EPHEMERIS

BUN.

Phases of Moon for July

THIS ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

Trains eave Ashburton daily for— OHRIBTUHUROH—at 7.20 am, 11 am 3.18 p m, 7 5 p m (express) TIMARU—a- 10.55 am,350 pm DUNEDIN—at 12.84 pm (express) SPRINGBURN—at 4.28 p m Trains arrive dally at Ashburton f rom«~ CHRISTCHUROH—ab 10.45 am, 12.48 p m {express), 3 pro" TIMARU-at 10.35 a m, 2 55 pm DUNEDIN—at 6.57 pm (express) SPRINGBURN-at 9.45 a m

Mail Notices

Hails close for the following places at under, subject to the necessary alterations THURSDAY, JULY 18 For Northern Ports and Westpert, per Tarawera, at 8.30 pm FRIDAY. JULY 19. For Northers Ports and Westpert, also Australia (due Sydney July 18th), and Africa, per McnowaS, at 630 pm J J_ftjgfc The next best despatch to the United Kingdom is via San Francisco' leaving < hristchnrch en July 24th, and doe Lon don Ang 24th

Commercial.

TEMUKA BTOOK SALE.

The fortnightly sale was well attended yesterday. The entry comprised 6000 sheep, 100 bead of cattle, and about tbe same number of pigs. The market wag eontraoted and nearly all the lines submitted were sold in favour of vendors. All round sheep realised about Is per head advance on late rates, and for cattle there was keen enquiry. The fallowing were the quotations realised:— Sheep—Fat ewes, 10s lOd. 12s 13s to 13s lOd ; three quarter bred hoggets, 13s, 13s Id, to I3a 2d ; half bred ewes in lamb, 10s 9d to lis. Cattle—Fat oowp, £6 10s to £7 12s 6d ; steers, 18 months, £3 10a to £4 ; heifers, £2 10 to £214; dry cows, £4 lg, £4 16e to £5; springers, £5, £6, to £6 15; cows in profin, £3 15s, £4 to £5 Pigs—Stores, 10s 6d. 12s, 13s 9d, 15s to 20a ; haooners, 35a Io 37e 6d.

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

G Gould.—ln view of the fact that the correspondence yon forward deals with what a public body has decided to bs a reflection on a professional man, and that the matter is still under consideration, we cannot aea car way to publish it.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit WEDNESDAY, JULY 17, 190 1.

We notice that more than one of the members of the Cabinet have express* d disapproval of the formation of Far mers' Unions and kindred associations, »nd that the Premier from his place in, Parliament, and also in his speech at Pa-iatua made it clear that he was strongly opposed to farmers and the agricultural community having any thing to do with politics. We confess this is quite a new view of the position, and it must be startling to the rural electors. We were under the impres sion that the great trouble in this progressive country wss that the public as a whole were not sufficiently in formed opon political questions, and that the average elector could never quite understand the intricacies of Government policy, the exigencies of -nance or the demands upon Minis terial patronage. If it were otherwise, why do Ministers take every available opportunity to enlighten the people, more especially in such districts where their policy is not altogether approved oft Sorely if the work n f **» ndminis tration is quite open to criticism, and entirely in the interests of the people, the more they know of its springs and i principles the more they must admire ■ it, and approve of it. One cannot J know too much of a good thing. Yet at the Pahiatua meeting the other day the Premier ad vised his hearers—mostly farmers—not to have anything to do with politics. We should have sup posed that Mr Seddon was getting off a little joke at the expense of the! farmers, were it not that an official of the "Producers Union" was so im pressed by the Premier's remarks on the subject, that he also strongly advised the farmers pre sent to leave politics alono. Now let us see what this advice will lead us to. We ■ havn already pointed out that the Trade Unions with their continual demand for increased wages for workers, and fir ever increasing duties on all imported necessaries of life, are seriously threatening the agri cultural and pastoral industries. Toe only remedy available for fhe latter is to combine, and endeavour by consti tutional means, to bring about a more satisfactory state of things. This principle of combination is what h»3 enabled tbe Trade Unions to cause to be placed upon tbe New Zealand Statute Book a number of measures, which have actually changed tbe whole economic and commercial condi tions of the country. In the face of this fsct we find Ministers of the Grown and their followers in Parliament coolly advising the farmers not to dabble with politics ! They are to leave all matters of this sort to the Workers' Unions and to their repre sentstives in Parliament. Wr Aft a nice condition of things for the Agricul tural industries would result, if the farmers were to accept the advice so kindly tendered to them by the Prem • ier and hia friends. We are really surprised that an astute politician like Mr Seddon should have ventured to show his hand so plainly as he has done; and we should think that the farmers and pastoralists, so far from accepting bis advice—will lose no time in taking combined action to protect their interests. In this connection, it is sat isfactory to note that the Ashburton A and P Association has nccepted the sug gestion offered in our columns some short time ago, and has made arrange ments to have copies of Mr Leadley's able review of the situation with regard to tbeagricultural community distribut ed throughout the colony. Mr Lead[ i ley's summary of the position mast

j prove convincing to all intelligent ' observers, and it will much surprise u°, if the Association's action in this matter does not result in all of the A and P Associations ia New Zealand assisting in an endeavour to safeguard the interests which they represent. Now is the time for action, and prompt steps sdonld be taken or the condition jof the producers will be even worse than it is now.

Local and General.

Wka-HBr R__oß_~»Gapt»in Edwin wires: —Northeast to north and west gales; aftir twelve hoars from now glass fall judications of rain, As__Vß_ot? Club— The annaal election of committee and tfficers of the Ashburton Oluh and M S A took phoe yesterday, con siderable interest being taken in the matier owing to the action of the late committee in a enrtain matter. All the old members and the president and vice-president were re elected by farpe majorities. Kbcord Frosts—The frosts that havo been experienced in Ashburton this season have established a record. With the ex ception of two or three nights when rains fell, there has been a succession of frosts since 22nd June—over three weeks LANO JOB SeML-MBNT IK CANTBRBORT— Ten thousand acres of the Blueoliffa estate in Canterbury have been offered for sale to the Government. The land will shortly be Inspected with a view to ascertaining its suitability for settlement in small sections. A Cqm_abison—One of the returned troopers states that one New Zealand sheep Is equal to two and a half Trans* vaal sheep from a culinary point of view.! The same proportion le alleged in regard to cattle. Hookkt—The hockey match arranged between the Ashburton and Rakaia Clubs for Thursday next wilt not take place, owing to the local players not being able to get away. A practice match will therefore be held in the Ashburton Domain at 3pm sharp Cou_siN«—The Seorstary of the Ashbur ton Coursing Club anticipates good entries, which close tonight, for the Coursing meet ing at Lsgmhor tomorrow. The ground is some of the best in the county and it is said hares are plentiful. Arrangements for con veyances to the ground will be made this evening N. S.W. Rifle Association - We have to acknowledge the receipt of a copy of the New South Wales National Rifle Association's programme for the 41st prize meeting, which will be held at the Eandwlck Rifle range from the 21at to the 26th of October, 1901 Tboofirs' R_c_raoN—The name of Mrs . F Mainwaring, who took a most prominent part in the entertainment of the returned troopers on Monday evening, was inadver tently omitted from the lint of ladies in charge of tha refreshments; We have baen specially requested to mention this by the Troopers Reception Committee

Demise or ihk Glasgow « Dailt Mail '— Scotchmen generally, but especially those hailing from tbe C'yde, will regret to learn that it. i* renorted on authority that tbe Glasgow Daily Mail has been sold to Messrs Harmsworth and has on and after the. 10th June ceased to exist. Messrs Harmsworth's own paper, the Daily Record, will in future be known as the Daily Record and Mail

Inquest—The Inquest was concluded at Dunedin on Tuesday touching the circum stances connected with tha death of the throe men kil'ed by a fall of earth at tbe Inoh Valley lime kiln works. The jury returned a verdict to the effect that the de-tb of the diceased was caused by want of proper precautions and appliances due t) culpable neglec of duty by George Frano'S Bobimon, engineer in charge of the works for he Government-, It is not knnwn if any further proceedings will be taken

Larceny-John Dalton was charged at Geraldine yesterday with stealing, on the 6th insfc . e«cht ehtjepbkins valued at 3 each and 3491b of w.iol valued at 3d per ib. the property of G J Dennistoun, Peel Forent, and the same accused was further charged with a similar offence in respect of eight sheepskins and 3371b of wool, the p*operty of the executors of the late CGT.ipp Orarl Gorce station, on tho 9th inst. Accused was sentenced to six months' imprisonment on each charge, the sentences to be cumulative.

Skating at Timaru—The very severe frosts experienced lately have enabled those residents of Timaru who have, a love of skating to indulge in this pastime. Hut while many have obtained ■■pleasure, one or two ha"e received pains. The other night two (skaters collided, and a* if the shock of this was not sufficient, the ice broke and both got an m>p]ea*ant bath Mr Chas Malthas had also the misfortune to fall and dislocate the middle finger of his hand

Beafie_D—ln spite of the rough wsather, the opening meeting of the Seafield Band of Hope, held on Friday evening July s'h, was fairly well attended. The proceedings opened with the singing of an appropriate hymn, followed by a short address by tbe chairman, Mr Cluoas. Recitations were given by Misses Smith, Moore (2) Lee and Kelly, Mrs Moore, Messrs Hampton, Baxter, Henderson, and Tom Hampton ; readings by Messrs Baxter and Hampton; songs by Messrs Moore (2) and Oorbett; also a selec tion on the mouth organ by Mr A Wilson. The programme was concluded by singing, 'Onward Christian Soldiers.' lb is needless to say that the supper provided by the ladies of the district was much appreciated by all.

Skating—The ice ia the Domain cont!nu- s to strengthen and improve, and fall advan tage is being taken of the excellent surface on the lower reaches by hosts of skaters. Several photographers were busily eugagorl taking various groups on tbe ice early this morning, and Some excellent photos Should result, although we understand the subject is a difficult one to take. Amongst begin ners numerous spills have occurred, but) the victims have so far, suffered no serious injury. A couple yesterday came down very h«_vily on their heads, and it appeared as if they had been badly hurt, but as on struggling to their feet they remarked 'All's we!! that ends well,' it may bo assumed that no further harm resulted than to keep them off the ice today.

Boyal VteiT PorvßNiß — Tho children attending tbe Ashburton Borough and Hsmp stead Schools were yesterday presented with a medal as % souvenir of the visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall end York to the colony. On the obverse side the meda> bears the likenesses of the Royal couple in the centre, and the words round (he margin "Children's Souvenir, Visit Duke ar>d Duch ess of Cornwall and York to New Zealand.' On the reverße side is a representation of the Royal yacht the Ophir, and under it tho words 'June 1901,' while round the margin is the lettering 'EMS Ophir, in which their Koyal Highnesses c»m« to New Zealand/ The medals are of bronze, in size fully larger than a halfpenny, and have a h"le drilled in them in which a red white and blue ribbon is tied.

Boons N«w Zbalanb Lamb— A London Buyer writes to a daily paper under the beading 'Bogus New Zealand Lamb' es follows:--' In your issue of May 23 there is reported a case against) Messrs M Bergl and Co, of Liverpool, ia which that firm was prosecuted for selling as New Zealand lamb some that came from Australia. The action is brought by Mr Cameron, the New Zealand Government's represen'ative here, under the mistaken idea that the New Zealand farmer suffers an injustice in having Australian meat sold as New Zealand: Before; however, the New Zealand Government start advertising tbe splendid quality of Australian meat in this way, I think they might first see to their own offers at Home. Thousands of sbeep are forwarded to Canterbury yearly from other parts of New Zealand (>n order to be shipped from there to London), because the salesman in this market will pay the colonial a little more for Canterbury mutton than he would for mutton from Otago or Southland, little dreaming that he is buying the one thing and getting the other. The fraud on this side deceives no one son the other it is ntentional."

PbrsopA-—'Mr B Amos basso far reooverel from hio »ooident that he was able to be out of bed for a little while today

Lam Trains—The Jimaru Htr&ld sug* gpst^ that on future ocoasious when a crow A" collects at the station for any popular reason to meet a train, cud the train is seriously delayed, nocice to thin effcot shculd be given |> the crowd somehow, no that they may, r_ a frosty evening, say, take a turn round the block to keep,their feet warm while waiting

Another Accowst ofTkoo.sb Wooket's^ Dkath— It will be remembered that the first Intimation of the death of Trooprr Wcokey that was made ia New Zealand was an extract from a letter from Trooper FKnox, of the Fifth Contingent, whioh was published in our columns. In the course of a conver sation this morning w<th Trooper Knox, who returned on Monday evening, a repre sentative of this j ureal learned that tbe aeoonnt of Trooper Wookey'a death, whioh has hitherto been accepted, hat been ohal tensed. A Boer prisoner informed Toaper ! Andrews, (also of Ashburton), that the story given to the British was only ' a Boer yarn ' to smooth matters over, the actual faot being that when Trooper Wookey was captured he wore some articles of jewelhvy, which excited the cupidity of ma captors, and they shot him in cold blood to get undisputed possession of them.

Kyle Mutual Improvement Associa tion.

Tbe usual weekly meeting of the above Association was held in the soheolroom on Saturday, Mr M MoAnulty in the ohair. Notwithstanding tbe very inclement and threatening appearance of the weather there w«re twenty six members present. The first item on the evening's programme was an essay on * Athietio Sports,' written by Mr Jas MoAnilty, who was unavoidably absent, and who had posted the esa*y, whioh was read by the Bsoretary (Miss Mcllraith). The paper manifested much careful and thorough study on the part of the essayist, to whom the Secretary was instructed to write and aonvey the thanks of the Association. A reading entitled 'Mr Cult's Secret,' was rendered by Miss Mcllraith, and received a favourable criticism* Another interesting item waß a * Mock Presentation,' made by the President, (Mr Imnbie), oo behalf of the Association to Mr BJ Mulligan, senr» The presentation consisted of a piece of valuable silver plate, en the receipt of whioh the recipient suitably replisd, Next wsek there is to be a debate on the question, * .Should irrigation be enoturagid on thejplains ?' The affirmative will be taken by Mr J Buokley, and the negative by Mr T Mulligao, junr. There is also to be a recitation by Mr W Mulligan. A hfany vote of thanks to the chair ruminated this very enjoyable evening at 10.35 pm:

The Plague.

THE OUTBREAK IN AUSTRALIA

United Pres* Afßoci*tion--By Kleotrlo Telegraph—Copvright Brisbane, July 16 A woman named Hanneysee haa been attacked by the plague at Cairns.

A Serious Riot

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph— Copyright Pbrtk, July 16 An Orange demonstration at Boulder led to a riot. The police had some trouble in dispersing the oomb&tants, several of whom were inj-ired by sticks

Fire in a Coal Mine

United Press A«sooiation—By Eleotrio Telegraph

GrBJEYMOTJTH, July 16 The Blackball Coal rmue is again on fire. No particulars have been received. The borougb manual engine will ba.sent up by the first train in the morning.

New Zealand Gun Club

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Wellington, July 16 The annual champion match of the New Zealand Gun Club was fired today for Mao- Kerney's rHmnuiul medal and a sweepstake of £3. Thfl match was won by Mr Ohsvan nes, of Waoganui, who £oired 19, Mr Frseer and Mr Whittle tied for second p'ace, cauh scoring 18

The Sydney Fire

United Prnsß Association—By Electric Talegraph—Copyright

Sydney, July 16- Somo portions of a human body have b en found in the ruins of Hor dern's building, and it is believed they are Dashwood's remains, A search revealed the terrible end of the victims of the fire. Dashwood had smashed the iron bars guarding, the pavement light, And in a few minutes more would have broken tbe glass and reached the street: He was, however, evidently overcome at the critical moment.

SOUTH AFRICA

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright London, July 15 Mr Kruger openly palliates the shooting of the wounded, alleging th»t it is retaliation for the ' barbarous ill treatment of women and children, and the execution of rebels,' Viljoen's dash north of the Middle burg railway is believed to have been undertaken for the purpose of replen ishing bis ammunition

Burrick is at Zoutspanberg De !a Rey and De Wet degraded Piet Fourie for desiring to surrender and appointed __olbe to succeed him as Commandant

Lord Kitchener reports that since tbe 9th iost, 32 Boors have been killed 4 wounded, 807 taken prisoners, And 140 have surrendered, while 218 rifles, 15,070 rounds of ammnnition, 445 waggons, 4825 horses, and many cattle have been captured

The Daily Mail states that Lord^Kit cbener proposes to send Home 70,000 militia, guards, Indian troops, and ten line battalions, and utilise 50,000 [ specially equipped mounted men, with i whom to untiringly hunt down the Boers Ten Transvaal companies sued the Allied Marine and General Assurance Company for £228,750 worth of gold commaodterei by Kruger. Mr Justice Phillimore held that forcible seizure was not covered by the policy Colonel Featherstonhaugh's column has returned to Mafeking with sixty prisoners and 2000 cattle

Mr Brodrick, in the House of Com mons, said that Lord Kitchentr con sidered it use!eß« to communicate with the Boer leader relaive to the killing of wounded British soldiers since the Boer had no control over his men. He had, however, sent on the depositions taken on the subject to De la Key Privates G Geddes and J Baker, of the New Zealand Mounted Biles, were severely wounded at Grasdale and Vandersland respectively

Poultry Shows.

OAMARU

The annual show at Osmaru was held in the Town Hall, Oamxrn. The entry was the largest for yearn, there being in all 800 exhi bits. Many of the claoses were very hard to pick owing to the splenoid quality of the birds. In white and brown leghorns the classes were very big, owing to several importations to Oamaru from England lately of these birds. The Minoroas were vsry well represented: Mr R T Clark of this town, seeured the gold medal and champion for the best Dorking in the Show. Owing to the long distance to send birds the Ashburton Fanciers were nob well represented, as they preferred to keep thsir best birds for the Ash barton coming Show

ASHBURTON

Mr R T Clark, the 8«ore ery cf the Ash' burton Poultry Show, informs us that tha entries for the Ashburton Poultry Show are ooming in remarkably well, and judging by the number already in this year's Show will eolipss anything that has been held in Ashburton for years

Cape Politics.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright

C____ow_, July 16 Sir JGr Sprlgg states that he intends in convene ab the end of the year a Castoms Conference of the whole of South Africa to discuss the establishment of a united tariff Sir J G- Sprigg considers it a grave error not to summon the Cape Parlia* ment. . '

CRICKET

United Pre«» Association*-By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright. London, July 15 Phillips explains that he ought to hare no-balled Mold eighty, not eigh teen, times and says that in future he would apply Law 48 severely.' (Law 48 reads :—lf either umpirt is not satisfied of the absolute fairness of the delivery of any ball, he shall call *no ball. 1

Imperial Politics

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright

London. July 16 In the House of Lords the Early Closing of Shops Committee submitted their report. They recommend that town councils should be empowered to pass provisional orders for early closing, such orders to be submitted to Par liament before operating.

Anglican Synod

United Press Association—By Electrio Telegraph Wellington, July 16 The Anglican Synod resumed discussion on the motion affirming the desirableness of private profit being eliminated from the sale of intoxicants. The motion was carried without a dissentient voice amid applause, During the discussion the Rev S G Knott s»id he was afraid prohlbitionisis were to bhme for she apafchy displayed by a large part of the population to temperance reform.

The Need for Sir Alfred Milner

If the Government prognostications go for anything we are, in spite of the failure of the Botha Kitchener meeting, on the eve of a settlement, so far as actual hostilities are concerned, and it does not Heem to fit in. somehow, this departure of Sir Alfred Mtlner at this stage. Do not forget, that his presence, know ledge, and judgment in the final settle ment are impowive Before all things he knows the Boer miud, and ia alive to theprt judices thereof. He understands bo'ter thin any man. better even—ls this heresy ? — th'in Mr Chamberlain, the methods of Boer diplomacy, and his absence at a time when all tha wit and native cunning of the Boer will be pitted against ours, when appeal to heart will be m*de at the expense of judgment of head, wiU be disastrous*

What higbar testimonial in his power c>u!d there be than that conveyed in Kitchener's laconic message, "Botha obj cts to Milner?' Don't tell me that Lonia Botha, polish' ed, refined, and courteus, is blinded by racial bias to each a degrpn that his personal detestation of the High Cjm raisssoner is such that he refuses to deal with him ; that he believes Sir Alfred M lner to be anything but an honest, ear* nest English gentleman, strenuous in his desire to carry out what he considers to be his duty faithfully «nd conscientiously; Botbas objection to Mtlner is one with his objection to the British Army. His di»<*pprobatlon amounts to this :—

I object to any man who will endeavour to obtain for Britain the best terms, which must necessarily be the least palat able for the Boers !

" Sir Alfred goes home on' sick leave ;if it is only sick leave, and he returns all well and good, You may laugh at me as an alarmist, and I will laugh at South Africa for alarming me, Bat If after a decent interval you learn that on account of ill health Sir Alfred resigns, it is for yen, who are paying Is 2d in the pound, to demand a fuller explanation.— Daily News

The Expelled Member

DEFEATED AT THE BYE ELEC TION.

GOVERNMENT CONDEMNED FOR ASKING ADVICE

Unioed Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Me-BOURN-. July 16 M* Findley, who was expelled from the H >uae for publishing in the Tocsin the Irish libel on the King. *»as defeated by Mr Deegan at Hast Melbourne by nearly two to one. A scene occurred at a polling booth owing to a camera being used in the booth for the purpose of aiding the detection of impersonators. The Government ordered the discontinuance of the practice, but before effect waa given to tbe order Dr Maloney, a member of the Assembly, entering the booth, f-aw the camera and smashed it.

The Premier sought the advice of the Imperial Government with regard to seizing and suppressing ihe 'focsifi. Mr Chamberlain replied deprecating such actions.

The leader of the Opposition protested against ths Government seeking advice. They should have taken the whole responsibility, To do as they aid was to place the State in a position of being little more than a Crown Colony.

The Invercargill Fatality.

United Preiss Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph Invkroar»i__, July 17 Tne ii quest in cuui.toiion with the fire; works fatality waß resumed today, when the orp'nter who made the socket for the sigta rookat gave evidence. He deposed that Captain MoGilvray wanted him to bore a 2tn hole through a rail, but as he had not a suitable augur, he mads a substitute, at the captain'fi suggestion, by nailing two battens on a 4 x 2 upright forming a square box to hold 'the rocket , Tha timber of the platform new bore cuts with pieces of metal in them, caused by the explosion. He gave no one permission t* discharge fireworks

This afternoon Ghas Reid, *eeond officer of the Monowai, detailed the correct met hod ff using ship's signal rockets, and said the firing in any other way was extremely dan* gerous. Sergeant M»jor Wall, instructor on war office explosives, described the rocket Among other things it contained a quantity of gutta perch*, three nances of gunpowder, and two ounces of guncotton. When the guncotton exploded the iron cylinder would be blown into fragments, He did not regard the socket used in this case as safe. It Was not strong enough to withstand the explosion of gunpowder in the base of the rocket, while its shape rendered it dangerous. He would expect if the rocket were fired out of such a box that, the r powder, instead of forcing the rocket upwuido, would exeit its force on the box. Guncotton was four and a half times stronger than powder, and if tha signal exploded near the ground he would expect to find fragments of metal casing near byi Tha gunpowder produced had not deteriorated. Accidents of the kind might happen without negligenoe in the bands of experts. A socket two inches Fq_*re on the inside for a rocket three quarter inch in diameter was not safe, The inquest was not cono'uded tod#y.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph -Copyright

Sydney, July 16 The t Farmers' Convention urges the Government to establish a State Loan 8f.0k.. Melbourne, July 16 A. number of communications have passed between Mr Chamberlain and the State Government with reference toal lowancea for the aide de camp and private secretary for the State Governor. These officials mean an outlay of £1000 a year. Cabinet has decided that tha £5000 voted as Governor's salary must cover every thins;.

The Omrah. which has arrived, is the first of the Orient line of steamers to carry a Lascar crew.

Bbisbans, July 16 The Q'lp^nsland Parllamen*; was opened today. The Speech from the Throne was colourless: In indicated the necaef-ity for the extension of the railways to the gold fields, and that a Bill will probably be provided to grant advances to farmers.

PARLIAMENT.

HOOSiE OF REPRBSENTA-VBB

United Press Association—By Electro Telegraph ft WELLINGTON, July 16 The House resumed at 2.20 In Committed on the Police Offences Act Amendment Bill, Mr Herries moved to amend clause 2 to provide for punishment for the use of insulting language in a public place, under a wider definition of tbe term contained in section 18 of the original act This was agreed to Mr Carncross moved a new clause to enable Magistrates to inflict a fine not exceeding £20 for the use of obscene language in a public place. He explained that at present tbe punishment for usiog obecene language was imprisonment without the option <f a toe The new clause was agreed to Tbe Hon J McGowan said that he thought that the minimum amount might be fixed, and moved that it should be £2

Considerable discussion took place on the question, several members objecting to a large minimum amount being fixed, on the grounds that it would operate more harshly against the poor man than the man who had money in his packet, while others thought the maximum amount should be higher than £20

Several members complained that they oould not discuss Mr Carnoross's amendment i in its complete relation to the original Act, I because of the presence of the public in the galleries. Later on an exodus set in among the occupants of the ladies' gallery, and it was then pointed out that Mr Cairncross'a amendment would give magistrates and < justices the option of imposing a fine in a oase of much greater enormity than the,use of obscene language: Mr laurenson suggested, to gob over the difficulty, that the option of imposing a fine should be limited to cases of piofane and indecent language. The Hon J MoOowan at this stage withdrew his motion to fix the minimum fine. After a further lengthy discussion, Mr Carncross obtained the leave ot the House to withdraw his now clause, owing to its faulty construction, and in its place he proposed a similar amendment, having reference only to the nse of profane, indecent or obscene language in a public place. This was agreed to on the voices. In committee on the Public Health Act Amendment Bill, Sir Joseph Ward moved a new clause, giving the Governor power, by Order in Council, to make regulations to prevent the importation of material liable to, convey infectious diseases I This was agreed to on the voices I The Accidents Compensation Bill passed through committee without material amend' ment < The House rose ab 5.30 p m The House resumed at 7 30 p m The Chinese Immigrants Act Amendment Bill was committed The Premier explained that the Bill was designed to remedy a defect in the existing law, by which a master of a ship could bring one hundred Chinese te Wellington, oaten sibly as membere of his orew, and then permit them to land in Wellington free of poll tax , ' ' In Clause 3, ' Chinese members of crew to be accounted for,' Mr G W Russell moved an amendment, the effect of whioh would be to make the csptain of the vessel produce the missing Chinese, or pay the penalty This Was negatived , The Premier moved that a master of a Chinese crew shall take place in ths presence of bhe shipping master of the port, as well as an oficer of the Customs Agreed to A new proviso was added to Clause 4, i increasing the maximum penalty under the ; principal Act from £20 to £50 for letting a \ Chinese sailor get ashore.

I Clause § was amended to provide that a Chinese sailor may go ashore in performance of his duties in connection with his ship, but for no other purpose. The Referendum Bill was further con sidered in committee. Mr Pirani proposed an amendment in Clause 8, to provide that the Refeiendum shall be taken by post, bub it was negatived and Ihe clause passed-unaltered- Clause 14 provides that if a legislative proposal ia rejected by the Referendum it shall not be again submitted for three years, unless ab least ten * thousand electors request ita submission by petition to Parlia ment. On the motion of Captain Rußsell, the words 'ten thousund* were struck out end the number was fixed ab 10 per cent of all the e'ectors on the electoral roll, In Clause 15, local Bills were added to Bills to which the Referendum is nob to apply. The Bill was then reported with amend mcntisi The Premier moved the second reading of the Exportation of Arms Bill, to amend tb» law relating to the exportation of arms and other military and naval stores. He said it was to the detriment of the colony and the Empire that the exportaßion of arms should be allowed, and especially was this so in regard to the islands of the Pacific. The Imperial authorities k had ooneurred that a

measure cf this kind was necessary \The second reading was agreed te on the voiose, without debate The Hon J M'Gowan moved the second reading of the District Courts Act Amend* moot Bill, whioh extends tb» jurisdiction ef District Courts in certain cases Oaptaln Russell s»id that he agreed entirely win those members who had suggested an increase in the salaries of District Ooart Judges, and that they should hold portions independent of the Government «;f the day. Ha expressed : the opinion that if the best men were to be secured the salaries of District Court Judges should be at least £1000 a year. He moved a hostile amendment, to the effect that the Bill should be read a second time that day six mouths- The Premier said that if the Bill was not proceeded with it would not affect the Government in the slightest. If it was thought by fetich a motion to force an Increase of salaries upon the Govern' ment that was another matter, fie went on to express the opinion that all Magistrates (should be moved periodically, as he believed such changes would be to the advantage of Judical administration. Mr Seddon bad n< t concluded his remarks when the debate was interrupted by the hour of adjournment The hoUBe rose at 1030*

A. & P. ASSOCIATION.

A Committee meeting of tha Ashburton Agricultural aod Pastoral Association was held on Tuesday afternoon^ at their rooms, in tbe Arcade. Present—The President, Mr Charles Raid (chairman), Messrs M G Kich, J Btringfellow, E Cookson. ODE Upton, JR Bland, J Benifant, G Moßae, Denis McKendry, G Body, T Stone, John Small, J shearer, G W Leadley, J Gilmour, James Small, and J Horsey, THAMES I The Chairman thanked the Association for j hiaeieotion as President, which ho esteemed j as a great honor, and he hoped the present i year would be a most successful one. ELBCTION 01? COMMITTEE Consideration of the letter of Mr Thomas Harrison, respecting an alteration in the election of the Committee, already referred to at lecgth in our columns, was then taken. Mr Cook< on gave notice of motion in favor of Mr Harrison's suggestion. Mr Stringfallow thought that then were objections to the proposed alteration. Mr Rich was in f\vor ef having a Hst printed, to be presented at two,meetings previous to the general one* and thus mem bers who did not wish to stand could have their names erased before the election took place, and thus make room for those who would properly attend. Mr Upton thought that so long aS they previously obtained the consent of members the matter would be adjusted, The voting papsr should in any case contain a record of attendances at meetings.

VSWEEINABV SrjBGION Mr John Karageeu was elected honorary veterinary surgeon to the Association THE PAST PRESIDENT'S ADBRESS The addreßs recently given by the past President, Mr Leadley, was referred to by the Chairman aa a very able one, and he mentioned that a gentleman had been so much pleased with it as published in the Mail and Guardian, that he had handed the proprietors of those papers the sum of £1 for the purpose of having it farther circa* lated. Tfao farmers, tbe speaker pointed out, were being' heavily handicapped, and he would move that in connection with the offer already made, that the Society should print 1000 conies for further distribution Mr Upton seconded, and would further urge that the Government should besuppliei with a copy The motion was carried unanimously Idamagb to thh association's FROPK-*-. The Chairman drew attention to a report from the saleyards caretaker, complaining that boys bad on a Sunday damaged tha property of the Association. The Chairman had placed the matter in tbe hands of the polioe, and had written to the oareUker thanking him The Chairman's action was approved MIETINGS It was decided to hold the future meetings oo the Tuesdays of the Ashburton yaris stock tale day ,

ACCOUNTS' Mr Btone objected to the pasting of accounts by the Finance Committee, and advocated that they should finally come before the whole Committee. He also objected to some of the items previously parsed, as shown in ths balance sheet

Mr Leadley contended that tha present system was the most workable. Detail in paymont would lead, toa lot .of tronhNi, at he well knew.Even'"-as now arranged he h*d several times to pay soma accounts 'by his own ohf que, and furthor difficulty would be experienced in payments going before the whole Committee", Whilst admitting that more details should bo shown in the balance sheet, he could assure the Com mittee that for every penny shown in the balance sheet the Association had obtainwi really good value. I VICE PB_BIIS_N_ I Mr Rich, Vice President, thanked the j members) for his election to tbe position. SECRETARY Mr W Simpson, the present secretary, was again re-ekcted to the position, members speaking in very favorsbla terms of the manner in which he had carried ont his duties REVISING COMMITTEE A Revising Committee was appointed, and after other detail work tha meeting adjourned ■■

Was there Gambling on the Tagus?

DtjNJEDiN, July 16, Speaking on the evils of gambling at last night's meeting of the Council of the Churches, Mr W Hutchison said he had baen informed that a lob of gambling went on among the Oontingente coming over in the T»gns. A large number of the troop* ers gambled day and night. He could not say what form tbe gambling took, but he understood It was worked witft two pennies. The Rev Saunders re' marked that they should be as charitable as they could to troopers, because time hung on their hands. An old pack of cards, no doubt, enabled them to paea many a half hour. He saw no harm In playing cards so long as it was for fun.

The County Councils Conference

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright

Wellington, July 16 The County Council' Conference opened today, and immediately proceeded to discuss the Counties Bill v There was a considerable debate on the proposed constitution of the" districts, and in this connection Clause 2 was struck ont On the Clause providing that every new county shall be divided into nine ridings, a proposal that fifteen ridings, be inserted, was agreed to, A number of delegates urged that In the constitution of new ridings the rateable value as well as population should be taken into account, and with » view of making provisions to this effect Clause 7 w-.a struck oub and a new Clause to replaoe it will be drafted by the Revising The conference resolved to recommend a reduction of the area comprising Town 1- Districts A resolution was moved In the direction of abolishing Eoad Districts in order to save the expense of dual administration. Sl* George Clifford and several other delegates expressed the hope that the provisions in the Bill in regard to Road Districts would nob be interfered with. Others thought that where County Councils and Road Boards overlapped each other, something should be done The Question was still under discussion when the conference adioorr-ed

THE ASHBURTOK GtJABDIAfI : WEDNESDAY, JULY 17, 190JL



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15 16 17 18 19

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Rises 7 30 7 29 7 28 7 27 726

Pet* 4 41 4 42 4 48 4 44 4 45

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2 9 12 16 24 24 31

10 48 a 2 60 p 11 30 a 9*l a 1 28 a 3 0 p 10 4 p



KEEP YOUR ROOMS WARM OIL STOVES. OIL STOVES JUST LANDED 144 Oil Steven, which mast be sold from §s 64 each. Will warm yonr Bedroom in ten minutes at a cost of less th»n 2d Dbnt Fail to take advantage of this oiler, WESTPORT 'COAL. Always in Stock. Also Newcastle Oo■*! of vn-ybfst quality. Shag Point, the meat economical in th«* market. ' SHORT FIREWOOD IN ANY QUANTITY Orders left at onr East Street Office will receive prompt attention W. H/COLLINS & CO., tRONJi^GIRS, PAINTER!?, TIMBER & COAL MERCHANTS. .A«EHTB BOYAb INSDKANOBI CoMPAKI {telephone No 64



. TRIAD _?i*ts_© o©tisi»e**itlo_». THE SSTWAD" has in. the press, and shortly to he piubiifhed, a booh untitled " What te see and Where to Htay is New Zealand.'' A prize of Three Guineas is offered for the most interesting and amusing ar'icle'of . ebnuti 2000 word*, entitled •• What to see and Where to Stay in New Zealand." 1© close 20th GKPXEM BEB- » _»_ "_' i* Pbm'o Competition far children under 14, nee TRIAD CONDITIONS. All that is necessary to enter for this competition is to post yonr article (enclosing a receipt for 6s, or more, from any Triad advertiser* to •• The Manager of the Tbiad Dunedin ' Ajax Washing Powders Anglo N.Z. Cycle Co. i Auckland Forwarding and Parcels Deliver Agency Bermaltne Bread -811 Bakers Brlnsley and Co.*s Ranges Blng, Harris k Co, Arrow Brand Boots Commercial Hotel, T N Orange *>_ Cope's Oiparet'es and Tobaooo Curtis, F, Jeweller - j Dunlcp Tyres Gawne'e Sanoes, Pickles, Vinegar, etc j Gates, H A, Manic seller Gregg and Co, W, Coffee, Starch, etc Hay ward'* Pickles and Sauces Jones, H M, Triad Agent i Kirkpatriok, 8, and Co, K Jams | Kharki Cigarettes, Eagle Go's Korifl Teas, all Grocers ' ] Lane's Creosoted Emulsion Loasby'n Wahoo, Koolibah, Benjamin Gum, and Cinnamon Cure. Meddins, G., Ironmonger N.Z- Clothing Factory Nel*-o_. -loate and Go's Te Ocean Accident and Gas ran tee Cotrpo I tion, Ltd. Orr, A, Draper | Sanderson's Scotoh Whisky Spring Blossom Tea Suratura Te 0 eed and Co Corn Care Tmpk tag's Li seed Emulsion , .1 »|» u j"» jf,x*ta of Boap Waltke's Boa I Wills Three Castles Cigarette* and Tob»ooo oodrows' Hats, Gollins & Co., Agents



I Mrs Johnston, fjIEACHER of the Pianoforte k Slngfn gavelock -St wt. ■ DaJcljsG * WOOD CAR VIiNG MRB OURTIB botd**bove Classes for FRIDAYS at Arcade Chambers Wood Carving 1.30. Children^ Classes, 2.30, Practice CUbb 7.30 WANTED Known—A Great Stock Taking Sale Is now on au M__t,or ' Zeakndia Boot Store TIIWULYN OWB M.C.SM.. CERTIFICATED TEACHER, Local Representative of the London College of Manic «nd of the Musical International College, W* ILL Recnme Music Lessons (practical V V and theoretical on FEBRUARY 4. Students prepared for any examination held in the Colony. Candidates presented, 107 average mark btaiced 93 per cent. YT^ ANTED —Purchasers for five smal Sheep Run*, improved and partly improved, close to new Use of railway to Auckland,— F Brooking, Land Agent,* Stratford. CYPHEBS INCDBATOBCO (Of Wayl&nd, Mew York, USA) MANUFACTURERS of Incubators Brooders, and Poultry .applies. Head -'ffiofl for N.-w Zealand— Bioad Bay Dunedin. Write foy new illustrated list, ft is free ECLIPSE CYCLE COMPANY, SHOW ROOMPi Tanored Street East. FACTORY, Tanored Street West. \ GKKTB for Red Birds, Swifts, and t\ Cotumbias. See the Chainlets Columbia now on view. No shoddy work done. G H CARSON, Manager.



KAYE d CARTER A RE CASH BUYERS, highest currerf J\- rated, all FARM PRODUCE. Agents tor Sutton's and Lawson Unrivalled Soedf", f m Season's Supplies of RAPF, TURNIP, MANGEL CLOVF.RB, & _0, JUST LANDEL. LARGE STORKS at LYTTELTO F-XTPNRIVR OLRANINS MACHINERY. CORNS AUKS' always on hand KAYE & CABLER, pkristohpro..



MRS J. LLOYE, TEACHER op PIANOFORTE and 1 ORGAN. TERMS—fiI 1» per quarter. Up to date Music aod Moslcat Instruments at. Town prices Music Depot—Bobnew Street 7 95 __ - . . • ■"jjjjr 3> V r^ £" S-S-4 w I " hi § o i - p* W o- o I \ - j —• W I \Jr S»*l ' el _^ g B !JL h_j Q d H ; O i i> <*■* © 25 p lj B 8.0 ir ! OS "-IS § -2? H3 wg§l H g;> 888 M s* ___{ o s II O V _* m OS _* * ® s hH 03 9__ -• NOTICE. JOST ARBIVJ-D, piYOLE CANDLE LAMPS. Easy to Light, Easy to Adjust, No Dirt, No Smell, Burns Ordinary Candle. PRICE — 18s £d EACH. —x— Dates, Lowry and Co., ZEALANDIA CYCLE WORKS, Burnett Stkbit



A. AGER, ABCHITECT, A ROAD K CHAMBERS, ASHBURTON, AKD 22, BEDFORD ROW, OHRISTCHURCH. WANTED, 20,000 Hares. IT7E Have appointed Mkssr Anne* 'Bbos. to act as our AGENTS For Ashburton and District', an<' they will pay Top Prices. Consign to— TONKIN AND CO., FAIRFIELD NRW ZEALAND' INSUBANOE COMPANY ESTABLISHED 1869 CAPITAL—ONE MILLION THE Piemter and Wealthiest Colon! ' Company, j Nottd for Promptness and Liberality Paid-tip Capital »nd Reserves, £400,000 . I Fire and Mftrine Risks,J j Also,-— Risks on Growing Crops, Threshing Machines, etc, accepted at j lowest current rates ! NicoiLTßeoe., Agent-r ». MeRRIDB, 60 Stafford St, Timar A LWAYS in Stock—A first ',?/'7 jCi. class selecMon of Marble v-JL-4 and Granite Monuments, 11 Oesi„iis and Estimates may 11 be inapeotnd at the establishment IV of!Mr John Wilson, Painter, «T Burnett Street, Aabburton setter Cutting in any style



ONfc« Minute, P.eas*— Have you heard that _^e__ok's Great Boot Sale is now fin „___^___™___-™_. « -'l t*H>l-.'«:E i-tt.^-.ctuied Goods o t*": - -...■■ \ -■. h". -b. bi-»»- Try them p'roi • .- :un •:" s «r< -keepers 5 311 Oash—Several htm |J dred pairs of Boats and Shoes. Apply li_~ ob's Zealandia Boot frtore



5 311



jb'Oii SALE. a A A PRICE required for Town Section cb __U H3O, containing I rood, fronting - Cameron Street West. j Geod site for private reiMeace I Terms if required T BULLOCK



Bosinbss Noxtoc—Notice to consumers of Fletcher Bros.' celebrated Teas—Their first Tea Competition doses on August 31st, and ooupons must be sent in by that date, A [ full list of prize winners will b» advertised ! In jt&tf and GturdUm early in September. Smoke New Venus



ITCHY Chilblains are relieved instantly and quickly cured by^OASBY's Koolibah goon cure



The sale of pianos, organs, and musics instruments still proceeds as merrily as ever at the D.I.C. in Tanored Street, the number disposed of to date being 27. Some new models have just been opened up, including a very fine organ by Wilcox and White, CONSULTING OP-KHAN Mr Ernest M Sandstein, DBOAI.FR I MO, who has lately returned after six years' special study in England and Con tinent, may be consulted on allcasesof' defective eyesight. Daylight nob necessary | arM6cial light being used. Doctors' pre soriptions prepared. Fees moderate. Oon [ -ulting rooms, Cashel Street W., over M Sandstein, jeweller, Cfarißtehurc*. 9to 11 , 2 to 4 dailv



A ODBI YOK LOMBAGO W 0 WiiliamEon, of Amherst, Va, USA, ■ays— 'For mure than u ,y.sr I suffered from lumbago ; I ficaily tried Chamberlain's Pain Balm, and it gave me entire relief, which at other remedies had failed to do Sold by ' Ashburton Drug Company *