, interviewing Mr Woll marans, elicited the statement that if Britain would send a peace represen tative to The Hague the delegates would state their desiderata. It was impossible to surrender without com municating with the Boers in the field, after Steyn's and Schalkberget's July proclamation.

LAURISTON.

(From Our Own Correspondent)

On Friday afternoon the local school treat'waa held in the school ground, and an assemblage of considerably over one hundred parents, scholars, and friends congregated to witness the nsnalchildren's sports and outdoor pastimes customary on such occasions. The weather, for tunately, was perfect, and added much to the success of the gathering, as also to the comfort and enjoyment of those present. Great interest was shown by the younger ones in the various racing contests, and the toys, which were generously and though fully provided by Mr G Murdoch, were much appreciated. Refreshments, the bulk of which were supplied by the ladies of the district were dispensed to wards the close of the afternoon, and were more than sufficient to salLfy the craving-* of the most hungry appetites. Tea being over, all present were invited t:> witness the ceremony of hoisting the New Zealand Hag. The children of the school weru drawn up in line in front of the fhg pole, whilst the parents and friends also gathered round, the whole farm'ng a very pleasant scene. Appro priate speeches were made by Mr J A Johnston, Chairman of the School Committee, and by Mr Walker, who brL fly reviewed the history of the flag. Mr Juhns on then called upon Miss Maggie McKendry. the youngest girl in the school, to come forward and hoist the fla?, This dene, all present joined la the sfnging of the National Anthem, and the children saluted the flig in the orthodox military fashion. Mr Palmer of Rakala then photographed the whole group, which formed a very pretty pioture. Ah a fitting clot c to so enjoyable an afternoon, the Committee had previously wisely decided upon holding a concert In the evening in aid of the school prize fnnd. The schoolroom, which had been taste-: fully decorated by Mrs Walker, was packed to overflowing, and not even standing room was available. The programme, which was a lengthy ene, comprised fourteen Items given by the children, interspersed with a few others by outside friends. The children had undergone a considerable amount of training and consequently their part of the programme was gone through exceptionally well, as was evidenced by the hearty rounds of applause which greeted the rendering of each and every item. Of the outside performers, the violin solos given by Miss Lock of Methven, and Mr Palmer were voci ferously applauded, and each of these performers had to comply with a second number. Songs were very creditably given by Miss Doff of Methven and Mrs T L Johnston, as also by Mr T Dent, Mr ; T L Johnston, and Mr Walker, while two plantation songs were well rendered by a local glee party, Mr Henderson of Methven, contributed two humorous I reaitations in his usual excellent style, and a most pleasing programme was i brought to a close by several selections on i Mr J Maidens* phonograph, the best yet \ heard in the district. At the close of the performance, Mr Johnston, on behalf of the residents of the district, took the opportunity of bidding farewell to Me and Mrs Walker, who are shortly leaving for their new home in Irwell. He briefly referred to the good work done by Mr and Mrs Walker, as also to the high esteem in which they are held by parents and pupils. On .behalf of the numerous ; subscribers, he presented to Mr Walker ' a keyless silver hunting watch and chain, j and to Mrs Walker a handsome gold S bangle, both articles suitably engraved. ; Three junior pupils then came forward land handed to Mr and Mrs Walker a handsome piano stool, richly upholstered In plush and set on.a massive bronzs pedestal. Mr Walker fealiogly acknow ledged the valuable gifts, referring to the many acts of kindness of which they have been mide the recipients during their long stay in the district. It was especially pleasing to Mr and Mrs Walker to know that their voluntary efforts had been so much appreciated by their many Lauriston friends, and to carry away with them such handsome mementos of their stay in the district. The meeting was closed by the usual votes of thanks to all who had helped to make the gathering a success,

Vm ASHBtJRTOK GtJABDIAN ; TUESDAY, DfiCEMBEH 24, 1901



IT-i iM-^nn-i mil i ii i ■'"■ - —- ■ ..-jM-rm -~>r~-' im .■■ - F. FERRIMAN 1 ___. __^^ —, ALFORD ¥OREST ROAD. XHAVE received Instructions from Mr Alexander Bingham, who la leaving for Moigiel at an early date, to Sell bis House of j six rooms and | of an acre of land Alto If sores of laud, ad j doing Mr ] Benderaou. A capital paddook with a good J ( step o! hay on part ot it ' Alio | aore Section, adjoining Mr R.F Mcskioß, en the Alford Forest Bead I Fall particulars may be had on application F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent Havelook Street I HAVE the following snore, available to lend on first class Freehold Rural Lands -£7000, £6000, £4000 and £1000 »« A\ pet sent, also other sums on lease* sld. F FERRTMAN,- Licensed Land Broker FOR SALE, AT ALLENTON, ABOUT 2§ Acres, situated on the continuation of tho N.E Town Belt, tapon which is erected a first olasa House of 6 rooms, and good Stables. Part of the land is laid out in good orchard. Terms or cask F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent FOR SALE, TANCRED STREET, A GOOD BOUSE, close to the Masonic Hall. The Property must be sold aa the owner is leaving for Christchurch. This property will let well F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent FOR BALE, WA&ANUI ROAD, A PROPERTY consisting of 1 rood 20 perches with house of 4 rooms .„* garden *hloh I. **Wjfa Land and Estate Agent FOR SALE, A BARGAIN near the Woollen Faotoiy —* Acre of Land, with a 3 roomed House and Scullery, pump ihside. If you are seeking a good home on easy terms see F. FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent ~"" FOR^ALE^ AT HAMPSTEAD, HOUSE of 4 rooms and l-Bth aore of land. Price £85. F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent i . TO LET* ! A HOUSE of 7 rooms and Scullery corner of the N E Town Belt F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent * ~~ TO~LET^ TTOUSI in Peter Street of 6 rooms. "^ F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent ~~~ "b"pMNBBB NQTICBB MEMBERS OF FARMERS' UNION A~REi informed that arrangementg ate now completed with the Commercial Union Insurance Corporation for insuring at tedboed rates Employees of Members of the Union, Policies may be leßued at onoe. Mebsbs Fmbdlaeder Bbos, Ltd, are the Local Agents for the Commercial Union ompany. O Babdy 4 Co, Agents at Rtbaia. (Signed) U, W 4 LEADLEY, Chairman North Canterbury District \\ |56 N Z Farmers' Union ti ___ ' .„ ' ■■ ' I...*'— ■»■ tTABMERS EMPLOYEES' AOOI DENT INSURANCE WITH reference to the above, wa wish to direct attention to the fact that the Reduced late of Premium is due to the enterprise of the Oommerolal Union Offioe and now that the Contract is in force, we trust the Members of the New Zealand Farmers' Union will loyally stand by the agreement entered into. We Bhall be glad o receiva proposals FRIEDLANDER BROS, Ltd. P« HUGO FRIEDLANDER. Managing Director. Ashburton, Nov. 30,1901 11 216 TO MEMBERS OP FARMERS' UNION AND OTHERS. IMPORTANT NOTICE RE WORKERS' COMPENSATION ACT, &o. THE "OCEAN Accident Corporation Capital One Million Rbvknoe yon 1900-£878,492 5s lid. A RE INSURING FARMERS—Whether Members ef tbo Farmers Union or not—at the same rate and with the same concessions individually, as any other Company offers them collectively, ABSOLUTELY LOWEST] RATES GUARANTEED. Prompt and liberal settlement of all juts slatmS effected locally TO FARMERS "CITE may state that tho Reduced Rates of Premiums now prevalent on a 1 classes of business are due to the enterprise of the Ooean Accident Corporation, who have been steadily bringing down the Rates since they aommenoed operations in the colony, and I Farmers will Bad It to their advantago to call and see us before competing business Isewhere. NIOOLL BROS., Diatrlct Agon's



l» . ©J KEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FAOTOJRY HAS a reputation for BOYS' C LOTHING that the following lines \x[ hold : CALL AND INSPECT Boyc' Sailor Suits 5a 6 i Boys' Melville Suits 9a 6d I Boys' Norfolk Suits lis Boys Norfolk Suits 15a Boys' 3 Garment Suits 18s 6d Boys' Kharkee Suits 7a • Boys' Washing Blouses 4a I Guaranteed to be the very best quality I obtainable for the money. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING T7 AOT 0R V LOTHING JL? AC TORY COMPARE j^NITH JtSir TEA W AT PRICE 3/4 2/8_ ULSTER Boot Shop—THOS. YOUNG, Bootmaker, thanks bis numerous friends for their liberal support, and wishes them a Happy Christmas, and a Prosperous New Year. On account of not being able to secure Almanacs, I shall return to every purchaser for one mooih from datp, equal to 10 per cenb on Goods purchased. HaviDg completed my stock of Footwear, I solicit inspection of the same-THOS. YOUNG, Uister lkot Shop, Tauored Street, Ashburton BE wise and save money Buy your Boots and --hoea at Mellor s, Note - Ze&landia Boot Store,



BUBINKSS NOTICES ] E M. JONES _ H M. JONES, SANTA CLAUS AND FATHER CHRISTMAS ARE COMING AGAIN To Cheer the Young, and remind tha Old the years are paiaing away THK Undersigned has a very Large and Well Beleoted Stock of Book*, Stationwy, Fancy Goods, Toys, China and Glass, Leather and Plated Ware, Suitable for Gilts. Rewards, and Presentation purposes. Imported dlreot from Leading London and Unttnen """""V BOOKS. BOOKS. BOOKS. From Ward. Look and Co., Oasaellsaud Co., Horfdnr and Stoughton, Griffith, Farreoaml Son", University Prtss, London Sunday Uuion, and Others _ _ AVQ TOYS. TOYS TOY*. TOYS. Great Variety, from Id Doll to a Sbeam Engine! DOLLS. DOLLS. DOL£ R_: . w Sleeping Dells and Wideawake Dolls, Jointed Dolls, BwksMe,andl Unbreakable D.lls. FANCY GCOD3. FANCY GOODS Purees, Pookeb Books, Letter Cases, (Silver Mounted), Albums Photc.Frames Desk,, Work Boxes. Tourists' Oaees, Ink Sands, Dressing Owes, Music Oases, Jewel Uises, Blotters? Oabii Glove B«e 8 , Companions, and many other Hoes too numerous to particularise GL&gg( AND LB a_thEKWARE mnrjßS In Great Variety, i'rayer, and Hymn, and Tuns Bioks. SVtMA9i OARDB-Beaitlfal Head P*lnted Card,, Is. Album of Forty Vl,* of A ' , , * 11 -SOU CHRISTMAS. CHRISTMAS. CHRISTMAS. TO PRESENTATION COMMITTEES AND OTHERS. TTITE have just landed the Finest Selections of Goods suitable for Presentation W ever Imported into Ashburton. I COME AND SEE FOR YOURSELVES. Pennine Electro Placed Silverware from tho very best English Makers Knives, Forks, Spoons. Oruots, Teapots, Salad Bowls, Jams, Bitters, eto 1 CASE English WATCHES ; grand value 10 OASES CLOCKS of all descriptions. Imported direct from the makers, and will be sold at 25 per cent less than the usual retail prices. We are Importers of these Goodß and mean business. If you want a GOOD Watch or a GOOD Clock vielb our Establishment. 10 Cases of VaQes and Flower Pots direct from Japan, from 6i each ; must be sold to make room. Now is your opportunity. W. H. COLLINS & CO., MERCHANTS AND IMPOWBBS. A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL IIS PHIS," BOTH USEFUL AND ORNAMENTAL, MAY BE HAD AT ALL PRICES. f^&hh AND SEI OUR GRAND DI3PLIY OF VASES, FANCY GOODS, JAPANESE WARE, SILVER PLATED WARE & GLASSWARE, AT T. H. UNDRILL & CO., FUBNJTUBE WAKEHOUSB, TANORED STREET.



THE SEASON'S GREETINGS T O A. la Is. HPHE undersigned beg to thank the JL public for the v«?ry generous and heany support accorded to them during their stay In this district, and would draw special attention to the fact that as they will be removing to Christchurch to establish their headquarters on January j 31st, tbeir Ashburton branch will po-ji ! tively close on that date. The tuccess of \ their washing machines has now been established beyond all possibility of doubt, nevertheless, if any of their readers are still sceptical on the matter, the firm is still ready and willing to give the usual fortnightly trial, provided applications j aie sent in promptly, j As all stock must be quitted prior to I January 31sit, in order to open in Christ church with a freph stock, reduced prices from this out will be the order of the day. , The balance of our special purchase of Songs will bs sold at sixpenco per copy— your own selec'ion of 500 copies still remaining. Purchasers of all other Songs or pieces will also be presented wiih one of these gratis. Oar stock of Piano Lamps (latest novelty), * Globe Kong Folio,' 'Wide World Song Folio,' Uaiversal Pianoforte Folio,' etc, Piano Sconces, Folding Mneic ' Stands, Savealls, Violin Strings (splendid qoality), and Accessories ; Mou h Organs, Music Carriers, Metronomes, Piano and Organ Stools, Insulators, etc, etc, will all be marked down at greatly reduced prices, as all stonk must be sold, TUESDAYS and SATURDAYS at the Arcade. Again thanking the reaidents of this district for their hoarty and spontaneous Bupport, Believe ua, I Yonrs Faithfully, GRACE BROS, Atoade, Ashburton. (, i



INVITATION. STRANGE & COMPANY respectfully request their numereu* old Glienbs to Visit thtir SAMPLE ROOMS in BURNETT STREET, Where Useful and Ornamental CHRISTMAS GIFT 3 ARE ON VIEW, Including their «' Eldridge B " Sewing Machine, guaranteed, which is now a house- , hold term, at tho luw fi^nro of £5 15s ; or a nice Duchess Cheat—capital preaen'a for fconomical housewives. A Host of other Attractions on view. Christmas Orders already in hand will be faithfully fulfilled as usual. 12 196 FEDERAL COFFEE PALACE, Triangle, Ashborton. MRB WHEELER (late cf the Prince Albert Private Hotel) having pur chased the above old establis&ed House is prepared to receive Boarders and Travellers. The House has been completely renovated throughout, and has all tha comforts of a hem?, Terms moderate. 12 60



An earthquake, with its mystery, Will cause the stoutest heart to pause, The bravest men in history Have trembled at old nature's laws The man who then invokes the saints Would rather sickness long eadure, He kaows the thing for chest complaints Is W B Woods' G-eat Peppermint Care Smoke New Venus



Smoke New Venus



Wades Teething Powders for Babies are soothing, reduce fever and prevent blotches ; price, Is Hollis Cycles— The display of Hollis cycles vow on view at John Orr & Go's ia well worthy of inspection by all oyoling enthus* lasts. These machines are made from genuine B S. A parts by the celebrated gunmakers, I, Hollis & Sods, Birmingham, which should be sufficient guarantee of their efficiency. The mode's we have seen are superbly finished, and the high standard of quality attained in the manufacture of the Hollis bioyole ha* been most rigidly maintained. Wade's Wq^ Figs are most effective and not unpleasant; childiea l thrive after taking them prion, Is