Mail Notices

Malls close for the following places as under, subject to the necessary alterations — WEDNESDAY, March 19

For Northern Ports and West Coast, per Rotomahana, at 630 ptn

FRIDAY, March 21

For Northern Ports and Weatport, als° Australian States and South Africa, per Monowai, at 10.33 am

The next beet despatch for United King dom is via San Franoisoo s leaving Aahburton on April 2nd, and due London May 3rd

MINING

Dukbdin, Marofa 19

Today's sales—First Chance 7s; Golden River 7a 3d ; Moequifco 235; Nqapara N" 3, 5s 6d, S3; Rise and Shine 209 6 U 21«, 21s, 2ls, 21?, 21s 3d, 21s 6d, 2!« 63, 21a 6d; Upper Magnetic 5s 3d, 5s 31.

BIRTH.

SETMOO».~-On March 19th, the wife of C W Seymour, Ashburton, of a son.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 1902.

At the meeting of the Borough Ooan cii, held on the 3rd inst, the Mayor sug gested the appointment of a sab-com mittee to go through the borough valuation roll, with a view to see whether the Oonnci! might require any alterations made in it. Or Reid and one or two other Councillors were however so certain that the Council could not interfere with the roll, and had no say in connection with it, be yond appointing a valuer, that the Mayor did not press his proposal and nothing was done. At the Ooancil ! meeting last Monday evening a great number of objections to the valuations were shown to have been lodged, all on the ground that the valuations were too high. Or Titmnins very pertinently asked whether the Oouncil ought not to be able to object to any that might fen too low, but the Mayot said the Oouncil had had an opportu nity of taking some action in the direction indicated, and it was now too late as the time tor lodging objections had passed. This is a much more im portant matter than some of the Borough Councillors seem to think, and we are at a loss to understand how any of them conld take up the position Or Eeid did. His attitude is the more surprising seeing that he had himself occupied the Mayoral chair, and should, one would suppose, have been familiar with the provisions of the Bating Act, 1894. Yet he assured the members that the Oouncil had no power to inter fere with the valuation list, and no one seems to have known that he was ab-; solutely wrong on this point. Clause j 17 of the Rating Act, 1894, under which the valuation of this borough has been made ever since that Act came into operation is as follows r— •• The local authority may, by their chairman or clerk or other officer ap pointed by them in writing for that j parposp, object to any particular valu-1 ation, or to any matter insertpd in, or omitted from such Hat." And the inter* pretation of 'local authority 1 givea in the Act is • •' Any Council, Bo^rd, trustees, commissioners, company, body, or per sons empowered to make and levy rates." Nothing can b9 clearer there fore, than that tha Council had a per fect right to revise any of the valu ations on the roll, and its neglect to do so is neither more nor less than neglect —unintentional we allow—of the in terests of the burgesses. It is well known that a good many properties in the Borough are undervalued, although we have no doubt the valuator did his best to prepare a reliable roll. Still, to err is human, and as there is quite a sheaf of objections from persons asking for reductions, it stands to reason that investigation would disclose many cases, nofcnow known, in whichincreases might have been fairly made, or pro posed reductions objected to. We trust the Oouncil will take steps to safe guard the interests of the Borough in the next valuation. Of course nothing can be done this year, as the time for lodging objections was allowed to pass.

It appears to as that the arrangements for the South Canterbury Rifle Meeting •re not Altogether satisfactory to our local volunteers. To begin with, the first official intimation received by the Aehburton Oorps that marksmen for the year ended February 28th, 1901, would fire for Government medals at Timaru on Thursday 20th, will be found in our advertising columns this evening. This is altogether too short notice, as men from Aehburton desiring to com pote, would have had to leave this afternoon, and would probably be amble to return until Friday morning. With such a short time to make arrangements, it is probable that very few from this district will be able to compete. We aw at a lose to understand why the Aehburtoo men could not fire here. Then again the Timaru volunteers have been firing all along with th*o new magazine rifles which have been barred to tbe Ashburton men owing to their having had no ammunition. It would have been fairer to all parties to have allowed these matches to be fired with the Martini-Henry, or else to have allowed handicaps to those who have not need the other.

Local and General.

To Ocjj Reapers—To enabje tfte mpm bers of onr staff to participate in tsnp fcalf holiday to-morrow (Thursday), the GyA^DiAsr will be published ab noon. Advertisers are requested to hand in advertisements $oc later than 11 a.m. Baptist CHUR£!?--The Rev. R. S. Grey, of Nelson, will deliver an address in the Baptist Church tonight, on * Oar Forward Movement.' A.R.V—There was % good muater of tho AshburtoQ Klfles at the inspection parade on Tuesday evening, all the officers being present. The men were inatruobed in the new drill for magazine rifles by Staff Sergeant Major Jones, and good progress was mad«. Football—Tho annual general meeting of liho Southern Cross Football Olub will be held in MoOonnell's rooms on Friday evening; —The annual general meeting of the Pirates' football iOlub wiil be hjdd in MoOphnoU's rooms en SVidav'evenloß.'at) 8 a'olook. <;

Frisco Mail—The Sonoma, with the Frisao mail, arrived at Auckland ic-d&y.

Ashburbon Guards—The annual meeting of the Guards will take plaoe after inspection on Monday aext, 24th last.

No Smoking—A notice has been posted on the Kailw&y Station informing the public that the by-law prohibiting smoking on the platform, will in future he strictly enforced.

Wbatbsb Forecasts — Captain Edwin wires:—lndications strong nottherly winds; glass fail.

Promotion—We understand that, prior to the Eigfch Contingent leaving Dunedin, Trooper Donald McLaren, of Mayfield, was promoted to the position of Corporal.

On Leave—Mounted Constable Eada is at present absent from Athburton on his annual vacation, which lasts for fourteen days. Oonttable Hogau i* taking his place during his abseco*.

Second Growth.—lt is reported that aomo of the grain crops at) Waikakihi which are not yet cut have already sprouted folly an mob.

A Disappearance—Search parties are out looking for Mrs Sullivan, who started to walk from Fe%th-3raton to Oarterton on Saturday, and has not been eeen since.

Teachebs for Refugee Camps,— Nearly twenty applications have been received at Wellington from women teachers, who are anxious to undertake school instruction in the refuges camps in South Africa.

The Ninths War Gay—The Ninth Contingent) war cry, interpreted, is: *Oh S the tribe, be strong, be stout-hearted, always, always, stand firm, stand firm, charge.'

To Voiuntbbbs—The competition for Government medals by marksmen who are efficient for the year ended, February 28th, will taka place at the Timaru range tomorrow, with Martini-Henri rifles.

The B3AS3 Band—The Ashburton BriSß Band hold their final practice tonight, before appearing in publics at the 8b Patrick's sports tomorrow. Tha Band ia making good pro gress under Bandmaster Humphreys,

, Old Men's Home—ln our description of the Old Men's Home, we omitted to mention that the plastering appears to have been done by Mr S Porter, the subcontractor for this part of the work, in ft thoroughly efficient manner.

St. Stephen's Chukch—His Lordship the Bishop of Chrlstchuroh will administer the sacred rite of confirmation and preach in St. Stephen's Church this evening at 7.30 p.m. The confirmation candidates are requested to assemble at the School room prior to the service at 6.50 p.m,

J Borough Valuations-—-The Assessment Oourb for the borough of Timaru will have muoh more to do this year than usual, over 160 persons having lodged objeotions to their valuations*

Accident — A young man named Kabeney fell from a stack on to the wheel of a combine ab Tinwald yesterday, and sustained a rather serious fracture of his collar bone. He was attended to by Dr Bolger, and subsequently went to the Hoßpltal.

The Valdarbs — Our readers will doubtless keep in mind the fact that the clever Valdara Company will open at the Oddfellows' Hall tomorrow evening, and that tha box plan is open at Mr Jones' shop

Monument to Db Cobdnkk—ln a para graph recently published in our columns, with reference to a monument) stone that has been erected in the R\kai& cemetery to the memory of the late Dr Gordnor, a misprint) occurod, which it may be ai well to correct 16 was stated that Mr OAC Hardy had taken thainitiativa in i his matter, whereas in appears that Mr Oxloy is the Secretary and Treasurer representing a number of friends who subec-ibed for the purpose.

Tomorrow's tpokes—The Sb Patrick's Sports tr-morrow give every promise of being by far the most successful ever held in Ashburfeon. The Committee have spared neither time nor expanse to cater for the amusement) of the public, and is is to be boped that their efforts will be rewarded With a record attendance. Champion com petitors wilt be present) from all pans of the colony, and thao greatest o! cycle rider-, • Pincjger Bill Martin, 1 will arrive by the 1058 am train, and will be welcomed to Ashburton by His Worship the Mayor. Full arrangements have been made for the oomforb of the public, and the newly formed Ashburton County Brass Band will nuke its first appearance:

Pbesbntatiok —Oa Saturday afternoon last the members of the Ashburbon Tennis Club roet at the pavilion at) the courts for the purpose of making a presentation to Mr Waller Ooath, who has resigned the Beore* taryship of the Club The President, Mr C W Purnell, in a neat speech, referring to the Increase of membership during Mr Ooath's term of office, asked him to socepfc a travelling bag es a small token of the esteem in Which heißtao'^ by the members of the Club, In reply, Mr Ooabh said he had nob expected any return for hit services, whioh were always available for the interests of the Club. He had resigned beoauaa he could not spare tha time the duties of a aeoretary demanded. Tha bag was suitably Inscribed,

Labooe Repom—The • Journal' of the Department of Labour, issued on March lOfch, reports on tbe Ashbarbon labour market, as follows : — Building trades : Slackened off somewhat daring the past month, Bad their are several carpenters idle. Engineering trade*; Fairly good. Boot trade: Qiieb. Clothing br^de : Bather doll. Retail trade (general): Slackened off during the pasts month, which was greatly due to the farmers being busy with their harvest. Miscellaneous: All leoaUndustries are fairly busy. Onskil'et) I&boar: No appllofttione for employment! during the month; Harvest is about! over, and the threshing machines ara in fall awing. There are a very few local hands Idle, and most sbrangert have gone south In search of harvest work,

Eangitata Notes-—Our correspondent writes :—Wa hare just had another heavy rain, which has done a large amount of damage to the crops in 3took, of which there are some very good ones in this district} and they should thresh well. The prices are also satisfactory for thn farmers. Feed is very plentiful, and is looking well. Turnips and rape are aluo in good form. The Rangitata races take place on the 27th, and promise to be a good meeting, the nominations being the best ever recorded by the Club. As the coarse is In very satisfactqry order, there should be a good meeting.

B.8;A AT4LANTA3—The, latest Atalanta oyolefl are built entirely of J9Q2 genuine 8.8 A parts, fitted with plated rims, Dunlop or Palmer tyres, and are wibhoqt a doubt the strongest, and most easy running B;8.A machine obtainable la the colony, Messrs Oabes. Lowry & Qo» are, bh? sole makers for New

News in Brief.

The next stock sale at Hinds will be held on Monday, the 24th mat. Tenders are invited for alterations and B#d}H°!?!3 to the Aahbqrton Rot^n Catholic Presbytery.

The King will make a yachting tour of the British ooast In the spring, instead ef visiting the Continent!

We understand that the firm of Tribe & Co, outfitters, High Street, Ghrlstohuroh, made a very advantageous deal last week. Being aware that) the firm of Bradbury and Go, merchants and manufacturers of Lioh field Street, were about to tnter into liquidation. Tribe and Co. made them a sporting offer, which was accepted, for the ' pick 1 sf sheir new goods. They raada a very large purohaie, aifid we are informed will be* able to self for ]eVs than the manufacture™' cost, and then make a Bfttiefaotory profit, The sale itartß on frlday, March 7. ' ' ' 3^B

Winslow Sports and Racing Club.

A special meeting of members was held at the Winsiow Hotel on Saturday for the purpose of considering the question of holding the annual sports and races as in former years. There was a good attendance, and Mr W Sutherland was voted to the chair

Communications from the hon. the Premier were read stating that Victoria Day, May 24th, would not be further observed as a public holiday, bub that Tueaday, June 3rd, now the Prince of Wales' Birthday, would be kept

After slight consideration, ib was nn»ni- ■ otously carried with enthusiasm, that the j Club's meeting be held as formerly, *nd that" application be at once madn to the Canter bury Jockey Club eni New Zealand TrottiDg Aasooiation to have the Club's fixture removed to Piinoe of Wales' Birthday

The election of officers was then prooeeded with, nod the following gentlemen were duly eleoted :—President—Mr Donald McLean; Vice Presidents—Messrs G A R£ Baokley, 0 Dalgety, JON Grigg, T Btoae v J Studuo;me, janr, L de 0 Malet, A E Grigs, W Suther land B Gates, J Farrall, Geo Moßae, W Ohisnall, and H Ford ; Committee—Messra J Hampton, A Wilson, T Pearoe, H Kalney, R Kenolngton, J Oueack,, T lirennan, W Sutherland, WCookie, R Burnett, PKannedy, W Thompson, J Olioton, T Sutherland, P Grace, J Sutherland, Neil Campbell, J Ryan and W Huetont Mr W Sutherland waa electei Chairman of Committee*, Mr W Simpson Bon Secretary, Mr W Sutherland Hon Treasurer.

1 It was unanimously resolved, provided the date of fixture ia satisfactorily advanced, 1 That any surplus on the meeting be equally divided between the Ashburton Mounted Rifles, Aehburton Rifids, Aahburton Guards, Ashburton Brass Band and Winsiow Sports and Racing Club.'

Special allusion was made to the handsome donation given laet year by Mr G A M Buckley.

Several valuable donations were alao promised towards the Club's funds in the room, and a vote of thanks to the chair terminated a most enthusiastic meeting.

CRICKET.

ENGLAND v SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Adelaide, March 18

The match concluded in fine weather, England winning by six wickets. The Englishmen lost) four wickets for 196—Gann 21, Tyldesley 47, Qa»lfe 41, Jeseop 25, Hayward not) out 33, Brauad nob oub 19, extras 10 {

The usual fortnightly Committee meeting of the Ashburtoa Cricket Club was held at MoOonneU'o rooms on Monday evening. Present—Mews O J Taylor (chairman), Peroy Orr, Fred Pritchard, E Tregew, and 8 S Oboab. A large number of letters were dealt with. The Committee then proceeded to arrange details as to the entertainment of the visitors for the Easter fixtures. It) was unanimously resolved to have lunch laid out at the pavilion, and Mr Taylor said that he had seen soma ladies who had expressed their willingness to give afternoon tea, refreshments, eto, at the pavilion, both on Good "Friday and Easter Tuesday* This announcement was received with applause. The following were selected to play on Easter Tuesday in the country portion of the county team:—Patter (Mount, Somers), Grlf fen (Mayfield), and Kendall (Fairfield). Rakaia is unable to contribute its quota, and Methven names are not yet to hand, Ou the motion ot the chairman, seconded by Mr Choat, it was decided to hava a special meeting of the Committee on Monday even ing next to make final arrangements, This was all the business,

Fatal Accident in the Lyttel ton Tunnel.

DE&TH OP GUaRU FORSYTH.

The Press reports a fatal aaoldent in the Lyttelton tunnel, by which Seuior Guard Samuel Forsyth, who was well known in Ashburton, met his death. The particu lars are aa follows :—

A painful sensation was caused on the arrival of the 9.45 train from Lyttelton last night, by the report that Mr Samuel Foreyth, the seoior guard, had fallen from one of the carriages while the train was passing through the tunnel. It appears that Mr Forsyth and his assistant, Guard Cook^on, had taken the express through at 9.14 p.m to Lyttekon, and were together when lo left the port on the return trip. Cookson missed his companion at Heath cote "Valley, and becoming alarmed, wenb through the different carriages to look for him. The tickets had been collected as far as one of the bird cage cars, nexb to the dining c*r, bat there was no trace of Forayth to be seen. Several of the pas sengers stated tha 1) they had heard a bomplng sound, and fears were entertained thab the guard had fallen from the train.

Guard Oookson immediately reported the matter to the signal box at Heathoote Valley, and the casual ward ad Lybtelton was telephoned to. Soma platelayers were sent back along the line on a trolly bo search for Forsyth, who was found lying across the line in the tunnel, half a mile from the Obristshurch end. His left leg and right arm had been badly crushed, his right knee was gashed, and there was also a cut upon the head. He was quite unconscious but still living. Foreyth was taken to the casual ward at Lyttelton, and attended bo by Drs Upham and Pairman.

The train came on to Christohnrch (where It arrived ten minutes late) by Guard Oookaon. By the time the 10.15 train from Port arrived in Chrlstchuroh a number of people had gathered on the platform, anxious to laam particulars of the aooident. Little could be known, however, except that the unforbunata man's condition waa feared to be hopeless. Mr Forsyth's wife went down to Ly ttelfeon by the last train last night. Her husband died half an hour after midnight, without having recovered consciousness. The platforms bebween the carriages were down throughout the train, and it is difficult to see precisely how the deceased could have fallon. Taking the tickets in the tunnel is a common practice, and is stated to entail no greater risk than usual, especially at night. Guard Cookaon siitea that the accident is a mystery to him, unless for the supposition that Forsyth may have been seized with a fit of eorae kind, but ib was observed that) when he left Christchnrch station at 9.15, he was in almost unusually high spirits. The deceased waa a well known guard on the North Canterbury lines, having been about twenty one years in the service. During much of time he was stationed at Ghristchurch^ where lie was exceedingly nopq|ar. HJs home wag !n Stirling street, Sydenham. He was a prominent Mason. Deceased leaves a widow, but no family.

SOUTH AFRICA.

THE TWEBOSCH DISASTER.

FURTHER DETAILS.

united Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, March 18 The Standard, describing Lord Methuen's capture, states that the Boers formed five tines and galloped straight at the rearguard. They were first sighted four miles away. The Imperial Yeomanry and Ashburnam'a Horse opened fire »t fourteen handred yards. The Boers replied heavily while charging with splendid courage. Their wings tried to enoircla the rearguard. The Diamond Fields Horse and Scoots helped to check the charge until the Boere, heedless of a hot fire, made a desperate rash, fairly stampeding the mounted men, who flod in a blind panic. The unprotected artillery fired coolly and steadily until all had boon shot. Meanwhile the infantry and a section of the Fourth Battery kept the Boers attacking on the right flank at a distance of six hand red yards, The Boers finally dismounted and lay down. Lord Methnen, filling to collect the mounted men, galloped back to the guns, en* coaraging the gunners with voice and gesture. Be was a conspicuous target for the concentrated Boer fire. His horse was hit in three places. One by one the gunners foil until when Com mandant Oelliers shelled the kraal sur render was inevitable. The troopship Manchester Merchant has arrived at Darban with detachments of the Commonwealth Gontiogsnt « board.

Within a month ten thousand troops will leare England for South Africa. A meeting of three thousand Irish men, at Glasgow, responding to Mr John Dillon's request, gave ringing cheers for Oe la Rey.

Wellington, March 18

Major Pitcher telegraphs from Cape Town rbab Privates Armstrong, Cunningham, Frassr, and Heley, who are in hospital, are doing well.

Auckland, Marah 18

Mr Barton has telegraphed Mr Seddon :— —" Noticed New Zealand seeding another Contingent. Commonwealth ever ready to send further assistance,'

The Premier says the North Island oatnp of the Ninth Contingent is the beso and the hones the finest; he has seen;

Army Contracts.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, March 13 Id the House of Commons Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman, in moving for the appointment of a Committee of Inquiry to deal with the army meat contracts, stated that daring the war, out of £130.500,000 expended on trans port;, remounts, provisions, and clothing; £120,000,000 passed through the hands of middlemen contractors, including £12,000,000 on remounts. Certain vested interests backed by powerful financiers had apparently quartered themselves upon the War Office. Houlder Bros seemed to monopolise certain classes of transport, Enlight enment was needed respecting the meat contracts, as to whether there was collusion between two competitors. Mr Labouchere accused the Govern* ment of paying ' rubbishy 1 prices for Queensland horses, and receiving rub bishy animals. He strongly attacked the Houidera, and described Bergl as a mere dummy, Mr Brodrick said he was quite pre pared for an enquiry, at an opportune time, At present it would be detri mental to the public interests to ham per tho conduct of the war. Neither the Government nor the War Office had done anything they need be as hamed of. Though he admitted there had been some mistakes, it was unwise to believe newspaper gossip, and the cock and bull stories of disappointed contractors. He accused Sir Henry Oarapbeli-Bannerman of leaving the supply of artillery co inadequate that if Britain bad gone to war in 1895, she would have been obliged to clear oat of South Africa after three months. The debate was adjourned.

St Patrick's Day.

United Press Association-—By Eleobilo Telegraph—Copyright Sydney, March 18

At the St Patrick's banquet Arch bishop Kelly, in pleading the cause of Ireland, said that they might hope that they might have an Irish Administra tion sitting in Dublin Oastle and Irish members in the British Cabinet, each •s John Dillon, John Redmond, and men of that kind. They invited the King to bring peace and prosperity to ill governed Ireland. The speaker con cluded : "Let them not keep Ireland in s second rate poeition, as the footstool of Britain, and then the clouds of mis* understanding would disappear, and Ireland would willingly forget the past." St Batri k"s Day celebrations took place in the various States, in come of which March 17th ie annually observed as a public holiday,

Mr Cecil Rhodes.

United Press Association—By Klootdo [Telegraph—Copy eight 1 LQNROir, March IS: Cecil Rhodes 19 cheerful and. calm, thongh enable to lie down, He de sires to return to England, and hie passage has been booked, bet the doctors consider him too weak to travel.

Sporting.

CA^TE^BURy JOOKBY CLUB'S AUTDjMNV MEETING.

The following acceptances have been re oeived :—• Gkkat Easibb Handicap, of 100Q r seven furloDge,

•t 1b Cruciform .... 9 9, Sb Michael ... 9 & Oaunie Qbisl 9 3 Canteen .„ 8 4 Tsaritza .„ 8 3 Wesbguard .„ 8 0 Lady LiSllan 713

) sfc Ib | Gora Lii»a „ 713 I Goldeomare... 7 11 [ Bed G&unfclet 7 9 ! Terrapin .., 7 6 Glenalatkle « 6 1Q Calibre ... % Pallaii .-' 6 7;

Griat AcsuM>f Hasdmap, of 500 lova ;, *>ne mils'and a half

8t lb Dundaa ..9 1 Gannie Chid 8 6, Falmeu £( 2 Cftntepa « s 715 Jiady UWha ' "? H Skobeloff .„ 7 fi

st-lbj Cameo  % °'| Qlenalaiale .. 7 0, Oora Una .. 7 0 'Djia D|in  6 13 Terrapin «, 611 Calibre ..6 7

The Small Birds Pest.

CONFERENCE OF LOCAL* BODIES.

The special meeting of the Aahbnrton County Council to meet delegates from Road Boards to consider the steps shou'd be takes to check the email birds nuisance was bold 6a Tuesday afternoon. There was only a small attendance, Mr C J Harper, Chairman of the County Council, presiding. Ttie following Boards were represented—-Mount Seiners, Ooldatream, &n»ma, Loigbeach and Upper Ashburtcn Road Boards, and Tinwald and Hampßtaad Tawn Boards. Several member* of the Oouaty Oounoll were present, Mr A H Bhury, Secretary of the Acclimatisation Society, also at)' ended the meeting. The Chairman regretted the small attend anoe, hat hoped they would be able t» ooma to coma decision in the way of coping with the nuisance. The County Council had don* ail it could in the way of paying for eggi and heads, it was very txmoh regretted that farmers did not take advantage of th« poisoned grain supplied by the Gounod, They were aware that the Counoil bad assisted Road Boards to purchase eggsi He thought they would have to adopii a different system altogether. There was no doubt thab boys 'farmed' the birds. The farmers would have to take more trouble in laying poisoned grain or else the Council weuld have to take !<■• into their own hands and lay it tbermelve*. If they had not the best reoipe for poisoned grain they ehonld communicate with tbt sister colonies or the Kew Gardens la London, He thought they should discontinue buying egts at present and pay more for heals. He thoughb grain poisoned with phosphorus was the most effective. Tits birds were very cunning in sheliiDg the grain, as they knew, and perhaps they should try shelled cats. Ha used to spread poisoned jjraln en his property with the best results. He asked for opinions from thoee present, Mr G W Leadley (Wakanoi Road Board) thought the mischief was chiefly done Id the towns, where the birds hatched their young. QJhe Chairman said the Borough Council gave £20 a yaar for the purpoie of suppressing the pest.

Mr Hugo FriedlacJer (Ashburbon County Council) thought the question a very 'wide one. He had heard turprist expressed at the quantities of caterpillar! found in paddocks. If the small birds went exterminated would nob this evil Inoreaie S Be moved as follows in order to tosh tfait question—• Will the taking of more effective steps than previously to destroy small birds not increase the evil from caterpillars!' Mr John Lambit (Ashbucton Coanty Ootinoi ) seconded the motion pro forma for the sake of having it discussed. A great) number of farmers in the Lceetoo distrlofc had Buffered severely from the aatorpllUrs, and the small birds had nob destroyed them. He thought) the motion was a contradictory one. He doubted very muoh whether the small birds kept: down the insects as much at experts said. His opinion was thas they should continue the steps they were at! present taking, and make the laying of poison compulsory He thought the legislature should be approached on the matter. He felt sore that if it was made compulsory, the effeot would be different, All that they could do that day would be to pass a resolution that the- laying of poison should be made compulsory. Mr J O N Grigg, Lcngbeaoh Road Board, ■aid that stariiugs had cleared a paddook on ; his property of oaterpilkrs. The linnet and sparrow were the wore!) peettl Mr G W Andrews, Humpsfcead Town Board, was not an expert on the matter. Mr Rolleston, one of tan best informed men on the cuhjaot its New Zealand, said It wa« no u«e to destroy the birds ; they would work their own oure. Hi had heard a man «ay thab the birds were not killed by the grain. There was some truth in the assertion that} the boys did some farming, but thab did nob aocouob for the evil. The Borough had without doubb bred a great many birds, bus they contributed £20 per atmum to the extermination of the pett, But if the farmers, who were interested in tha subject did noft do their duty, how oouid they expect the th* Borough to kill the birds.

Mr Herring, Mount Somera Boad Board, said in England it wan very eaay to keep the amall birds in control, A great) deal of good was done by shooting them, Mr S 8 Chapman corroborated Mr Herring*! remark?:

Mr Friedlander asked If they Would destroy the linnets and sparrows without destroying the larks; Having had the opinion of gentlemen present who had bad Mcp.rience of the subjaot, he would ask leave to withdraw his motion*—Granted.

Mr Doherty, Tiawald Town Board, moved that after April let, the Board diecontinalte the purchase of young birds and eggs, and purchase instead the parent birds at a price of 8a pi r 100» If they had made the pries high enough, people wou'.d make a livelihood by bird Hatching, and would soon deviie * mean* of destroying them,

Mr Grigg had much pleasure in seoonding Mr Diherty's motion. In England there was plenty of room for profesaianal bird catcher*. The Chairman then read a> letter send to the Mount Hutt Road Board by Mr J H Allngton, on the subject of professional bird catchers. He (the Chairman), approved of Mr Doherty's motion, bat thought the prfos exoea-ivr.

Mr Dohorty said he had! eensideted eb« cost very carefully, and thougM they conld stand the expense. Hia aim w»» to enoour age a soheme for killing the birds. If it was a large coat they would havn good value. Mr Laadley supported the motion. They had already held two oonfereneei on the same subject. They bad asked for legist* tioa on the subject, and they had got it, bat it had been very little use. He did not think the Government would do any more. They had the remedy iv their own bands. Tb» true solution of the difficulty was to destroy the old bird*. The Wakatrai Road Board had spent in the laet 14 years the sum ef £1400 on eggs and heads. As a farmer, be had suffered from the pest more fchia year than on any other occasion, He suggested that the Oounty Council should supply the grain at cost prioe, A SeJwyn farmer had told him that he had killed 100 birds in two shotß» At that rate a man could make wry good wages at a less prioe than that proposed by Mr Doherfcy, The Oounty Oounoil ought to be askod to levy a special rate t» make the. step eSeetive, Mr Studholme, (Coldatream Road Board), thoughb Mr Doherty'a motioa a move in th« right direction, and ha would like so see ft> carried, eliminating the reference to egg* and heads, They wanted the beet poison* He thought Sir James Hector's opinion would be of valufl. Rabbit; jpotson he thought would be very effective. They should try several kinds ot poWo at different times of the yean He koped they would not dis continue the purchase of eggs and heads until they nee how Mr Doherty'a Idea would turn out. He thought that farmers should have poison free, and be encouraged in every i possible way to keep down the pest, H« hoped that if Mr Doherty'a motion w*» carried, they would continue their praMafe measures.

Mr Gdftq thought that; they ahoald m«fcft the price for birds a fair one, aad so geft men to start the buriness* He moved aa an amendment to Mr Doherty'a motion ••Thafc a sum of money be set; aside for the purohas» of the heads of. sparrows, linnets, and larks, at the rate of 83 per hundred, and thai the various Road Boards be asked to co-operate with the Council."

Mr Friedlander thonghb Mr Grlggi r» views would be meb by }*Aviog out bbc lt*tr part of Mr Dohercy'a iwotlen. It) waa all a> matter of finance*

Mr Shurv exhibited a net, find explained its use. (Che Ohairman said bhab on behalf of his Oounoi^ he bhoajjht he oould promise tbab a good sum would be granted for the purpoiM of the motion.

Mr Doherty thought th« taimen ebonld have the gfain free.

Mr Chapman saM tfeab poison was the best thing if U «^a used with jttdgßsent, He would E^jvgMJcb bhs motion.

The motion >;was amended as follow* i— That the Ootmoi! instead of purchasing holds aad eggs, purchase the heads of a parr owe, larks, and lirnwts at) per hundred, and fch*t the Qiiviaci,! supply poisoned grain free. Mi| Herring said tb&6 grain poisoned with 1 •bryohij&je w.»b too bitter. la hit opinion the phosphortsed grain was the grain /«»»' exfdknc^ fl» advooated the Council tup* piyiog grain free. The resolution waa tsheo pat and' owriecf unanimously, GL'he Conference then fwmln&ted.

IHB ASHBUKTON GUAKDIAN: WEDNESDAY, MAKOH 19, 1902



~~ FOB SALE, ALLENTON A COMFORTABLE HOUSE together with one aor« of Und, Further oonveaienoes comprise Waßhhoneo and oopper, Stable acd Traphous) and Fowl run. j This la a very desirable libtle property and tho owner has given in<j instructioae to s 8 -at » npeedy sale. Further particulars on »pDMn»tion to F FKRRIMaN. Lfind and KsU'e AetM^t Havelook Street, Ashhniftm FOE SALE Farm of 121 Aorea situated et F eiuicgton I HAVE received inebrnotinng to sell a very ooavenienb farm titaikted as above, With all the umal farm improvements. This property en account of the owner havinc purohnspd a larger firm in for imme diste sale and ooonpation, and is admirably adapted for a dairy farm. Further particulfir" on implication to F. FJSRIUMAN, Land and Estate Agent. Havelock Street, FOR SALE Clarke Street) and Allen's Road, Allcntoni I AM instruct to sell that very desir- i able residence containing 6 rooms, p*n!ry and porch, togather with one acre and ten perches of land sitnatcd as above. The property ia for immediate sale, and ab the price asked should commaud a ready sale. Full particulars may be had on appli cation to F FERRIMAN, Land and Bstato Agenb Havalook Htrceti. FUR SALF, A FARM of 150 Acres of Plains Laud. Apply F FERRIM-N Land and Estate Agent FOR SALE I HAVE received ioatructioDs from Mrs Bisrdley, Senr. ro sell her property fronting on tho East Bels and Eton Street, oompria-ni oaa acre and forty perches of land, upon which is erected dwelling home oontfuinlng Dining room 18 x 16, Sitting Room, 4 Bedrooms, Bathroom, Kitchen and Scullery ; two stalled Stable aud Fowlhooer. fjh® property ii well supplied wi* water from a windmill and tank. Part of the land i« l»id oab ia garden and orchard. Fall parbSoalars on application to F FERRTMAN Land and Estate Agent, Havelock Street BUSINESS NOTICES PTIHE LAST DAYS OF SALE OS 1 GIBBARD*S STOCK GJBBARD'S STOCK GIBBAKI/3 STOCK BARGAINS BARGAINS BARGAIN-* GenV's Nfttcrßl Pants, sale pricp Is 6' (*^«nr'» MM-ir.o h^lf H<;Bt>,  .. 6' Ornt'n .*r.ft F*!t H*t« n m **■ Hd Onm.'e Tweed Suiv* .. .» 22t? Lurtles'F.'KV Dyed Rose   10|d Lirließ'Lisle &C!oUf-n<.loves •• 6il Lartirp Of.hrenltableCorfflis  n 2s 6>i Ludhs'Summer dujfli-ta  n 95 [[OK HEBE LOOK HERE Hum SMtchrd lUnrlkerchiofs Ib 94 half dczon White Caiion for lininc 2s 91 d< Ken Florfel Art M« lHn 2s lid ri«r,en Paper Collars Sd box. Bib id, DBKSS GOODS DUKSS GOODS DRKSS GOODS L"P" 'Han Ohrin'ohntch P.ioeu. Floral B'aok Silk finish Ludtois 7a 6d Dresa ALL X EDUCED. LmoH-unic, Fl; oroloihs, ("urtnins, HlioeV, ing, Towete, 'loilnb Covers, Quilte, Cfcuniter panes Good Wftshing Printa 3a 9tldizm. B'iogyoar ready Money and gob good Gcradfiia Eschacge THE POLYTECHNIC. Late QIBBAED 8, Tacored Street. HATJJTyou" TKIED OUJR *3 lON SUITS. Only this year'e Tweeds Bold. We fcarleßsly asserf) this is Bterllag value, MoOONALD &z CO., Tailoes LAWJB'3 SHEEP DIP. THE BEST AHDTHK CHEAPEST. fTHHE Asbburton and TinwaldYardß ore X ""w ln opeffttion undf-r the expeitenoed managemenb of Mr D, McQueen. Terms Cash LAWES POWDER DIP. I LAWE'S FLUID DIP. O,\ Bale at (he Stores, Seundera' BuildJDgß, | At lowest rfttes, j W. W. WHITE, Attorney for i 20? EDWARD SAUNDBRS. AMONG those |who make Cycling a Pleasure there should tie no two opinions regarding the free wheelt Ib hm added a new oharm to the pastime generally, and baa been of ineetimable advaatsga to lady *yelia&si Tits Swim Cyolh Co* were the firasfc to apply the principle to cycke, eotr.e twenty yeere ago. Samples may be seen at THE EOLTPSE OYCLJ^ 00,, j TANORKD BTREBT ! fflOTOe-RAPHY. HAUM si~~BTUDIOS, ! SAUHJOKRS' BUILDINGS, W1S«« doing TWELVE ENAMELLED 'CABINET PHOTOS asd EN LARGEMEKT, size 12 x 10, mounted «« v fceautifu! tiotod |>lute*uuk mount for »ss. SEE SPECIMENS, »s tliia w only for a Limited Time. COME KARLY.



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Fbbb W&EEI43—The Rudge-SjT'hltwortb. Irea wheel cjiutgh has proved itspif from expecieose of the p»o6 eeaaan to bo far the most re'hbia of »U tk& rjiodeia pa thp markeii The driviuf? se effected thpo^gb % series of rocking pawls set in tbs body of bbc hub. Neither spring nor rollers ara em» ployed, the result being a device of extreme simplicity and unFailing effioienoy.—R D Joh«kxoi», BurfieW Street, agent,



affective and »Pfe unpleasant; children thrive after lakiug them prtee, J» fciaoka New Vena*



SUFFERED AGONY, That's the trial of the dyspeptic and the man «with a liver,' bub Irapey's May Apple pqts a stop to that. Here la the evidence of what this ideal medicine has done for Mrs G Lewin, of King Street, North Danedin. She says :—" I write to tell you how grateful I feel for the good which Impey'a May Apple has done for me. For yeara I suffered agony from a deranged liver. I could not) take any interest in anything, and all food seemed to disagree with mo. I tried all kinds o{ medicines and remedies with poor results, After pereef eHng with a course of Impey's May Apple, during which I took three bottles, I feel completely restored to good health, I cannot too strongly recommend your medicine to others.' Sold bj; all chemists' and storq^eep^ atl|a 6d per bottle. : ' '" „" ' ¥q$ caa depend on ridding your Ohfl^eu of Worms with "Wftde'a Www fi^ WQRdeyfaJ woem worriers „ price U



Smoke New Venus



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