Mining.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph. Dunedin, Dec 8 During the week ended to-day returns I have been reported from 55 dredges, the I total gold yield being 130.10zs Idwt 4grs, or an average of 23ozs per dredge. Additional returns • Muddy Creek 50ozs, Upper Waipori 44ozs, Waimumu Queen 35ozs lOdwt, Perseverance I 310z3 15dwt, Enfield 28ozs Idwt, Waitahuna 24ozs 15dwt, Reliance Ilozs 17dwt, Coal Creek Flat lOozs, Mystery Flat 7ozs Bdwb 15grs,' Waikaka United 1 3ozs 12dwt. Some men fossicking about the Crown Terrace Mine, Arrowtown, picked up a nugget; in the face valued at ,£l2.

Commercial.

London Wool Sales.

London, Dec 7. At the periodical sales of sheepskins there was a strong demand. Merinos advanced f> per cent, tine crossb;eds 10 per cent, and medium and coarse ciossbreJs 20 per cent.

Sydney Stock Sales.

Sydney, Pec. 8 At the stock sales no New Zealand sheep were offered. Eighteen bullocks averaged 416 6s.

Agent-General's Report.

VV ELLINGTON, Dec. 8 The Agent-General's cablegram, dated i London, 6th, is as follows :—" Mutton market is quiet, tbe high prices are res tricting business. Buyers aro nob inclined to make forward purchases at proseut prices, and values are unchanged. There are dull sales for lamb ; Canterbury brand is quoted at s{d. Reef is quiet, New Zea land Muds 7ld, fores, 4d. There is a better demand for butter, and the market is tirm. The Aotea's butter arrived in good con dition. The price to-day is 113s to 125&. Cheese is very firm at 595. Only small supplies are on hand."

Clearing Sale.

The New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association (Mr H. A. Lloyd, auctioneer) held a very successful clearing sale a' Springburn yesterday, on account of Mr S. Scott, at which there was a large attend ance of farmers and othe.-s from all round the district. An excel out luncheon was provided. Everything sold well, which was gratifying to both auctioneer aud vendor alike. Following were the prices obtained :— Implements. — Double-furrow ploughs £2 7s 6d and £5 ss, scoop ,£1 ss, set 5-leaf harrows £o ss, disc £o ss, spring tine cultivator £3 15s, roller £I, old binder £1 15a, tip dray .£6, dray and frame .£9 ss. Pigs.—Porker, £2. Cattle.—Fat cow £9 7s 6d, calves £2 los and £1 4s ; milch cow £5 Gs. Houses. — Draughts —• Hay mare, aged, £18; gelding, aged, £)9; four-year-old colt, £40; bay mare, "Jean" £14; three yearlings at £22 each. Sheep.—673 ewes and lambs, four, six, and eight-tooth Us 3d, 93 half bred hoggets los 4d, 29 crossbred hoggets 12s, 3 rams at Ugns. A quantity of oatsheaf chaff sold at 4s per sack, equal to £ii> 4? per ton, bags given in. Second-hand sacks 3Jd to 4.jjd. Feed oats 2s 5d per bushel.

Ashburton Grain Market.

The Ash bur ton Agency of the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association of Canterbury, Ltd., quotes as follows or. Doc. Bth', 1902: Wheat- Tuscan \ Paid J- 4s 6d to 53 Hunters J Oars—Duns 2s fid to 2s 0d Danish ... 2s6dto2s9d „ Sparrowbills ... 2s fid to 2s 9d „ Canadians ... 2s 9d to 3s Barley—Malting, prime 3s 3d Inferior ... 2s 9d to 3s Pea3—Prussian Blue ... 5s „ Partridge ... 3s 6d Chaff Good oatsheaf ..; £ 1 5s to £4 7s 6d Grass seed—Farmers' ... 2s Od to 3s 3d The above are prices current paid to farmers on trucks at Ashburton.

Asgburton Guardian MAGNA VERITAS ET PRÆVALEBIT. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 1902. THE DROUGHT IN AUSTRALIA.

The drought which has recently afflicted Australia is the most disastrous and wide spread calamity that has fallen upon that continent since the British occupation of it. The accounta that have been published of the enormous losses of stock, and of the sufforUigs of farmers and landowners in the affected ureas, have been harrowing in the i extreme, and we fear it; is aftnost impossible to realise from mere description the terrible natuto of the position. Beginning in the pastoral districts in the interior, the i drought swept over tho agricultural por tions" of Queensland, Hew South Wnles, Victoria, and South Australia, burning up all vegetation, and destroying all life that could not be supported by artificial methods. By means of lavish eKpandifcijro the wealthier portion of the pastoralists in the suffering districts have succeeded in saving | some of their stock, but we learn that dur ing the last few months thousands of cattle 1 and horses and many millions of sheep have perished in Queensland and New South Wale 3 alone, while in Victoria the crops have been completely ruined. In fact, there were some people iv Australia who hud begun -to think that 'the clitwaiic process which has converted some of the ones fertile regions of Asia into bars and arid deserts had commenced _to operate iv Australia The heavy which .have jusjb fallen over the greater part of the ccufcis^nt may have dissipated that fear, but they nay.c- come to,o late fco re pair the fearful effects of Une ruinous drought. New Zealand producers of food stuffs hive already j'eapod much benefit from the misfortuue that has befallen tljeir Australian neighbours, and it ia well for us Tvho have escaped that terrible visitation to cousider whether we cannot help them in their time of trouble. When we thought tho Empire needed assistance t,o hold her j own in South Africa against the Boers, w<> freely sent our sons to aid her; should we not therefore tender out- help to POT nearer kinsmen, who have been in the grij> of a mightier foo than the Boer ? The , Premier of New Zealand, with his ready grasp of the position, and quick perception p? thp right thing to be done, has already Wpr^sea his opinion on this point, and his : views have been given to a Gkristchuroh i contemporary. They arp $s 'follows : — ; " It has struck me that, while tjp psist ' a,nce of Madame Melba was not considered necessary, it would be a neighbourly acfe on thu part of the farmers and producers of this colony to send fodder and seeds to the j ■('armors a^d pastoralists in Australia. I ; know that this is a delicate matter to deal j with, and that great tg&fc is retired in | handling it.' It seems'to me, tiow'evei?, ! that if a movement was made in this di : rection, it could be regarded as nothing but assighbourlyactiqn. There are many ; New Z.ealandei-s iv Ajr-stralia, and many Australians in New Zealand. If the Aus- ■■ tralians accepted the idea in the spirit; in ■ which it originated, they might not re fuse the assistance of those who sympa- j tbised with tham in their great losses. ; " If the proposal is ad.optod ]?y the farmers, pastorali?ts ; producers generally, and Cham bers of Commerce in the cplony, the. Go vepnmeat w.ould pay the freight and attend ''■ to details consigning tho fodder and seeds to the respective Stilts Governments. If the response is general and substantial, I will communicate with the Prime Minis ter of the Commonwealth and with the State Premiers, asking them to accept this offer from the producers of New Zealand ia

the spirit in which it is made. I have no doubt-that if there is anything in the pro posal, the Pi ess of the colony will take it up. As I have indicated, the subject re quires delicate handling, and the sufferers in Australia munt not feel that they are un der any obligation to us. They must, be assured that wo have merely au earnest desire to give tham practical and neigh bourly assistance." It would be difficult to put the case better than Mr Seddon has put it.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

Cable News will be found on the fourth page to-day. Wkatheb Forecast. — Captain Edwin wires : —Moderate to strong easterly winds from between east and north and north west ; glass fall. Property Sale.—Mr F. Ferriman re ports the sale of half an acre and house in Princess S'reet, on account of Mr Haines, to Mrs Rippengale. Land Tax. —All interested should take notice that the days of grace for the pay ment of the Land Tax expire on Thursday, the 1 lth. After that date, the ten per cent penalty will be enforced. Price o? Sugar Increased. —A Press Association telegram from Au'-klmd states that the Colonial Sugar Refinery Company has advanced the price of sugvr Nos. la, 1, 2, and 8, brewers, crystals, tablets, and invert sugar, ten shillings per ton. A Disclaimer. — A report has been going about that the Orangemen as a body agreed to vote no-license in consequence of Father O'Donneli's letter published in otir columns. Three prominent officers of the Lodge here have requested us tosiy that no such pro posal was over made to, or was considered by the Lodgo.

The Schools Ppouts. —By an advertise ment in another columu, it will be noticed that the third annual sports meeting in connection with the Ashburton County .Schools will be held on the Domain oval on Anniversary Day. There are a large num ber of events, which include physical drill, running, long and high jumps, etc. A full programme will be provided, and a good afternoon's sport may be looked for.

Abattoir Keturns. —The following are the returns of stock slaughtered for human consumption during the month of November at the Ashburton abattoir:—Cattle—No. slaughtered, 69; condemned for all causes, 1; percentago. 1.44; affected with tuberculosis, 2 ; percentage, 2.58; eond. for tubercolosis, 1; percentage 1.44; canned, 1. Sheep- No, slaughtered, 733; condemned for all cause.-, 5; 2)ercon tage '68. Lambs—No. slaughtered, 61. figs-No. slaughtered, 39. Kemarks—Quality of everything, all through, much improved.

Arobntine Mutton and Butter.—The Industries an \ Commerce Dppartment has received the following cable from the Agent-General, dated London, Bth inst: — 221,447 carcases of "River Plate mutton were received into the United Kingdom from Argentine during last month, of which 108,189 carcases were landed at Liverpool, 20,649 at Hull and New castle 12,871 at Plymouth and South ampton, and 9,735 at Cardiff. The average price realised for these shipments was 4£d per lb. 3989 cases of butter were landed at London and Liverpool from the Argen tine during the last month, and the average price realised was 108s to 110s per cwt.

Military Sports. — Our readers are reminded by advertisement that the mounted sport 3by members of the A.M.It, take place on Thursday next at 2 p.m, at the Show Grounds. There are in all 13 mounted events and 1 flat (open to mem bers of infantry corps.) Of the mounted events 6 are over hurdles, and the public will have the opportunity of witnessing a most enjoyable and exciting afternoon's snjrt. The County Brass Band have generously given thoir services for the afternoon. We understand Messrs Claridge 'and Newman are arranging for vehicles to run to the ground from i .30.

Accommodation fou Dogs travelling by R.ul —The Railway Department has been approached by a southern society on the matter of accommodation for dogs travelling by rail. It was stated that the insufficient accommodation provided was the cau*e of a good deal of lighting and consequent cruelty. The Department has replied that it is only on rare occassions that dog boxes are insufficient, and the department's officials could not prevent dogs from fight in"-. The society has now decided to ask the department to provide muzzles for dogs that have to be carried in railway boxes.

Prize Hoeses from Hour.—A Press 1 sgoeiation telegram from Wellington states that three prize stalljuns, purchase! at Home for the Agricultural Department, arrived by the Gothic, viz., the thorough bred horse Basuto, the Shire stallion Revo lnfcion (bred by Baron Rothschild), and the Clydesdale stallion Sir T.ilbot, from the well-known breeding establishment of Mr Taylor iv Renfrewshire. The animals arrived in the pink of condition.

Firts at La.urtstqn.—4 &r0 occurred at Lauriston yesterday afternoon, when Mr Thos. Dent had the misfortune to have a large shed burned to the ground. How the fire occurred is a mystery, but when first observed it had too great a hold to be sub dued. A large amount of grass seed, grain and chaff, which was stored in the loft, was burnt, but the harness from the lower part, which was used as a stable, was saved Mr Denfc also iosfc sonip of his machinery. Luckily however, the last of his wool had been placed qn the drays some little time before, or otherwise his loss would bare been considerably greater.

Vat.edtctou?.—•At the- praotica of the Musical Union last evening Mr Snodgrass, on behalf of the Concert Committee "pre sented Mr Llewellyn Owpn with the pro ceeds or the benefit concert held on Friday last. In doing so, he paid a high compli* meat to Mr Owen's valuable services in connection with the Union and music in general, and expressed the hope that he would soon return to Ashburton in good

health. Upon Mr Owen's suitable acknow- Tedgoru&iDfc, the Society burst into hearty cheering and sang " He's a jolly good fel low/ Mr Owen left Ashburton this lnoru jng by the J L o'clock tVain for Christch'urc'h en vcy&m for Ejjrqpe. & large number 'of his friends assembled at £fc.e railway sta tion to see him off, and maijy kijai w js^es were (expressed fo,r his success and' his safe yetura.' ■

.Cyclists, when purchasing gQod& should bear in mind that Messrs Qates, Lowry nnd Co. have the largest assortment of cycling requisites in Tfew Zealand. Their Ash burton Branch have napackfid spyeral npw designs in patent clips for pump, etc., also a new shipment of vulcauised tyres, which ape being sold at 22s 6d each. 12 59

News in Brief.

Train arrangements for Tuesday, Dec ember IGfcH, Anniversary Day,are advertised this issue. The handicaps for the Rakaia races, to be held on Boxing Day, will be found in our Advertising columns. W? R.. D. Johnston has an announcemen in this issue' ab..GUc' the Rud^e-Whitworfch bicycles. He claims that they arc the best in Britain and in Maoriland, and that all classes from working men to Royalty ride them. Mr T. Young, proprietor of the Ulster Boot Depot, East street, notifies that he is giving away a bga&tilul almanack to every customer. Messrs Grant and Moore, drapers and mm's outfitters, Saunders' Buildings, have opened a consignment of goods for the Christ ma.3 and holiday seasons. Misses A. and E. Packer notify that early next year they will open a private school in Ashburton for the higher education of girls. They will also have' a preparatory class for .sm^ii children,. Mr C. Beech, baker and pastry cook. Tailored Street,' has a fine assortment of confectionery for the Christmas season. He caters fop picnic parties as per arrangement, j and makes birthday and wedfimg cakes to j order. ■ I

Borough Council.

The ordinary meeting of the Ashburton! Borough Council was held last evening. Present —The Mayor (in the chair), Crs' Jone*s, Andrews, Davis, Davison, Aicorn, J Clark, Timminß, Willis, and iieid. ' FINANCE. Tho Mayor stated that the debit "balance at the Bank was .£2009 14s lid, and the amounts received from all sources since last meeting totalled ,£lB9 7s 2d. CORRESPONDENCE. Correspondence was read as follows :— From the Clerk, Ashburton County Council, asking for payment on account of i additions to Hospital, and from same re payment on account of traffic bridge.—Re ceived, and amounts ordered to be paid. From Paymaster-General, re fines remit ted on account of by-laws.—Received. t From Mr Blair Fuller ton, applying for renewal of lease of T.S.s 219 and 220.— Granted. From Secretary Cemetery Board, in re gard to Old Cemetery. Cr Andrews moved that the solicitor's opinion be obtained on the matter. Cr Davi3 moved an amendment that the matter be left in the hards of the Mayor. Cr Davison seconded. Cr Willis suggested that the Mayor should ascertain the views of the County Council on the matter. The amendment of Cr Davis was then carded. From Mr Stephens, Christchurch, re buildings in Gass and Cameron streets con ' demned by Dr tr-'ymes. Cr Davison asked if the occupiers could be allowed time to take their crops off. The Mayor said that there had been no application for extension of time. The letter from the owner clearly stated what was to be done. Cr Aicorn had been round and saw the tho buildings which were cleaned up.

The Mayor suggested that the matter be left in the hands of the Eeserves Commit tee to give three months notice to those who have crops in, aud this was resolved upon.

"From Secretary Gas Company, ro lighting East street. •• Received. —■ .

From Department of Agriculture, regard ing the Birds' Nuisance Act.—.Received and contents approved of.

From George James, asking the Council to reconsider the condemnation of Gilinour's bakery, and from Mr M. Gihuour on the same subject.

Cr. Davis would like the Council to go and see for themselves. He moved that the letter be received, and that an extension of time be granted to Mr James. He did not think it right for Dr. Symes to go round and condemn any man's property he thought fit. He suggested also that a Committee be appointed to go and inspect the premises. Cr. Clark considered that the Health Officer had been too severe, and thought this case was entitled to special treatment.

Cr. Eeid said that this building was on a different footing to the other bakeries, inas much as it was only used occasionally. No storage was required, and the other bakeries that were condemned were done so because of the insufficient storage room j nor was any drainage needed, as no water was used on the premises. He did not favor " jump ing on " the residents. Cr. Andrews thought that three months might have been given. As a Council they could not say much. It was not right for the local inspector to override the Health Inspector. Cr. Timmins suggested that Dr. Symes 1 report he read, but the Mayor did not con sider it necessary.

The Mayor said that the Health Officer was appointed to do certain work, and it was the duty of the Council to stand by him. This bakery was underground, and there was absolutely no drainage.

Cr, Davis : Thoi'e is none required. The Mayor: The Health Officer objects to it because it is underground, and with no drainage. Or. Timmins saw no objection if the place was suitable. If they carried out 5-GthSr of Dr. Symes' suggestions they would do very well. He did not see why the place could not be clean and dry down, below. In the Old Country th^re were bakeries underground. Cr Willis said that he could not see how they could go behind the Health Officer's report. His condemnation of other premises had not been challenged, and it would establish a bad precedent if they treated this case differently from the way they had treated the others. He saw no objection to referring the letters to the Health Officer, who might see fit to re-consider his opinion. Cr Davison moved that an extension of time be granted, and that the letter be forwarded to the Health Officer for his reconsideration.

Cr. CJcirk seconded, remarking by doing so the Health Officer might see further into the matter. This? case differed from the others that had come before the. Council, and it seemed to him rather a hard one.

Cp Reid mentioned, that it was practically a private oven, and no drainage required. ' Cr Alcorn s^aid that from the information jfc appeared that the stuff was not baked there, and it vquld be as wel} to giye more fume-

The Mayor warned the Council that by doing what they proposed, they were establishing a precedent. He was there to do his duty to the ratepayers, and would do so. If Councillors had not sufficient back bone to carry out their duty they should not be f;here. He wished them to understand the position. They might have a shower of appeals following such a QQU.rse. If thsy went contrary to the Health Officer, they were not fit to, hqld their positions a^ Councillors.

Cp Pavison. warmly protested against the Mayqr's remark with reference to back bone. He (Cr Dayison) had always back bone enough to do his duty in that Council, Or Andrews moved an amendment that three months notice bo given, Cr Alcorn would second the amendment if four months were allowed. He did not think they should continue to allow a bakery to be used underground. The amendment was lost. Cr Davison'o motion, "That the letter be referred to the Health Officer," was carried. Prom the Secretary of the Fire Brigade, submitting the names of two new members, and askiug for payment of Subsidy for half year >£50. —Names approved, and amount passed for paym'enj;, i:'

The Inspectors' report was re,ad. He mentioned some gases of breaches^ of by- Jg,ws, etc.' 'it' was rejolyed to, t^ke proceedings against tife persons mentioned in the In s?jecj;or?B report fp/r breaches of $ie by-Jaws,

The Foreman's report was vead, and it was resolved that the Inspector be in structod to report the names of all persons obstructing the water in the channels. Same discussion tpo|j place pn tjie manner jn which the footpaths had been broken up by the laying down of gas pipes without properly repairing the damages, and it was resolved to insist upon the resolution passed some time ago as to applying for permission being carried out, and that this matter should be referred to the Works Committee-

QUESTIONS. Cr. Willis asked whether the Health Officer came to Ashburton unexpectedly or was any notification given. ■ - 'phe Mayor: replied that no notification had been reGfliye'd aj; the. Cgunojl office. BAjnTAKf, Cr. Willis moved and Gi\ Timmins seconded—"That when the Health Officer come to Ashburton the Sanitary Com mittee be notified to that effect. The motion was carried. Carriers* licenses were granted to B>. Cullen, J. Miles, and J. panning, and a license to sell milk to H. M. Carson & Co. BOROUGH VALUER. Consideration of the question of appoint ing a Borough Valuer \*fas h^ld over for a fortnight, holidays. The usual Christmas holidays were granted — from the 25th December till January 2nd. SCAyGNGERS? COIJTBAGT. T^ue scayengers' contract was referred to the Sanitary Committee to bring up a report at next meeting. •

MB TASKEft's LEASE. On the motion of Cr Alcorn, it was decided to accopt the amount of J>B in consideration of the Council's claim against Mr Tasker in regard to his lease. ACCOUNTS. H Accounts amounting to ,£240 4s 3d were , passed for payment, and the Council sat as a DOMAIN BOAET). The Curator reported that the hay in the Domain was now ready for cutting. Mr Davis moved that it be left in the hands of the Chairman of the Works Com mittee, and this was agreed to. This was all the business. -

Ashburton Gas Company.

An extraordinary general meeting of shareholders of the Ash burton Gas, Coal, and Coke Company, Limited, was held at the Company's offices yesterday afternoon. There were present —Mr T. Bullock (chair man), Mrs Shearman, Messrs J. Ward, F. Staudish, B. H. Preston and O. W. Baker.

The meeting was called for the purpose of approving a resolution respecting the increase of capital. The Chairman read the resolution, which was as follows :— " That the Capital of the Company be increased from £10,000 to .£15,000 by the issue of 1000 new shares of £o each. The capital so raised by the creation of the new shares shall be considered a3 part of the original capital, and shall be subject to the same provisions in all- respects, whether with reference to the payment of calls or .the forfeiture of shares on non-payment of calls or otherwise as if it had been part of the original capital." Speaking on the subject, the Chairman said that he hoped the original shareholders would see fit to. increase their holding. They had received" 6 per cent, for many years "past, and the Company was in a sound financial position. There was, further, every prospect of the Company's business being increased. He would mention that the necessity for the increase of capital was on account of the Company having pur chased a new gas-holder at a large outlay.

In reply to Mr Standish, the Chairman said that he was under the impression that .£3 would have to be called up. On the motion of Mr B. H. Preston, seconded by Mr C. W. Baker, the foregoing resolution was approved of, and the same will be submitted for confirmation at a meeting to be held in a fortnight.

THE LOCAL OPTION POLL

We understand that a petition for an enquiry into the Local Option Poll with the object of getting it declared null and void, will be lodged to-day at the instance of the Licensed Victuallers, and that the hearing will take place within a fortnight.

United Press Association-r-By Electric Telegraph Christchurch, Dec. 8 The re-count of the Courtenay local option poll shows : —Voters, 3040. Con tinuance, 1320 ; reduction, 1512; no-license, 1G44; informal, 110. * Reduction was lost by nine votes, DuNHDtN, Dec. 8 The main ground on which the Dunedin local option poll is being attacked is that, the deputy in charge of the Union Street booth closed the booth for more than half an hour during the prescribed hours of voting, Other alleged irregularities are that voting papers were not given simul taneously with those for members of Par liament, and interference with voters.

Ashton.

(From our own correspondent J

THE LATE ELECTION. The farmers of this district have again settled down to work after the excitement of the late election, Mr Studholme being the favourite candidate here. As this is a great prohibition district, everyone rejoices over prohibition being carried, and your correspondent is quite sure that the far mers will visit Asbburton quite as often as thay do at present; and they will feel more secure with tl eir harvest hands, as very often everyone on the farm was thrown idle through some of the men being at the hotels, and forgetting to come back. THE CROPS. The crop 3in this district are looting splendid; inosj; of them are just coming put in ear, and there is proui se of an abun dant harvest, and with good prices the farmers ought to have a great time. SYMPATHY. Much sympathy is felt throughout the district for Mr and Mrs Prebble in their late sad bereavement, the death of their daughter Florence. She had heen ill for three years, but the end, came very suddenly. There was a very large attendauce of friends at the funeral, which took place on the 28th November. The Rev. J. Patergon, M.A., conducted a very impressive service.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

United Press Association — By Electric Telegraph. Auckland, Dec. 8 The barquentine Handa Isle arrived at Kaipara yesterday from Auckland after a very long passage of thirty-two days from Auckland. .Wellington, Dec. 8. The Gear Meat Company's dividend for the year is 7|per cent.

King Daniela, of Mangaia, in the Cook Group, had an interview on Saturday afternoon with the members of the Govern ment relative to better facilities for ship ping fruit, coffee, eto.,' to New Zealand, He was gratified to hear that Mr Mills, Minister, of Trade and Customs, would shortly visit the Cook Group to ascertain "the require ments of the natives and European traders.

At the Magistrates' Court to-day, Richard Martin was fined J& and costs for sly-grog selling at Muratai, near Day's Bay. The defendant had supplied two police proba tioners with bottled ale.

At the quarterly meeting of the City Licensing Committee this afternoon, the Inspector of Police said there' were a few publicans in the city who'kept men cori jjinijally'Spying' the mo^eMenta q£ ths police in orde.r that' Sunday tracing niigh^ be carried on. T.he Chairman (Dr. Macar thur, S.M.) said that if any cases 'caiiie, ftefope. t\im in Coijpt he woujd, consider th,e gvidence qf the matter referred to by the Inspector fts corrqb,orative pi tihe charge. Ojjristchurch, Rec. 8 A,, meeting of retail shopkeepers was held to-day in connection with the proposal to change the weekly half holiday from Thurs day to Saturday. Th^e meeting resolved that it wa^ in favour of Thursday, and that tl+e proposed change woiild mean a serious loss to retailers, A number of shopkeepers testified that Saturday's trade was worth practically all the ro3t of the week, and that the Saturday half holiday would inconvenience workers and farmers, A_ deputation was appointed to wait upon the City Council in regard to the matter. A petition against the change, signed by 250 retailers will be presented to the Council. < The condition of his daughter, Mrs Bean, being satisfactory, the Premier, left by the Tarawera for Wellington to-night:

4 •njeotjsff 1 f>f the Canterbury Crioket Association decided to play the WellingfcoU^ Canterbury match at Lancaster Park. It was also decided to form an Umpires' Association. The balance-sheet submitted showed a credit balance of .£22 19s 2d. It was decided that the Canterbury represen tative tgam against Lord Hawke should consist of eleven men only.

A Sensational Abduction.

U aiped Press Association -By EJectric Telegraph—Copyright Paris, December 8. Dr. Marcelle abduct9d the daughter of ex-Senator Lapley while the lady was going to a music lesson in Paris, and sloped witH her in a motor cac. Be Marcelle's friends prevented the ar rival of assistance. The affair gassed, a sensation,

School Committees.

HIGHBANK.

The monthly meeting of the Highbank School Committee was held on Saturday evening last. Present—Messrs J. Driscoll (chairman), E. Crawford, J. Nee, C. Ander son, C. Smith, T. Marten, and F. Eichards. Correspondence was received from the Master re manual drill, stating it was dis continued owing to the children not having sticks. —Resolved to procure same. It was also stated it was an oversight about the flag, and would not occur again. : The Master's report showed the number on the roll to be 70, and the average atten dance, 59.7. It expressed regret that the Education Board had decided not to grant I additional accommodation. It was resolved that the Chairman write to the Education Board drawing attention to the fact that in one room the cubic air is only 64| cubic feet per child, whereas it should be 140 cubic feet per child. It was resolved to thank Mrs Ward for her kind oiler to prepare a concert in aid of prize fund. It was also resolved that it be held on 9th January, and that the distri bution of prizes take place on the 16th. Holidays were granted from 24th. Deo. to the sth January.

ASHTON.

A ineating of the School Committee was held on Monday evening, there being a fare attendance of members. A larga amount of business was gone through. The Chair man reported having received the Inspec tor's report, which was read. The inspector remarked that this school for its general efficiency retains prominence among the * best in the district. The standards acquitted themselves with much credit both in, pass and'in class work, while the preparatory ; groups have been well taught, and shew good progress. The report was considered satisfactory. Mr Gilmour proposed that the Committee compliment Mr Mitchell for the very highly satisfactory examination the school has just passed, which was carried. The meeting then adjourned.

BOROUGH.

A meeting of the Borough School Com mittee was held last evening. Present- Messrs W. Craighead (chairman), Kersel, Silcock, McCallum, Malcolmson, Hewson, and H. M. Jones. CORRESPONDENCE. Correspondence was read and dealt with as follows: From the Board of Educatiou, forwarding salaries for November. From Mr F. H. Beckingsale tendering hia resignation from the Committee.—The re signation was accepted with regret. MASTER^ REPORT.

The master's report stated that owing to the wet weather, the attendance during the past few weeks had fallen from 850 to 323. He enclosed the ladies' report of the sewing and Mr Sandford's report of the woodwork classes, which were highly commendatory. The report also contained a communication from the A. and P. Association forwarding prize list and money won by the boys at the technical exhibit at the recent show. He further reported that twelve scholars were competing for the High School scholar ships, and suggested the 18th~or 19th of December as the date of breaMngup. He wished the Committee the compliments of the season, and, in concluding, requested the presence of the Committee at the school sports on December 16ih.

The Chairman explained the plan on\ which the A. and P. Association ■ allocated their prizes, and Mr Silcock moved that with the receipt for the cheque the thanks of the Committee, be conveyed to the A. and P. Association.*— Carried. SEWING REPORT. The report of Mesdames Inglis and Silcock, sewing examiners, stated that the work under Mr<? Willis was exceptionally good, and the methods of teaching showed marked ability. The report congratulated the Committee on the efficiency of the staff i h this, depa rttnent.

The Secretary was instructed to convey the thanks of the Committee to the ladies who had examined the work.

With regard to the distribution of prize 3, Mr Silcock thought the children would be better pleased if they were distributed by an outsider.

After a prolonged discussion, on the casting vote of the Chairman, it was de cided that the matter of distributing the prizes be left entirely in the hands of the Chnirrnnn. .

Mr Kersel moved a vote of thanks to Mr Sandford for the trouble he had taken with his cla^s.—Carried.

Mr Malcolmson moved that the school close on the 19th, and re-open on Monday, January 26th.—Carried.

It was decided to spend about .£ls in prizes, and to allocate the money in the same manner, as la*t year.

Mr Silcock and the Chairman were ap pointed to confer with the teachers, and to make the necessary arrangements regard ing prizes. / ALL.ENTON SCHOOL, Miss Burr reported that the number on the roll was 71, and the average attendance 63, Some damage had been done to the school buildings, and she requested the Committee to take stops to prevent further interference.

Mr Hewson moved that no children W allowed in the Allenton school ground during the holidays.-—Carried. VISITING COMMITTEE ffMr Kersel reported that the pump at Allenton was now in working order and a tree on the ground had been taken down. Cricket material had been purchased to the extent of £1 4s. Mr Jones reported on the condition of the urinals, which require attention. Blinds were needed for the schoolroom. The aotion of the visiting committee was approved. It was decided that whoever cut the grass round the Allenton school must cut the whole of it. Correspondence was received from Mr H. M. Jones and Mr A. T. Williams, re books for prizes. On the motion of Mr Maloolmson, it was decided that Mr James Patterson be asked to fill the vacancy caused by Mr Becking sale's resignation. . Mr for Allenton,, and Messrs Me-.' Callum'and Silcoek., for_ the main 'school, wefe 'appointed the Visiting Committee." "

The Elingamite Disaster.

THE ENQUIRY.

Auckland, December 8. The inquiry into the wreck of the Elin gamite was continued this morning. Arthur Young, a seaman! under cross examination stated that between 4 a.na. and 6 a.m. on Sunday, while he was on ; the look-out in the bow, the fog grew so thick that he could not see a ship's length, ahead. The fog-horn was blowing, but he had re ceived no special instructions, and had no knowledge of the speed at which the steamer was moving. Between 6 a.m. and and 8 a.m., while he was still on the look out, the fog thickened. It would have been impossible to see a rock ahead before the vessel struck it. • i

Frank Peters, an able seaman, who waa on the lookrout when the casualty 'happen- r ed, stated that when he-went on -watch' at 10 a.m., thß officers gave him orders to keep a aharp look-otit," He could, at the tis^ie see! about 30ft rounci him. He had np tion that the Elingamite was nearing land, . and no knowledge of the position of-.the vessel. The first thing he saw was land on the port bow. He immediately, sounded tho gong, and shoute4 to the bridge, . " Breakers ahead,", thovigh he saw none. . He could at tbnt t\mQ see the captain ojtt the bridge, 40ft or 50ft away. . When hfi left the forecastle, abp,Qt'■ l^uiiii aftftr - parting, the tllingamite was still going . ahead. As he Vf^s goir>g up the ladder, of - tho s.ilGon deolg he felt a gentje g-lauoa . from tlte. bluft of th,e pojt bow. Se dii not know exactly when the steamer oaiqe to n st.ndstili. William Dyer, steersman, stated that at the tim,e of the wreck he was in his bunk, and on looking out he saw a wsll of rook ahead, The fog was very thiok. Witness said. : " Ny Jove, we're on The Kings." TU%

THE ASHBURTON GUAUDTAN : TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 190 a.



»»m.... I.i i.-i. m ■.  n, i. n- n ».n..ii-i F. FERRIMAN. FARMERS I FFIHE recent wet weather will necessitate inoreased attention to your Sheep and Lambs. Do not neglect them by allowing them to Buffer from Scour or Lung-Worm. Joseph Ford's Scour and Liing-irorm Mixture, Is an acknowledged cure for both Siour and Lungworin 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 breeders who use FORD'S MIXTURE :- Bucoleuch Station, Mount Soiners, 14th March, 1903. Mb F. Fkrrijian, Ashburton. Dear Sir,—Re Joseph Ward's Scour ami 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 %vere scouring badly and in some cases before the usual outward appearances of Scour 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 IJd per hoad to drench, it has been the means of saving many of my lambs which were worth 12s Gd each. lam so satisfied ■with my experiment, that I intend to use Joseph Fjrd s Mixture as often as I may have occasion to deal with Scour or a thrift leas condition 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. Tours faithfully, (Sgd) E. GATES. Aahburton, January 10th, 1902. Mb F. Fbbrimas, Ashburton,— Dear Sir,—Be 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 scowr or not, aa I consider it improves the tone and vigour of the Sheep. I can confidently recommend anyone having cull 3or sheep that are not doing well to drench them with the above Mixture. * ■ Tours faithfully, (Sgd) T. E. UPTON. I\ FERKEMAIST, Patentee and Proprietor. BUSINESS NOTICES. SPECIAL to Buyers of Ready-made CLOTHING-. —iOt— BEING considerably OVERSTOCKED IN Boys,' Youths' and Men's AE.\l>Y-&Ul>ti CLOTHING, WE WILL OFFER Daring DECEMBER tTie whole of our stock of these Goods, together with a number of lines IN Boots and Shoes, AT SPECIAL SALE PRICES. See our Door Display for Bargains ASHBURTON HRAPEKY CO, Burnett Street. : TTT"— --*"'*"' Helpless with ep Rheumatism ■ You've tried liniments and prescriptions without result. Now . . . CURE YOURSELF with THE GREAT... CANADIAN . . . SEAWEED CURE. A medicine and Not a liniment. A Quick and Permanent Cure. SOLS BY ALL DEALERS At 3/6 pbb Bottiiß. Sole Agent for Australasia: QEO. W. WILTON, Wellington. H GRESHAM, SURGEON AND MECHANICAL DENTIST. By Examination, October, 1897 ---—.. i "IT'IGHT years experience with E. G. and .l\i F. W. Gresham, Dentists, Dunedin And Invercargill. Has commenced practice in rooms spsfcah'S from the entrance to Thomas' i Aiaetion Rooms, Burnett Street. Stoppage ia Gold, Amalgam, and Cement. Gold and Porcelain crowns made ; also sets ■of teeth with Vulcanite and Porcelain gums. <3»3 administered. All wort guaranteed. HouißS ow Attendance —9 a.m.— ■?& p,m. Private Resideace—Uare M»8 Grant, Wills ' Street.



Christmas Presents, THOMAS YOUNG, ULSTER BOOT DEPOT, WISHES to Thank his numerous Customers for their patronage diu'ittg the Sale, and wishes them a Happy Christmas autl a prosperous New Year. He wishes to intimate that each purchaser will receive a beautiful Almanac for 3 903. Three subjects to choose from. Address—Next to Bank of New Zealand, East Street. Ashburton.



BUSINESS NOTICES. ' SANTA CLAITS AND FATHER XMAS COMING AGAIN. - - H. M JONES, - - ' AA\ ases of Toys, Fancy Goods, Books, Stationery, China, Glass, Plush, TE KJ Japanese and Leather Goods Suitable for Christmas, (Sew Year, Birthday & Wedding Presents Imported direct from.Leading London Houses. Sliist be Sold. Lowest possible Prices. Call early & often Christmas Cards in great variety. Pianos, Organs and Bicycles sold, Easy payments Cricketing, Croquet and Tennis Material EL M. JONES. jSOM XMAS — - 1902 ---tipl\ FOR THE BOYS «',th Boy's bint a Good [j^^B^mm^ ?03>ot Knife, Pretty Tie, or numerous BOYS> Sailor Suits' 5s 6d ' 7s Gd ' to 13s 6d '• Kussar Suits, 7s 6d to 16s 6d ' 1': t» " Norfolk Suits, Cs 6d to 21s ' ' -YOUTHS'3-Garment Suits, 15s 6d to 42s 6d. fl^^p^l ' All Exceptional Values Represent" KW^M ing style and duality. ;|P 9%* " Britain's Best Bioyui^."' JSIJS? Roy al l v I : : BEST IN MA.ORTLA.ND. FaVOl'S RUDGE-WHITWOIITII IB^ fl| CYCLES. fflk *^j> DEDUCED In QTi tut "Vat? v3 oi tr,3 a. j^^&^^B Persons who wish to do their own Painting will fml it to their advantage to call at my Oil and Color Store. j 1 have Ready Mixed Paints, Genuine White LcadL awd Oils, or I will mix any shade of Olir OWli GeiUliue Paint. Paperhanger, Painter, and Sign-writer. SHEEP SHEARING SEASON. THATE JUST LANDED MY SEAS.OJT'S SUPPLY OF JL 3s 6d. SHEEP SHEARS, 3s 6d including T.U.S. and H.8.A., N.Z., with plain and perforated grips, Turkey Oil Stones, a splendid sample. Sweet Oil. Branding Oils—Red, Black, and Blue, in 1 and 5 gallou drums; Eaddle, Lamp Black, Etc. LAWN MOWERS in great variety, from 22s 0d to 55s each. GARDENING- TOOLS of every description at reduced prices. BOWLS! BOWLS! BOWLS! As the season has just opened, I cordially inrite inspection of my stock--Taylor's first quality odlv kept. 1 y y SEWING MACHINES I lam sole agent for the celebrated " Davey " Machine ; 7 years' guarantee ; Hand £3 • 10s; Trear'le from £G 10s to JGB 10s. Call and inspect. They are worth looking at. G. M E D I) ! N S, The People's Ironmonger, Burnett Street, ouDosite Arcade. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. I F^J ET"\a,F "W XT* i\ I Ek f*l^ n.z. clothTng factory. .



The Christmas $ Holiday Season, Picnic Parties Catered for as p«s? Arrange ment. EINE Assortment of Confectionery for the Christmas Season opened out. Birthday and Wedding Cakes made jfco order. Bread made by Montgomery's and Berma line process. C. BEECH, Baker and Pastrycook, TANCRED STREET. tc per lb, Finest Fresh Separator Butter, Willowby Factory; acknow ledged superior flavor to any other brand ou the market.—CAESoy and Co, Sole Agents.



OjTRANGrE'B Famous White Tatenfc O Satin Quilt (full size) jgg 6d.