EPHEMEEIS

SUN.

Phases of Moon for December

Mail Notices

Mails close for tho following places at j under, subject to the necessary alterations: WEDNESDAY, Deo 18 SAN FRANCISCO MAIL For Northern Ports and Wrsbporr, also Samoo, Hawaii, Philippine*, Japan, United States Canada, United Kingdom, {due London Ja"i l_:h), ond Contitent of Europe, per Tir-Wera, at 6 30 p m

MINING

Btjnemn, December 18 Today's sales—Alpine No 2, 22a; Davls Bend 3d die; Hokitika River, 12<; Royal Maori, three parcels at 20?; Stafford Waimea 5s d':s.

TO CORRESPONDENT.

Silent Watcher. We do nob publish letters that have appeared in other news papers. Moreover, the subject referred to has already been pretty well ventilated in our columns.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 1901.

Although the weather so greatly in terfered with the comfort of both young and old who attended tbe school spjrts on Monday, the event was nevertheless, one which deserves more than a passing notice. The first gathering of this kind in the colony— if we mistake not—took place on May 10, 1900, having been promoted and carried out by Mr David Thomas and Mr O D Hardie, who were loyally as sisted by Mr J S Teunant and other gentlemen. That function was a most successful affair, and, commenting upon it afterwards, we advocated that the movement should be tekan up gene rally throughout the colony. As a matter of fact, leading men in Ohrisfc chuich and other centres, did move in the same direction almost immediately, their action being strongly suggestive of their having followed the lead given by Ashburton. But it may be only a coincidence that this excellent idea produced certain results elsewhere as well as here in a significant chrono logical order. However, although the other centres which adopted the scheme originated in this part of the world by Messrs Thomas and Hardie have not given credit for it in the proper quar ter, and have complacently patted themselves on tbe back upon the sue oe s of the movement, we rany Itfc tbut p«ss, and we hope that an associ tton may be formed shortly with which all tbe local branches may beoftil ated. We need not emphasize here the great advantage these gatherings must bs to the rising generation, as we have on more than one occasion dealt with this matter. Put we may remark that the efficiency in physical drill displayed by the boys and girls of the looil schools on Anniversary Day should be an object iesson to parents and the public generally. There is just one point in connection with the school sports annual gathering which does not seem to us to be fully understood in the country districts, and it is thab those reunions should be of special advantage to the children attending their schools. The opportunity to compare as well as to compete with their town rivals should be takon full advantage of, and it rauat be evident that these friendly competitions should ba of great mutual benefit to the dwellers both in town and country. Wo are led to make these remarks owing to the apathy shown by tho country school teachers and committees towards this movement. A mistaken idea seems to exist in the country districts that as these annual gatherings were originated in Ashburton they are intended for the town schools. But if we remember aright the promoters were very emphatic in explaining that the chief object of the Combined School Sports meetings was to bring together the young people throughout the whole county, We hope, therefore, that the country schools will be much better represented at the next annual gather ing. We think all those concerned in bringing in the country competitors who did attend are to be specially congratulated, and it is a fact worth mentioning that the teacher of one of the schools represented is a lady ; from which we may infer thab some of our women teachers recognise just as clearly as the men do the truth of the old saying, that a sound mind should go with a healthy body.

On more than one occasion attention has bepn drawn through our columns to the difficulties attending rifle shooting in this district. The only range within reach cf tho volunteers of Ashburton is so situated that, apart from other objection?, it must cost those using ib a good round sum annually going and coming back. Under the moat favour able circumstances the river has to be waded through, and when there is a fresh, an express has to be engaged. Sometimes too, considerable incon venience is caused to those attending the butts, owing to such contretemps as that which occurred the other day when the Rangiora team met the Guards at the local range. Owing to the rain, the shooting ended sooner than was expected, and the express having been ordered for a later time, the unfortunate teams were kept for nearly an hour in the pelting rain, and would probably have been there much longer if they had Dot fired a volley or two t,o attract the notice of somebody on the other side of the river. This condition of affairs ia a disgrace to the volunteer authorities, and should have been remedied long ago, either by the construction of a foot bridge, or by providing « more convenient r^nge, "yVe cannot expect our volunteers to* ,be able to feold their own with tho rifle under such condi tions ; and it is not at all to be won dered a>s t,bs>fc they do not show up

well in competitions with those having better ranges, The advantage of hav ing a good range is pretty clearly shown by the success which has at tended the Ashbarton Mounted Rifles, the youngest corps in the district, in its outside competitions This is due chitfly to the admirable range which has be_n provided at Laghmor by its energetic commanding officer Captain Buckley. We trust the authorities will take immediate steps to remove the heavy handicap which now rests on the Ashburton Volun teers in the matter of rifle shooting.

Local and General.

More Troops— The statement of Mr Birton which has been called from Australia today—thab the Commonwealth will Hake no steps' to send mere troops to the front, will if it be true, be followed by a storm of disapproved in the Australian States, and future development should be interesting*

The Value op the Bain-A gentleman interested in the mubtoo and lamb trade, estimates thab the recent rains in bhe colony have given half a million sterling bo the export of frtam moat, which would have been seriously short if the drought had con* tinued.

The We9tinghousb Brake—The West inghouse brake h being fitted to all new oars turned out from Addington Workshops, and bhe old cars are also being fitted with the brakes as rapidly as possible. The Christ church Dunedin express will be the firsb oomplete train on this section to have the brake on engine and all oarriagesl

Jews as Soldiers -A London paper s*ya ib is computed bhab as m»ny as 1500 Jews have fought on bhe British side during the Boer war, and there are on record ten several instances of three Jewish brothers being on service with British regiments in Sou.h Africa.

A Rumour Revived—The rumour to which publicity was given in this colony some time since as to bhe probability of Mr Seddon being selected for appointment of bh? Governorship of one or other of Greab Britain's colonies has been deemed worthy of despatch by Reuter to the Cape Times In tho following form:—" London, October 30, It ia rumoured in New Zjaland that the appointmenb of Governor of the Orange River Colony will shortly ba conferred on the Rfghb Hon R J Seddon, Premier of New Zealand.

Ashbubton Horticultural Society.— A Committee meeting of the Ashburton Horticultural Society was held list evening, Mr H C Shrimpton presiding. Letters were received from Messrs GAM Buckley, J MoLachlan, M.H.R., and D Thomas, aocepting'positions ac purona of the Society, The date of next show was fixed for Friday and Saturday, February 14th and 15.h. A lisb of jidgea was aho prepared, aod a Ladies' Committee appointed to dispense afternoon tea. It was decided to have mudo during the thaw, and a oommitteo was seb up bo arrange for a band. Various members undertook to collect subscriptions now due, From tha interest shown generally in horti cultural matter?, and the facb thab several now conservatories have _r.a.ntly been built In the town and district, the forthcoming show promises bo be a mosb successful one.

A Generous Gift-The Out'ook says: —We understand that MrD-vid Wilson, of Ashburton, ia tho generous donor, who Intimated to the Assemb'y hia willingness to give £50 per annum for four years to students at.o^ylng for the ministry of our Church. These scholarships aie to be called bhe David Wilson Scholarships, and are to be tenable for two years. We trust that othera will fellow the good example of Mr W Ison, There are few ways In which money can be better used than in helping to lighten the burden, which so often presses upon our students, and seriously Interferes with both health and study. At the Assembly the office bearers took up, with enthusiasm, bhe woik of raising schol arship money, and we look for substantia! help in this direction, bub larger gifts such as thab of Mr Wilson are greatly needed, and should be forthcoming.

Shooting Incident — A sensational shooting incident took place ab Grahams town, Thames, last we.k, when a man named Clemenb J Moore delib.rately fired a revolver three times In rapid succeslon at Mr Samuel Howard, the licensee of the Royal Hotel, and then placed the revolver ab his own forehead, and blew his brains out, Mr Howard is seriously wounded, bub is expected bo recover, Moore was sixty three years of age, and ib Is thought he ab one time belonged to bhe Armed Constabulary. The cause of the shooting is supposed to be fn connecblon with a grievance thab Moore had aboub the Jmp.rl-1 mine ab Karangahake, of which mining property Mr Howard was formerly manager for a period of four or five years, and Moore himself was formerly a share holder Through nonpayment of calls,

Moore some time ago seems to have been compelled o forfeit his shares, and this apparently preyed upon his mind, with the result th it he eventually attributed his illfortune to Mr Howard, although he appears not to have said anything to bhe latter aboub ib, bub told others so.

Weather; Forecast: — Captain Edwin wires:—West to south west and south gale soon ; glass rise ; heavy rain.—Notwitl sbanding Captain Edwin's forocasf, the glass was falling rapidly when we went to press, and there were indications of a repetition of Mouday'sstoim.

From the Front — Sergeanb Arthur Willis formerly of the Ashburton Mounted R Has, who weab with the Sixth Contingent, returned to Ashburton this morning. He has been invalided home, having had an attack of enterio fever.—We regreb bo see bhab Mr Thomas Revell's son, Douglaß, who went away with bhe Sixth Contingent, is dangerously ill of enterio fever ab Charles town, whioh it close to M*jub» Hill

A Gr-O-fu- Recognition—The Rev . W Ham, who has he<3n upwards c f three years in Majfiald, has laboued with marked success. Recently the committee gave him a well earned holiday, undertaking to find pulpit supply for four Sundays, On Mr Ham's return, they presented him with a new gig. May other congregations take the hint and act in the same generous spirit towards their minister'.— Outleok.

Accountants' Examination—Mr Gun dry reports that Messrs F W Watt, W Pickles, W H Woods, Ashburton candidates ab tbe recent, examinations in accountancy, have secured passes, while Mr A Gee has obtained a partial pas?. We congratulate these gentlemen on their success.

Volunteers f.rthe Eighth—As several intending volunteers for the E ghth Contin gent have been enquiring who Is authorised to take their names, we may mention thab it is prob.ble L'eutenaut Fooks, of the A.M.R., will be officially instructed to receive appli cations for enrolment, notification of which will doubtless be given in due course. Twelve men will be accepted from Afhbur ton>

Caktata—Again we remind our readers of the cantata •' Bethlehem " to be rendered in the Primitive Methodißt Ofauroh tonight", at 8 o'clock. Ib is an excellent production, and should command a packed house. There are about 25 singers and a good orchestra, both well balanced. The conduo or (Mr J H J ones) has taken every puns to give the public a real treat.

News in Brief.

In tho Ohrietohuroh Supreme Court on Tuesday J >hn Frederick Harris was sent to gaol for three months for stealing a bicycle*

The first Newcastle coal ever landed ab the Napier breakwater was discharged there last week.

Mr H Stephenson notifies thab he has been instructed by Mr A Whitaktr, to .ell the furniture of his private house on Saturday nexb, which has been remov.d to the auction mart for convenience of sale.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright

AN EFFECT OF THE STORM London, Dec 17 Many of the provincial towns in Great Britain are still isolated owing to the wrecking of the telegraph lines by a snowstorm MANOHURIAN TREATY Prince Ching has asked Russia for more precise conditions in the Man churian treaty LIVERPOOL BANK F-tAUD3 Goudia is assisting the police in tbe work of the Liverpool Bank frauds. He admits defalcations amounting to £163,504 ADMIRAL SCHLEY ■Washington, December 17 Admiral Schley intends filing objections to the finding of the Court of Enquiry, urging that important evidence waa overlooked;

ANTI-GERMAN POLES 8t Petersburg, December 17 A thousand Pol'sh women at Cracow resolved to boycott German govern esses, shops, and newspapers A WELCOME NUGGET Sydnet, Dec 17 A 22 a nugget has been found by a prospector at Wellington,

SOUTH AFRICA.

United Press Association—By Eleotrto Telegraph—Copyrigh

London, December 17 Lieutenant W Lorigan, of the Sixth New Zealand Contingent, is con valeacent, and has resumed duty

NEW ZEALANDERS DANGEROUSLY ILL.

Wellington, Dec 17 The General commanding ab Capetown cables : " Dangerously ill, 4288 Lvooe-Cor poral Robert Flower, of enberio ab New casble; 4432 Privabe Revell, enterio ab Chariesbown.

Turkey and the Powers.

United Press Assoolabion—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyrighb

London, Dec 16 The Paris newspaper Le Temps, dealing with the Eastern situation, says it is not for Prance to show z nal for the maintenance of the integrity lof the Ottoman Empire. Germany ba3 latterly assumed the position of semi official protectress of the Sultan, but France has refused to play into Ger many's hands against England, and will nob play against Italy on tbe Tripoli quesbion, which ia said to con cern Italy and the Saltan and tha Sul tan's friends

Mr Borard, a high authority on the Eastern situation, writing in a Pari sian magazine, alleges that Russia encouraged the Sultan to resist Prance in tbe recent trouble over the Constan tinople docks and the bankers' claims, hoping eventually to occupy Armenia herself

Hot Weather in Australia.

United Press Assooiabion—By Eleobrlo Telegraph—Copyright

Sydney, December 17 A strong north-westerly, like a blast from a furnace, blew all day today. The heat was prostrating, and the thermometer registered 104 degrees in tbe shade,

A cool southerly wind ia blowing in the city tonight.

The heat wave was general, and at many country stations a temperature was recorded of 100 degrees to 115 de grees At Paradine, Brewarrioa, and Tilba it was 117 degrees, and at Goo dooga 121 degrees.

Serious damage has been done to the wheat, the heat causing it to shell. Bash fires are raging in some districts.

METHVEN

(From cur own Correspondent)

A most successful invitation tea and con cert wbs held in Methven on Friday n:ght last, tbe 13th met, and in tpite of the steady rain which fell throughout the day. a good number ino'uding sohool children, old scholars, parents and friends, .ab down to the excellent bea provided in the school room. Tho concsrb which followed was given in its entirety by the children attend ing the State Sohco'. The dux in each division—boy and girl—were enbtusted with bhe task of writing and sending invitations, and the response to these was pleasing in the extreme bo all in authority .* and all who aocepbed were surprised and at the splendid programme provided. The feature of bhe evening waa the tableaux, ' Nursery Rhymes,' Princes in the Tower,' and ' Tbe Gipsy's Warning,' all of whioh came in fo a great deal of admiration and praise; the first one being especially attractive and besu'ifu]. The action eoDgs and oho Uf singing of bhe ohildren were of a very h'gh ord^r, and reflected great credit upon Miss Willis ani Miss Cordelia Duff under whose able supervision tho ohildren attained bo such a high state of profioienoy. The programme also Included reciting by a wea mile ; a duet by two scholars ; a dia logue, 'Ihe Boys' Picnic,' which was exoellently given by five boys; and an exhibition of ' Pole Drill' by two of the senior girls. Opportunity was also taken to spring a aompleteJsurprUe upon the school master and mißtre.s, Mr J Gillsnders and Miss Willis, iv the form of a presentation to each of them from their rmny friends and well-wishers. Mr H G Baker, in making the presentations, apologised lor the absence of Mrs D Oamaron of' Springfiaid,' who intended being present, and was bo have made bhe presentations, .but was hindered on accouub of indisposition. Mr .Baker said he knew from the Chairman of bhe Education Board that the Board regarded Mr Gillander'- work as highly satisfactory, and he had an able assistant in Miss Willie The results of the recent examination speak for them selvea, for every child, except hie, or these had exceptional disadvantages, obtained a pass. Th. attendance, although many of the children have long distances bo brave), compares more than favourably with other Echools, and in one instance tho Methven fchool prob bly has a record, frr one of the senior scholars, maßter W Duff, has never missed so much as a half day, and was only onoe labe, in all hie school life, which was coofioed to Methven. Although Mr Gillan ders has been master for 14 years and Miss Willis m'Btress for 10 year?, neither parents nor ohildren seem in any way bired, as was evidenced by these handsome gifts. The Methven friends did not wait until these bhey appreciated wore leaving, before bhey expressed that appreciation, but whilst tbey are still present they offer an emphatic ••Thank you ' for services rendered, and, if such be at all necessary, an inducement to remain. Mr G Ihnders suitably responded on behalf of Miss Wiilia and himself. The gifts in themselves w^re greatly appreciated, but far more bo, the spirit which prompted them, the kindness and sympathy of which these articles were the outward expression, would lung remain in their memories, be stronger ties to Methven, and a spur bo all future endeavour; The handsome and useful presents, a travelling bag for Mr GiUanders; a dressing case and a handsome walnut writing desk for Miss Willis, were muoh admired and all felt that tha choice made could nob have been improved,

MAYFIELD.

(From our own Correspondent)

The annua 1 school treat of the Majfield Sunday School was held on Monday, hail storms and rain considerably damping every thing and everybody. The picnic was to have been held ab the Dawns, Mr Burgess' traction engine-taking bhe ohildren up. Bub on account of bhe weather we were glad to take possession of bhe school. A great many people came io spite of the weather. A good assort menb of toys were provided frr^he races, which were run between the showers. An excellent tea was provided and served in the sohoolrocm, »f er which a sacred concert was given In the church. Miss Hoare pre sided at tbe organ, and hearty thinks are due to her for her kindness in training the children, who rendered their parts exoe' lently under her tuition, Stveral pretty items were given by bhe children. The vocalists were—Mrs Twenbyman. Misses Hoare, Hah), O-kley, Whibing and Dellow, Messrs Dellow and Mumo-, organ duet, Miss and Master Burgess ; pretty recitations wore given by several litb'e children. Mr Ham diebribubed bbc prizes, a good collection of books, every child receiving a book, special mention being made of good attendance. Several children came near to head marks, for whioh Wi Ham Burgees and May Burgess received medals for attendance. Messrs O-kley and Gallagher spoke, proposing votes of thanks to singers and to teachers of the school, and a pleasant evening closed wibh fortunately fine weather and bright moon* light for the return home,

Interprovincial

Unified Press Association—By'Eleotrio Telegraph

Wellington, December 17

A oase arising out of the visit of the Duke and Daobess of Cornwall to Wellington was heard before Justice Edwards and a jury of four at Wellington yesterday, when Back burn and Smith, of Christchurch, sued the Mayor of Wellington and Or Luke, repre* .anting the Citizens' Reception Committee, for £300. cost of fireworks provided by bhe p'ainbiffa for a pyrotechnic display given in honour of the Royal visitors. For the plaintiffs ib was held bhab bhe display had been in accordance with the specifications; bhab it had nob been successful was owing bo bhe hulk from which ib was given being moored too far out in the harbour. The plaintiffs were nob concerned aboub the site afforded, as tbey were nob consulted about bhe position in whioh the hulk should be placed, The defence to the action was thab bhe display h_d been a poor one, and bhab the plaintiffs had nob broughb such expert knowledge, judgmenb, and experience to bear upon their work as expacted, The jury gave a verdict for plaintiffj for £200 with cost?,

Auckland, Dooember 17 I A man named George Alfred Tatan com mitted suicide this afternoon, having apparently taken poison in the street. Two man saw him lying in the street, and he told them be had poisoned himself. He expired before a doctor arrived; A bottle was found neat bhe body containing ox.lio aoid.

Chbi.tchdech, Deo 17 The Discovery is to go into dock ag-ln tomorrow morning, as a little further work on her hull has been found necessary. She is bo come out on Friday, and is to leave on her voyage to the Antarctic regions on Saturday ab 2 p m 'Che Tongah oorrespondenb of the Herald states j—l We have had plenty of earthquake shocks, and although no'hingto be compared with the soismio disturbances ia New Zi&lanrl, yet two shocks on November I2bb, at 11am and 230 pm, were sufficiently powerful and alarming bo c&use the natives bo rush yelling from their bouses, which they were afraid were aboub to collapse* Beyond a few articles of crockery and glassware, whioh o*me to grief in Borne of the stores and European houses, no damage was done. Another severe shook ooourred on Tuesday morning last (Deoembar 3rd), at % a m, whioh aroused most of the people.'

Cheviot Relief Fund.

The following subscription? have been received towards the Cheviot Relief Fund:—

Methven Sport and Races.

The following entries have been received for the Methven sports, to be held on January 1, 1902 : - HORSE EVENT.. Open Maiden Flat Race—L'Atandont;e'» Beir-, White May, Warning, Am=z ment. Maiden Trot—Marawiti, Nancy, Irish , Girl, Oorat, Cordiao, Pheon, Simple Harry, Jack Nimble, Nellie, Do be Oan-fuU Methven Cup—St Re?f, Lapidary, Whi • May, Carlo, Barney, No 9, Artilleryman, Amazement. Handicap Trot—Bramble, Nancy, Irish Girl, Bertha, Lignibe, Co.diao, Myra Tr»oey, Pheon, Jack Nimble, Nellie, Diplomo, Jubilee Plunger. Ladiks' PuRSE-St R*ef, Warning, Inch oape, Artilleryman, All Saints* athletics. Hurdle Race—H Gordon, F Ironside, D Fergus. ICO Yards -F Saunderaoo, S Gordon, J R Griffin, G Hebblewhite, P Cranio, G Ironeide, F Ironside, D Fergus, D W Lsdgerwood.

440 Yards-H Gordon, G Hebblewhite, P Oronin, F Ironside, H R L-dgerwood.

Sir Joseph Ward at Gore.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph

Go BE, Dec 17 In accordance with a promise made to the Mayor of Gore, Sir Joseph Ward arrived here this morning to lay the foundation stona of tbe new Gore Post Offioe.

In the evening he addressed a largely attended public meeting in the Town Hall, and waa accorded a hearby reception, He spoke for two hours, and was listened bo with deep attention. He predicted a balance of £500.000 of revenue over expenditure for the financial year ending 31.b March, 1902, and held out bright prospects for bhe future of the colony; He touched on nearly every matter of public importance, and hii remarks were punctuated with applause. Ia the evening a banquet was bendered to him, and was attended by many. A pleasant bime was spent. Among those present were bhe Hon H Feldwiok and Messrs McNftb, Gilfedder and Hanan, M.H.R.ss

CRICKET.

Sydney, December 17 Interviewed after bhe first besb match, in whioh tbe Englishmen scored such a deoisiva victory. Bailing, who captained the Aus tralians, said he considered bhab the English team had been underrated both in England and Australia. MaoLaren had brought out bhe right sorb of bowlers for bhe hard Aus tralian wickets, and his team had very strong batting powers,

Several good authorities have expressed the opinion thab the Australian team was badly chosen, and the captaincy was nob good, but that the victory was well deserved. *

The Sydney Morning Herald says the Englishmen won by outplaying their oppo nents ab every point of the game. Tbe result shows thab the English side is much stronger than was thought by some English papers. Their play bhroughoub was of tha highest class, and the victory must be mainly regarded as a resulb of MacLaren's judgment. Bub allowing for his skill as a batsman and as captain, and all the resources ab his com. mand in the b.am he led, the victory would have been discounted if the beam chosen to represent Australia had been worthy of that proud position. If the match beaches any thing ib teaches thab men should be chosen on their immediate form, nob on tbe form they exhibited some time back. Bowlers whose arms have lost their ounning and batsmen who are plainly ont of form should not be chosen bo the exclusion of younger playars of decided promise.

The Daily Telegraph says, after allowing thab the better side won :—• All tbat can bo said is that the proverbit! uncertainty of the g'.ais has once more vindicated itself; bub given all that, it ia plain that alterabions will havetobem.de in br.e Australian Eleven for the next test m%toh, Tha team has recommendations as containing seasoned and experienced pl»yers, bub ib betrayed weaknesses as the game proceeded. Per haps the moeb proocuaosd weakness was bhe sameness of the bowling,' , Melbourne, Deo 17 The Age, commenting on tbe match, says it was undeniably a great win, achieved by sheer merit, The victors thowod superiority in every department of tho gimp. It la useless talking about tho Australian batbing being a failure. Credit must bo given unstintedly to the expert bowiiog and fielding by which such failure was bronght about.

The Argus suggests '.hit a cable message be s?nt to Lord Hawke assmiog him thab no anxiety is felt over the absence of Rhodes and Hirst, "No real plaa ia producible," th« papor con'inues, "in mitigating of the Au.« traliano'defeat. If Australia hopes to beat tbe redoubtable visitors, a new eleven should be picked immediately, co as to enable them to train together,"

Wellington December 17 Albert Trott, the famous cricketer, en gaged as coach by the Hawka's Bay Cricket Association, arrived by bhe Waiwera today. He abates bhab he can only remain in the colony till next March, as he is due back ia England for criokeb in May

Australian Naval Defence.

\ Unlbed Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, December 16 Admiral Sir Nathaniel*Bowden Smith and Mr John Colomb, the well known authorities on Imperial and Colonial Defence, support RearAdmlralßeaumonb'a Australian naval proposals. Melbourne, Dec 17 Captain WE Ores ?r el!, 0.M.G., Naval Commandant of Queensland, and late of the Royal Navy, has furnished Mr Barton with a report on the possibilities of acquiring a Federal Navy, and employing Australian seamen for the defence of the Commonwealth's commerce and ports. He contends thab Australia should take an active personal share in her own defence.' An insuperable bar to having her own navy was siid to be the original cosfc ot four million pounds, and £100,000 as the annual charges of maintenance. Captain Creswell declares thab the alternative proposal of an increased contribution to the Imperial ! Government is one of stagnation and con tinued naval impotence to Australia. As the first principle he lays down thab a naval scheme must be gradually developed on sound lines, each forward step being met with a reduction of bhe annual contri bution to the Imperial Governmeab, to lead finally to Australia taking over the protec tion of her own floating brade. He makes tha following suggestions as a first step :-— The provMon of one modern cruiser specially designed to suifc looal conditions, with an armament of the latest pattern j the eoasbs and parts of Australia to be divided Into naval districts for braining purposes, each dlsbrlct to raise one ship's company, a ship to make a round of the districts tft ice yearly for practical tracing pqrpqseg. He estimates the cost of one orulserab £300 000, and the cost of maintenance at £.7,000 annually. Tha latter would be m9b by bhe transfer of one third of tha present contribution to the Auxiliary Squadron, and a £12,000 redaction in the outlay on present naval expenditure. Captain Creswel urges that bhe first ship should be ordered at onca, to be completed by 1903, and an additional one ordered every second year up to 1907. Ho. Bug* gestssebblng aside £3t*|o,OOQ to £350,000! annually for ten years for naval defence, which would suffice to provide five cruisers saitaVe for .Australian defence, leave no debt, and provide for all required renewals. There are 1800 men under bhe various Stato naval forces, and with proper train ing oft .at they could be made an efiectlve body for sea service, while there are some 29,000 engaged in the sea andJriver services of the Commonwealth who could be drawn upon. The scheme is designed to develop Australia's naval capacity at the least oosti to th© country.

THE ASHBURTON GDAEDIAN • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBEK 18, 1901



Date December 16 .. 17 ... 18  19 - 20 __

Ri-aa 4 17 4 17 4 17 4 18 4 18

Bebs 7 35 7 35 36 35 * 37



Last quarter New moon Apogee Pivst quarter Full moon Ferigee

D 3 11 9 19 25 24

II M 9 20 am 2 23 pm 1 30 a m 8 sam 11 46 p m 3 0 pm



« a Dr Trevor ... ■ >< 11 Mrs Trevor .« ••• ... 010 Rev R Raino _, 0 10 Mr Wm. O'Grady ... __, 0 10 (per Mi Kiddey) 3ommiU-~ of Fancy Costume Crioket Match .. 13 7

Total ... 15 18



F. FERRIMAN { ~~~" tor"~s__iS~~^ ALFOBD FOREST ROAD. Jf_A9_ rec-ived instructions frcm Mr Alexander Bingham, who is leaving for Motgiel it an early date, to Sell bis House of ill room* and £ of an acre of land Also If sons of land, ad J ining Mr Hendarson. A capital paddoak with a good ©sop ol h_y on parb ot ib Also | acre Section, <^j >in'rg Mr R F Meeking, on the Alford Forest Road Fall parti'cularg'may b* had on »pp'ic»tion F FKR-tIMAN, j Land and Bet ate Agent Havelock Streeb I BUTE the following surra aval'able to land on firsb class Freehold Bur:»l Lands -£7000, £6000, £4000 and £1000 M i\ per cent, also other sums en lease hold. F FERRIMAN, Licensed Land Broker 'FOR SALF, AT ALLENTON, ABOUT 2| Acres, situated on the continuation of the N.E Town Belt, Upon wh!ch la erected a firsb class Hcuse of <S rooms, *nd good Stables. Part of the land ia laid oafc in good orchard. Terms or F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent FOB SALF, TANORED STREET, A GOOD FOUSK, close to the Masonic __\ H-H. The Property must he sold as the owner is leaving for Christchurch This property will lob well F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent FOR BALE, WAKANTII RO\D, A PROPERTY consistinj? of"! rood 20 perches with house of 4 rooms and aarden whioh is well laid out. 15 F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent "" FOITsALE, A BAR GAIN ne»r the Woollen Factory — £ Acre of Lind, with a 3 roomed House and Scullery, pump inside. If you are seeking a good home on easy terms see tM' F. FERRIMAN, . Land and Estate Agent "foiTsale., AT HAMPSTEAD, HOUSE of 4 rooms and l-Bth acre of land. Price £85. F FERRIMAN, Lmd and Estate Agr„t to^lbs\ ~~ A HOUSE of 7 rooms and Scullery corner of the N E Town Belt F FERRIMAN, Land and EBtate Agenb TO LET^ TTOUSE in Peter Street of 6 ro.sma F FERRIMAN, Land and Esiate Agent BUSINESS NOTICES UKHBER. OF FARMERS' UNION A RE informed that arrangements are now completed With the Commercial Union Ineuranco Corporation for insuring at reduced fates Employees of Members of ihe U-lei. Policies miy bo issued ab onoe. Mas re Fribdlasdpr Baos, Ltd, are the L»>%l Agents lor the OunmercUl Union Oo mpany. 0 Haxdt k Co, Ag-iit- at B k.ia. (Signed) G. W. LfSADLBY, Chairman North Canterbury District 1 1 ib 6 N Z Farmers' Union FARMERS EMPLOYEES' AOOI BEST INSURANCE WITH reference to the above, we wish bo direct abteni ion to the fact thab th<) Reduced Kate of Premium Is due to the BBttrprise of the Commercial Union Office and now thab th 9 Contraob Se In force, we trnib the Members of tbe New Zealand Farmers 1 Union will loyally standby the agreement entered into. We shall be glad o reoeive proposala FR-BDL&NDER BIROS, Ltb. Per HUGO FRIEDLANDER. Managing Director. Ashburton, Nov. 30,1901 11 216 TO MEMBERS OF FABMEKb' UNION _sND OTHERS. IMPORTANT .NOTICE MM WOBKERB' COMPENSATION ACT, &0. THE "OCEAN Accident Corporation Capital One Mi_.mon Kb?lK_x *ob 1900 -£878 ; 492 5s lid. A RE INSURING FARMJ-RS-Whether Jdcmbers ef the Farmers Unicn or not— %t the same rate and with the same concessions Individually, as any other Company ofhra them collectively, AB-HLUTELY LOWEST RATES GUARANTEED. 'Prompt and liberal settlernonb of ail just •'alma" r_f36*ed lacally TO FARMERS ■ "inrTE may state that the Reduced Rates of Premium, now prevalent on » 1 classes of builne.B are due to the enterprise of tho Oe-on Aoeidebt Corporation, who have been steadily bringing down '.he Rates since they commenced opt rations in the colony, and .- Parnrars will god it to thok advantage to call and see ua before ooinp'eling business elsewhere. MC9LL BROS., District Agents



*_■_____-*■-_--■ ■■" ii .I ——— IN the Appearanoa of SWIFT CYCLE bhere has ever been a charm, and their general utility has been a never failU g source of satisfaction to riders. THE EOLiPSE CYCLE CO., AGENTS, Tanored Bferesb, Catalogues on appiioabion. FEDFR-L COFFEE PALACE, Triangle, Ashburton. MRS WHISELER (late of tha Prince Albert Private Hotel) having pur chased the above old established House is prepared to receive Boardera and Travellers. Tbe Houbo has been completely renovated throughout, and has all the comforts of a heme. Terms moderate. 12 60 BOUGHT at 5s In the &\ SP£CIAL"pD'BOHASE OF GOOD SONGS. THE Undorsigned have secured ab the above price from a big Melbourne firm, who were largely overstocked, 5,000 copies of good up to date* song •■, most of which are of very recant IsEUe, and composed by the following well known authors:—Gounod, Bani, Blockley, Poutat, B.lfe, Michael Watson, Molloy, Bishop, Lover. Mendels sohn, Behrend, Trotere, Suilivan, Verdi, Glover, Picoolomtni, Hatton, Handel, C:ari bel, Wal'aSe, Pinsuti, Oowen, Rieubau't, K'oin, GeraldUce, Scott Catty, Tito M.ttei, Deoß', Stephen Adam?, 1 o'u, Jude, Ecejkel, Toet.i, Sir H R .Bishop, Bethold Tours. ißlumentha!, Loder, Goisford D.ok, Hope T«mple, ArJiti and others. From the .b ;ve composers,'ib wi Ibo seen at a glance that this is not a cheap rubbishy collection of time expired copyright stuff, bub a selection of some of the vary bear, songs by tho beet composer*, usually retailed at 2s each (two sbillingpj celt. In order to effect a speedy clearance those will all bo fold in sealed packets, containing 10 songs each for S3, or an average prioe of 6d each. Eich packet will be, m.rked ' Soprano,' ' Tenor,' 'Coatralfco,' and * Bass,' end the settings of the songs contained therein, wll be specially selected for those voices, Samples of those are cowonviow in our window, and the public oan judge for themselves of the v.^.'iio t flared. Premises open for bush-ess every Tuesday and Satur day only. We are also showing some now lines, oontainiog trurviiloua value, in the fallowing bound vols:—« Wide World Song Folio.* (96 songe, 3s), * Glebe Song Folio,' (ICO songs 4i6d>, * Universal Pianoforte Folio,' {62 pieces 3s 6d). Also a seleotion of new and novel piano lamps in various shades and colours, showing a beautiful.sofb lighb at 9j 6d, 15^ and 17s pair, "New fciano sconces (candlesticks), in arriatic designs, &a Gd, 9i 6:1,12s 61, 15s, 18a 6d s and 30a pair, femsli goods of every description. GRAOB BROS, Arcade, A-tftburton« Tuesdays and Saturday*. ».- K. COUCH, Jeweller, oj? Tanored Stbebi, IS offering for Christmas Season only—Big reduction?, almost at cuab price, iv ! Jewellery, Watobe?, Electro Plate, Clockf, otc, suitable for presents. The Oi-eapesb Jeweller in Town; All Goods markr-d in plain figures. Note addrese—Tanored Stroeb. \



BUSINESS NOTICES J IHW NICHOLAS & PICKFORD'S IS THE BEST AND CHEAPEST PLAGE FOR FOOTWEAR THERE 13 NO DOUBT. OBDINAKY PRICES? Ladies' Gkce 2 Bur Sooes 5* 9d, only a few pairs L>idi'V Glace Walking Shoes, Patent Cap Lace or Strap, 6s 9d Lidies' Tan Walking Shoes from 7s Ladies' Smart Canvas Shoee 3< 91 and 4s 9d, black or tan Gents' Ovnvas Shops 5< 6d. 6s 6d, f.nd 7 3 6d Girls' ami Maid-' Canvas Shoes 8^ 31, 8. 6d, 3s 9d, 4s and 4s 6d Ladies' Tennis Bhoes 2 8 9d, 3s 9d 4* 61, 6* 6J, 8-, lis 61, and 14s 6d Gents' Tennis or B^wlinp Shoes 2-i 9d, 3s 6J, 7a 6d, 12. 6d, 16. 6d, 18s 6d 6d, 20*, 22* 6d Ladie.' Evening Shoes from 8<? Mtm's Buchers, nailed or plain, from sa)6d Boys' and Girls' School Boots from 4s 9d Children'- Strap Shoes, sizes 2 to 6, "at from 2a 3d Girls' 2 Bar Shoes from 3. 6d Gents' Cricketing Boots, Runn'nganl Cycling Shoes, at various prices Hundreds of other lines at equally low prices NICHOLAS AND PICKFORD, EAST STREET; H. M. JONES x HM. JONES. SANTA CLAUS AND FATHER CHRISTMAS ARE COMING AGAIN To Cheer tho Young, and remind tho Old the years are passing away fTIHE Undersigned las a very Large and Well Selected Stock of Books, Stationery, X Fancy Goods, Trys, China and Gla^B, Leather Bnd Plated War*?, Suitable for Gifts. Rewards, and Presentation purposes. Imported direct from Leading London and Continen tal Houses. • _--._,„ BOOKS. BOOKS. BOOKS. From Ward, Look and Co,, Oassells and Co., Hodder and Stoughtcn, Griffith, Farren and Sons, University. Press, London Sunday Union, and Others toys; toys. Toy**; toys. Great Variety, from Id Doll to a Steam Engine} DOLLS. DOLLS. DOLLS. Sleenietr Dells and Wideawake Dolls, Jointed Doila, Breakable and Unbreakablo Dolls. FANCY GOODS. FANOY GOODS. Purses, Pocket Books, Letter Cases, (Silver Mounted), Albums, Photo Frames, Decks, Work Boxes, Tourists' Oases, Ink Sands, Dressing Cases, Musio Oases, Jewel Oases, Blotters. Cabinets, Glove Boxee, Companions, atd many other lines too numerous to part on arse QmNh g_^S, PL-TED, AND LEATHEKWABE BIBLES In Great V-rie'y. Prayer, and Hymo, and Tune Books, CHRISTMAB CARDS—Beautlfcl Hand Pointed Cards, la. Album of For ,y Vi w of Ashburton, Is H 2-0 wi'Miii—iii 'ii hwih ipi imii .HIHIMIHI—-I1 nw n m ■'! ni— wiwiii-MFWB-w-imawwnißiiiiiiMiiiiii-a iiiiii in limn■ mi The Cheapest Shop in Ashbiyton. LAWN MOWERS."~LAWN MOWERS, FROM 22s 6d EACH. Including * Monarch,' •« Pastime, 1 'New Easy,' &c. garden"tools. The Greatest Variety in Aehbnrton, ab price* to suib everybody, Including the New American Scuffle. Dutch, Garden and Plantation Hoes. Garden Rakes, Spa ley, Fork., Trowels, Syringes, Sorrier Forki, Boys' Spades, eto _-,„ _ AGENT for the CELEBRATED •SYRACUSE' Combination deed Drills end Cultivators, florae Hoes and Oulblvabora superior bo Planeb Jr ab _ less prioe SHEEP SHEARSr O:~SHEEP SHEARS- I have Juab received my first shipment, including TU S, BBA, 11 A, etc; abo Turkey and Washita Oil Sconce all at bedrock prices CARPENTERS' TOOLS—As usual, lamup to date in variety and price. QLhe largest selection jn the Aahbuiton Oountj to select from GL MEDDINS, The People's Ironmonger, Burnett Street, Opposite Arcade S ..—__



ff 5 f First Shipment JUST ABBIVED. To be followed by Regular Shipments direct from Ceylon by every Mail Boat, OF THE RENOWNED | CEY LON TEA. THE NIRVANA TEA COMPANY,, Colombo, Ceylon, have made arrangements to send to New Zealand REGULAR SHIPMENTS OF THEIR CHOICE OEYLON* TEAS, feeling sore the Tea drinking public will much appreciate a PURE, CHOICE OEYLON TEA, Direct from the Grower, UN TAMPERED WITH. K__» READ THIS— These Teas are Packed In Ceylon, and are absolutely PURE. People rarely consider the'DINGER of drinking low class Teas. NIRVANA i. the highest grade known to the trade, and is sold by all leading grocers ab tho same price [as ordinary Tea. ASK FOR IT. DON'T FORGET THE NAME. Sole Ap.enb Appointed— J. T 0 CGOGB, Ashburton. Free Sample and Pamphlet on application fmjmmßm_mmmmmaK—mmmmaamtttm~mmtmnmm* iwi m_, I ilyoATE&Co'e 'l H 188 til *-iMnea t^t J. WILSON HAS a LARGE & BKAUTIFUL STOCK OF ARTISTIC WALL PAPERS, Cheap or Expensive, to Sal. AU CUsses of Rooms BURNETT STREEV ! SoagkeNew Venus j



The Leeston Sports—At the Leeston Cycling Club's meeting on Monday, A. Davidson, of Ashburton, won both tho amateur cycling event, on the programmo. He was mounted on Britain's Best Bicycle, the Budge -Whibworth.



Sandbb & Sons Eucalypti Extract,— Undor the distinguished patronage of His Majesty the King of Italy, awarded Diploma at the International Exhibition, Amsterdam, acknowledged by Medical Clinics and Uni versities all over the globs. Thab the crude, resinous oils, whioh are now foisted upon the public undflr the name of Eucalyp Extracts, may nob be mistaken for Saoder & Sons' Pure Volatile Eucalypti Extract, we abate :—lt is proved by tests made by the Medical Clinics of the Universities ab Bonn and Griefewald (Prussia), that only products bhab are saturated with oxygen and freed of acids, resinous and other substances adheren to primary distillation, will develop the curative properties possessed by bhe plant J To avoid bhe appalling oonsequeDces resulb ing from the applioabion of subsbitutes, etc., in croup, bronchitis, diphtheria, dysentery internal Inflammation, etc., ins'ib ?n getting Sandbe and Pons' Pore Voi -Tinh Eu c tYPTi Extract, and be safe



Bollis Cycles—The display of Hollls cycles now on view ab John Orr & Go's is well worthy of inspection by al} cycling enbhur iiisfcs. These machines are made from genuins B S.A parbs by the celebrated gunmakers, I. Hollis & Sons, Birmingham, which should be fufficienb guarante- of their efficiency. The mode's we have seen are superbly finished, and the high standard of quality attained in the manufacture of tbe Hollis bioyole has been most rigidly maintained.



Colonial Workmanship— In the bicycle industry colonial workmanship is far before bhe imported article, for this reason, that bhey are'specially constructed bo stand bhe rough ro&ds of this colony. Messrs Oates, Lowry and Cj. have been building I^&lan dlas for twenty years, and their machines are unequalled in design, strength, and ininhf



Wade's Worm Figs are moat effective and not unpleasant; children thrive after taking them price. Is