EPHEMERIS

SUN.

Phases of Moon for February

Mail Notices

Mails close for the following places as under, subject to the necessary alterations: THURSDAY, Feb 6 For Northern Ports aud Weßtport, per Rotomahana, ab 6*30 p m

FRIDAY, February 7

For Northern Ports of New Zwtand, also Australian States, far Westralia, at 10.30 a m

For Northern Ports and Westport, per Tarawera, at 6.30 p m

SATURDAY, Feb 8

For Australian States, India, China, Stral's Settlements, United Kingdom. Continent of Europe, eto, (due London, March 23rd), specially addressed via Brindiai, also for South Africa, ab 12 50 p m

The nexb mail from the United Kingdom is due In Ashburton, via Brindiai, on Tuesday

The nexb besb despatch for United King dom is via San Francisco, leaving Ashburton on Februaiy J9Ji, and due London March 22nd

MINING

United Press Ansooiablon—By Electric Telegraph Dunbdin, Feb 6

Today's sales :•—Bendigo 13s, First Chance 9a 91, Gold Queen 3: 6), Monte Christo 30s, Rise and ejhine 15s 6d, Iss.

COMMERCIAL,.

THE LONDON MARKETS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyrlghb. London, Feb 4 There is a poor catalogue for the wool sale?. There is a good sale, but prices are unchanged. Tenakoe clip realised 7d, and Branohpeth 6_d

AUSTRALIAN MARKETS

Sydney, Feb 5 Wheat, chick, 2a lid ; milling, 3* Id Flour. £7 10a; Manltoban, £11 103 to £12 5s o_ts—Algerian, 2s 9d ; feeding, 3s to 33 3d B»rley, Cape, 2s lid ; English, 2j 7d to 2a 81 Bran, 9£d ; pollard, 9_d Ma Z3, prime, 3s 7d to 3s 3d Potatoes, Circular Heads, £5 5i to £6 10a

Onions—Prime Victorian, £3 15s to JB4 63 Butter, lid Cheese, 6_d ; New Zealand, 7~- Baoon 7_l to 8|1; hams, New Z.aland, 9_d to lOd

Melbourne, February 5

Wheat 3s 2d Flour, £7 5a to £7 10s Oats, 2i 6 I to 2s 7i Barley, good malting, 4s 31 to 4. 41 Bran 10|d ; pollard, 10_d to 10|1 Mft'ze 3s Id

Adelaide, February 5

Wheat 2s lid Flour, £7 5j to £7 10* Oatß, Algerian, 2s 31, whites, 2i 4d to 3*

Bran, ll.d, pollard, ll_d

ADDINGTON STOCK MARKET.

CHBI6TCHORCH, Feb 6

Ab the Addington market the yardings in most classes were smaller than those of last week.

Cattle.-—192 head of fab cattle were yarded, and the bidding was irregular, with prices nosier, there-being a drop of fully Is per 100b. Sbeere sold at £5 15s to £9 15s j heifers £5 5i to £8 ss, exbra good to £9 j oows £5 5s to £8 2< 61, exbra good to £9 2i 6 », or equal to from 16? 61 to 22< per I.olb. There was a large entry of store cattle, aud lots sold freely. There was an average entry of dairy cowSe Sheep—There was a smaller entry of fab sheep than for the past few weeks, and the bulk consisted of fab ewes, with a few pens of prime wethers. Bidding was brisk for all lines of freezers, bub fab ewes met with a dull and dragging sale, prices showing a drip of from 2a od to 3s per head. Wethers 13a 6d to 16a 6d, maiden eweß 14s 81 to 15s 8:1, best butchers' ewes 10s to 13', inferior 4a 6d to 8* 6d, merino wethers 4s 3J to 9?. Fat lambs formed a large entry. Although prices for all lines were easier at the opening of the sale, bhey Improved as ib progressed. Over 3500 were taken for export at 10s to 13? i lid, butchers securing aboub 500 at 8s to J3i 2d, The entry of store sheep totalled 6500, the majority being lambs, with a few pens of forward wethers and young eweß. Bidding was very dull for store iambs, bub good fresh conditioned wethers and good young ewes .old aft rates fully up to past markets. P_o_.—There was a good deal smaller entry of pigs than aeuaL Baconers and porkers sold well, but stores met w'\ph poor oomjje tiblon, Baconers fetched 35s to 52s 6d, ojf aboub 3|d per lb ; porkers 22a to 295, equal to 3f 1 bo 4d ; stores 15a to 20a, medium kinds lis to 14s, Bmall stores and weaners 5s 6d to 103 6ci.

GERALDINE LIVE STOCK MARKET

There was a large abtendanoa of buyers from all parts of the district ab bhe Geraldine live stock sale on Wednesday. Aboub 7000 sheep were yarded, and 80 head of cattle and 40 pigs. Three quarterbred lambs brought from S 7d to lis Id, four and six toobh ewes I2j to ISs 6d, halfbrsd ewe. lis 9d bo 13s sd, fab ewea S3 to IJs Jsd. Cattle—Three year old steers £5 ISs, two and a half years Bbflars £4 5s to £5 4s, two year heifers £4 5s 61. one and a half year steers £3 6s to £2 12?, yearling steers and heifere £2, three year old steers £5 17s 6d to £517 a 6d, fat heifere £4 2s 61 to £5 12s 6d, cows £4 Idi. Pigs—Weaners 6* 6d to 10a, stores 12< 61 to 16s ,1. porkers £1 5s to £1 9s.

BURNSIDE MARKET

DuNeniN, Feb 5

Ab the Burnside market 177 head of fat jsabtle were yarded; Compebltion for prime beef was good throughout and prices were on a par wi'b lasb week's questions Best bulloaks made from £9 to £10 Iss, medium £8 to £8 17s 61, light weights £7 to £7 __i, prime heifers £7 10* to £815s, medium weights £6 53 to £7, cows £5 to £6 10s.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6. 1902.

In a letter to the Timaru Herald, pro testing against the work in the main school being interfered with by preparing for

SCHOOL ,con,cert:s.

school

entertainments,

a correspondent signpg '. 4 Parent," says :—I am credibly in formed that Several children would have been sent up fop the |ast scholar ship examination, but the cancer,, pre parations interfered with this yroifc, Commenting on the matter, the H&r^U remarks :—lt interferes with the wprk cf the scfaoolp, takes the attention of a number of children from their studies, and imposes an altogether unfair bsr* dea opon the teachers, It must be

admitted that they bear that harden j very patiently, but it is impossible that \ they can like It. If they do not com plain, we suppose it is, at all events partly, because they do not like to run counter to the wishes of the Commit tees. It must be remembered that we are not writing specially of any parti cular Committee, but of tho prevailing practice and its evils, If money for incidental expenses moat be raised in addition to what the Boards of Educa- I tion allow, it would be better to collect it from the public. We believe that more would be raised iv that way than by the usual school concerts and enter tainments. At all events Borne better way could be devised, and a positive evil got rid of,

Local and General.

Wiasher Forecast* — Captain Edwin wires:— Moderate to strong south to east and northeast wiads ; glass rise The Postmaster—Mr W H Renoer,

I Postmaster, rus returned from Wellington, .■her. be spent his holiday, and resumed [duty.

Volley Firing—Owing to the wet weather, the volley firing of the Ashburton Rifl. Volunteers was postponed from this afternoon until bhe 20th February Curling—Papers to band by the Home mail, whioh arrived last night, state thab towards the end of Dsoember ourliDg on the ice was in full swing throughout Scotland, and that bonspiela were the order of the day*

Ruapuna Water Bach—The Ashburton C3unty Counoil have made a special rate of one farthing in the £5 upon the rateable value of ptoperfcy In the Ruaptraa subdivision of the Ashburton-Rangitata Water Race Diatricb, for the purpose of providing interest eto, on a loan of £ICOO to be raised for the reconstruction of the works for the supply of water for the district, ASHBUBTON HORTICULTURAL SoOIETO—A Committee meeting of the Horticultural Society was held at Mr Dodds' room, Mr fi C Shrimpbon in the chair. Final arrange ments for the forthcoming Show were dißCUsred, staging committees and judging stewards were appoints, Laitofoe End was engaged to perform during the Show. Ib was decided to advertise a special general I meeting for Friday, the 14bh iosb, ab 8 pm, at Miss Grahams' office, to consider the alteration of date of annual general meeting.

The Small Birds Pest—A Press Associa tion telegram from Timaru says thab bhe Levels County Counoil yesterday passed a resolution in favor of legislation making the poißonlng of small birds compulsory on landholders* All the members of the Counoil agreed that the birds were much worse this year than ever before. One member explained this was due bo the cold dry season as no'wild seeds were grown before the grain was ready for tbe blrdc,

The Soldier's Deadliest Foe—A lebber has just been received by Mrs Willis from a nurse in tho Hospital ab Newcastle, Natal, stating that Corporal Wilfred Willis, had been lying there very ill from enterlo for some weeks, being at tbe date of writing in a very oritical condition. If Information received by Governmeob regarding our eiok soldiers was quite as prompt and reliable as ib should be, the abaenoa of any unfavour able cable news in this case might be reassuring j bub unfortunately, although Mr Seddon does his besb to obtain prompb information, it does nob reaoh him as quickly as It ought. The illness of Mr Yv*il!is! other son, Edward, was cabled last week through the Premier.

Lease in Peepetuity - Uader the leaso Id perpetuity system, 22,507 leases have been surrendered or forfeited. A return jist to hand from bhe Government printer, which was called for East year by Mr MoNab, shows how they have baen disposed of; 513 hive nob been re-salected at all, 40 have been sold for cash, 616 have been occupied with the right of purchase, aud 887 have been let oo lease in perpetuity. The remainder have been let as small grassing runs, pastoral runs, etc!

The Shooting Season—The South Canterbury Acclimatisation Soc'ety would do well to take steps to prosecute those persons who are unsportsmanlike enough to have already commenced the shooting season. Last week there were complaints that pukakl were already being shot, not many miles from Timaru ; there was also some shooting done last wnek on the Washdyke l«.goon ; while at Beaconsfi&ld a shootist was seen to bring down a wild duck. The birds are of little or no use for eating thus early in the season, and It Is a positive act of cruelty to destroy them when rearing their young. If, the society were to engage, the services ojf a ranger to watch the waters north and south of Timaru lb would no donbt have a beneficial effect .—Timaru Herald,

Sports Association—A special meeting of the Sports Association took place last evening, having been convened according to the rules by five members, to consider the condition of the cricket ground. Mr Taylor, the captain of the Ashburton Cricket Club, complained of the state of the ground, which, he said, was disgraceful, and added thab unless more satisfactory arrangements were made it was probable the Crlckeb Club would recede from the Association, Ec generally saw the Association's employee working on the tennis courts, the cricket ground boing altogether neglected, Mr .(Gordon challenged this statement. Mr Cos:, chalraaaii'of the Association, said that now the Cricket Club had got a new hose, tbe ground could be rspnlarly polled, it was too dry before- Mr Taylor then drew attention to the fact that the Eseeu» tive of the Association had not met for three months, thereby committing a breach of the rules. The' Chairman said that in future the Executive would meet once a month.

The Risks op Water Supplies— Another slip haa occurred at Mb Horrible, causing a break in the water race from which Timaru draws its supply. The Jjreak is not long, bub It ia deep, and owing to the friable nature of the ground at this spot, some diflaculty is anticipated in effecting repairs. The slip is 'a yery serious affair for the town, as thera Is only 12_rft of water in the reservoir, whioh is two days' supply at the ordinary rate of consumption. The cost of repairs is estimated at £100, provided there are no further slips, It is not long since the race was greatly improved at this point. The reservoir is capable of storing 7£ million gallons of water, and lb is now considered that In order to be prepared for emergen - gencies of this kind, storage should be provided for ab least 20 million gallons.

Literary SoriETY—A most enjoyable evening yap gpenfe among the members of the Catholic " Literary Society at their weekly meeting last evening. Mr W Soal, President, occupied the chair, and there was a large attendance. A considerable amount of routine business was dealt with, two new members were elected, and Mr W P Daly was elected auditor, the oSice being rendered vacant by Mr E Hanrahan's election to tfte Council, The Council fl report, which Included a well selected month's programme, was adopted. The programme for the evening took the form of readings and reminiscence.

Several of the gentlemen present contrl

buted items, and the lengthy original paper written by Mr A J Mftller, on the experiences of a Ifost Office clerk, was as amusing as ib was Interesting. A card tournament Is set down for the programme for neit meeting night. 1

Oi?p Month Only—Messrs Oates, Lowry and "Co. are'prewired to receive a few second hand Bioyoles pk part payment for new pnea. Highest market value will be allowed on Png}ißh or Colonial rpakefi.

Wapb'b Wqep F?$S are qjosfc effective and not unpleasant; chijdren tbrivß after t#kjog tbm price, la

The Inward Mail.—An English and Australian m.il arrived by the express from the South lasb night. • Band Contest at New Plymouth—Owing bo (he large number of entries tbe band contest ab New Plymouth is to be started on Monday, lObh Maroh, instead of Tuesday.

1,0 OiF., M,U —A Ladies' Lodge In con nection with the IO OF,M U, will be opened tonight. Tha ceremony will ba performed by the Distriob officers. Members of the Ashburton Lodge and visiting brethren are invited to attend,

Flower Show—-The Increased liberal prizes offered by the Horticultural Society in the classes for decorated table, bicycle or gocart, stand or basket, will no doubt be reoognifled by the ladies of this district), and should be one of the leading attractions at the forthcoming Show.

Sales of Wheat—The past month has witnessed (ss>ys the Mail) some substantial sales of wheat in Oamaru, mostly taken by outside millers for mixing purposes. The National Mortgage and Agency Company have just completed sales of wheat totalling upwards of 10,000 sacks at fall market: rate..

Time Flies! and ha uses a Radge- Whitworth to do his flying on. That's the reason things move so quickly now a-days. ' Time is money,' as the old adage says, so if you are looking out for money just follow Time's example s»nd side a good bike. The Rudge-Whitworth will take you anywhere or everywhere In less time and with mora comfort than anything on tyres. —R D Johnston, Agent

Ashburton Volunteer Fire Brigade

The annual meeting of the Ashburton Volonteer Fire Brigade was held on Tuesday evening last ab tha Fire Brigade meeting room, There was a good atten dance of members, and Captain Barber presided. Tbe annual balance sheet, showing a satisfactory credit balance, was read, received, and adopted,

The custodian of the Fire Brigade plant reported all the plant in good condition. Some small repairs were authorised to be executed.

The following officers were elected ;— Captain—Thomas Barber ; Lieutenants— R Dorm and F Nokes; Secretary and Treasurer—H H Fooks; Minute Secretary —-F Nokes ; Auditors—Lieutenants Dorm and Nokes; Committee—Foreman H Baker, Firemen J Dorm, Assistant Engineer Massey ; Foreman . steam detachment—H Baker ; curricle detach* ment—W Cooke? hook and ladders— Vv Slade.

Lieutenant Dorm was appointed the Brigade's delegate to the forthcoming conference of the Uaitad Eire Brigade's Association at Hokltika, on March 10th next. It was also reported that at this conference Engineer Dolman would be presented with the Association's gold star for twenty five years' service as a fireman

On the motion of Lieutenant Dorm, seconded by Lieutenant Nokes, It was resolved to suggest to the Barough Council the'advisability of adopting some means for keeping the water always heated in the boiler of the steam fire engine.

After passing accounts, the meeting terminated.

St Patrick's Day Sports Association.

The Committee of the St Patrick's Day Sports Association are now working in real earnest to make their sports meeting more than equal the success of former jears. lb has been deoided to hold the sports on Thursday, March 20th. Mr D Moriarty was elected secretary, and Mr L Haniahan treasurer, with the usual ofiicere, and a oommitbee consisting of Messrs H MoSherry, S Madden, D McDonnell, B -lorlarty, P Oooksoo, M J Burgess, F Pritohard, H Mil som, D Wilson, W Burns, and W P D-ly. A membership list has been opened in connection with tho Association, and already a good number of tho.9 gentlemen who are Interested In bhe working and welfare of the Association have joined. Subcommittees have been elected to push on matters in connection with the sports, and the printing committee will have bhe sports programmes ready for distribution in the course of a few days. The programme this year seems to be a decided improvement on thab of other years, as far as variety goes. The running items on the programme are treated with even mora liberality than in former years, and the Increase ia bhe Sheffield Handicap and quarter mile fhb is sufficient to warrant the Committee's expecoatb n of competitors from all over the colony. The cycling events have also been increased, and besides bhe big Sb Patrick's Day Wheel Race for profession al?, the Am-teurs are likewise provided with a similar wheel race for their riders. Rather a novelty to Ashburton sports in the shape of wood chopping and wood sawing competitions have been added to the pro gramme, and promises to be well patronised by our bush friends. The concert, whioh in former years was held on the evening of the sports, will this year be held on the evening of Monday, March 17, St Patrick's Day,

Tinwald School Committee.

The usual monthly meeting of the Tinwald Sohool Committee was held on Tuesday. Present— Messrs Clothier (chairman), S Giles, J Hampton, R Tremain, and J Gudsell Tbe master's report was read as follows :— The school was reopened on January 27. The roll number at the close of the year was 135, and tbe present roll number is 133. The average attendance for' the week ending January 91 was 109.7. In accordance with Instructions issued by the Board, ib is intended to give instruction in paper folding Standards II and I and F class. The Department pay 6d per head on the average attendance to defray ogb of material, as I understand the grant will be paid over at tbe close of the yean I have received a letter from Messrs Nimmo and Blair with regard to flower seeds forwarded to me, and if their idea is carried oat a small piece of ground would have to be dug and enclosed. I would suggest bhat the Committee issue instructions on whioh days tbe flag should be hoisted The Committee decided to supply the material aek'ed 'for, and thougbb ib was too (aba In the season to do anything in the way of garden seeds The days for hoisting the fl»g were left over until nexb moebiog Ib was decided to write to the several committees on the Tinwald side of the river and try and get up au excursion to Timaru in Maroh

Accounts amounting to £3 12s Id were passed for payment, and the meeting then adjourned

THE NINTH CONTINGENT.

United Ppes Association—By Eleortie Telegraph

Naheb, Feb 5 210 applications have been received for the 25 positions allotted to this district in tbe Ninth Contingent.

Wanganci, February 6

The final selection of the Wanganui quota of 25 men for the Ninth Contingent was made last evening. There were 310 applications, and the men selected are a really good lob, equal to any yet sent from heie. and include five returned Gontln. genters, twelve mounted troopers, and six infantry volunteers. They leave for Auckland on Tuesday.

Wellington, Feb 6

The list of applicants; for the Wellington section of the Ninth Contingent closed with a total of 804 For 129 places. The Govern ment has received; some hing like 500 applications for commissions in the Ninth.

"Sou can depend on riding your Children of Worms with Wade's Worm figs, the wonderful worm worriers

CABLE NEWS.

_» United Press Association—By Electric

Telegraph—Copyright

GERMANY AND INTER IMPERIAL TRADE. Berlin, February 4

The Vossiche Zeitung says that tho acceptance of commercial reciprocity, within the British Empire to the injury of Germany's Australasian trade will lead to reprisals.

FRANCE AND RUSSIA.

Paeis, Feb 4

The Socialist members of the Cham ber of Deputies caused a scene in the Chamber yesterday by protesting against the vote of three million francs in connection with tbe Czar's recent visit to Oompeigne. They declared that France's precipitate retreat from the ports of Mytiiene was due to Russian pressure, M. Deleave, Minister of Foreign Affairs, denied that there was even a shadow of Russian pressure.

THE KING TO VISIT IRELAND. London, February 4 The King will visit Ireland after the Coronation,

DEGREES IN OOMMEROE.

The London University is consider ing the conferment of degrees in com merce.

SENTENCES SUSTAINED.

Three Judges of the Irish King's Bench upheld the sentences passed on O'Donnell and others for unlawful assembly at Babella. The Lord Ohief Baron dissented on the ground that the summonses contained charges outside r the jurisdiction of the Magistrates, but [his opinion was o?er-ruled.

THE QUEENSLAND PARLIA-

MENT.

Brisbane Feb 6 Parliament has been dissolved. THE CORONATION IN VITA. TIONS.

Hobart, February 5 The Hon N E Lewis, the Premier of Tasmania, does not approve of any request being made to the Home Government for coronation invitations, or that the Imperial Government bhould be asked to pay the expenses of such Premiers as are invited.

A VALUABLE DISCOVERY. Perth, February 5.

The official examinations of a dis covery of petroleum and aspha'.tum at Warren river is satisfactory The for mation is identical with tbe Californian

oil region.

THE PROPOSED PREMIERS' CONFERENCE

Melbourne, Feb 6

Mr Barton has received a letter from Sir Wilfred Laurier, in reference to the proposed conference in London," in which he suggests that meanwhile it would be convenient if the resppctive Governments were to intimate to each other some of the subjpcts proposed for discussion. He submits tbe following questions ;—Closer trade, relations ; improvement of mail service between Canada, Australasia, and Great Bri tain | improvement of transportation facilities by the establishment of first diss passenger steamers between Australasia and Vancouver j the es tablishment of cargo steamers between Australasia and Canadian - Atlantic port., calling at South Africa; con sideration of the i feet on tbe Pacific cable by the concession granted by New South Wales to the Western Extension Gable Company.

SENSATIONAL BANK ROBBERY A Big Haui.

Hie Robbers Escape.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright

Hobart, February 5

Two robbers entered the Bank of Australasia at Queenstown, and gagged and bound the teller, Brown rigg. The latter was working in the bank after ten, and bad the safe open. Answering a knock at the door two men dashed in and covered Brewnrigg with a revolver. They then made the teller secure, and coolly removed the gold and notes from the safe and escaped. It was half an hour before Brownrigg could wriggle to the door dividing the bank from the residence and obtain assistance. The robbers secured £5-48, £600 being in gold and

silver.

British Politics.

Uulted Press Association—By Eleetrio Telegraph—Copyright London, February 5 Sir H Campbell'Bsnnerman moved that the proposals in connection with buslnflss procedure In the House of Commons be referred to a Select Committee of the House.

The House negatived by 218 to 177. Mr William Jones's resolution In favour of disestablishment of the Church in Wale?. Many Unionists were accidentally absent from the division.

Nelson's Diamond Jubilee.

United Press Association— By Bleotric

Telegraph Nelson, February 5 The Jubilee celebrations today Included a trotting meeting, costume cricket match, and exhibition drill by blue jackets, eto.

Treatment of Consumption.

United Press Association—By Eleobrie Telegraph

Donedin, February 5

The Medical Congress (has discussed the sanatoria for consumption question* Several visiting medicos specially} urged bhe suiba* bility of their respective districts for tbe purpose. Dr Mason gbabed thab ib was tho intention of Government to establish two sanaborinms, one in each island, bub iv making a selection special attention would be given to accessibility General opinion was expressed that ia addition to the two sanatorium^ suggested_ annexes should be attached to each hospital iotke golony for the treatment of consumptives.

WILTON'S BOVO-FERRUM.

Elderly people and particularly women of middle age find Bovo ferrum a powerful life sustaining ageut, readering life worth living by its extraordinary action in keep - ingthe nutritive organs > healthy and in producing a remarkable tuoyancy of spirit. It promotes digestion, creates an appetite, makes rich pure bloodi puts colour in the cheeks, restores obn?ales|?ent§, and removes menrad depression. Sold by all •chemists atgs6d..-Adyf. 3 Sgjoke New Y?oo?

SOUTH AFRICA.

United Pre s Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copy right

CONFIDENCE IN MR CHAM-

BERLAIN.

THE DUTCH PASTORS.

London, Feb 4

The Mayor of Capetown has invited the Mayors of Cape Oolony to arrange a public meeting to repudiate the Continental .landers on the Army, and express corfiiencein Mr Chamberlain.

Replying to a loyal address of pro minent members of the Afrikander Bind, including the clergy, Sir W F H -ly-Hutchinson, Governor of Cape Oolony, states that it is in the power of the Dutch pastors to materially CO (tribute to peace.

Lord Stanley stated in the House of Oonmons that Mrs Christian De Wet was an inmate of a concentration camp.

A Renter message asserts that the English Grand Lodge, at the King's instance, has rebutted the Swiss Freemasons allegations of cruelty at the concentration camps, and has declared that to England's honor she undertook the care of Her enemies families.

THE INTERVENTION OF HOLLAND

GREAT BRITAIN REMAINS FIRM.

BOERS REFERRED TO KITCHENER

London, February 5

Tbe Dutch Premier, Kuyper'e, and Lord Lansdowne's. notes have been published, and show that the Dutch Government, on its own responsibility, without the authority of the three Boer delegates in Holland or the leaden, proposed that Great Britain should grant tha delegates safe conduct to confer with the leaders in the field. The mission might hope to return in ft fortnight, aud was empowered to con clude peace. Euyper admitted that the delegates' present credentials were dated March, 1800, which compelled them to insist on independence, not permitting the re-establishment of the statics qug ante unless the mode of settling the disputes was at the same settled. Lord Lansdowne, while ap preciating tbe Netherlands humanity, said Great Britain adhered to its in* tention not to accept any foreign intervention. It was open to the delegates to request safe conduct through Great Britain, but he reserved bis opinion until the precise nature of the request was disclosed. It was not j at present clear that the delegates reta'n any influence among the Boers in South Africa or any voice in their councils. Great Britain understood all the powers of Government, and negotiations were completely vested in Steyn and Scbalk burger. The quickest and most satis factory means of settlement would b. direct communication with Lord Kitchener by the leaders in the field, Great Britain had decided if the leaden desired to negotiate they must do so in South Africa. |Por European delegates to visit South Africa would cause tbrse months' needless suffering,

LONDON PRESS OPINIONS.

BOER AND GERMAN VIEWS, London, Feb $

The Times says that Lord Lans down.'a reply is dignified and wtighty and worthy of the responsible lulers of the Empire. It will afford the heart iest satisfaction to Englishmen at Heme and in the polonies and to all impartial foreigners.

Other Unionist newspapers endorse this opinion,

The Daily Neius say 3 the reply Is irreproachable in style and temper, and arouses hopes of a more favourable

sequel.

The Boers' delegate in an interview at the Hague said the reply was only friendly, showiog that the British Government was not animated by un just motives. It left a way open to arriving at an understanding, provided that Great Britain refrained from im posing unsurmountable conditions.

Germans attach importance to the British recognition of Steyn and Scbalk Burger as legal representative! of tho Boers.

The Army Meat Contracts.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

Wbllinoion, February 5 The Premier received today a Cablegram from Mr See, Premier of New South Wales, as follows—" Bave already sent the ..Rowing Cable to our Agent General—* Desire you 'will enter a strong' protest against) the reported contract for supplies of' Argentine meab and produce to South African 'forces? The statement ifhat Australia cannot furnish adequate or suitable quantities Is wholly unfounded. The Government consider that such action Is iv unfavorable contrast to the expression of Imperial solidarity, and that bhe action of the Rrlblah colonies justifies preference to them.'"

The New Oats Contract.

A PROTEST BY THE FARMERS'

UNION.

'Per Press Association-—By Eleotrip Telegraph—Copyrigfib ■ Wellington, Feb § The officers of the Farmers' Union have ascertained from the Premier thab the offers of oats for South Africa under the order recently received by the Government from the War Office must be lodged by the 13bh Inst. This makes It impossible for the farmers of New Z sal and to geb In their offers in time. The Union authorities are urging the Government to cable to the Colonial Office a strong protest againsb the conditions, being such thab the farmers of this colony (ac distinguished frem merchant!) o*nnob participate in the contracts, In the hope that lb may ba possible bo procure more suitable conditions when supplies arc called for info tare,*. '•?' "it .: <>

NEVER WORRY.

Worry kills, for worry is a potent cause tf Indigestion and the kindred ailments of Biliousness, Dyspepsia, Constipation, Palpitation, &c. Never worry, but take Imgey's May Apple and go abou. yobr businep. |t will dolts work while ybd are doing yours*, Impey's Mayr Apple Is at. Ideal family medicine, and it is nature's own formula for the correction of irregu-. larlties of the stomach, liver, and kidneys* It is a gently-acting laxative which effectually and finally replaces the too violent cathartics of other days. Impey's May Apple permanently overcomes chronic Constipation. Sold by all Chemists and Storekeepers at 2i 6d per bottle.

We wish to notify our readers that Maters £ le'-ber Bros Second Tea Ccmpetition-elotei on February 28th, so ttiab all' who c'hol4 poup'oßS must) send them id 1 before (tie above date, if they wish to have a bljanQeio $1' Frige Pwtribttl|cg

THE ASHBtJKTOK GOABDM : THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1902



Dace February St II l« II II

6 .. 6 ... 7 .. 8 •• 9 _ 10 _.

Risea 5 10 S 11 5 12 5 14 8 16 5 16

Sets 7 19 7 18 7 16 7 15 7 14 7 12;



mto quarter &ew moon -pogae first quarter Ml moon Perigee

1 9 2 16 23 17

0 39 a 0 52 a 110 a 2 27 a 0 33 a 5 30 a



P. FERRIMAN I FOR SALES Goodwill of Farm of .52 Acres, part r£ the Pareora Estate, held under Lease in Per petoity for 999 years. I HaVE received ini»truc ton. to sell tho Gjodwlll of a Farm of 352 Aores, forming partoi the Paieora Fstate, situated obout6mUea from (he St Andrew's Railway Station; and 10 milts below Tiniaru. The Improvements consist of three miles of new fencing, three roomed cott&g* arid sculler? 1, itable and cbaffroom 30 s 14, implement, Bhed„Qxl2i The buildiuga are a'! tew;! 110 a^r.B are laid down in grass thin year, J 64 acres are sown down i wheat, 30 acres In oats, 35 acres in turnips, an! the re firiftinder' is ia old pasture. This property Is onn of tha pick of the •state, and is in good heart It will parry two sheep to the aoro, and last year fattened 400 lambs, whioh were sold on the farm at 11s 61 each; Fu'l particulars o*n be had on application 4o F FERfUMAN, Land and Fstate Agent) Ashburton r*" ■■ "■ * FOR SALE TANORED STREET, ASHBURTON. -_— A SOUND INVESTMENT. IH4.VE received instructions from Mr Edward Gibbard to sell part of Town Section 108, Bitnated in Tancred Street-, npon which ia erected a veiy cemmodious and convenient Draper's Shop, with dwelling attaohed, large front glass windows, good position. The property Is let to a good tenant, and is yielding an »&&aa. rental of £91. Fall particulars may be had on appli cation to F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent, Ashburton SHEEP FARMS. IHAVE several good Sheep Farms for sale, ranging from 350 to 1800 Acres, The properties are well fenced and watered and are within easy access of a market. Fall particulars on application. F, FERRIMAN, Land-and Estate Agent BUSINESS NOTICES LIVERPOOL AND LONDON AND GLOBE INSURANCE COMPANY. F;re Reserve Fund, £2.040,000 Foods over Ten Million Pounds Sterling MR JOSEPH WARD having resigned the Agency of this Company at Ashburton, Clients and others are informed that Me J B Christian, Burnett Street, has been appointed as hia successor; The Company is noted for its liberality and promptness of settlement of claims. BIRD AND ADLEY, t 74 Manßgem.Cbristohureh tm^u^Zm^^'o'wm, MOSM, CERTIFICATED & REGISTERED TEACHER. STUDENTS prepared for »ny Musical Examination held in N*w Z^alaud. All branches of Music taught. Candidates presented at Fxvmhv-tionß -137 { average marks gamed, 94 per cent. C a uni-ii-■■mi——-~~a» T. Bulloofe. """"" FOR SALE, LOW PBICED BUILDING ALLOT MENTS, fronting the Alford Forest Road, Lot* B, 9 and 10, part 8.8 8767, eaoh containing | acre, price £12 15s ea.b, to be sold as a whole or singly Also,— j Lots 13,14 and 15, at £16 10s each I Liberal Termß T BULLOCK, Agent "~ TO LET SMALL COTTAGE, corner North Belt and William Street, rents! 3s per week Apply to , T BULLOCK FOR SALE, . BUiLDINO ALLOTMENTS TOWN Section' 955 and 956, _ Acre, corner Northeast and Southeast Belts; Price £20 each for the two. TS 818, J Acre, Aitken Street } Price £30. _ T BULLOCK, • TO' LET, DWELLING of 5 Rooms, verandah and scullery, conveniently situated, front' Ids Wakanui Road East T BULLOCK " RAKAIA mO Doable Fronted Shop and Dwel- JL linghouse of 8 rooms j (two storeys) ; .hap Sited with oountere asd shelving suit tihle for business. T BULLOCK, Agent "" FOR SALI-7 BUILDING allotmentsafidotherproperty belonging to Mr and Mrß John Steele, opposite the Woollen Fr.ctoiy and fronting Alford Forest and Winters Roads, Nob having been disposed of by Auction offers are iuvited for the purchase of any portion oo easy tei'me.of payment: Apply to fl_ BULLOCK, 1 " FuiTTale. ; &HEEP FARMS. SHEEP COUNTRY. IMPROVED FARMS, ETO, 1492 acres., sheep-coautry, mostly in its native state 500 acres, irnprovid, very good sheep country 1200 acres odd, sh.pp farm, with good improvements 90 acres, improved, near town j 500 aores, has been sown with English grasses 300 acres .odd, improved farm, good for alliound farming 1800 acres, mostly unimproved 40 acres, near the spa US acres odd, Improved, not far from Tinwald 350 acres, light land, partly improved Also— Several blocks of good land suitable for mil i'oand farming, varying In area from 53 fterei to 1200 acres Mast of the light) land blocfee fire very writable to work with rich heavy farm lands. Full particulars, terms, eto, furnished on ipplioatloa, T BULLOCK



T HAVE FOR SALE- The Latest and Most Up to date Farm Machinery in the market Only a few of tho now Celebrated PLANO Machines left. Twine and Oi!s in Stock. One Threshing Plant in thorough order, and guaranteed, with all engagements; good reasons given for selling } to be sold cheapi Two Second Hand McGormlck Reapers and Binders, guaranteed in working order. ' One Second Hand .-Wood's, only done two seasons ; guaranteed in good order. FARMS. 2000 Acres, fplendid all round Farm worth inspection, cheap, and on easy terms 300 Acres, nice Farm, well fer.ced, very little money required j a real bargain 400 Aores, very good little sheep farm, only £3 10s, on very ea^y term*. 400 acres, leasehold can ba had with above if required. 5 Acres, with dwelling of six rooms, nice home, price and term, very reasonable. Also 2300, 900, 600, 374, 201. 650, 260; 20?, 300, 100, 90. g.nd 79 Aores Lmd ; a number of others equally cheap, and on easy terms. AGENT- Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society United Fire and Marine Fire Ipaarance Cjmpany Southland Implement and Engineering Company Money to Lend from 4| per cent. For particulars apply W. STONYER, TANCRED STREET ■Next Bank of Australasia) M.a.ahlnery, Grain, Produce, Insurance, Land and Commission Agent © X )# m '■ w GREAT js_toeltt owner -Reduction® AT THE) NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING "OACTORY LOTHING JC AOTORY Boys' Straw Hats reduced to Bi Men's Straw Hats 7s6d reduced to 2. Men's Hard'and Soft Felts ls Men's Black Soft Pelts, 2a 6J Mend Drab Soft Felts, 5. 6i Boys' Tweed Caps, 3d and 6d Boys' Tweed Hatp, 6d and Is CLOTHING— Boys' Tweed Suits reducrd to 5s 6d Boys' Tweed and Cord Knickers Men's Tweed Trousers 7s 6d Men's Tweed Sac Suits, 21s These odd lines have all been thrown oat for ABSOLUTE SALE, so come early. THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY . : F. H. BEOKIKOSALE, Manage* i VOICE PRODUCTION, SINOING k PIANOFORTE. Mrs Johnston * REFUMED Teaching on THURSDAY, 30uh Jan, Havelock Street DO you want you. home 6o look nice and fresh for Christmas« Then send along any furniture whijh needs recovering or renovating to H BAIBSTOW, who makes it < oojk lite new* }l US



" BUBINESB NOTICES J. WIL SON HAS Ji»afc received ANOTHER 10 Bales of Lovely WALLPAPERS. ?NO.LUD*ED in the Shipment are some beautiful Deaignspa Dining Room, , Bedroom, and Hall Papers. I Persons desiring to choose their Papers from the full stock may have them laid aside until r< quired. HOUSI-TPAINTING. THIS part of the businpsa receives our special attention, none but GENUINE Oils and Whire Load being used. Thorough tradesmen sent to town*or country at shortest notice. Sign-writing a specialty. SALE TO-DAY. T\/f EN'S Cloohing, Boys Clothing, Boots, Shoes, Muslins, Prints, Dress Materials, I\J_ Millinery, Eto. All the latest) and newesb must be sold to make room for Wiu'.er (Shipments. SAVE YOUB MONEY AT ALOO_»IV«3. l&8H>i«-agBI--lKM-Bl__ll___>_^ IHAT NICHOLAS & PICKFORD'S IS THE BEST AND OHEAPSBT PLAOE FOR FOOTWEAR THERE IS HO DOUBT. ORDINARY PRICES 1. Ladies' Glace 2 Bar Shoes 5s 9d, only a few pairs Ladies' Glace Walking Shew, Patent Gap Lace or Strap, 6s',9d Ladies' Tan Walking Shoes from 7s Ladies' Smart Oanvas Shoes 3a 9J and 4s 9d, black or tan • Gent.' Oanvas Shoes 5a 6d, 6s 6d, and 7s 6d Girls' and Maids' Oanvas Shoeß Ss 3d, 8s 6d, 8a 9d, 4a and 4s 6d Ladies* Tennis Shoes 2s 9d, 3a 9d, 4s 6d, 6s 6d, Bs, lie 6d, and 14s 6d Gents' Tennis or Bowliuf Shoes 2a 9d, 3s 6d, 7s 6d, 12s 6d,;i6s 6d, 18s 6d 6d, 20a, 22* 6d Ladies Evening Shoes from 8a Men's Bluchers, nailed or plain, from saJ6d Boys' and Girls' School Boots from 4s 9d Children's Strap Shoes, sizes 2 to 6, at from 2a 8d Girls' 2 Bar Shoes from 8s 6d Gents' Cricketing Boots, Banning and Cycling Shoes', at furious price j Hundreds ©f other lines at equally low prices NICHOLAS AND PICKFORD, EAST STREET



ASHBURTON LADIES AGREE THAT /-**/fe^?_^_> IS THE CHOICEST AND MOST delicious; [ TEA On the Local Marke% Packed in lead, and encaeed in card board Cartons to ensure freshness and : fhvor right to the breakfast table. Sole Agent— J. T. COOCH, Ashburton. OQfh FIRST EVENT ORih 10 ill FIRST EVENT £0111 OF THE NEW YEAR. Strange's Sale. A GRAND CHANCE for the Ashburton Pubiio to participate in the Bargains. Call ab Our Sample Rooms Burnett Street, and peruse the Catalogue MR GEORGE SANDREY, our Reprei sentative, will get you anything you select at Chrietchuroh Sale Prices. All tbe immense Btook of Samples must be sacrificed. Cleared out to make room for new. EVERYTHING REDUCED MUST GO. Drapery, Furniture, Bedsteads, Bedding, Crockery, and Boots. A Call will convince you. Come Early. Don't Forget. Ia a Bhorb month the Bar gains will be gone. ULSTER Boob Shop—THOS. YOUNG, Bootmaker, thanks hie numerous friends for their liberal support, and wishes them a Happy Christmas, and a Prosperous New Year. On account of not being able to secure Almanacs, I shall return to eyery purchaser for one month from date, equal to 10 per cent on Goods purchased. Having completed my stock of Footwear, I soliolt inspection of the same—THOS. YOUNG, Ulster Boob Shop, Tancred Street, Ashburton DON'T READ THIS AND THEN FORGET IT. GREAT RED LETTER DAY. fJIHE Polytechnic Drapery Company has JL purchased tbe entire gbock of Mr E. Gibbard's, Tancred Sbreeb, for cash, and intend to Bell ib for what lb will bring. Having large consignment, coming from Eng land, and very little room, we will make prices blush ab their own cheapness, Prices completely upset ! A Sale prolific with price aurprlees! A carnival of out prices Look here Auetioa prices without the auction! Linen Faoed Paper Collars 2a 9d dcz boxes Men's Braces, Hate, Ties, and Sox, all at 5d Cents' 35i Tweed Suits for 21b 6d Fancy Pinafore Maslin, 2s lid doz Sbandard Prints, 3a lid dcz Pink Twill lannelette, 3s lid dos Scotch Cotton Shirting, 4s lid doz White Linen Handkerchiefs, Is 6d half doz 4s 6d Men's Felb Hats for ls lid . Black and coloured Dress Stuff*, Curtains, Calico, Prints, Quilts and Hosiery, all cub price marvels In addition to this the new Manager will give to.evory customer spending 5s a piece of music worth 2s. This is a chance in a life time of securing a good stock of music ABSOLUTELY FOR NOTHING. Remember tbe addresEr—Late E Gibbard Tancred Street, now the POLYTECHNIC. PARALYSING, POLYTECHNIC PRICES Come and share in the ipoil. THE SALE IS ON TO-DAY. WANTED KNOWN-That J Moibon has made immense reductions in order to clear more quickly, and make loom for his new Chalstmas Btock of Boots and Shoes, of best quality jußt arrived Repair* Ing done ab once, best leather used ; the Hall 1 —acj-t Copt House, Aehburton. 11163 •