EPHEMERIS

Phases of Mood foi February

SUN.

THE ASHBURTON TRAIN SERVICES

Trftinß cave Aahburton daily for— UHRISTOHUROH—at 7.20 am, 11 am 3.15 p m, 7 5 p m (expresß) TIMARU—at 10.55 am,350 pm DUNH,DIN-st 12.54 prn (.xpreea) BPRINGBURN—at 4.25 p m Trains arrive daily at Ashburton from— OHKISTOHUROH—at 10.45 »m, 12.48 p m (express), 8 pm TIMARU—at 10.35 am, 2.55 pm DUNEDIN—at 6.5? p m (express) SPRINOBURN-at 9.46 a m

Mail Notices.

Mails close for the following placet! oe under, subject to the necessary alterations : FRIDAY, February 15 For Northern Ports, Westpoit, and United Kingdom, via Bricdisl and Vancouver, also Austialian Colonies, etc, to connect with Talune at Wellington, per Tarawera, at 630 pm SATURDAY, February 16 For Northern Portp, per Ta Aoau, at 10 30 am For Northern Ports and Westporb, per ! Rotomahana, at 6 30 p m The next mail for United Kingdom, America, etc, via San Francisco closes here February 28th. London March 30th

Commercial.

THE LONDON MARKETS.

The London Agent of the Associated Farmer's Companies of ftew Zealand, reports under date January 12ih as nndar :— Wool—Daring the past week or two there has been very little doing on our markets ; a few lots have changed hands privately afc fall rates ruling at the clo«e of last sates for special requirements, but buyers generally prefer to await the reenlt of the opening «'f (he Impending series. As nsoalat this period of the year, husl* ncsa in the Woollen districts is not brisk, trade generally having been Interfered with by the ho'idays and although stocks are firmly held by sellers, there is an absence of speculation. The value of Merinos £s kept steady though not up to the point marked before the holidays, and there is a little more disposition to buy the finest Croeabreds where tempting prices are conceded, but the consumption and demands aro concentrating them* selves in a marked degree on good medium and strong Crossbreds, J which ara in abundant supply and can be obtained at bottom prices The Colonial Wool Importers' Commit tee have decided that the second series of auctions shall commence on the 12th March, the new arrivals to be limited to 200,000 bales, a^d the third series on the 30ih April with the limitation of 250 000 bales new imports. The list of arrivals will, as usual, be dosed eight days before these dates. Wheat—With higher prices ruling in America our Wheat market has hardened during the past three weeks, and with an Improved demand, Imported Wheat; has found a much more ready sale %t an im provement of Is per qr. Of English Wheat, the deliveries at the country markets have been rather smaller and owing to want of condition, values have declined to some extent. The imperial average is now 26a sd, a-gainst 26a 9d a month s'u co, and 25s 9d a year ago, Afloat to Europe from all parts the total quantity is now estimated at 3,225, 000 qrs as compared with 2.565,000 qra afe this time lasc year. From New Zeatend a cargo, one-third long berry, per 'Lady Isabella,' off coast, was so!d on Ist Inst at 29a 3d for Hull, and a parcel of 500 qrs half long and half short berried, due to arrive, made 28s on th« sth lnsr. Ex gianary long berried makes up to 30a. and short berried 28s 6d at 29s 6i per 496 lbs. Oats—are firm fur most descriptions. New Ze^lands have been scarce, but 1,749 sacks have recently arrived per "Waimate," and 2,892 sacks pc U rl." Prices for these descripttona are folly maintained, and there is an enqniry for really good lots. Ordinary Blutf make 25s and -26a, Canadians(27s 64 and 28s 8d per 384 lbs ex sore. Dans 18s 6d and 19a 6di per 336 lbs. Barley— There is rather more enquiry for English Malting, but New Zealand parcels are still neglectedjand values range fiom 253 and 29s per 448 lbs, according to quality. Grinding descriptions are quiet Cocksfoot—Tery little business in this seed has been transacted since our last. and values remain uaaltersd. Recent arrivals have augmented the stock here, but holders are not forcing eales. Old New Zealand seed is worth about) 33a and 34r. and new 34aand 38s per cwt ex store. Frozen Meat—Aa asoal at thla season trade at Smithfield has been extremely 6m»ll, the demand running almost entirely on Poultry, although a hunted business baa been clone in Baef. Owing to absence of demand home bred Mutto;^ basdeclined 2d per stone, but C^.terbury Mutton being in limited sopply and firmly held, values have kept very steady, good weight carcases showing an advance of Id per stone on tho three wcekß, best Sheep making 3* and 3* 3d, up to 3a 4d per stone ex market for anything very choice. Sec • ondary New Zealands are also Id higher, viz at 2 j lid up to 3s Id for good weights New Zealand Lamlr are quoted at 3s 8d and 4s per Bt^ne, but very few are oi the market. Of Froa m Beef, buyers havn been very few, but values remain about the same to Id per stone lees money. New Zailand fores are worth 2a 33 and hinds 2i 7d and 2s 8J per stone, ex market.

CHRISTCHURCH GRAIN AND PRODUCE MARKETS.

Quotations are as follows : — Wheat (nominal)—Huuler'e, pearl, and velvet 2s 3d to 2a and Tuscan 2a 4d to 2a 5d Oatß (new) —Canadians Is 5d to is 6d, short feed Is 5d to la 5Jd, Dune aud Danish is 3d to la s£d Barley (new)-Malting 2s, delivered Beans—(nominal) Peas—(nominal} Flour^millers' quotations nominal)— Roller £7, stone £6, sharps £3 IDs, bran iis, Oatmeal~£lo Oatsheaf Chaff — 42a 6d at near country station?. Hay— £Z 5a to £3 103, delivered j primest baled £4, f ob Seeds—Ryegrass, farmers' lots la 6d to 1b 9d; prime heavy, town dressed, 2a 6d to oe 3d, Cocksfoot, 2^d to 2p for bright seed, fco M | for extra good, town maohine dressed 161b to 17ib seed, 3id to 4d, cow^rass 5d to6d, extra choice 6^d, White clover, 6d to 7^d. Dairy Produce—Cheese, dairy 4d toSd, factory 4|d to sd, Butter—factory, local, lOd, dairy 7d to Bs, ealfc, in boxes 6d to 7d. Bacon and hßfps 5m to6d, factory bacon and bams, £d jper'lb higher. Ilia above prices, eycepfc where o,therwi«,e atnted^ are tfcoee P' d to farmtrs, f.o.b Lytteltioia.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prevalebit FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1901.

Thr proceedings of the Federation Commission are chiefly interesting because of the #reat variety of reaeonn given by the persons examined,for the fmith thsfc in in thrm. Their opinions seem to be based entirely upon p«r» Bonal interest, scarcely any of the 'experts' who have given the commis ion the benefit of their views going beyond the question of how far federat ina; with the Oommonwenl'h would affect their particular business It may be that this was only to be expected, seeing that vary few of the persona who have been before the commission, bo f*r, could be eupposed to h»ve given ihe subject much con sideration. One or two have been candid enough to admit this, but the majority — more especially amongst those engaged* in industries that have to be kept alive by heavy protective duties — have strongly comdemned federation with Australasia, because it would " kill their business." The public will doubtless be able to esti mate these ' opinions' at their proper value. The commissioners have ap parently determined to get the views of numbers of every profession, trade, and occupation in the colony, and probably the unemployed wlil also be. asked to contribute to the interesting stock of information that is being collected, A clergyman was amongst those summoned to give evidence, apparently because be had one* lived in Australia. Hia chief objection to federate was that " Qod designed New Zealand to be an insular nation, and she should remain so." How, holding the views he doen, he can reconcile himself to England acquiring conti nents, is left to onr imagination. A Danedin journalist has bears invited to record his opinions on the proceedings of the commission, but he would not defin itely commit himself. Nor would the Mayor of Donedin say anything as be had been too busy looking after the Imperial Troops to think about federa tion. In fact very few persons who were called by the commission outside of those, who are concerned in bolster ed up industries cared to commit themselves, generally confessing that they had not given much attention to the subject. It is not to be wondered at therefore, that so far the preponder ance of opinion elicited in Dunedin, where these industries are mostly carried on—was in opposition to fede rating with Australia, The general contention was that if the kind of goods, which they profess to manufac ture here were permitted to enter New Zealand from Australia without a heavy protective duty, they would soon displace New Zealand made goods, In other words they protest against a commodity being bought by tbe people in this colony, unless at such a price as will enable the local manufacturers to make f» go^d prof)', The u^er or con sumer is to be culled upon to pay them the difference bftw-ea the cost of tho Australian articlo landed in this o-.lony, urn! the; pricß that would suit thi New Zealand manufacturers It does not matter to theso peopl-i that the agricultural and pastoral commu nity, which forms buch an important part of our population could get better markefcß for V eir produce under federation than they would otherwise, aa one of them informed t^e c mmis siot: a day or two ago, that "Neifl er the agricultural or any other interest must be allowed to interfere with our manu factures." Wo shall pee what the farmers of this country will have to say about this suijl c v, w hen they come to be interviewed by the cdmnmdou, although it is improbable that they, any more than i.tber classes of the community have yet given the matter very careful consideration. This being so, we fail to see how the opinions that may be expressed before the commis sion will be of any real value in settling the question of federation v isolation, It is a many-3ided subject, and cannot be jastly dealt without witn careful and intelligent consideration. The people of Australia were not called upon to decide upou the acceptance or rejection of the Commonwealth scheme until after it had been fully explained to them by the public men throughout all the interested colonies. And we think that it is idle to ask for opinions from the inhabitants of New Zealand, until every aspect of the question has been fully and fairly presented to them. This is much too important a matter to be settled in the happy-go-iweky way most political measures are dis posed of nowadays in this country. It mufrt be determined by a referendum, but not until the people are able to understand thoroughly what the en trance of New Zealand into the Com monwealth will really mean.

Local and General.

Wbatbbr FoßECAbT—Captain Edwin wires:—.Northwest to west and south gale glass fall, but rise after twelve Hours from now, indicitiona of r-»in, and for cold weather with rising glass. Fbdebaiion Commission —Messrs Hugo Friedlemder and David Thomas have been called by the Federation Commission to appear on Monday mornia? to give their opinions upon U c question of federating with the Commonwealth. Kespeotful Chilpken—Tbeyoungsters of Titnaru, says the Herald, have shown a ret-pect for the memory of onr late Qaeen which we confers we had not expected of j them On the day of the public memorial seryipe, a wreath was bung on the Queen's Jablleo fountain. Ordinarily such a thing wonld be promptly pulled to pieces, bu«; to the credit of oar javemles be ifc said, tho wreath still hang* where it was placed. Mount Magdala.—Oa Tuesdny afternoon the ReT Mother Superior, of Mount M»gdal», javit-ed the visiting prelates to the institution and hospitably entertained them. Amongst the party were Archbishops Oarr and Red wood, Consignors O'Loary and ,o'Reiliy, the Bishops of Chrutch'ureh and Punedin, pean Foley, Very Bey Father La Menant De Chesnais, y. G , and s. pumper of visiting and local clergy. The guests on arri»ai were welcomed by Dean Ginaty and the Reverend Mother Superior. A very attrao* tive programme had been arranged, consisting of musical Hems, tableaux etc., and the distinguished visitors subsequently expressed themselves, greatly pleaied with their reception. The Institution is one of the most useful and beat managed of its kind 1 in New Zealand, a,ud the amount of good ib does to persona ef all classes and creeds oau scarcely be understood by the genei;a,l public. it works uoos tent»bioil«ly'bnb nnoeasingly; and with a large measure of suooess towards social reformation* moke New Yenm

T«b Waihao Oas« —The Waihoa murder 1 obsr will ccroe bifore the Gi.urb at Waimste on February 28 h, when there ere likely to be Borne startling disclosures. Imfbkial Tkoofs Cost —Colonel Orole Wyndbam Bays that it only coats the Imper ial Government £200 a day—the BritanmVe charter prioo—to keep the Imperial Guards in the eniony, Fishing—Yesterday several anglers who were fhhing in the Aehburton River met: with a fair tumount of success, bat the bou'- i v.ester oomiog up in 'ha afternoon fairly I spoilt sport. I A Mean Thief—A few days ago, at Auckland, while a man was risking his life to leecuea boy, aome mean pet eon •bole his boote. The New Zealand Ifcratd atrtea that on two previous (ccaeione a similar thing has occurred. Death at thh HosrirAii.—Mr James Oarleton died at the Hospital yesterday. He had oome from Moun!) Homers and had been an inmate in the institution for some time past. His funeral took place at 2.15 this afternoon. Mrs Evelyn Wood—Mn Wood, wife of Captain Evelyn Wood, who ia at present visiting New Zealand, was born at Marton, Su the Kangrikei district, and is the daughter of Mr Andrew Duncan,, an old Wanganul resident. Pbombvadi Comosbt-—-The orchestra In oonneotion with the Musical Union had a suooeßsful rehearsal on Thursday night for the forthcoming promenade concert, to be held in Ashburton next week. The attrac tive character of the music should induce a largo attendance at the concert. The Crops—The crops In the AshhHrton district are now nearly all cut, and the large number of stacks already to be seen in all directions give evidence of the abundant harvest just reaped. In conse quence of the fine weather of the past few days a good deal of threshing from the { atook is being done. Tboopebs' Welcome. —We have heard and read a good deal about welcoming our men home from the war, but a telegram, published elsewhere, promises something an a much grander scale, " when the war is ended." The Government has a scheme in view, which is intended to meet the case of all the troopers, the colony has sent. Reminder To Gardeners.—During Feb ruary plant kaio,aprouta, broccoli, savoys, eta. Earth up Jeek3. Thin parsley of every plant not well curled. Sowwaleherers, early lion don, large asiatio and autumn giant oauli fiowere for spring and summer use. Sow Bpinaoh. Cricket—A cricket match was played at Rakaia on Thursday afternoon between the Ashburton Imperial Cricket Club and the Rakaia Cricket Ciub. The game resulted in favor of the Rakaia Uluh, who won by 35 runs in a one innings match. Kakala batted first, putting together 108 runs— Lyttleton 57 and MoDonald 37 being the chief scorers Desirvhsd All He Got.—A few days ago an individual a'j Riverton who spoke disre* epectfully of her late Majesty the Queen was roughly handled by a number of residents, part of the punishment meted out to him it is alleged, including hanging for a few moments. After his vxoiting and painful experience, the individual disappeared mysteriously, and has not »iace been heard of. His friends hive become alarmed, and although the police have made diligent search no trace of the man can be found. Id is feared that he may have committed suicide. —Otago Daily Times The Meat and Wool T»ADE~Mr John Duthis, who has jußt returned to Wellington from a trip to the Old Country, said to an interviewer :—" Travelling with a Queens land gentleman interested in the meat trade in the Aroardia, I was informed that) the Americans are killing vory young cattle, and supplies of meat are running very short. The re is every indication that the present high prices will be maintained for some time. It has been expected that with the immense trade be ng done and fcho high prices ruling, wool would advance. There haa been some embarrassment amongst speculators, but I cannot help thinking that there will be an improvement very soon*" The Federation Question—The General Committee of the Canterbury A. and P a Association have agreed to call a meeting of farmers npyfc week, to 'consider the question of Federation, and to get them to appoint some delegates to go before the Federation Commission and put the case for the farmer? before them. The various agricultural and pastoral associations in Canterbury—the Timaru, Ashburton, ESlesmere, and North Canterbury—will be communicated with and a;ked to appoinb delegates who may be asked to speak. The metropolitan associa tion wiU'alsoask two or three gentlemen to address the meeting on the subject of Federation It is expected that the use of one or other of the hal'sin' the Exhibition building will be obtained for the meeting, which will be held in the afternoon. A Disappointed Photographer—A pro minent and much - respected citizen of Oamaru, who Is as enthusiastic devotee of the photographic art, determined to obtain some piotoml souvenirs of the Imperial troop*, and mount* d his hobby in at least) a dozen different: places of vantage and took the troops under every conceivable con dition. He snapped them before, he snapped them behind, and he took them from either side. Before and *ffcar their feed, marchitn», at ease, smoking, eating and drinking, he got pictures of them all, and as soon as the troops were out of eight) rushed off with his assistant and thirty negatives to the dark room. Then and then only did an examina tion reveal that the dark shutter had never been released—that the plates had never been exposed ! Da Barnabdo's Homes—ln the Dec ember issue of the National Wai/s'MajtKt ine Dr Barnardo devotes a good deal of space to a most interesting record of his recent tonr Sn Canada. Oafc of the 11,691 emigr&nts sent to Canada and the Colonies ander the auspices of the National Waif's Association, it ia claimed that less than two In a hu.idred have failed, while very many have succeeded to an extent that a | few short years ago would have seem' d beyond the wildest dreams of the yonng people themselves. The geneal c intents of the magazine make special appeal at this Christmas season to all who are in s-ympathy with skilfal rescue-work care fully carried on The Editor pointedly reminds his reader^ on beha'f of the 6,390 boys and girls tinder his care, that he sits afc the receipt of custom daily afc 18 to 26, Stepney Causeway, London, E. ! Odious Comfabisons—' We prefer New Zealand to New South Wales,' eaid a stal wart Lancer to a Post representative and he went on to explain. In Sydney the troops were subjected to a good deal of ' barrack ' from the crowds, and it was not always of a pleasant description. Theoj again, when conversing with the people, they wero fre quently toSd- ' Our boys can beat you ' Other remarks of the kind were frequent, and did not, to say the least, tend to foster good feeling. 'We did not come over here to be compared with the Australians or New Zealandete, 1 said the Lancer ; ' we aame to show you ourselves as we are, no better and no worse, and auoh remarks as I have told you somehow took the gilt off the re ception. Now, what I like about your New Zealand) rs is that you don't boast all the time of what your own • boys' have done, bub take us as we are—representatives of the Army, sent out here to show you what the Army is like—and give us a reoeption or which any body of men might feel proud. 1 Sander & Sous' Eucalyfti Extkaot— Under the distinguished patronage of His Majesty the King of Italy, awarded Diploma at the International Exhibition, Amsterdam, Acknowledged by Meclioal Clinics and Uni versities ail oyer the globe. That the crude, resinous oils, which are now foisted upon the public undor the name of Eucalypi Extracts, may not be mieUkon for Sender & Sons' Pure Volatile Eucalypti Extract, we state :—lt is proved by testa made by the Medical Clinics of the Universities at Bonn and Griefswald (Prussia), that only products thah are saturated with oxygen and freed o acids, resinous ana othor substances adherent to primary distillation, will develop the curative properties p'oaeesged by the:plant. To avoid the appalling consequences result ing from the application of substitutes, etc, iv croup, bronchitis, diphtherhjdyaentery, internal inflammation, etot, insist fa getting Sasdbb and Sons' Pobe VotAi Euoa LYmiSssBAOT, and be safe

A Bia Overdeam,—The Timara Borough Council h«e at the present time a debit bal ance of £3784 14s. ■ PbiSBNTATION—-A very pleasirg littlo ceremony took place in Mr A*irt«-w OrrV shop on Thursday, when Miss Palmer, who has for four and a half years b«en head mil liner in the establishment, was presented with a handsome silver teapot with the following inscription ;—• To Miss M E P*l- mar on her approaching marri ige by (ha 1 employees of A. Orr, Esq, February 9th, 1801.' Mr Hopkins ma<-e the presentation, and stated that he was t orry Miss Palmer ! was going, and wished her every happiness |in her new sphere. Miss Palmer suitably I replied, and refreshments wero dispensed by the young, ladies of the shop, A New Departure —It was decided some time ago (gays the Outlook) to secure for St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Dunrdin, tha services of & trained 'eister,' principally to devote her attention to work among the young and poor of the ch»rch and diatrict* After oarefnl consideration the choice has fallen upon Misa Christobel Dnsoan, of Victoria. Mies Duncan has just finished a two years' training ooune in the Deaconesses Training Instirotejf Melbourne), in oonneotion with the Victorian Presbyterian Church, She is expected to enter upon her duties in connection with St Andrew's next month.

The Genuine British Biograph

There is do doubt about the merit of Wyld and Freedman's Biograph, which will give a return and fateweli exhibition in Ashburton on Wednesday, February 20tb. For clearness, size, and happy selection of subjects nothing approaches the animated pictures projected by this up to date machine, and the management appear to J spare no expense in making their entertain ment perfect in the merest detail even to bringing with them their own electrio lighting installation. Some 12 miles of film will be projected (moot of which a new from the previous visit) by the aid of elec ttic motor, and shown to cine of 26 feet square. The spectators see everything in exact reproduction, with the refreshing charm of recognising that they are genuine. As to the most critical, no suggestion of 'fake' or arrangement creeps in. The exhibition is not. only one of enjoyment, but of oduottion enabling young and old to view and Indelibly memorise in a few short moments, scenes and incidents of the deepest interest, which would take hours to ; I explain. The programme to be submitted will comprise the very lateet from the Palace Theatre, London, where they were when the mail left, it is said creating quite a sensation. Amongst the new pictures which may be specially menticaed are JLord Roberts in camp 1 at Pretoria rpoelving despatches Ac, hoisting the fUg at the Transvaal capital, the torpedo destroyer 1 Viper' steaming at the rate of 42 miles per hour beating the * Albatross,' which wac exhibited on a previous visit, by six miles. Prince Edward of York (future King of England) play log soldiers with his brother and sister at Marlborough House* Harms* worth remarks, ' However delightful the pictures may bo to the children, they stand for making of history in a new form that of |an animated pictorial record of life, a personality which growl more valuable as time goes on'; living pictures of recent memorable events in the life of our late beloved Queen, showing very vividly her Majesty baking part in important public functions during laat year, and also hie Majasty King Edward VII., and his Qaeen Consort, and the Duke and Duchess of Corn ' Wai'. The exhibition will be for one night) only, and cannot possibly be repeated as the company are on their way south to geb the steamer for Australia. Box plan is now open at Mr H M Jones.

The Congregational Union.

United Press Association—by Eleotrio Telegraph ! Christchurch, February 14 The 18 h annunl meeting of the Oon gregationyl Union of New Zealand was opened to clay, the Rev J Reid Glasson presiding, ;>nd about 50 ministers and delegatesb=irig in attendance. Sessional officers and reporters were appointed, also reference and finance committees. The following were elected persons! members of the Ursion~Rev Messrs T i Full] mes, H Young, W H Bureoyne, G C pair, W A Evans. J Fester, WM Fell, D McKee Wright, and Messrs W O Daldy W N w. arner, and W Eady. Fhecommittee's report showrd tlm the congregational denomination w^sspec;.vl> sensitive to the conditions of colonial life. Chan gee wore numerous but a high degree of efficiency and cr,-'>p sration were maiu tained In the work ot the year. There was a large public meeting In ihe evening. Addresses on 'Christian Inr periallam' (1) In the City, Mr GFowlds, M. H R, ; (2) Among the, nations, Rev G Burgess, F. R A. S. ; (3) Through, the Church, Rev W Saunders, were delivered, Chbtstohurch, Feb 15 The Congregational Union Council passed a resolution placing on record their sense of the profound lons at the Queen's death, and their cordial satisfaction at Ktag Edward's accession, and expressing devoted loyalty tic him.

Presbyterian General Assembly.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph Wanganui, February 13 The Presbyterian General Assembly met this morning. A deputation from the Synod of Gbago and Southland and the ministers and Alders sitting for the first time was welaomed by the moderator. The amended regulations with regard to i scholarships and students were adopted, and an Advisory Board appointed to act in conjunction with the Church Extension Committee, The Maori mission report was adopted, authorising tho Committee among other things to take the necessary steps to the employment of another agent in the King Country district. The matter of the century fund was left in the hanr's of the Committee, the convener intimating that the Roy W Gillies intended to renew his canvass for the fund at the beginning of March. The Church extension report was read, showing that the funds are in a flourishing i condition. February 14 The delegates to the Presbyterian Assem- I bly were entertained by a river excursion tc-day. The trip waß thoroughly enj >yed. In the evening the Assembly met, when the report on Sabbath schools was read by the convenor. Amongst other things the reporb mentions that in the Sabbath reboots there are 1500 teachers and 15 000 scholars. With regard to the annual examinations held last October, the exauiDera' reports testified to the excellonce of (ho work. The Rev. Mr Shiror moved the adoption of the report, and Mr J Aitken s- oonded, and it was carried. Various members urged the necessity of attention being paid to Sunday schools» The foreign mission report was read, and discussion adjourned till next day.

The Midland Railway Commission

United Proas Association—By Eleotiio Telegraph Wellington, Feb 14 A deadlock has occurred in oonneotion with the Midland Railway Commission, Mr Back manager of the Tasmanisn Railways, could not spare the necessary time to ooraplete his commission, and so be resigned, Mr Seddoo &t first resolved not to appoint another Com missioner, and It was understood the Com mission wopid proceed without Mr Back, itfow, however, the Premier appears to have changed his mind. It is announced that a member will be appointed in Mr Back's plaoe and until the appointment is made the Com' mission hw daoided not to proceed with the taking of further evidence.

CORRESPONDENCE

We rto not bold ourselves responsible .for ifinioDßCxpreßseci by onr correspondents THE SOUTH EAST BELT. TO TBK KPITOR. Sir,—The Borough Council have oom pleted a great improvement to the south-east belt in removing the mass of growth of broom, gorap, willowf, etc, Ib was a miniature foreßt. The. belt ie much frequented lately by b&lherr, there being long stretches of deep, clear water so much desired by : bathers. I would respectfully mggest to i the Council that they continue the improve* ment by levelling the hillocks of sand, but not otherwise form th« road between the reserves at present, By co doinp, future floods will not effect tt so much. Also to place a footway across the ease aide of the drainage stream, and secure it to piles at a small cost. The Borough Council can make & much needed improvement and meet the wishes of a large number of the public, I am, etc, Observes.

Severe Earthquake.

United Press Association—By Elflotrio Telegraph Blenheim, L\:><u*ry 14 A severe and prolonged earthquake vu experienced here at about half past 5 o'clock this evening- A rmaller shook was felt yesterday evening at half past etx o'clock Wavganui, February 14 A sharp shook of earthquake was felt here at: 5 35 bo-night Nblson, February 14 A rather sharp earthquake shock was experienced at 5 30. No damage was done. Wellington, February 14 A rather sharp earth tremor Wat felt here at 5 30 this afternoon. Natibr, February 15 A severe shock of earthquake occurred at 2 o'oiook this morning.

Nautical Enquiry

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph CmtisTOHtrKCH, Feb 14 A nautical inquiry was held at Lyttelton today before Mr R Beetham, 8 M., Captaiaa MoLellan and Murray, assessors, touohiog the reotnt col ieion, between the Bte&mer Roto mahana and the ketob Kestrel, by which the latter was,dismasted. After heating evidenoe the Court gave its decision, " That Patrick Darragb, master of the Kestrel, was blameable for leaving the vessel in charge of cine man, an nneer* tificated mate, without a look out; .that the collision was due to the fact that a bright or flare light was not shown on the ketch from ' the green light of the steamer was seen ; that the second < fncer of the Rotcmahona displayed some judgment in not porting the helm before he had picked up the ketch and did his best to avoid a collision, and was In no wise to blame." The costs of the inquiry are to be paid by Darragh, and all certificates are to ba returned i

Visit of the Imperial Troops.

United Press Association—By Elecfcrio Telegraph—Copyright Auckland, February 14 The Premier has telegraphed to the Mayor that he will arrive on Saturday morning by the Tutanekal. He deeply regrets that the Imperial authorifciei ihould have refused to extend the time for the stay of the troops in Auckland by three day t. This action is in considerate pnd reprehensible, all things | considered. Nafibb, Feb. 14 [ The reception of the Imperial troops was I declared by both the Premier and Colonel | Wyndham to ba the most imposing yet seen ia all the country towna. The volunteers were in force, and the railway facilities were taxed to the a'most to bring the ouuntry folk to town. It is estimated that 20,000 people were present. Tbe town was pro' > iusely decorated Od the Marine Parade the troops were bri< ly welcomed by the Premier, and the Primate g&ve a short addies*, saying that he recognised among the troops representatives of six regiments to which he waa chaplain at th" siege of Lnoknow. The troops were marched to the Recreation Ground where luncheon was provided, the officers being entertained at the Hawkes* Bay C üb. Arine Tonore (Mrs <jr P Dtnnally) presente'l Oolonel Wyndham with • hsr famous tack, ' The Master,' which holds *o ttDbroknn record in the show grounds. Natives were present in larce numbers, gave dances on the Recreation Ground md then presented the officers with a number of j valuable mats and o'her Maori curioa That part of the performance Be mcdl to specially interest the visitorp, who followed with a tine display of drill ■ I

Anglican General Synod

United PreS3 Association —By Electric Telegraph Napier, Februayr 14 Ah the General Synod today the Primate, who had been at the reception of the Imperial troops, and was wearing his Lucknow and Afgh%n medals, Bald that among the regi« mentis represented were several to which he had been chaplain. There was no chaplain ' with the force, and on Uarning that the Premier had offered him a free passage in the Britannic, leave was granted with acclamation. Other business mainly consisted of con' firmatory resolutions, vobes of thanks to officers of the Synod, and for the hospitality received. The report of the Board of Theological Studies was adopted. This mainly dealt with the educational qualifications of oandi* dates for holy orders, but it was also carried thab the Board set up a committee of three to examine Sunday school teachers on the lines suggested by the Auckland Sunday School Board

Visit of the Heir Apparent

United Press Association—By Bleotric Telegram—Copyright London, February 14 It is officially announced that Melbourne will be the first port of call in Australia of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall* Melbourne, Feb 14 The cable that the Duke and Duoheaa of Cornwall intended to go direot to Sydney has caused much surprise and disappoint? mont. The Premier has instructed the Agent-General to see the Right Hon J. Ghamber!a::i, and strong'y urge that, as the Duke of Cornwall is coming Bpeolally to Melbourne to dlsoharge an important commission, it is only right that he should come di-eot, and make hia official landing there, other vise plans will be upset and the people greatly disappointed. The Agen'-General cabled to the Premier that; Mr Chamberlain had authorised him to state that Melbourne will be the Royal visitors' fiist port of call. Sydney, February 14 Lord Hopetoun iB informed that the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York will arrive at Melbourne on May 6, and will open tho Federal Parliament. They will thence proceed to Brisbane, calling at Sydney on their return, and afterwards proceeding to New Zealand.

Plague in Siberia

RELIEF MEASURES BY THE GOVERN MENT

United Press Association— By RHeotrlo Telegraph—Copyright St Petersburg, Teb 18 Plague ia raging on the Khirghiz steppe, in Western Siberia. Many thousands have died between Semiplatinsk and Orenberg. The Russian Government have despatched flying medical oolumns, and a quarter of a million ronbles' worth of wheat for the sufferers.

CONSULTING OPIICIAN

Mr Ernest M Sandstein, DB OA2, F 8 MO, who haa lately returned after six years' special study in England and Oon tioent, may be consulted on all caaea o defective eyesight. Daylight not necessary arttQoial light being uaed. Dootora pre soripfciona prepared. Fees moderate. Con suiting rooma, Cashel Street Vv\ f over M Sandstein, jeweller^ ChrlstohuK*. 9to 1, $ to 6 daily ;

CABLE NEWS.

; Uniied Pcej>g £gsociaHon —By Klootrlo j Telegraph— Copyright

| Perth, Feb 14 , Mr Clement Wragge, the Queensland ; meteorologist, has returned from his visit to 1 Europe He attended thp International

Meteorological CoDfrrence at Paris, and also collected valuable data eltewhere.

I Adelaide, Febrtury 14. G^od rains, which were much needed, have fallen in the northern districts. Brisbane, February 14 At th« h \t ycar'y meeting of the Queens land National Bank the Chairman stated that repayments of deferred deposits to the Government to the extent of £117,000 bad been mad« though the first moiety was not due ' ill 1917. The soles of securities daring the year had been the Urgest recorded, and the prices weie most satisfactory. Melbourne, Feb 14 The Mount Lyell returns from January 10th to February 6th, inclusive, show thai) 20,276 tons of ore were treated, blb» 6167 tons of purchased ore. The converters produced 682 tons of blister copper, con taining 674 tons of copper, 47,63* ounce* of silver, and 1959 ounoes of /{old. London, Feb 13 Over twenty five millions has been sob- Boribed for British Exchequer bonds, averag- ' ing £97 5s 4d. . Lady Marjorie Cecilia Carringtofl, eldssfc daughter of Karl Carrington, G.U.MG, bat married the eldest son of Mr O H Wihon, the well known ship owner and member of the House ef Commons for Hall, There were four hundred presents, including * magnificent diamond and turquoise brooch . from the King and Queen. The Hon Arthur Lawley, ttli lately Administrator of Maiabelelacd, and the newly appointed Governor of Westralia, ,has been made a Commander of the Order of 8i Michael and St George. Signer Marooni, by means ofa mast 160 ft high, sent a wireless telegraph message from St Catherine's Point, in the late of Wight, to Lizard Point), a distance ef 200 miles. Russia is largely increasing her fleet is th« Pacific. An explosion at the Chi!worth Gunpowder Works, Guildford, killed six, the only workmen in the building at the time. Capetown, Feb 18 A deputation of representatives of » Can' greas of Cape Colony municipalities urged SirJ GSprigg to constitute Boards of Health. Sir J G Sprigg, tn replying, said he recognised the gravity of the case, »nd would do his utmost to prevent an epiaemio of enterio. . Ottawa, Feb 14 The Empire League of Canada recommende the formation of an Imperial Consultative Council to arrange for the early organisa* tion of the defensive powers of the Empire. The League also advocates that Canada shall be associated in the King's titles* At the late British elections Mr John Barker, Liberal, was returned for Maids tone, defeating Mr Cornwallis, the Conservative candidate. Mr Cornwallis has successfully petitioned against Mr Barker, whose counsel admitted that those who were technically Mr Barker's agents committed bribery. Paris, Feb IS Colonel Picquart,. who was die missed from the French Atmy in connection with ths Dreyfus case, has formally withdrawn his appeal (or reinstatement in the service. Li Hung Chang assured the foreign Minis ters that the Emperor is solely directing the affairs of the Empire. Bomb February 14 A Cabinet is being formed by Signor Zarandelli, odo of tho leaders of thffßaflcat party who held office under the Marquis Rudini in 1897.

The Ocean Race.

United Press Assooiation~By Bleotrlo Telegraph Auckland, Feb. 14 The greatest interest is being taken in the race to Sydney between the Mar»ro» »nd the Sonoma. Tbe Mararoa left before mid night, and passed Onpe Maria at 1.20 p m yesterday, taking 13 hoars 15min. The Sonoma left at 5 20 am, and passed Ops Maria at 6 pm, taking 12 hoar* 40miD. ITha Sonoma thus gained 35mio.

The Federal Campaign

United Press Association—by Eleotrlo telegram—Copyright Melbourne, Feb H Mr Barton addressed a monster gathering in tbe Town Hall to-night. Sir G. Turner and Messrs Deakin and Drake were present. The speeches were in a great measure a repetition of former ones

KING EDWARD VII.

United Pren Association—By Bleotric Telegraph—Copyright LoN*dok, February 18 Sir Francis Knollys has been appointed Private Secretary to the King, and General Sir Dighton Macnaughton Probyn, Keeper of his Majesty's Privy Purse,

Scarcity of Labour.

The following is part of an Interview a Wellington pressman had with Mr John Duthie relative to hie trip to the Old Country:— 4 What is the outlook for the ordinary ■ trades in face of these combines 1' asked the interviewer. ; 'Well, the thing doesn't end there | the small traders seem to be combining in tell protection in the ramification! of easiness. In London one finds a great proportion of the retail traders combining to kaep prices up. The general tendeecy is to increase the price of goods all round. In lacb, retail prices are ab the present time equally high in London as in New Zealand. 1 * Have wages gone op in sympathy V * Oh, yes ; indeed, great difficulty is found in getting labour for some classes of work. For instance, while X was in London, two firms, one shipping and another mercantile, advertised for a fortnight for. office beyi without receiving a single application. A year or two back they would have received fifty or one hundred.' ' /a that the result of the war ?' * It is hard to say ; bat yon coo Id hardly believe how fully people are employed' There has nob been that readiness of late to rush off to the war that there was. The authorities Beem afraid to raise the rate of pay for soldiers, because to do so would be to establish an expensive precedence. The way out of the dilemma is to employ colonial soldiers, even if for their temporary services they demand higher pay, and that is what in being done. On the other hand, It must be admitted that the aotion of the colonies has earned for them th« hearty goodwill of the British people,'

THE PREMIER SUED FOR 19s 6d.

i£he case of J S Myers v, the Bight Hob Richard John Seddon, as President of the New Zealand Liberal Federation, o&me on again for hearing at Chris'tohurch on Thurs day morning, before Mr H W Bishop, g( M. The plaintiff appeared in person, and Mf Caeaidy appeared for the Premier. Mr Bishop eaid that defendant eyldeaoa, .which was to be taken in Wellington, oo February 12. had not yet come to hand, co the o»se would have to be adjourned agfia. The plaintiff, in an aggrieved tone Qf voice, slid that he had •>!! his witaeaaej in Court, and had no notice that the case wtt nob oomiDK on. He would aa^ the Bengh to allow him expenses. Mr Bishop said that he could not allow expanses at the present utage of the cue, sol the matter would be taljten into oonaidarat'loD whea the final decision of the Court wm given, Mr Bilhop then a'j virned the o*«e fo^ a, week i ' ■.. . .

THE A H URTO Goaß^H •* t fßtDl^. fEBBtJARY ll s 1901



Full moon Last quarter Apogee N«w moon First quarter Perigee

4 12 9 19 26 21

H M 3 0 am 5 42 am 7 0 pin 2 15 p in 6 8 pro 2 0 pm



Date February 12 „ 13 15 „ 16

Bi«es 5 19 5 20 5 22 5 23 5 24

Seta 7 9 7 8 7 6 7 5 7 4



WAI. I, PA PER S. T\7 E HAVK TO H \NL), p<-r the last Home boat—29 Balea of the very lateat ARTISTIC P.'.PKRHANGINGS, the Colouring! and Deßigns of which are decided works of art Tncli.ckd in the shipment are Beautiful Frifzea and Borders to tnttch thp P-pers. I hold the largest slock of WAIL PAPEBS in 5-ouih Canterbury Clients can therefor© rely uponh ing a largo variety of each respective eorfc to chooße from. J_ n/"\HT lioVsVl DECORATOR AND SIGN . WlLoUrl, °-£Hjr 65 / P O Box 16. Telephone 65. COOPER'S_SHEEP DIP. Facts for Sheepmen and Figures 1. Britain is the great manufacturing centre of the f-heep Dijs which are being pushed In this colony. 2. It ia also the Country which subjects them to the hardest possible tes'H in use, for nothing taxes the abiding properties of Sheep Dips so severely as the WEATHER-, and few dips there are that can withstand it. 3. Thfl *'ROYAL 1' is the Greatest Annual Sheep Show of the World and the Representative Stock Gathering of the British Isles. These threo reconnected facts c mblne, however, In addiicg to the weighty gures of tho las' R.>thl £how :■— Total Prizes Won by Sheep ... .. ••• 162 Cooper-Dipped Sheep Carried cfi ... ... ••• HO Balance, for division amongst all other Dips ... ... 22 ANALYSIS. ..__.~~~-~~~— —— ~ ~"o nat npioD^,f First. Second. Third. Total, COOPER ... ! 5 | 61 55 19 HO jj^!!Li!!EL^L-—L— 1-- ! 7 n ?!22 _ COOPER'S DIP thus secured 90 per cent of the Fikst Peizes or FINE TIMPS AS MANY &S ALL OTHER DIPS PUT TOGETHER. 125 Leading Sheepmen exhibited, 104 practically voted for sl COOPER." It ia nearly the same with the Sheep owners the world over, who hat year 1899) used aofficiont of "COOPER" to dip about 200 Million Sheep An increase oS nearly 25 Millions over the Bales of the previous year, FRIEDLANDER BROS,, LTD., [AGENTS. f ISO! MODFLS JUFT LANDED. MA* V 3 M PRGTEMENTS. COME AND BEE THEM. OOUB GOOD 8-ECOND'-HAND CYCLES TO BE SOLD CHEAP. I*o REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED 'JOHNORR&-CO. N.Z CLOTHING FACTORY. WE have just concluded onr HALF-YEARLY STOCKTAKING and have thrown out a rumber of odd lines', which "we have marked at prices that will effect a speedy clearance. =iSEE THEM AT DOOR.= MEK'S HABD Al^D SOFT HATS AT Is EACH. MEN'S SOFT SHIRTS. h LAPGK VABIE rI V OF TIES, ALL REDUCED TO 6d& Is' Men's Leuthir Shoes 6b 6d, Men's Kid Shoes 10s 6d Women's Oanviiß Shoes 3s 6d, Children's 2 • 6d Men's Tan 'Shoes 6s 6d, Mtn'g Tan Boots 15s. >.Z, CLOTHING FACTORY THE VEUDICl 1 OF AH, PBACTICAL RIDERS IS' IN FAVOUR OF ■ HIDING BUILT with Butted Tubing, Short Heads, Narrow Tread Arch or Box Orown, oi lin pitch roller Chains, overhanging chain wheelal Any style Saddle, Handles, Chain, etc, ear, any height frame ; also duet proof throughout. ONE PRICE TO ALL—£2l OATES, LOWTIY ANJ) CO., Zealandia Cycle Works, BURNETT STREET, ASHBURTON. FOB BALl}', XI OLJDAY BOITS-I have a large ebook TH/'BLL Cured Prime quality HAMS a! of Men}, Yoatta', and BoyV Snlti. W and BACON. Cheaper th.an Beat made to my ordera, spsc.al finwh for wear, \* \ fi,,»m n '«,(i 0.. m h« stye, und appearance equal to anything ~* Mntton.G««J nn eed Bramßram fed procurable. Snlto made to measure in \mt f»men of this dwtnot. £ tyl<j< g( . g U6raDte ed. Genbt', L»die«' *nd v i Tt m vrv M FAT SUPPLY CO. Children's Boots and Shoes fa great variety, FARMKBSs W ftai. oui ri^ w^ _ RpBEBT Aloorw . *jrj ANTED Knowa-l'hat our Oildothi



Wade's vVorm Figs are most effetive and not unpleasani; shildren thrive after takin ihem. Price, Is Wade a Worm Figs, the wonderful Worm Worrlew, never fail foi adult« oe children Prir-eiß



QUR B)T8 aa<i; Bhos? sell thernselvea have a look ut D Srocc's prices,