Mail Notices

Mails close for the following places &t> under, subject to the necessary sTterationß: FBIDAY, Deo 27 For Northern Ports and Westporb, also Australian States, eto, to connect) with Waikare, per Tarawera, at 6.30 p m SATURDAY, December 28 For Australian States, via Bluff and! Hobart, due Melbourne January 4ib, , JapiD, India, Chica, S&ratts Settlement), South Afrioa, eto, a's> Oontineat of Europe and United Kingdom (specially addressed via Brindisi), (due London Feb 9ch), at 12 30 p m For Northera Porte and Weetporti, per Rntomahana, at 6.30 p m

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1901.

Jfl there 5b one thing whioh the campaign In South Africa should have impressed upon all of those connected with recruiting (or the British Army there, id is the paramount importance of having good officers. Moab of the disasters whioh have befallen our troops were mainly due to the inefficiency of those holding commands, especially of the officers in charge of small detachments. The fre quency of surprises by tha enemy bus become shame fully monotonous, and the number of these disasters appears to have had no effeot whatever upon the system of selecting officers. It is the same system which Napoleon jeered ab nearly & century ago, whereby Interest is the chief factor in choosing officers, and merit Is only recognised in exceptional cases, We, in the colonies, have been in the habit of commenting Adversely upon the evils of this pernicious system as it) is applied to the ImperUi troops, but it does not seem to have struck those oonoerned in providiag troops from the colonies that the same system must produo6 similar results everywhere. It is an open aeoret thab a great number of the officers sent from New Zaatand and Australia were utterly inoompsbent< Some have very wisely come back at the first opportunity, while some havn been allowed bo remain to ; contribute to tho long list of urafcakos which have so greatly eDOOuraged the | Boers to continue the struggle. There is no use atbemptlpg to disguise the fact that the method by which the officers of the New Zealand Contingents are selected is open to very serioas objsotion. Indeed we are surprised that a man of Mr Seddon's imperialistic and patriotic views lisa not surrendered the patronage connected with these appointments iv the later Contingent?, and delegated the final selection of the officers to the Generals in the field who have had the command of the earlier one*. Those who have had experience of the tne'hods of theßocra and of iba peculiarities of this war munfcsurely be batter fitted for minor commands than men who have had no experience at all. Yet every contingent that has gone out has contained a maj >rity of officers, who have never seen any active service. This condition of things baa already occasioned greab dissatisfaction amongst the men of tho rank and file of our soldiers, and we know some of the returnoi troopers have actually refrained from volunteering a second time because of the handicap which practically makes it as difficult for a New Z'aland soldier to get promotion (sxoept by iefluenoe) as it is for » Tommy to do so. How different this is from the methods of the great Napoleon. Under him the bumblest soldier might; aspire to a marshal's baton ; bub under the British ajßbem, whioH the colonies have apparently adopted, there is a pooi ohanca for military gaoiiu to be developod. The oholoe in our arm} is limited to a ttaill eection of the (MnrruaHy, and in & general way civilians have more to say in a aeldiet'd advancement than his milu &try superiors. It is difficult to imagine anything much moro preposterous than a ooloniil Premier ohooaing all the tffioere of Ihe rc-ioforcemento that are to go straight iuto active service. What eta a man— howtVw-r able—who ban no experience of a Boldiers duties and difficulties know about iho matter? Had Mr Beddon atruok out on a nnw path, and leffa the final selection of the tfficers of the Eighth C^Dtlngenfc to one of the generals who knows the New Z aland offioera already sxperienced In South Afrioan ; warfare, he might have done something to j inaugurate one of the greatest and most ben.fiolal reforms that the British Army oould poeeibly undatgo, and in that way have done more lo help the Empire than ft J dtzui Contingents could do. i

Local and General.

Cable News will be found on the first page and War News on the fourth p»ge to-day. A. Break Down—The engine of the 11.30 a m train from Timaru to Christcburch broke down yesterday when two miles south of Rantjitata. The engine of the firab expre&s had to run the train fco Ranglbata, wh'oh delayed the expresa. A spare engine was sent t« take the train to Ashburton. Tee GjiAs;<?ow Exhibition. — The Glasgow Exhibition closed on Nev, 9. afcer six month's anpara'Jel<4 enccess. The attendance on the last day was the record one of 173 268, bringing the grand total np bo 11,497,220. The total aaionnfc of gate-money taken afc the exhibition was £167,87616s 6d. Property Sales— Mr F Ferriman has purchased from Mr Bullock, as agent for Mrs Tweed, the town property having long frontages to Tancrod and Burnett Streets, and comprising to,yn sections 136 - 7, 146 —7 f and part of 148, together ' with tb.e late De Tweed's residence and several cottages, Social at Watbrton—A very successful ooncerb aed social wae held In the Library, Waterton, on December 18th. The Long beach band, nnder Mr J Gluyas, gave some nice selections, and the following friends helped to mako the gathering a pleasant one :•—Mr Walfcrr Smi fh, songs ; Mms Nellie Donaldson, nongs ; Mr and Mra Teppebt, duet; Miss Oulien and Miss Heasley, violin eolo with pianoforte ; Mr Pollock, reoita tiims; Misa Watsoni song; Mr Shearer, Bongs; Misß Donaldson, scng ; MisaCullen and Misa Bell, duet, violin and piano; Mies Annie Cullen, song. At the close of the concert-, ' (Sod Save the I£lng' was sung, the Longbeaoh band leading- A goodsuppsr w»a provided by tha ladies, whiph all enj>yed. The object) of the gathering waa to provide funds for painting St Philip's Sb James' Church, The ve3try are very pleased with th'! result, and are thankful to all who helped to mako It a success; Before the Holidays—Cyclists are noti fied that the bests plaoa to have their bicycles thoroughly overhauled or repaired is at Oate», Lowry and Co'?, Burnett atreeb, Io does not matter to them what make the machine is, they can either manufacture or replace any parts required, and their work is turned out naatly done and guaranteed.

Wkatkeb Forecast.' — Captain Edwin wires ;-~StroDg easttrlj wind ; glass falU S?hoot»no-—A rifle match .was fired at the Ash burton range on Boxing day, between the Geraldlne Rifles and the Ashburkon Rifles, which was woo by the former by 46i to 421. The fnil scores will j 1 appear tomono v. I I Rakaja Sports and Races—The annual sporting fixture of Rakaia wae held yesterday on tha Rakaia Domain. The takings at the g»te were £62, making a record. The at tendance was good, and aa tho weather was fine there was nothing to interfere with the general c. pyment, A foil report of the meeting ia unavoidably held over. Chkisimas Comforts—The Matron of the Aehburton tloepi al desires to acknowledge with thanks the following Christmas oom forta for patients from the Ashburton Mini strel Troupe, per Constable Hammond:— ---3 dozen tested waters, 1 dozen bottled beer, 1 box oigars, 1 case fruit* Medical—The seventh visit ef the Poly* pathio Institute is fixed for Friday Jan 3rd and Saturday Jan 4'h, and free consnUationa wit! be given at Moffit's Commercial Hotel, that, those suffering from chronic diseases (for whloh the now system of polypathy baa proved so cuocessfui) should nob miss ihti favourable opportunity of having advice and consultations frep, Old Men's Homb.—A very good enter tainment was given to the inmates cf the Old Men's Home lasb night by Mr George Wilson, who is at present living in Ashbur ton, and Mr A T H Williams. The former gave a marionette parformanoa with seven dolls, which were very cleverly manipulated, and the exhibition was greatly enpyed by ! the inmates. The entertainment was, interspersed by selections on the phonograph, manipulated by Mr A T H Williams* A vote ot thanks to both entertainers closed a very pleasanb hour's amusement, The Seventh Contingent—-Colonel Porter ia entitled to the thank* and good wishes of all who have sons In the Seventh Cons I gent. The g llant Colonel never neglects to keep as well posted up in the doings and health of hia men, and one feels thab should anything befall oar brave sons under his command, we shall hear as promptly as possible. We all heartily acknowledge and reciprocate the kind message he conveys to us through the Premier, and wish Colonel Porter and ' our boyd'ahappy new year and a speedy re; am to their homa?, Mail and Gcabdian Almanac —Following our usual custom, we are presenting readers of 'he Mail and GuabdiAn with a coloured pictorial wall almanac, and that tor the year 1902 is of a high standard aa usuai; Excellent) photos of the Kng and Queen, and also the Prince and Princess of Wale?, surround the Calender, and the advertisements of our principal looal establishments ars appropriately dispersed throughout the almanac: With the issues of both the Mail and Guardian tomorrow (Saturday) these will be circulated free to our subscribers Peesonal—We learn thab Mr, Mrs, and Master Rudolph Friedlander arrived from Frisoo on Monday !*at. and were present yesterday at the Auckland Cup Meeting. They leave for Ashburton tomorrow per Te Amu via East Coast, Mr and Mrs Hugo Friedlander are at present spending a short holiday in Auckland, and are the guests of Me and Mrs Lionel Becj unin. They intend staying over the four days racing, and will then probably pay a short visit to Australia, prior to their departure for Eogland and the Continent.—Miss Ehel Jonep, and her fel low student, returned from their expedition to the Whifcoomb Pass. She has secured amongst other things some fine specimens.of the famous Mt Cook lily, me of which may be seen in Mr John Wilson'a window. Fatal Fire at Waimaxe—About 10 20 p.m. on Christmas night aa alarm of fire was raised in Waimate, a four roomed I cottage just outside the borough being the scena of the fire. The building was owned and occupied by Alexander Price, an old man of sixty, and a very old resident, he having been 34 years in the district, and, unfortunately, he met hia death in the j burning cottage. Ihe fire had a strong hold of the cottage when It was discovered, and the efforts of thoae fivsb to reach It, ; and of tho Fire Brigade, who arrived later, 1 were unavailing from lack of water. Con stable Christie and others worked hajd to save the occupied, but ia vain, and when the fire had nearly burned itself out), his body, very mncb charred, was recovered. The deceased leaves a widow and prown-up family, from whom he has been living apart for some time. A Chakminoßioyole—We notice ia the window of the City Cycle Work", Burnett Street, a lady'a special Rudgf-Whibworth bicycle, which is undoubtedly the most fashionable and boat fiaished imchiaa of ths present day. Hoixis Cycles-The display of Hollls cycles now on view at John Orr & Go's ia well I worthy of inspection by all cycling enthtu i»Hts. Theso machines are made frcm genuine RSA parts by the celebrated gunmakers, I. Hollia & Sans, Birmingham, which should be sufficient guarauteb 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 bicycie has been most rigidly maintained.

News in Brief.

Messrs Granb and Moore, Saundere' Build ings, notify in our adverbising oolumne that £hey have received for the New Year trade $ consignment of ladies and genta shoes Which they aie ogering ab low prioea.

The Eighth Contingent.

Out of 45 applications the following is the final selection, completed today, from Aehburton :—T A Brideon, Alfred Curtis, R Hawke, E A Lambell, W Min'rom, R V Pooock, P O Robf rtR, O H H»rgl?son, B SJmgsjj^, Arthur Willie, 8 Wilson. G A W.nter; Wo learn that Lieutenant Alfred Fooks, of the A M R, has applied for a commission in bhe Eighth Contingent-.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Wellington, December 24 There has been trouble over the tenders for supplies for the Eighth Contingent. Some had boen accepted without Ministerial authority. These contracts have been can celled and time given for other tenders to come from Auckland and Dunodio. AH the tenders received will be considered on their merits Four thousand applications ha^s been received for the thousand places in the Contingent, and two thousand for the forty four oomjniaslons The command of Treatham and Adding* fcon will be given to rftbera who will { ultimately go with the Contingent The tendep of Birt and Co for the transport of troops in the Surrey and Cornwall has b»en accepted. Both vessels will carry 700 troops and both have refrigerating machinery. The Surrey, whioh ii now in Australian waters, fa timed to leave Wellington about the 22nd January, aud wVA call at Auckland for horses. The Cornwall, which is to take the Sonthern battalion, la now on her way from the Cape to Australia, and ia to leave Lyttelton not Lvter than 31flt> January Chbistchurch. Dec 27 The examination of applicants for the Eighth Contingent commenced ab Chriab church this morring, about 600 attending. Out of the first rqaad of fourteen in the riding test only four were selected. It Is expected Ib will tafee nearly tho whole of next week to complete the examinations acd tests.

Accidents and Fatalities.

United Press Asßooiaklon—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright

London, Dec 25 An avalanche in the Mondane Alps killed six French soldiers.

New Plymouth, Deo 26 A man usmed John Murrow died suddenly ub Rahotu on Christmas morning. Another old setter named Marretfc »lso auddenly expired this morning, aged 70. Gisboenso, Deo 26 After breakfast on Christmas morning the wife of Mr David Tcdd, a Waimata Bottler, fall over a clff near a fiend's house at Kin&kanae, where she had been staying for a short vleib. Bhe was killed instantaneously* Ohbistchuroh, December 26 A fatal fcram accident ocourred here on Christmas Eve to a man named James Webley, a blacksmith, aged 59. A two oar tram was going northwards up Manchester Street, when deceased seized hold of the handle of the iron brake at the baok of the front car, and it swung round with htm, 80 that in some manner he fell bebwean the two Oirc Ha was removed to the Hospital, where he died at 10 30 the same evening from shook, recalling from the ii juries. The deceased had evidently been drinking. Dunedin, Dec 2ft 1 Herbert Hollows, Bged twenty, who oatne down from Tiimra to spend the holidays here, dropped dead on Christmas Eve from rupture of the heart A Stewart, a yoting man employed by Messrs Irvine and Stevensoa, was ran over by the 11 20 tr»!n from Daaedin yesterday morning, between Toro and Warepa, The train stopped, and it was found that Stew art was badly iij red and unconscious. He died a few minutes afterwards. The passengers In th« vicinity at the time of the accident gay that the deceased was perfectly sober, and are unable to account fjr the fatality. Possibly he may have been half asleep,

CABLE NEWS.

United Press AB«ooiation—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright)

London, Dfo 28 The Supreme Ooart has dissolved the Grand Dake of Hesse's marriage The Porte, replying to Great Britain, has represented that the has no intention of disturbing the status quo of Koweyt, and disavows the alleged emissary. Dec 24 The death la announced of Mr E Onslow Ford, RA, the well known sculptor, aged forty nine. The <|aeen is suffering from a elighfc cold, buo is improving. A train on the Liverpool electric rail way took fire while approaohing the Dingle underground station, and eeb fife to a heap of creosoted sleepers. The tunnel rapidly became as hot as a furnace. The train was completely destroyed* and the station was damaged. Seven passen gers escaped after being nearly suffocated. Six bodies were recovered, and ib is feared that others perished. Deo £6 Dr Sven Hedin, a Swedish explorer, has cabled to King Oscar announcing that he was cap'ured when he had nearly reached Lhassa. Splendid collections were lost, bat his dairy was saved. Sub« seqaently, he was liberated and reached India. Sir Edward Fry has given his award In reference to the strike of Grimsby fisher' men for an increase of wages. The award substantially favours the men. Lord Roberts i* insisting on higher efficiency in the Volunteer branch of the service, even ab the risk of smaller numbers. The American Minister at Buenos Ayros reports thab both Chill and Argentina are willing to submit their dispute to British arbitration. Deo 26 Twenty eight fresh cases of email pox i are reported in London. The fusing of the motor ignited the carriages on the Liverpool underground electrical railway. Mr Waldorf Astorhaa given £10,000 to encourage civilian rifle club?. Anticipating a tariff war with Germany, Russians are urging British exporters to pu-h their manufactures in Russia. In connection with the Coronation a naval review will be held at Spithead, on an uuprecadented scale. Washington, Dec 25 The Republican Canal Committee is willing fco reconsi 'er the Panama route if the French will sell their interests for forty million dollars. Seventy fire Academicians painted a series of pictures of uniform size, as a Christmas present to the Queen. The World states that the Kaiser will attend the memorial service ab Frogmore oq the anniversary of Qieen Victoria's death, Berlin, December 26 The Kaiser walked yesterday unattend -1 cd. through Soucl Park, and addressed many poor folk, giving Bach twenty marks. Paris, Dec 26 There are persistent reports in Paris thab Russia has leased Bander Abbas, on the Persian Gulf. Sydney, Dec 26 Barrow's confectionery factory was greatly damaged by fire. The Insurances amount to £11,000, and ib is believed are largely held by New Zealand offices. Brisbane, Dec 24 Thes s Devonshire was floated off. and proceeded south. Brisbane, Dec 25 Ihe Devonshire took ground on a soft spot, so gently thab the passengers were scarcely aware of the accident. The Penarth sb< od by for three hours, but were unable fco assist, and eventually proceeded on her voyage.

Federal Politics

United Press Association— By Eloofcrlo Telegraph—Copyright Sydney, Dec, 26 In political circles a rumour is cir culated that his colleagues are bring in sf pressure on Mr Barton to accept the Chief Justiceship of the Federal High Ooupt. In the evenjb of ftjr Bar ton taking th« position, the leadership of the Federal Ministry will lie be tween Mr Kingston an d Mt fteakiu, Sir George Turner standing aside in the latter'a favour. It is believed that his strong Victorian following would secure Mr Peakio's succession

An Exciting Chase.

United Press Association—By E!oc frio Telegraph— Copyright Adelaide, Dec 25 An exciting episode occurred in the St. Vlncenfc Golf. An officer went) onboard the Letter ive, bound for London, and nailed a vice-Admiralty warrant to the mast, detaining the ship pending an action relating to a collision between the Lefcterive and a coaster. The captain bundled the bailiff ashore and sec sail. Next morning a steamer with the sheriff and slxcfficers gave chase, and got alongside after an hoar and a half's chase. The captain refused to return. Ooi stables wera placed aboard the vessel and dropped one of the aails, which the crew replaced. Finally the i-heriff prevailed upon the captain to return. -

Unrest in Ireland.

United Press* Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright London, December 25 ' Contradicting the statement of Mr, Wyndbam, the Lta^ue Officials declare that they have fourteen hundred branches in Ireland. Two Nationalist members of the House of Oommonp, Messrs Tully and O fDonnell, have been sentenced to one and two months' imprisonment respec tively for inciting Lord Defreyre's tenants not to pay rents.

Affairs in China.

United Press Association—By Eleotiio Telegraph—Oopyrigh London, Dec 25 M Lessar requests Pi luce Chiug to present China's obj oblons to the treaty in writing, for transmission to Sb Petersburg. This request Is interpreted to mean thab Russia is willing to modify her conditions. Washington, December 26 Mr Hay, finding that China has pgreed to pay an indemnity largely in excess of Amerioa't* claims for expenses, proposes to refund eighteen million dollars.

SOUTH AFRICA

Unibed Press Ansool&tion—Ry-BSaotrlo Telegraph —Copyright London, December 25 Two hundred Boers attacked some of Oolonel Crabbe'a waggons which were lagging in the rear of the column north of Qlanwillian. Three British were killed and ten wounded, out of twenty five. The Boere were repulsed. Lieutenant L 0 Russell, of the West Yorkshires, a New Zeaknder, died from wounds received at Begindarlyn. Twenty batteries of field and gam son artillery in South Africa are returning to India and England. The War Office has authorised the raising of 400 Yeomanry in Ireland. London, Dec 26 Although 5270 Free Church mini sters signed tha Daily NevM peace manifesto, 9339 abstained, including half the Baptists, two thirds of the Gongregationalista and Presbyterians, and fourfifths of the Wcsleyans. Colonel Mackenzie captured the Oarolino convoy and seventeen prison ers. Several hundred additional surren dered burghers have joined the National Scouts. The detachments which are commandered by Oellietss and Oronje have performed excellent work. A number of Oolonel Bridgeford's men were caught by the enemy. After being stripped they were released. Mr Kruger regrets the removal of the concentration camps, believing that in their present position they offer a hindrance to British operations.

United Preaa Aeaooiatlon—By Eleobrio Telegraph DuNßDitr, December 2t Newa has been received of the daath from sntsrio fever at Kroonatadt of Sergeant Francis Arthur B»rou, of the South African Light Horse, son of Mr H W Baron, of Nevada. He wrb a former member tf the Maokeizte Mounted Rifle, South Canter bury.

Military Tournament.

United ProBS Association—By Electric . telegraph Dunedin, December 26 The military tournament was only moderately attended. The events were, on the whole, keenly contested. The principal results were :—Miuual and Fir ing Exercise—Wellington City 1, Christ church Imperial Rifles 2, Invercargill City Gnards 3. Bayonet Exercise—Wellington 1, Q ieen' Cadets 2, Dunedin Highland Rifles 3. Limber R*ce—B Battery 1, E B»ttery No. I team 2. Flag Signalling™ Canterbury Engineers 1, Dunedin Kara!, 2, Physical Dri I—Wellington City Is Imperial Bifles (Christchurch) 2, B!nff Guards 3 Ambulance Competition— Dunedin and Christchurch Bearer Corps equal. Tlctoria Cross Rescue .Race- Private Royd Mitchell (Invercirgill Rifles) Hallenstein Cup, for most points in manual and physical drill—-Wellington City. Having won the Cap twice in succession it aow becomes the corps' property. Pon toon R*fb Baildlng—Danedin Engineers 1, Canterbury Engineers 2. Wheel Race —Bombardier Kirk (B Battery). Nighfc Alarm—Danedin Navals 1 and 2.

Sporting.

AUCKLAND RACES

Auckland, Deo 26 The weather was showery for the first day's races, bat the attendance was good. Tne totalisator receipts for the day were £21 039. Results :— Tbiai.—Ragabraeh 1, Solo 2, Despatch 3. Dlvs-£7 Qi 6d and £2 3j Foai. Stakes—ldas 1, Grey Seaton 2, Helen Faueit 3. Div fl - £8 and 12s 6d Cup, of 15G0 soys ; two miles—Mr G O Stead's Bfc Michael, 7at 4'b, 1 ; Ntmetto, 8 t, 2 j Mars, 6st 7lb, 3. Won comfortably by two lengths. Divs—£3 7s 61 and £1 183 / ' Hurdles -Tim 1, Dingo 2, Rafas 3. Diva- £10 33 6d and £15 Ui Railway 'Handicap, hi 400 soys; six furlongs -Mr G (J Stead's Cruciform I', Hohoro 2, Highlander 3 Won easily by two lengths ; divi— £L 13a and £2 ; Nurskry ~Mr Hugo Friedlander's Kelburn 1 Mary Seaton 2, Loch Tyne 3. Div-£2 12 * 61 Pony—Blue Paul 1, Stepaway 2, Lady Avon 3, Diva-£5 4a 6d and 17s Christmas Handicap - S»n Patricia 1, Sparkling Water 2, Laetltia 3. Dividend -£3/If*

TINWALD RACING CLUB'S ANNUAL MEETING.

The following bsndioips have been declared for the Tmw*ld Racing Club's Meeting, to be held on Wednesday, Jin. 1, 1902;- Fabmers' Tbot — Monkey Brand ser, Rothaohild Hero cor, Diaoovery 2aeo, Silver mark 2aeo, Transit Royal ?3oc, Biltio M. sseo, B>Uileen 3spc, Montrose 5 wo, Jsasie Bssec. Snapper 5"o, Sswtnill 7*eo, Rubina 7aeo, SAoramonto Bjila 7eo, M«karina Sieo, Veltha Bae/R3gard 83ec, MaabeJ 8»eo. Pony Race — Paaiine U R A Belle lOafc 101b, Hard Times 9^t7.b, Roseagnue B}t 7>b, Juju Sat, F»re»rel! Bsb, L»dy Llghbfoot Bst. Tinwal/D Cop— L»dy Medallist ll«t 121b, Lapidary 103b 71b, Kunina lOat 2 b, Beauty Sleep 9st, Amazimenb 98t, Tui Bat, Blue | Mouctaia Bst. Domain Welter—L»dy Medallist 13ot lib, Lapidary list 7lb, Knlnina lOat 91b, Horrleane 9sb 12lb, Beauty Sleep 9st 71b, Bonnie Morn 9itfl b, Tai 9»b, Phoio 9 it. Gbo\ tb Fari*—Rye lOst "fib. Reiiounoed 9il, Nutcracker 9at, Aotor Bit ?ib, Bonny Mora Bit 7ib, Blue Mountain Ssfe, Tai Bfc, Wainkness Brt, TiNWAtD Trot—Ed ward R cor, Dolly Moore lQaeo, Nana Isaec, Mooksy Brand 20860, Rothschild Hero 208eo, Discovery S?sieo Tr«Dßitßoyal 25360, B*lbio M-28ieo, Jessie B 30seo, Montrosß 30seo, Reg»rd 3Oaeo, • ;

RUAPUNA.

(From Our Own Correspondent)

On Friday last Ruapuoa was en fete at 3 p.mJ, and then the ladies of the dlacrlot) invited all to the school, where refreshments were provided and appreciated. In the meantime the members of the Sobool Com* mitbee and other willing helpers hoisted a 55ft fiig pole in the school grounds, and when all was In order, the three youngest children in the school hoiated the Union Jack, while all sang God Save the King* Mr Taylor, the Chairman of the School Com mittee, briefly stated how the Union Jack derived its name and colour, and fioiihed by calling for cheers for the fhg, whioh were heartily given, also cheers for tha ohalrnmc. An adjournment was then made to the public Library Hall, where an excellent entertainment was given in aid of the priza fond, the school children singing several songs together, and seotfonsl, 2, and 8, went through club and scarf drill vny pleasingly. Mrs Taylor, Missea Meloman, Maud Me Lauchkn, Stephens, Madgie and M*mte Taylor, Messrs James Doyle and R Hill, all contributed to tha evening's enjoyments with songs. Recitations were well given by several of the children. Mr James Doyle who hat spent a lob of time leaching the children club drill, gave a fine exposition of club swinging Votes of thanks bo the performers, teacher, providers of refresh* ments, and chairman, brought a very pleasanb evening to a clots.

OVERDALE.

Mr Knotb gave a kinematograph exhi bition in tha Bobool oa Wednesday of IMb week, at which there was a fair attendants*. Oa one Friday night there was a wciil in connection with che school, which hat broken izp for a month's holiday. The concert held ?ome time ago realized a satisfactory amount) bo be npenfc for prize?. In the early part of the evening the people amused themselves with outdoor games, »fter which an adjourn ment was made to the school. Mils Fech ney, the teacher, had arrangvd a Christmas tree, and provided the articles on it for the children, Mrs Mabhias gave the children an address on Christmas trees. The Her Mr Glathias also spoke on English Ohrlitmaa customs. The Rev F Riddle gave an address ob loyalty to the teaoher, and shoved how in many ways the parent! stood between the interests of both scholars and their taaohers. The musical part of the pro* gramme consisted of a song by the school children ; trio, Misses Oakley (2), and Mias Richards; song, Miss 0 Oakley; recitations were also given by Master and Miss Ross. Tbe priza books were then distributed by the Rev H Mathiae, and at the close of thlt he gave Christmas cards to all who had attended hia Bible ola-8. Refreshments, of which the ladies of the district had pro vided a bountiful supply, were then handed rounrf. After full justice had been done to this Mr Lsmonti proposed a vote of thanks to the speakers, tbe singers, and the ladies who provided the refreshments, and Mr Riddle, on behalf of the Committee, proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the teacher for the manner in which she bad discharged her duties in the school, and for tbe trouble she had gone to in making this gathering • success. These were carried in tbe usual way, afber which the people dispersed, having spent a pleasant evening. For the last three weeks a considerable amount of rain has fallen, at times accompanied by hail, A very severe hailstorm passed over the district on Anniversary Day. The crop* are looking very well with the exception of the late gnes on turnip land, Theie do not seem to have done very well. However, there will nob be the bulk of stuff to handle that there was last year, Grass is now growing well since the raio. Tho first drafts of fat latr bsi left the district! for Falrfiald a fort night ago; one Hna of 122 averaged 56f lbs, and the other of 213 averaged 371b, wfeloh was very satisfactory considering tbe long spell of dry weather some time back.

CYCLING.

OHRISTOHUROK CYCLING CLUB.

Oheistouurcu, December 26 Tha New Zealand Wheel Race Meeting was commenced at Lancaster Park today* Reßutts :— Half Mile H&ndioir/—,JL Huston, 30yds, 1; A Watson, 7Cy.ls, 2 ; H Holland, 15yd«, 3. Time—l.2 Two Mile Amateur Handicap—T Whit field, 45yde, 1; T O»tes, scr, 2; S Boyd, 65yds, 3. T me—4:sß Amst?uf Teat Race, to solcofc representative for Australaahn Championships — First distance, five miles (paced)—D Rodger 1, H Amoß 2, S Boyd 3 ; time—l2:oJ. Second distance, oao mile (paced)— Amos 1, Rodger 2,Oatea3; timo—2:2C§. Amos and Kodgar belog a tie, a deciding heat over three miles was rao, whioh Rodger won by a leagth wad * half New Zealand Wheel Race, two milei— First heat—Cooke, 150 yds, 1; Bain, 230yd>, 2; OUrksbn, 125yde, 3j tim9-4:26|. Seooad heat—Jacobs, 250 yds, 1; Huston, 110 yds, 2 ; Hendry, leOyd?, 3; Mme—4f36. Third heafc—Wataon. 250 yds, 1; Sutherland, 250yd8, 2 ; Paget, 2207d5, 3 ; time—4:293, Fourth heab-Campbell, 260ydf, 1; Psrlo," 160yda, 2 1 G Jones, 230 yds, 3 ; time-4:35g« The final heat ie to ba run on Saturday. I

CRICKET.

United Press Association—By Eleotrlo Telegraph—Copyright London, Dec 25 A scheme will be submitted go the Board of Control of test matches, whereby the Australians will receive half the gross gate takings. The oouoty owning the ground will receive 50 per cent of the balance, and the remainder, including stands will, after payment of the expenses of the match, be handed to the Board, minor counties receiving 25 per cent, MsryJebona 15 per cent, and first class counties the remainder

ENGLAND V BENDIGO

Melbourne, December %7 The Englishmen commenced a match against Bendigo today. The viaifcore have loet cli wickets for 244 ran*—Jones 66, Howard 86 »od M'Gahey 32, being th« ohief scorers

NEW SOUTH WALES V VICTORIA

Melbourne, Dec 26 Thera was a perff cb wicket, but a> hoji wind whs blowing. Poidevln was unable to play owing to an injured fingen New South Wales in the first innings scored 221, Kelly 24,Trumper 93, Noble 34, O Gregory 6, M'Beih 0, S Gregory 24, Iredale 8, Dufi 28, Hopkins 5, Howell not oat 18, Clarke 1; extras, 16. Trutnble took foar wickets for 66 runs, M'Leod one for 4?i Armstrong two for 14, Jj*ver three for 22; Victoria, in its Srsb innings, has lost twq Wiokets {or 29 5 rung—Owlton Q, sf'Leod IJ, J4abalister not out If)

CANTERBURY v. OTAGO.

Chuisxchurch, December 26 The iaterprovlaoiai erloksb match betwsea Oaaterbury and Obhgo begin at Hag<ey Park today, when the attenoanoe was highly satisfactory, and the wioket in good order* Following are the scores :— Or ago.—First Innings—Baker 2, Geddea 1, Aua*ia 1, Seidelberg 15, Fisher 39, Burt 27, Ktlgour 1, Wllkie 0, Downei (nob oat) Williams 4, MonkO, extras 15; total 127* Second Innings—Seidsberg nob oat 1, Barb not oat 8, extras 2; no wiokets for 11 Canterbury. — First Inningi—Sims 5, Wigley 0, Oallaway 10, Ridley 2. FrankUh 29, Orchard 0, Olliviet 2 t Garrard 5, Liwranoa 0 Bsrry 8, Boxthail (not) oat) 0, extras 6 ; total 67 OHBt6TCHOBOH, Dao 27 Otago have scored 182 for eight wioketc.

NEWLANDS v. WAKANUL

A very enjoyable game was playe<s af] Wnkauul on i Saturday last, between' fcbe Newlands and WakaDui Orioket Club*, re saibing in ft win for the latter by 20 runs* For tha losera B Kewieh, 3D Baxter, $ Pe&rce on 1 & Clucas batted best), and M Hampton, F Bubteriok, W Ba'terick and 0 Wilson for the winners. B MoOonnell and A Jamieson bowled beat; for Newlands, and J Hampton and M Wilson for Wakannl. Afternoon tea was provided by the Udies, aid w»B muoh appreciated by the oriQ|«tt|lt • • •■< «• i: ,' •• . j; .j. i ■

TEB ASHBUBTON OtJABDIAN : FBIDAY, BEGEMBBB 27, 1901



F. FERRIMAN ~ FOIi SALB~ ~ ALFOED FOREST KO&D. JHA^B ireofivpd Jnat.ruotiona frfm Mr Aiex.^cder Biogbam, who Is lesvi: g !»r Motgiel *t m e»riy data, tv Sell his tiouss <J «ix rosmi sod of an nore of land Aleo If acris nf land, aiij ining Mr Hondemon. A cajiitsl ps^ddook with a good ctop 0! h*y on part ot it A'eo $ aore Seotion, r»lj >in'rg Mr R F M Peking, on Iho Alford Fort^t Road Fall p»tticu!»ra may bes hml on F FrBUIMAN, Land and liStafo Agi>iit Hfcvdocb Sweet I HAVE the following anrrs aval'able to lend on first class Freehold Kuril Lands -£?OOG, £6000, £4000 and £1000 »t 4| pat sent, also other stuns on least> old. F FEHRIMAN, Licensed Land Broker JfOR SALE, AT ALLBKTON, ABOUT S| Acres, eitaatsd on bhe contianation of the N.E Town Bolt, upon which is erected a first class Hcase of 6 rooms, and good Stables. Part of the land Is laid oat In good orchard. Terms or F FKRRIMAK, L%nd and Estate Agent FOE SALE, TANCREB STREET, A GOOD FOUSE, close to the Masonic Jr<. H*U. Tho Propel y mast bo sold %9 »he owner is Ipaviug f>r Ohrißtohurch. This property will let, well F FERIUMAN, Land and Estato Agent FOB BALE, WAKANUI ROAD, A PROPERTY consisting of 1 rood 20 perches with h< use of 4 room*; fend garden which la well laid oat. F FKRRIMAN, L*nd and Ksfcate Agent ~~~~ for"salf, A BARGAIN near the Woollen Factoiy J\. -1 Acre ot Lfcnd, with a 3 roomed Bouse and Scullery, pump inside. If you are seeking;» good home on easy terms see . tbl* F. FERRIMAN, Laud and Estate Agenb FoI~SALE, AT HAMPSTEAD, HOUSE of 4 roomn and I Bth acre of land. Price £85. F FERUIMAK, L^nd and Estate Agent A HOUSE of 7 rooms and Scnllory cotnep of the N E Town Belb F FERRIMAN. Land and Estate Agent """""to let, TTOUSE In Petor Street of 0 rooms F FERTUMAN, Land and Estate Agent BUSINESS NOTICES MEMBERS OF FARMERS' UNION A RE in formed tint arrangements are now completed vih the Commercial Union ioearanci Corporation for insa-ing ftt teduoed rates Etip'oyecs of Members of ibe n!oa. Poltciea may be leaned at ence. Mes.es Fhiedla^ dfb Bans, Ltd, are the Looal Agents for the Omimerciil Union ompany. O Haady & Co, Ager.te at ».k»b. (Signed) G. W. LKADLEY, Chairman North Canterbury Dietricb 11 165 N Z Farmers' Union FARMERS EMPLOYEES' AOOI DBNT I HSURANGB WITH reference to the above, ws wieb to.direct uttentioß to the faob that the Rcdaoed Rate of Premium Is due to the enterprise of the Commercial Union Cflioe and now that tha Contract Is la force, we tru»t the Members of the Now Zealand Farmer*' Union will loyally otand by the agEQemont entered infco. We shall be glad 0 recoive proposnh FRIEDLANUER BROS, Ltd. Per HU^O FRIEULANDEK, Managing Dircofccr. Asbbartoo, Nov. 30,1901 11 216 TO MEMBERS OF FAEMEK&' UNION i\ND OTHERS IMPORTANT KOTIOE RE WORKERS 1 GOMPKNBAIION ACT, &o. THE "OCEAN Accident Dorp:ration Capital One Million Revenue for 1900-£878,492 5a lid. A RK INSURING FARMiSEtS—Whether M<mbersef the Farmers Union or not—at the same rate and with Iho eamecoDo:B«ioo» fndiTidaa!!?, a« »«y «Sner Company oflera them colleotively, ABSOLUTELY LOWES'E RATES GUARANTEED. Prompt and liberal settlement) of all just G'almß I'ffeoted locally TO FARMERS "TTfTE may 6tate that tho Reduced Rates of FretnittniH now prevalent on 11 cl»»sca of &U8lne»8 are duo to the enterprise of tho Ocoto Accident Corporation, who have been Bl«adtly bringing down the Rfttea eiroe they ©ommeßoed operations in the colony, and Parnrera Wil' fiocl it to their advantage to call and eeo ua before oomp'eling. businesa leeNvhere. MIOOLL 8R03., Pietrict Agent b •



I -Hrt~**-**ffm^'.X*^XJ,tt HMI— ■■■"HI HI IP mil»t«Mia»iaMM»r«iJ«^lj f « ""- i NEW ZHiAL^NI) CLOTHING FAOTOKY HAB a rcpwtftcioo Cor BOYS' CLOTHING that tbe following liaea uphold : OALL AND INSPECT Boy*' bailor fciuitß 5* 6i Boya' Melville Baita di 6d Boys' Norfolk Suits 11b Boys Norfolk Suits 15a * Boys' 3 Garment Suits 18s Gd B.>ya' Kharkre Suits 7s Boys' Washing Blouses 4-j Guaranteed to bo tho very beot] quauty obtainable for tho money. FEW ZEALAND CLOTHING T? AO T OR? Clothing X^ aotory i Mr^ Johnston, T) EGISTERED Teacher of the Pianoforte & Singing Havelock Street, M R 5! ■■■ liCORN is now showing a beaatl ful Apsortroeot of New Dresa Goods, Silks, Mnelins, Prints, Laces ftnd TriHimings. Also c. lovely Bclcc-.ion of Parisian Millinery in Hats, Bonnets Straws, F.'owers, Q'iillßt £knd Foathcro. Having eecured the per vices of 6 first clva Millirer and Dressmaker, R&thftictlon is £;u'irant«od to nil, Newoed deßigns in Art Needle Work, Siika, K.aseneo Wools, Transfers. &o, always In stocks bmoke New Veixaa



m .BUSINESS NOTIORB SPECIAL FOR_NEW YEAR. GRANT AND MOORE HAVE j. l? t landed a Second OoESignmeat of ladies and Geote BOOTS & SHOES for New Year Tn.de LmH-s G aco Phoea 4s 9d, Ss 91, 61 64, 8* 63, 10* 6d Special Liiifl of Ladi s Strong BttMon Shoea with Patent Toe Cap 6- 91 G-r.ts T/jjht Boots 9s 6', 10 63, Us 6<?, 13? 6<S, 15', 16« Bel, 22a fed, 25i VmJ {ihotoa American Glade Boots ab 133 6<3, loi, 19* M ue Strong Boot* ia Great Variety ; all told at lowest prices GRANT AN~D MOORE, SAUNDER'S BUIUHNG?, AS^BURTON 12 211 CHRISTMAS. CHRISTMAS. CHRISTMAS. TO PRESENTATION COMMITTEES AND OTHERS. WE have jusb landed the Finest Selections of Goods enltable for Presentation ever Imported iftto Ash burton.. COME AND SFJffi FOR YOURSELVES. Genuine Elooiro Pla'ed Silverware from the very beat English Makers Knives. Forks, Spoons. Oru^ta, Teapots, Sahd Bowla, Jams, Butters, etc 1 CASE Eiglish WATCHED; grand value 10 CASES CLOCKS of all descriptions. Imported direct from fcho makers, mid will be cold at 25.per cent less than the usual retail prices. We ars Importers of these Goods and moan busln. ss. If you want a GOOD Watch or a GOOD Clock vieit our Establishment. 10 Cases of Vasea an I Flower Pota direct from Japan, from 6d each ; must be sold to make room. Now is your opportunity. W. H. COLLINS & CO,, MERCHANTS AND IMPORTEBS. A MERRY OHRISTM^ TO ALL* BOTH USEFUL AND ORNAMENTAL, MAY BBS HAD AT ALL PRICES. rYiLL AND SEE OUR GRAI^D DISPLAY OB 1 VASBB, FANOY GOODS, JAPANESE WARE, SILVER PLATED WARE & GLASSWARE, AT T. H. UNDRILL & CO., FURNITURE WAREHOUSE, : TANORED STREET. if M. JONES _~JH M JONES. SANTA CLAUS AND FATHER CHRISTMAS ARE COMING AUAIN To Cheer the Young, and remind the Old the yeara are passing away THE Undersigned has 9 very Ltrgo and Well Selected Stock of Book^, Stationery, Fancy G'oris, Toys, China and Gla<B, Leather and Plated Ware, Suitable for Giftß, Rewards, and Presentation purposes. Imported dlreob from Leading London aod Continen tal Houseß. BOOKS. BOOKS. BOOKS. From Ward, Look and Co., Oaaeellffand Co., Hodder and Stoaghtcn, Griffith, Farren and Son?, University Press, London Sunday Union, and Obhera TOYS. TOYS. TOYP; , TOYS. Great Variety, from Id Doll to a Steam Engine; DOLLS, DOLLB. DOLLS. Sleeping Dells and WHnawake Dolla, Jointed Dolls, Breakable and Unbreakable Dolls. FANCY GOODS. FANOY GOODS. Purses, Pocket Boobs, Letter Casen, (Silver Mounted), Albums, Photo Frames, Desks, Work Boxes, Tourists' Oaspp, Ink Sfande, Dressing Musio Oaeea, Jewel Chseß, Blotters. Cabinets, Glove Bjxof, Companion*, ana many other linca too oumeroue to particularise CHINA, GL4BS, PLATED, AND LEATHEHWARE BIBLES In Great Variety, Prayer, and Hymn, and Tung Books, CHRISTMAS CARDS—Beautlfnl Hand Painted Oarde, Is. Album of Forty View of Ashburtoa, 1« 11 260



First Shipment JUST ARRIVED. To be followed by Regular Shipments direct from Oeylon by every Mail Boat, OF THE RENOWNED CEYLON TEA. THE NIRVANA TEA COMPANY, Colombo, Ceylon, have made arrangements to send to New Zealand REGULAR SHIPMENTS OF THEIR CHOICE CEYLON TEAS, feeling sore the Tea drinking public will much ! appreciate a PURE, CHOICE OEyL<>N j TEA, Direct from the Grower, UN* I TAMPERED WITH. BEAD THIS— Thos9 Teaa are Packed In Ceylon, and ! are absolutely PURE. People rarely I consider the D&NGKR of drinking low class Teas. NIRVANA is the highest j grade known to the trade, and is gold by all leading grocers at) the came price [as ordinary Tea. I ,1. „,., ASK FOR IT. DON'T FORGET THE NAME. Sofa Agent Appoiatcd— | J. T. COOCH, Asliburtpn. Fioo Sample and Pamphlet on appUotftlon FEDERAL COFFEE PALACE, Triangle, Ashborton. MBS WHEELER (late cf the Prince Albert Private Hotel) having pur chased the above old eiatab'iahed Houaa ia prepared to receive Boarders »$& Traveller*. The House has been completely reaavafcasl throaghouti, and ha.B all the oomfortß of a hem?. Terir.s moderate. 12 60 D! 0 you know that, IT BAlßSpow «a flflllfDg f, O r oajfh at ieaa han Chris'.ohurcfi i pricaa, bh the few following quotations wiU show • -Brass rail iron bedstead?, extended foot rail, from 561; D»ohe«« tab:«o from SOi s Dachess ohetfcs from 455 ; lospeaHi^B pnd oomparieon invited, ?* W$



Fander & Sons Eucalypti Extbaot?,— I Under the distinguished patronage of His Majesty the King of Italy, awarded Diploma Rt fciie International Exhibition, Amsterdam, acknowledged by Medioal Clinics and Uni vereitiee all over t&e gieb.e. That the crude, "resinous oils, which are bob? fpjated upon the public under the name of Hhic&iyp Extracts, may not be mistaken for Sander & Sons' Pure Volatile Eucalypti Extract, we state :—lt is proved by teats made by the Medical Clinics of the Universities at Bonn and Grieiswald (Prussia), that only products ihfcb are saturated with oxygen and freed of aeids^ tesipcuo tn& other substances adheren to primary distiiUtiou, will devolop the curative properties possessed by i;he ijpiafcij To avoid the appalling consequences result imp from the application of substitutes, etc , in^erou^, brpn.ohitls, diphtheria, dysentery internal inflammation, etc., lns'**b *n getti'trg Sahdbb and Sons' Puna Vot KTiptn Evp& tTPyi Extract.' and be safe grjaoke 35?ew Yea^iJ



WHOOPING COTJGH My little son had an attack of whooping cough and waa threatened with pneumonia bafa fop phambe!rlaln,'a Cough Remedy we would HavVhad a serious time of it. It also saved him from several severe attacks of cronp.— E J Ftrickfaden, editor World Herald, Fair Haven, Wash., L SA. tut sale by Ashburton Brag Co. Smoke New Jeum



Wade's "Worm Figs are most effective and not unpleasant; children thrive after taking them price, Is