Mining

Dunedin, Dec. 19 Eetnrns—Matau 350z, Lower Enfield 9oz 6dwt 7gr., Enterprise 2fioz lldwt, Point dOr 240z, Globe 220z, Charlton Creek 20oz, Inch Valley ISoz 3dwt, Waimumu 16oz 7dwt, Central Charlton 15oz lldwt, Charl ton Valloy 150/. lOdwt, Waimumu Extended I4oz 12dwt, Inohdnle 14oz Bdwt, Waimumu Central 13oz odwt, Lady Charlton lOoz 2dwt, Teviot 7dwt, Mataura 6oz 4dwt 12<n\

Commercial.

London Markets

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph. Christciiurch, Dec. 19 Messrs Dalgety and Co., Ltd., have re ceived the following cable, dated London, December 18: —"Frozen beef prices are unchanged. The market for frozen mutton and lamb is nominally firmer, but there is not much business doing."

Methven Sale.

There was a very small entry of sheep at the Methven yards on Thursday, only two pens being submitted. Messrs Friedlander Bros., sold a line of 2SO ewes and lambs at 12s. The cattle pens were well filled, and sold at full market values, and two fat cows sold on account of Jos. Batty, Esq., realised £13 and £10 each.

Clearing Sale at Methven.

Messrs Friedlander Bros., Ltd., report that they held a very successful clearing sale at the Methven Yards on Thursday. There was a large attendance of farmers and others from the surrounding districts, and the sale throughout was brisk. The The following are the prices : — Imple ments—D.F. ploughs £5, £2 j harrows, £2 ss; tip drays, £7, £5, £4 10s; farm diayß, £8, £6 10s; Massey-Harris reaper and bin der, £10. ■ Horses —These were a god useful lot, and every lot submitted elicited keen competition. Tli3 sold as under : Bay geld ing, 7yrs, £30 ; bay mare, Queen, 4yrs, £45 ; bay mare, Bloss, £39; bay mare, Bonnie, £23; bay mare, Jess, .£33 10s; bay mare, Kate, with foal at foot, £40; bay mare, Darling, with foal, £34; bay harness mare £28.

Ashburton Grain Market.

The Ashburton Agency of the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association of Canterbury, Ltd., quotes as follows on Dec. 18th, 1902: Wheat— Tuscan \ Pearl V 4s 9d to 5s Hunters J Oats—Duns 2s6dto2s9d „ Danish ... 2s(3dto 2s 9d „ Sparrowbills ... 2s fid. to 2s 9d „ Canadians ... 2s 9d to 3s Barley—Malting, prime 3s 3d Inferior ... 2s 9d to 3s Peas—Prussian Blue ... 5s „ Partridge ... 3s 6d Chaff Good oatsheaf ... £<l 10s to .£4l2s 6d Grass seed -Farmers' ... 2s 9d to 3s 3d The above are prices current paid to farmers on trucks at Ashburton.

The following is the grain report for the week ending December 19th, 19J2 ; — Wheat. —Tho market has been steadier through the week and for any little lots hold farmers ask 5s on trucks, but sales are not readily made at this figure. One good line of Hunters' has been sold on trucks at li:ikaia, but boyond that, few, it' any, direct sales have taken pace. Quotations remain nominally 4s 9d to 5s for milling wheat, 4s j whole fowl wheat, 3s to 3s 6d seconds. Oats.—Veiy few offering, and but little enquiry, holders are now asking as high as as, but buyers are notinclned to give these rates. Quotations are—Milling 23 LOd to Us, Duns and Danish 2s 8d to 2s lOd. Oatsheaf Chakf.—Demand is falling off, owing no doubt to abundance of feed. A small quantity continues to go south, the present rate being £4 10s to £4 12s 6d on trucks.

Timaru Grain Market.

! (From our own correspondent.) I Timaru, Dec. 19 .The market for both wheat and oats is very firm at last week's prices, at which .small lines aro moving off. Fowl wheat and feed barley also sell well, but there is uo alteration in the quotations, which are prime milling wheat ss, bright oats 2s Od to 2s7jd, damaged 2s 2d to 23 4d, feed barley 3s 3d, f.o.b.

Christchurch Grain Market.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) Cheistcburch, Dec. 19 The local wheat market is still in an ex-cited condition and holders of the few stocks left are exceedingly firm in their demands, in most cases declining to sell at under 5s 6d per bushel. At these prices the local millers will not purchase, more especially as most of them have stocks of wheat and flour to last, until the end of January. The southern millers, however, are very short of wheat and are ready buyers in this market. No oats are offer ings The following are local quotations :— Wheat, prime milling Tuscan, 5s to 5s 3d; Pearl 5s 2d to 5s 4d, Hunters 5s fco 5s 3d. whole fowl feed, 5s 2d at country stations Barley, malting (nominal) feed 43 to -JUs Gd, Oats, milling Canadians 2s 9d to 3s, feed 2s 6dto 2s 7d, at country stations.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1902. SCHOOL PRIZES.

Wk have more than once in these columns discussed the question of giving book prizes jto school children aa rewards for successful work; and we hav.e gooi gr^u&ds for be lieving that a majority qi those who are mterosfcpd in the education of the young stgreo with us, that this system is not in keeping: with this spirit of the age, \^ehaye pointed out that to accustom boys and girls to consider that the faithful discharge of duty entitles them to material reward, is calculated to greatly mislead them, inas much as they will find out in after life that ,£o.ing one's duty does not always result in pei'soaaj. advantage. Moreover, the value of such work i$ greatly discounted when it is done in the hope" of raw^d. We do not wish to imply that every school hoy s*ho has received a book prize fchjs week, worked well all the year in the hope of getting- a valuable prize; but it is possible that some of the more sordid amongst them have succeeded in securing prizes, which would ijiava fall.es to their less mercenary class mates if ho such inducement had been offered. It may l>B urge 4 that if the book prize serves as an incentive £n this way it does what is wanted, since it acts as the spur does on the speedy, but lazy horse, But we belief that more willing effort and more honest results could be secured if the commercial element could be eliminated from the method of recog nising what our teachers designate ' good honest work.' We are inclined to think that the School Committees, which still adhere to fcho old fashioned system of < giving book prizes, airfi seriously handicap ping the children attending iha (schools 1 under their charge, by depriving theift i,l I opportunities of acquiring knowledge that; other children possess. For example, it | cannot be denied that the school boys and ! girls who are given every year a trip to a sen; ---i port town or into the country, must obtain broader views and a better knowledge of people and places than those who merely I receive prize books at the end of the school , year. But apart from the obvious advan tages which an annual excursion offers to the rising generation, as compared with school prizes, we have always advocated the adoption of the method in vogue in most secondary schools and colleges, where merit is by the presentation of

certificates. We are pleased to see that the Hainpsfcead School still adheres to this system, adopted a year or so ago, and which j8 carried out in connection with an annual excursion. The money expended by some School Committees in purchasing badly bound books, would go a long way towards providing for an opting every year free to all the children attending their school,*, and if two or more were to combine for the purpose, the financial question would pre sent no difficulty.

RAILAGE RATES.

We have often commented on the incon gruity of some of the freight charges on the New Zealand railways, an incongmity which very seriously handicaps business in this town. We notice that Sir George Clifford, the chairman of the Canterbury Frozen Meat Company, in his address to the shareholders at the annual meeting the other (.lay, pointed out some further re markable inconsistencies iv our railway tariff. He .showed that although the Can terbury Frozen Meat Co. and the Christ church Meat Co. between them paid an nually to the Railway Department no less a sum than £43,502 13s 2d, for freight of meat, etc., the railage rates are nearly five times as much as thoy are in New South Wales, and four timts as much as they are in Victoria. That is to say, that what can be carried in Victoria for 15 miles for Is 9d, and in N rew South Wales for Is 4|d, costs 7s 6d ia New Zealand for the same distance. ' Sir George Clifford read a table compiled from the last Now Zealand rail way statement dealing with a number of articles, and according to this the difference in the tariff in Now Zealand and Australia would—as he remarked—be almost incred ible, if they could not be verified from the official tables. It seems that there i 3 not such a marked difference in the scale of rates for many articles not used by freezing companies, and Sir George' Clifford con siders that this policy is " practically feeding our Australian competitors in this trade, through this special form of taxation upon our branch of it." Continuing, Sir George said that " other curious anoma lies might be found to deserve similar at tention, as, for instance, the rate for frozen meat from Timaru to Lyttelton, which is 19s per ton, aud from Fairfield to Lyttel ton is 18s 8d per ton, although the latter is only n little over half the distance. But ter, Fairfield to Lyttelton, 14s 6d per ton ; tallow, Fairfield to Lyttelton, 24s lOd per ton ; butter being a more valuable product, requiring greater care and expense in haudliag and carriage." The railway freight tariff could be made much more satisfactory, if it was subjected to a careful review, in order to remove some of the anomalies which have been so frequently pointed out.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

I Reading matter will be found on the first and fourth page 3 to-day. Hampstbad Town Board.—Messrs T. Crooks and C. J. A. Lawrence have been nominated to fi:l the vacancy on the Hainp stead Town Board, caused by the resignation of Mr Thomas. A poll will be taken at Hampstead on January 2nd, 1903, for the election of one of the"se candidates. A Story of Satjdow.—Mr Sandow, like all truly great men, does not neglect the little courtesies of life. While in Mel bourne he received a letter from a Christ church boy, a little fellow scarcely in his teens, who begged him to be sure to in include New Zealaud in his tour, and, if possible, to repeat here tho lion act; he wai alleged to have performed in San Francisco. Mr Sandow at onco sent a reply saying that he hoped 11 see his correspondent in Christ church, but that he did not expect to meet any lions in this part of the world. The possessor of the letter is now a veritable hero amoug his playmates. Mayfield.—Our Maylield correspondent writes:—The weather during' the past week has been broken and stormy, heavy rain failing. A fall of snow on Anniversary morning surprised everybody. Oa Wed nesday a very heavy hailstorm visite 1 us, doing much heavier at Mayfield. At Eua puua and Hekeao the stones were very big, and ruined gardens, cutting apples and gooseberries off the tree 3, and potatoes and o i bbagos were broken and flattered to the ground, the hailstone? being as big as pigeon's eggs. Rape and turnip crops also suffered.-Greit sympathy is felt here for .Mr and Mrs Nell, of Staveley, for the sad loss they have experienced in the death of their son. The Liquor Traffic —A fully represen tative' meeting of licensed traders (whole sale and retail) was held in Christ-church yesterday afternoon, there being sixty hotelkeepers of city and suburbs present. A long discussion took place on the charges levelled in the Press and otherwise against the conduct of the trade, and a resolution was carried to the effect tihat those present agreed to observe the law in its entirety, and formed themselves into a vigilance committee to report any breaches of the Licensing Acts. The members present fur ther signed an' agreement binding them selves to carry out the terms of the resolution, A representative committee whs appointed to draw up a report, and to suggest rnles for the government and guidance of the trade. Bright Hours' Children.—The Bright Hours' Childron, who are to appear here ', this evening in the Oddfellows' Hall, had j an immense audience at their performance ] in the Christchurch theatre on Thursday night. The "Lyttelton Times," referring to ! tho entertainment, says j —" That the people of Christchurch have an eternal warm cor-! ner in their hearts for the charming Bright ' Flours' Children could not be doubted by anyone who looked into the Theatre last' night during the progress of the entertain ment given by the Children's Convalescent Home. Tho house wae full, and the audi- ■ ence was appreciative, as well it might be, i for the young entertainers well deserved ! the applause that greeted every item on their programme. From the riso of the curtain until its fall, they kept the house delighted, and in the whole two and a half hours over which the entertainment was spread, there was not a dnll moment." I Acclimatisation. —During the last few , years Mr Shury, on behalf of the Ashburton Acclimatisation Society, and the North Can- : terbury Society, has liberated in the Rakaia i River 30,000 rainbow trout, in. the Aghbur ton 10,0.00 trput, and in the Rangitata 5,000. Including those tupned out by the North Canterbury Sqefety, 51,50.0 trou£ have b.een , liberated in the three jrivgrs during this season. It. is a matter of vegrpt that tho , South Canterbury Society will not assist in stocking the Rangitata. A good many fish of 21bs and upwards have been taken in the Ashburton River during the last two j seasons As the rainbow trout is a native of the rocky mountains, and are taken in mountain toprents close to the snow line,up ( to 10 and 121bs, they #ughfc to do well in our j snow rivers, In the North Island, they . have been taken (it is reported) up to 20lbs. ; One of 16Pb3 was exhibited at Tisdall's, Wellington. j

Weather Forecast. — Captain Edwin wires :—Strong easterly winds ; glass fall; indications of heavy rain after "JO hours. Mount Somebs Races.—The handicap for " Kitty " in the Springburn Welter was inadvertently omitted. Her weight is 9st 91b. b Tinwald Racing Club.—Ownera are reminded that nominations for all events at the Tinwald Racing Club's meeting on New Year's Day, close with the secretary, this evening, at 9.o'clock. To Touring Cyclists.—Before starting out for a long ride, we should recommend cyclists to visit Messrs Oates, Lowry & Co., and allow them to examine their machine, j which the firm do free of charge, irrespec tive of make. Fishing.—Last evening some very fine fish were taken at the mouth of the Ash burton Eiver. Mr G. Kidd got one of 141bs weighty and measuring 28 inches and 20 inches in girth, and it was on view in Mr Johu Orr's window to-day: Mr Cox secur ed one of 81bs, Mr Randall one of 8 Jibs, and Mr Curtis one of 61bs, and other gentle men secured good bags. Mr Shury informs us that the chimney of the cookhouse has been repaired so that in does nor smoke, and the pump has been repaired.

News in Brief.

Train arrangements for the holiday season will be found in our advertising columns. Genuine English Silver King lamps are being sold at ,14s 9d, at Messrs Oates, Lowry and Co., Burnett Street. ' The Dunedin bakers have decided to raise the price of bred to 7^d per 41b loaf. The Cromwell bakers have raised the prices of bread to lOd per 41b loaf. The Hokitika bakers have raised the price of the 41b loaf to Sd. The chairman of the Longbeach Road Board gives notice that Griffith's Eoad is closed for the present, pending repairs, [ The N.Z. Clothing Factory have a large assortment of goods suitable for useful, Christmas presents. The National Mortgage and Agency Com" pany will offer for sale at the Ashburton yards next Tuesday several lines of sheep a&d cattle. The private traders in various towns throughout England are endeavouring to organise a boycott against co-operative societies and their members.

Mr D. Thomas (in conjunction with Mr F. Ferriman) will ofter for sale by public auction, on Saturday, January 10th, 19)3, on account of Mr H. Alington, his property fronting the Domain. Messrs Strange & Co, Christehurch, issue a circular to-day in which they ir>vito the children to their grand toy bazaar and I fancy fair, which now attracts crowds of visitors daily. The annual picnic of the St Andrew's Sunday School, Tiuwald, will be held at the i Beach on Boxing Day. Messrs Wilson and Bennett's traction engines and waggons will convey tho party to and from the sea side, and given fine weather an enjoyable outing should be in store for those who attend.

Lawn Tennis.

CHRISTMAS TOURNAMENT.

The following are the entries and handi caps in connection with the Jawn tennis tournament!to be held in the Ashburton Domain on Thursday, Friday, and Satur day, December 25, 26, and 27th. Play will commence at 2 p.m. on Dec. 25th, and after wards on each day at 9 a.m.: — Men's Singles. Scratch oveat. Best of three advantage sets. —E, Salmond, E. J. Sinclair, W. H. Bickerton, P. H. Cox, C. H. Thompson, E. Pearse, T, Orr, E. F. Arm strong, C. F- Salmoud, T. Colthart, A". T. Spun, A. Borrows, J. S. Sinclair. Men's Double- (scratch event). Best of three sots, advantage games, not -ets. —A. T, Spain and C. S. Sutton, W. If. Bickerton and T. Colthart, P. H. Cox and C. F. Sal mond, 11. Pearse and T. Orr, E. Salmond and C. H. Thompson, A. Borrows and J. E. Sin clair. Ladies' Single. Scratch event. Best three sets, not advantage games or so^s.~ Miss W. Purnell, Miss Nicholson, Miss Whitehouse, Miss Alcorn, Mrs W. H. Bic kerton, Miss Orr. Men's Single (Handicap), First Grade. Best of seventeen games, not advantage garne3. —E. Pearce rec 15, W. E. Lyttelton scr, E. P. Hugonin scr, H. Curtis rec 2-6 15, D. Friedlander rec 15, A. W. King rec 4-615, S. Louquet scr, C. F. Salmond owe 15, J. E. Sinclair owe 30, E. F. Armstrong scr, T. Orr 2-6 15, A. T. Spain owe 15, P. H. j Gox owe 3-615, T. Colthart owe 3-6 15, 0. j H. Thompson scr, V. G. Booth rec 2-6 15, C. A. Sutton rec 4-6 15, L. Louquet rec 2-6 15, C. Weir rec 4-6 15, W. H. Bickerton owe 3-6 15, E. Salmond owe 15 3 ? 6, A. Bor rows owe 30. Men's Single (handicap) second grade. Best of seventeen games not advantage games,—W. V, Purchase owe 3-6 15, R. Shearman owe 3-<6 15, C. Alcorn owe 3-6 15, T. Begg owe 2-6 15, F. Cowper owe 15, W. H, Amos rec 15, W. Shearman rec 3-6 15, H. W. Bundle owe 15, S. Taylor owe 15 3-6, J. M. Dawson sor, James Pipe reo 15, J. E. Purchase owe 3-6 15, A. Hart owe 3-6 15, P. Gray owe 2-6 15, G. Friedlander owe 3-6 15, G. Fowke owe 3-6 15, D. Wood scr, 1.. Eoss rec 3-6 15, S. Dixon scr, P. White rec 15. Ladies' Single (handicap). Best of seventeen games, not "advantage games.— Mrs E, Nicolirec 15, Miss M. Lyttelton owe 15, Miss E. Coooh reo 3-6 15, Miss W, Pur nell owe 15, Miss Bates scr, Miss Colthart , owe 30 Miss Nicholson owe 15 4-6, Miss A\ corn owe 4-6 15, Mrs W, H. Bickerton owe 15 3-6, Mrs M. Friedlander owe 2-6 15, Miss Bell rec 15, Miss Armstrong owe 4-6 15, ; Miss E. Jackson owe. 15 4-6, <Miss Standish scratch, Miss Qj.lchrisfc owe '15 3 : 6,, M|s§ H, Friedlander rec 15, Miss jl'insmann scr! Miss A. Orr owe 30,, Miss Eoyse owe 15. ■ Men's Double (Handicap). Best of seventeen games, not advantage games.— W. Shearman and J. M. Dawson ree 15, H. W. Bundle and G. Friedlunder scr, J. E. Sinclair and A. Borrows owe 40, A. W. King and C. Weir owe 3-6 15, E. P. Hugonin and W. E. Lyttelton owe 15, E. Salmond and C. H. Thompson owe 30, W. Purchase g,ud G. Fbwke rec 3-6 15, H. Curtis and A. Hart scr, A. T. Spain and V. G. Booth' owe 15 3-6, P. Gray and T. Begg scp, T. Gr.r and E. Pe^rce owe 8-6, 15,, P. 11. Cqx and Bey. Whitehouse owe 3-6 \o t D. Friedlander and B, Shearman scr, C. A. Suttqn and E. ¥. Armstrong owe 4^6 15,, S. Louquet and S, Taylor owe 13, W, H. Biokertan and T. Colthart owe 15 3-6, L. Lou<]uefc and F. Cowper owe 3-6 15, D. Wood and Bos 3 reo 15. Ladies' Double (Handicap.) Best of seventeen games, not advantage gumes. — Miss Nicholson and Mrs Sickerton owe 15, Misses Armstrong and Gilchrist owe &Q 15, Miss Lyttelton and Mrs E. Niooll reo 3-6 15, Misses E. Cooch and Adrienne Orr rec 15, Miss W. Purnell and Mrs M. Friedlander scr, Misses Standish and M. Fullarton rec 15 2-6, Misses Shury and Alcorn rec 2-6 15, Misses W^iitehouse and Orr owe i 5, Misses Mackerras and Jackson owe 15. ' Combined Handicap. Best of seventeen gamps, not advantage games.—-E. F. Arm strong and Mies Armstrong owe 3-6 15, D. Wood and Miss Eoss rec 15, W. E. Lyfctol ton and Miss Lyttelton owe 4-6 15, E. Colthart and Miss M. Colthart' owe 4-6 15, H. Curtis and Miss Bell rec 4-6 15, A. T Spain and Miss Gilchrist owe 15 3-6, P. White? and Miss E. Copch re.c 15 2-6. A Borrows and Miss Ntci}ol§on owe 30, I), Friedlander and Miss W. Purnell sor, H: W. Bundle and Miss Jackson scr, W. H. Bieker ton and Mrs Bick«rton owe 4-6 1(5, T. Orr | and Mis£ Bates scr, P. H. Cox and Miss Whitehouse owe 15, E Salmond and Migs j Eoyse owe 15 3-6, E. Shearman and Mis? Fooks rec 4-6 15, C. Alcorn sind Miss Alcorn yes 2-6, 15 ? J E. Sinclair and Miss Orr owe HO, C. H. Thompson and Mis^ Mackerras owe 15, A. Hart and Mi§s Shury rec 4r6 15.

PRIZE DISTRIBUTIONS.

Hampstead

The Harnpstead School broke up yester day morning at 10 o'clock. The Key, G. B. In^Hs, chairman of the Committee, opened the proceedings, and announced that it had been intended to carry out a pro gramme, including musical and physicn.l drill, but owing to the lamented death of Mr Richard Nell, all this had been aban doned. He urged the pupils to keep up the good name of the school, and hoped they would all enjoy their holidays. The Key. E. Baine reminded the scholars that it was little things that went to make up character. • He hoped that none of them would be selfish, but that they would think of others, and take pleasure in making others happy. Mr G. W. Andrewes wished to impress tho children with the important effect of school work on their after lives. He re ferred to the difficulties of obtaining an ! education in the early days, and he thought the present generation should be very thankful for the advantages they possessed. In concluding he wished the children a happy and joyous holiday. The medals and badges received from the Eight Hon. the Premier were also distribu ted and much appreciated, as were also his I Christmas greetings. Each child in the Infant Department received a toy. The proceedings were closed by the intimation that the school would re-open on the first Monday in February. The following is the Headmaster's report and the certificate list :— BEPORT. Another year has passed with varying experiences. We have had our successes and our losses. "We have had our joys and our sorrows. At the beginning of the year we congratulated Master Alex. Mcßae on winning a Board of Education scholarship, and [ am pleased to find that at the High School he continues to show conspicuous ability. Our annual excursion to Timaru was the most successful we have ever had. Every child belonging to our school was carried free and had a most enjoyable out ing. lam glad that our Gommittee intend to continue these excursions, as they are of considerable educational advantage to the children. On Peace Day we were able to rejoice with the rest of the Empire that war was brought to a close. At our annual l inspector's examination the school we s very successful, and the Inspector's remarks were very complimentary. A number of our boys took advantage of the woodwork classes, and in common with the other boys attending, received great commendation from the instructor. Our boys exhibited at the A. and P. Association's Show, and con tributed to their share of the attractive display of the Ashburton Technical Classes. Our best thanks must be given to those who did so much to make this exhibition such a success. Daring the year thero have been many changes of statf. Miss Fawcett, Mr Colee, and myself being the only teachers now remaining who were in the school a year ago. Miss Williamson, who h:is been long connected with us, left us owing to a family b-reavement. She was n most capable, earnest, and conscientious teacher, whom we wen; very sorry to lose. Miss Sheard received promotion to theEiccarton School, and is getting on very successfully in her new sphere. On behalf of the staff and myself I have to thank the Committee for the great interest they have taken in the welfare of the school and for the many kindnesses which they had shown during the year. I also wish to thank the parents for the regular manner in which they have sent their children and the loyalty which they have ever shown to the school. It was the intention of the teachers and Com mittee to have had a very different cere mony on the occasion of our breaking up to-day, but owing to the sad death of Mr Nell we decided to abandon all our pro gramme except the merely formal part. Mr Nell came to us with the very highest re commendations and ho proved himself a youth of exceptional character and ability. He won the good opinion and love of all, bcth teachers and pupils We shall miss , his sunny face, bat will remember his manly ] conduct, his upright behaviour and utter want of selfish ties?. Although he has gone he has loft with us a noble example. His bereaved p irents have our deepest sympathy in their great trial, and wo trust the noble and unselfish life of their son will help to soften their affliction. And now children we cannot all be in the front rank of educational attainment, but we can all try to do good acfcions. Let us try to brighten the.lives of those around us. Every wood action has its own reward. This may°not bring you popular praise. But you will feel a better conscience. I now wish you all the very best things of the season and every success as good men and good women hereafter.

j CERTIFICATE LIST. Standard Vll.—General Proficiency— Mabel Buchanan (with special mention for arithmetic nnd reading); Elsie Hopkins (special mention fo,r grammar) ; Mary Watkms (special mention for reading and arithmetic).' Standard Vl.—Prpficießcy -Edward Eade (special mention for arithmetic, reading and spelling); Leslie Cooch (special men tion for composition, reading, and spelling • John Mcßae (special mention for arithmetic' reading, and spelling); Ruby Betts (special mention for composition, reading and spelling) ; Ernest Coldicott and Olive Kelly. Regular Attendance—Alice Thomas (never absent for seven years). Standard V.—Profioiency—Edna Bundy (spooial mention for composition, geography and reading); Flossie Fergan (special men tion, spelling); Ella Meaclem (special men tion, spelling); Louisa Porter (special mention, spelling) • William Eade (special mention, composition); William Betts and Willie Ih^oqd. Standard IV.—General Proficiency—Wil liam Daljey (special mention in composition and geography); Edgar Baxter (special mention for composition and geography) ; Tom Leslie (special mention for arithmetic and drawing) ; Gordon Mcßae (special men tion, geography); Ivan Hayman (special mention, geography); Ivy Digby (special mention for composition nnd drawing); Eliz. Kelly (special mention for composition and arithmetic); Alice Hurrell "(special mention for arithmetic and drawing); I Trixie Brock (special mention, composition); Attendance—Ernest Tilley, Daisy Thomns (never absent for six years). _ Standard lll.—General Proficiency—Wil liam Lennon (special mention for arith metic and geography); Robert McKenaie (special mention tor arithmetic and regular attendance) • Arthur Parker (special men tion, composition); Pat. Lennon (special mention, composition); Emily Inwood (special mention, geography and composi tion) ; Amy Hurrell special mention for arithmetic and drawing); Nellie Crawford (specialmention, geography). Attendance: William Armstrong and Robert MoKenzie. Standard ll.—General Profloiency—Kath leen Nealon (special mention for spelling ing and arithmetic) ; Agne3 Edwards (special mention for arithmetic spelling, and writing); John Booth (special mention, arithmetic); Mabel Hopkins (special men tion for arithmetic and spelling); Luoy MoKernan; Ruby Jamie?on (special men tion, spelling); Ivy Thomas (special men tion, writing); Ruby Crum (special mention, spelling); 4"lex. Bonn, Jack Ca vmerori. Standard'l.—General Proficiency—Violet Edwards, Wilfred Haar, and Reg. B'iising (each special mention for spelling) $ Nita Urquhart," Bernard MclTernan, Vyvyai^ Porter, Frances All wood p.d I^atie Ralley, Regular Attendance j Toni Armstrong^ ■' , Infants—Regular Attendance : Ben. Hay man and Alex. McKenzie. ' ' ' ' •= |

Fairton School.

Qn Tuesday lust the parents and resi dents qf to the mjmh.eE of Qboufc 50, gathered together in the school ground to provide sports and amusements for the children. Over .£l3 had besn collected bjfe, voluntary subscriptions, J|7 of which was spent in prizes, the rest in toys and refresh ments. The children were run off until pach had won two or more toys, After ajl (iho toys, wpra. djptributed, a petreab wag made to' the schoolroom, where each set ibout reducing the supply of refreshments, rhe prizes were then distributed by Mr R. Beck, Ohairaaau of the School Committee,

who, in a few suitable remarks, explained the progress the school had made since [the opening in July last, and the improve | menls that were still to be carried out, and also spoke in complimentary terms of the master, Mr Campbell. Each child was then presented with a prize, and special prizes were awarded to 15. Traill, A. Hooper, Mary Lysaght, and J. Bremner, for attendance; Katie Harold, good conduct; and May Anderson, composition. In the evening a free social was given in the school, and dancing interspersed with songs and recitations was kept up till mid night. Mr Wilkie supplied the music, while Mr Willis acted as M.C. Songs were given by Mrs Jarvis, and Messrs Beck, Jar vis, Dury, and others. As this is practi cally the first amusement of the kind held in the district, aud also b"eing a holiday at the Works, all seemed eager to make the day a success, which it certainly was.

Allenton Side School.

The annual prize distribution took place on Thursday morning. Owing to the in* clemency of the weather, only a small num ber of parents were present; but the chil dren turned out in full force, bringing quantities of beautiful ffowers, With which the schoolroom was decorated. Mr Craig. i head, Chairman of the Committee, addressed the children, urging them to be truthful, honest, and hard working. He then dis tributed the prizes. The following is the prize list:— Standard lll—Progress: Bessie Loy lj Charles White 2, Milly Smith 3. Brushwork and Drawing: (Mr H. M. Jones's prize) Willie Henderson. Standard ll—Progress: Charles Turner, (attendance) 1, Charle3 Hannigan 2, Roy Kersel 3, Dorothy White 4. Conduct and Attendance: Adam "Kersel, Drawing: Frank O'Connor. Brushwork : Alice Camp bell. Modelling: TudorTomlinson I,Eddie Jenkins 2. Sewing : Vera Fawcett 1, Win nie Clark 2, Jessie Phaup 3. Standard I—Progress : Maggie Hannigan 1, James Steele 2, Frances Turner 3, Francie Greenslade 4. Conduct: Joe Morcau, Myrtle Johns. Drawing and Brushwork: Mary Malcolmson. Brushwork : Hugh Knox. Modelling: Stanley Good. Sewings Grace Tayloi.

Infants.—Every child received a book. The Coronation souvenirs presented by the Premier were then given to the chil dren, giving great satisfaction, and the pro ceedings terminated.

Ashburton Cricket Club.

A committee meeting of the Ashburton Cricket Club was held at Claridge s rooms on Ihursday evening. Present:—Messrs C. J. Taylor (chairman), Percy Orr, W. Powel), L. h\ Andrews, and J. Jackson. CORRESPONDENCE Correspondence was then read and dealt with as under:— From the assistant secretary, Aehbur ton Sports Association, notifying that Un der Section 6 of memorandum of agreement between the Ashburton Sports Association and the Ashburton Domain Board, each affiliated club before erecting any manner of building or alteration or addition to any building now standing must be careful to submit plans thereof and obtain sanction from the Association "•—Keceived. From Hon Secretary " Sydenham Rivals " requesting fixture at Sydenham on New I Year's Day. Fixtu c granted, if a team could be raised. From Hon. Secretary Lin wood, Christ church, requesting a fixture on Christmas Day, at Ashburton. Fixture granted. CRICKET GEAR. Mr Percy Orr reported having bought two bats and a ball for .the club.—Mr Orr's action was approved of. This concluded the business.

The Local Option Elections

Per Press Association—By Ele-trio ' | Telegraph . , : Dctnedtn. Dec 19 . 1 The proceedings at the inquiries into the petitions a-jainst local option polls afc Cavereham, where Mr Carew presided; and at Fort Chalmers, where Mr C. C. Graham presided, and Bruce, where Mr G-. Cruick shank presided, were all . formal. The evidence of the Eeturning Officer was in. each case taken and proceedings then adjourned till next month.

CRICKET.

United Pre^s Association—fly Electric Telegraph—Copy right. London, December 18 I he Austra'ians share of the test matches is .£4258. Tbe grounds where they were played received .£503 each. The first class counties received £195 aed the second class counties £48 each.

LORD hawke's TEAM

m , , , , Auckland, Dec. 19 Ihe match between Lord Hawke'a team and an Auckland eleven commenced to-day The Englishmen won the toss, and elected to bat, on a splendid wicket. The weather was dull, and the light bad, and as the afternoon advanced a drizzling rain set in, which told against the bowlers. The visitors have lost seven wickets for 240. Fane, the Essex captain, put together the top score, 82, but gave one or two chances. Stemson took four wickets, all clean bowled, for 66 The fielding was good. The scores were : Warner 34, Burnup 43, Fane 82, Taylor 17 Dawson 34, Bosanguet 10, Stanning not out 10, Thompson 7. Johnston not out 4 extras 1. Auckland, Dec. 20 Ijord IJawke's team are all out for 321.

Ashburton Forks Mail Service.

The new contract for the conveyance of mails between Ashburton and the Ash burton Forks districts which commences on January Ist, 903, is altogether different from the existing contract. For many years the mails have left the Ashburton Post Office on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday s at 7 a.m., and. were due back again at 2 p.m. Under the new arrange-, ment the days: of delivery will be the same but the contractor will start at the Ash burton Forks end, and thp mails will close aa follows:—lnward—Ashburton Forks 8 a.m., Greensfapeet 9 a.ifl,, arrive Ashburton 10 a.m. Outward— ' Ashburton 3 p.m., Greenstreet 4 p.m., arrive Ashburton Forks 5 p.m. The change has, we understand, been made at the instance of the settlers in the district, and will come into force on January Ist, 1903. The term of the con tract is twelve months, and the new con tractor, Mr W. J. Campbell'of Ashburfcon Forks.

Agricultural Returns.

Wellington Dec. 18 - To-night's Gazette contains a return of acreage under corn crops, and the amount of grain on haijd. Tfye area qf wheat t'h,iß year for threshing is 194,274 acres, an in crease of 30,812 acres. The area of oacs for threshing is 481,401 acres, an increase of 75,537 acres. J^or chaffing, feeding, eto., there are 204,760 acres, an increase of 5252 acres. The barley for threshing is 27,9,0q acres, an increase of 1391 acres.' For feed ing down with sjjQck, 2105 acres, of 4311 acres. Bye for tforeshing, 17-29 acres, and increase of 189 acres. Maize for \ threshing, 12,029 acres, a decrease of 454 f aoees. Peas far threshing, 8600 acres, an increase of 13q3 acres. Beans for thresh ing, 3033 acres, a decrease of 471 aem*. Hops, 788 acres, a decrease of 56 acres." The quantity now on hand is 130,421103, a decrease oi 55,2771b5. As anticipated, cays the return, there ia a considerable shrink age of wheat on hand, the figures being— this year,.], 230.785 bushels; last year, 3.182,007 : bushels, a decrease of 1,951,222 bushels, In oats on hand a large decrease is also shown, namely, 1,715,423 bushels for 1902-3, against 2,771,286 bushels for the previous year, being a decrease of 1,055,85,7 bushels,

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN : SATURDAY, DECEMBEB 20, 1902.



F. FE BRIM AN. FARMERS I ■ fTIHE recent wefc weather will necessitate increased attention to your Sheop and Lambs. Do not neglect them by allowing them to suffer from Scour or Lung-Worm. Joseph Ford's Bcosir and Lttng-tform Mixture, Is fin acknowledged cure for both Scour and Lung worm and its use greatly im proves the tone and condition of Sheep and Lambs. The following are the opinions of two of our well-known breedtrs who uso FORD'S MIXTURE :— Baooleuch Station, Mount Somers, 14th Maroh, 1002. MR F. FKBBtATAN, A&hburton. Dear Sir,—'Eo 1 Joseph Ward's Scour and Lung-Worm Mixture.—For many years past I have heard good reports attending the use of the above drench, but until this season I have not had occasion to put it to , the practical test. Early in the season my lambs tfore scouring badly and in some cases before the usual outward appearances of Soour were apparent, some of the biggest and fa*test of them had died. I obtained sufficient Mixture from you to drench 3000 lambs, and from the results obtained, I consider that it is impossible for me to speak too highly of it. At a cost of about l^d per head to drench, it has been the means of saving many of my lambs which were worth 12s 6d each. lam so satisfied with my experiment, that I intend to use Joseph "Ford's Mixture as often as I may have occasion to deal with Scour or a thrift less oondition in my flock, and I can con fidently recommend any farmer whose Sheep or Lambs are suffering from either of the above causes to use Ford's Mixture. He will be well paid for his outlay. : Yours faithfully, • (Sgd) E. GATES. Ashburton, January 10th, 1902. j Mr F. Fkbrtman, Ashburton,— j Dear Sir,—Re Joseph Ford's Scour and Lung-Worm Mixture. — Last season I > drenchen 450 of my Stud Lambs with the ' above drench. They had commenced to scour suddenly, and I had already lost ten by death. I drenched the whole lot once and they commenced to improve right away. A week after drenching they were totally different sheep. The best proof that I can give of the drench is that I have this season drenched the whole of my-flock whether they showed signs of scour or not, as I consider it improves the tone and j vigour of the Sheep. I can confidently ! recommend anyone having culls or sheep that are not doing well to drench them with the above Mixture. Yours faithfully, j (Sgd) T. E. UPTON. I F. FEKRIMAN. Patentee and Proprietor. BUSINESS NOTICES. H GRESHAM, SURGEON AND MECHANICAL DENTIST. , By.Examination, October, 1897 TPMGffIT years experience with E. G. and JHj F. W. Gresham, Dentists, Dunedin and Invercargill. Has commenced practice in room!? »p3tairs from the entrance to Thorn-is' j Auction Rooms, Burnett Street. Stoppings in Gcldj Amalgam, and Cement, j Gold and Porcelain crowns made ; also sets of teeth with Vulcanite and Porcelain gums, Gas administered. All work guaranteed. Hours of Attendance — 9 a.m.—s p.m. Private Residence—Care Mas Gkant, Wills Street. ' Railway Refreshment Rooms. THE Booms having been thoroughly renovitted right throughout, I. am now in a position to cater for all. I have now on tap a special brewed New Zealand Ale, ual to Koglish ; made from pure English malt and hops. N.B. -As usual, the best brands of Wines i and Spirits kept. J. DINEEN, .LESSEE. Permanent Building and Invest ment Society. T OANS GEANTED FROM £25 and upwards at current rates. Full particulars on application. Office ■—Tancred Street. Office Hours — 9.30 a.m. till 4 p.m. First Tuesday in Month- 9.30 a.m. till 4 p.m ; and 7 till 9 p.m. ALBERT ROBERT S, Managor. Oh, Yes ! Oh, Yes ! ""VTOW is the time for Brass and Enam -131 elled PRESERVING PANS. SANDOWS DEVELOPERS and Dum bells (Sandow will be hero on 24th inst.) Good Cycle Covers at 12s 6d, fitted, guaran teed for 43 months. The Cheapest. Shop in Ashburton for Ironmongery and Cookinc Utensils.—G. MEDDINS, The Peoples Ironmonger. Helpless with a Rheumatism ■ You've tried liniments and prescriptions without result. Now . . . CUBE YOURSELF with THE GflfcAT ... ; CANADIAN ... SEAWEED CURE. ! A medicine and I Hot a liniment. I A Quick and Permanent Cure. SOLD BY ALL DEALERS At 3/6 tib. Bottle. Sole Agent for Australasia: GEO. W. WILTON, ■ Wellington. ■; XMAS EXTRAS-At the Ready Money Shop, Tancred Street, you can get best value for your money in Lace Curtains, Quilts, Table Covers, Art Muslins, Cre tonnes, Towels, Sheetings, and general drapery; smallest working expenses ; losses by book debts avoided; Stock clean, fresh, and up-to-date. Lowest Bedrock Spot Cash Prices. i "TWTEW Fruit just arrived—Extra Prime J3I New Currants bd lb ; New Sultanas 7dlb; New Valencia Kaisins 6d lb; New Seeded Rai.-ins lib packet (not 12oza3some stores sell) 7d; New Layer Figs 8d lb; New- Bags Vigs7dlb; lib boxes New Figs 7id per box, at Fletcher Bros', Cash Supply Stores,



BUSINESS NOTICES. COME AND SEE OUR CHRISTMAS PRESENTS IN ENDLESS VARIETY. Electroplate Goods of \cvy best quality and design. English Cutlery of every description. WATCHES, WATCHES. . CLOCKS, CLOCKS. Presents for Ladies. Presents for Gentlemen. ■ COME AND SEF. W. H. COLLINS & CO., *jKn Rudge-Whitworth Cycles. -^W' ''■■■■1^":- Everything worth having does, il^i^K^^^ffi-«'^*V; '* '"•■ "F! UT itSa wasteful savili S tbat won't I'lt^ftl' Tke^ | ■ '■:, Pa y the Pric« of a good Bicycle. Any ! ljjpj§|||| °F ™E ||i^^('^J dealer will tell you thaf. ' ILr^^^fclS^^^^^^^i DON'? BUY ANYTHtNG CHEAPER. H^B^i ■Y OU C antg e t An y th ing ßeUe, 1 Wi¥ * fe^l Llfe v to° valuable t0 experiment, III! RIIDGE " WHITWORTIf.-^O. V-!" 1'1'"! j^» t^l r' a^°BUG Posted Free on application. I>- JOHNSTON, AGENT, BURNETT STREET. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING • FACTORY. CHRISTMAS PRESENTS. SENSIBLE and Useful Presents to give to your friends. ■ A GENT'S SILK TIE, —Call at the New Zealand Clothing Factory. I A SET OE STUDS, —Call at the New Zealand Clothing Factory. A GENT'S SILK HANDKERCHIEF, —Call ab the New Z3aland Clothing Factory. A TRAVELLING RUG, —Call at the New 7«aland Clothing .Factory. A GLiD^TONE BAG, — Call at the New Zealand Clcthing Factory. SEE OUR GREAT CHRISTMAS DISPLAY. N.Z. CLOTHING FACTOBY. ALEX. HENDRY, Manager. Something- Useful from Hie Zwilamlia r-yele Works. YOUTHS' "Atalanta" Bicycles ... Just the thing for a Bright School Boy. GIRLS' " Atalanta " Bicycle ... £16 Au ideal Preseut for a young Lady. These Machines are fully guaranteed and of new designs. Easy terms nrranged if required.



Genuine English Silver King LAMPS. These beautiful Lamps sire very acceptable to any Cyclist. Packed in neat bos ready for post—'4s Od each. TO TOURING- CYCLISTS.—CaII on us, arid we will examine your machine (free of charjjf) hftf.'W starting on your holiday tour. AOCKSSORIKS.— Our stock of Cycling Goods is tho.most up to-date in the district. , CHARGES. - All Repairs and Sundries at Christohurch prices. __________ Ashburton Branch—Burnett Street, w^-v OVER THE THE WOMEN TEA TO™ TALK I CUPS. £\W the pleasures and unpleasant gH^—P^™*^"^^^^^^^^^^ features of Housekeeping and Dressing, and we venture to say that a favourite topic just now is The Paradise of Summer 1 Millinery and Dresses, now BEING SHOWN BY MITCHELL & TDENER THE DRAPERS, SANTA CLAUS, AND FATHER XMAS COMING AGAIN. - - H. M. X JONES. - - Af\ Cases of Toys, Fancy.Goods, Books, Stationery, China, Glass, Plush, A,f\ Japanese and Leather Goods 'jox.r 5000 BOOKS. BOOKS. 5000 Prize, Eeward and Presentation Books- Leather Goods. Leather Goods Dolls Dolls. Dolls, Dolls Great Variety. All sorts and sizeg from Id to IDs. Toys, Toys. Toys, Toys Toys. All imported and best value obtainable Christmas Cards in great variety Must be Sold Lowest possible Prices. Call early & often H. M. JONES.



Christmas at Strange's. — Bring the childreu to Strnnge's, (Burnett Street, Ash burton, grand Christinas toy bazaar and fancy fftir, where they will find absolutely the. finest collection of toys and gift-goods in Nof Zealand, Beautifi}} Christmas and New Year presents for adults r$ endjess variety; 'expensive, inexpensive, and me dium-priced. Father Christmas presents Jijs compliments to one and all, and will be delighted tfl meet and greet them daily, on and after Saturday, 20th December, at Strange's, Burnett Street, Ashburton ; -.■ Advt. 4 Eecoed Season.—Mr R. D. Johnston, of tijo Eudge-Whit worth Cycle Agency, reports a great demand for liudge-Whit worth cycles. These cycles hfyyG made a name for themselves in all parts of Ne^r Za&land, on account of their superiority in workmanship and the determination of the manufacturers to use nothing but the best British material and accessories. The paat season in England has been a record one , for Budgo-Whitworth, Ltd., and present indications ni?e that New Zealand will also establish a record in connection with the sale of " Britain's Best Bicycle." nnOY Land at Strangk's, Burnett Street



TTSEFUL Present for young and old can U ba found in endless variety at Steange's Sample Rooms