EPHEMERIS

BUN.

Phases ef Moon for February

Mail Notices

Mails close for the following places as under, subject to the necessary alterations:

FRIDAY, February 7

I For Northern Ports and Weatport, per Tarawern, at 6.30 p m

SATURDAY, Feb 8

For Australian States, India, China, Straits Setblemenfce, United Kingdom. Continent of Europe, eto, (due London, March 23rd), specially addressed via Brindisi, also for South Afrioa, at 12 30 p m

The next besb despatoh for United King dom is via San Francisco, leaving Ashburton oa February 19„h, and due London March 22nd

MINING

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph

Dunedin, Febuary 7

Today's sales :-—Ahaura River, five parcels 2* 3d ; Ettriok, 11?, 11a ; Golden Riper, 7s9J; Moequito. 19., 225, 21s 9d, 22s 3d, 22s 3d, 22^ fid, 22i 91; Notown Creek, 23) j Olrig, 12* 3d; Paotolue, 34* 0J; Upper Magnetic, 4a.

COMMERCIAL.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph—Copyright London, Feb 5 Wool is firm, and oompeti ion spirited and general, The Waipahl clip realised 6£d, Meanee 6|l, Otago si.

RAM FAIR AT PALMERSTON NORTH.

Palmebston North, Feb 6

Messrs Abraham and Williams, Limited, and the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Company held their annual ram fair today. Between 800 and 900 rams were disposed of, the highest price being obtained for South downs bred by Mr Overton, Canterbury, bought by Mr Biddiford for 21gs. A good demand was shown for Romneys, Border Leioesters, and Down Sheep. Lincolns will be sold tomorrow

THE BUTTER MARKETS.

Wellington, February 6

Mr H O Cameron, New Zealand Produce Commissioner in London, anticipates this season there will be a very widespread dis tribution of this colony's butter. Ia connection with the middlemen question, instances have come under his notice io which butter was sold three times over before being offered by the wholesale merchant to the retailer. He condemns the export of unsaltod colonial butter to London.

Ab the Chambers of Commerce Conference, Mr John Holmes read a telegram from Mr J 8 Kinsello, Dairy Commissioner, who stated thab large quantities of best New Z'aland brands of butter are being frczen in Australia The brands are being planed off, and replaoed by the words ' choicest Australiam'

MARRIAGE.

Crowe—Dineen.—On Wednesday, Jan. 29, at the Roman Catholic Church, Ashburton, by the Rev. Dean O'Doouell, Matthew Crowe, of Westerfield, to Annie, eldest daughter of Mr J. D;nteo, of Ashburton.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1902.

The people of Ashburton have good reason to be proud of their Domain, which is undoubtedly one of the pretti est and the best kept of any in New Zealand. There are some few which surpass it in picturesque beauty, hav ing natural advantages which our Domain does not possess ;,bat we do not know of any which offer so many attractions to visitors as the Ashbur ton Domain. The Domain Board has, in spite of the persistent opposition of some of its members, recognised the advantages to be derived from a judicious outlay on the grounds, and the results must afford great satisfac tion to all those who have baen instru mental In bringing them about. The work of Mr C. E. Fooks in the early days in this connection ia acknow ledged by all those familiar with the history of this town, and the services ©f the present curator, Mr W. W. Smith, are top well known jto need comment here. The inauguration of a Sports Association, and the formation of grounds, tracks and court, for its affiliated clubs has also tended to im prove various portions of the estate, and to make the whole Domain more attractive to the public. There are, however, many things which might be isorxe that would be of great advantage to tho people who v_isit these beautiful grounds, and whisfa wouls not require any very considerable outlay, la pointing these out we are aware that the responsibility of attending to them is divided between the Board and the Sports Association, Some of the work required would devolve upon the for mer and some upon the latter. For instance the condition of the main walik from the Railway Station en trance to the Oyal is out of .keeping with the rest of the groun^ it being covered with nothing but loose shingle'^ and this is the Board's affair. One of the members of the Board drew attention to this matter at a meeting of that body some time ago, md it was stated that the walk would be top dressed with clay and cinders ; but solar nothing has been done. A great want, is some enclosure facing tbe ,Oyal in which seat accommodatioii could be rWer.ved on close days for ladies and! those willing to pay extra for it. We beiieve there Is no saorts ground in the colony boasting or an asphalt cycling track which has not an enclosure reserved, even if it has not a grand stand. We commend to both the Tomain Board and the Sports As sociation the consideration of this mat ter, reminding them that the special admission "fee chargeable would eon pay tor the cost qV $6nst£agtfng such an enclosure*. In §h'm coVneJbt|#l? & would be a decided !mprwe»gint if some of the trees on the north-east side of ths Oval were cut down, There would be quite enough of them left fos? shelter, if-one row of the pinus insignis were 'removed, Another segge^tfon may b,e njiade wit ( h reference to'the' new building iateiy ,e,re ( ctied r by the Tennis Club, whioh ii not in Ise'e^ing wit^ its surroundings. It would be s good pUft

to pnt ivy and other creeping plant about it, so that bya-and-bye it may look a trifle more picturesque than it does just now. The Board has recently placed some twenty-five seats about the, grounds, but when the winter comes it will be found that there is still a de mand for more, Th© curator informs as that he pnt a quantity of young fish in the Domain ponds some time ago ; but, from what we hear, there is' not much chance of any remaining in the water long enough to grow to their proper size, seeing that boys are con stantly taking them out—most of the fish caught being under three inches in length. We think that it would be desirable to prohibit fishing in the Domain ponds altogether for the present. There are plenty of fish iv the Ashburton river to give oar youth ful anglers any amount of good sport. We learn that Mr Smith baa planted a good many climbing plants on the is lands, same of them being indigenous to this country. These should soon greatly add to the general effct of the vegeta tion on those spots ; so would a few rata trees with their brilliant scarlet flowers. We are informed that these trees under careful cultivation can be made to look very handsome. We be. licve that many of the matters referred to above have already received conside ration from the curator, but it is quite possible Mr Smith has been prevented from suggesting some desirable improve ments in consequence of the very pronouhoed opinions against speeding money on the Domain that have from time to time been expressed by cortain members of the Board. Wa are quite sure that the majority of the burgesses of Ashburton will never begrudge the , judicious expenditure of money oo their magnificent publio estate, and we hope tbe curator will not hesitate to make any recommendations he may think would tend to beautify, or in any way improve the publio grounds under his charge.

There is gieab die^atisfaction In Canter bury concerning the arrangements bhab have been made for the da* Departure op the parture of |bhe Eighth Eighth Contingent. Contingent tomorrow.

The present plan is that the men shall entrain at Addington and go rlghb through to Port, and then on to the steamer. Commeutfng on this, the Press B ays;—la any case it is well thab before ib is too late bo make alterations the military authorities should understand that there is much dissatisfaction with their scheme. There may .not be so much ' Soldiers of the Queen'and general a mafficking'nowadays aa there was two years ago, bub we are just as loyal as we were then, and even more proud of our troopers, for they have proved themselves. And for this reason the city wants to say good-bye to the colony's latest contribution to the war ia its own hearty civilian fashion.

Local and General.

Weather ForeoastJ — Captain Edwin wires: — Moderate to strong northerly winds; glass fall.

Foot Warmehs—An order hss been sent Home for an additional supply of ioob war mere for railway carriages, to be delivered in the colony bwo months hence.

Honour to a Townsman—Another honour has been done to our townsman Mr Lew ellyn Owen. His • Euterpe Wal a,' whioh is known so favourably here, is being played nightly at the Theatre Royal, Melbourne.

GATBEPiLLABS—One night last week a New Plymouth farmer lost nearly tbe whole of a 22 acre paddook of oats by caterpillars When they were Been approaching in the afternoon aa effort was made to save a portion of the crop, bub only an acre or two could be out before the myriads of cater* pillars had made a clean sweep of the pad dock, leaving nothing bub bare straws, where an hour r r bwo earlier had been a good crop of oats just ready for cutting.

Suspected Murder —At the inquest on the body of Michael Fagan, who was found iv the Auckland harbour on Wednesday, the evidence of Dr Lowe showed that death was due to drowning, but a recent Incised wound was found on the left breast, such as could not have been self inflicted. It was supposed thab the man was stabbed, The inquest has been adjourned for police enquiries.— A Press Association telegram received this morning states thab the police are informed that Fagan was gored by a bull at Henderson previous to his disappear ance.

Drowning Acoidents—A Press Associa tion telegram from Auckland stafcss thab two boys named Plnson, aged 15 and 13, were drowned ao Tekopuru when swimming.— A drowning accident occurred ab Wangaaui on Thursday afternoon, a lad named Maurice Fiztnaurioe, aged 11, being the victim. He went for a bathe with some other lads, and gob oub of his depthi The body was recovered. The lad's father is in England, and deceased with his mother and brother were to have left in a few days to join him.

A Preferential Tariff-Ab the Auck land City Council on Thursday night Mr Han nan moved thab a clause be inserted in the Couriotl cohtfttctSc, prohibiting the use of material manufactured in countries hostile to the Empire, and calling on the Premier to pass a preferential tariff. The motion was lost. Mr Baume said he objecbed to the wording of the motion, and gave notice of his intention to move thab tbe Council heartily approves of a proposal to bring in a preferential tariff in favour of the British Empire. This will probably be carried.

,Through South Africa on a Bicvole— A recent issue of the English Cyclist contains tfj© following %— Mr X G M'lntyre, of ||unber!y, writes bo inform Rudge Whit wortb, Limbed, that during the last seven years he ban ridden a Rudge Whjtworth bioyole 28,000 miles, being an average of 4000 milea per year, Travelling over all kinds oi country in Cape Colony, Transvaal, and Orange River Colony, be has, during this period, worn out nine back tyres and six fronb tyres. He adds thab the bearings, frame and wheels are as good today as when he purchased the machine,

. Ashburton Brass Band.—-The ad. jjourned Resting of the promoters of the Ashburton ifrass Band was" held in the County Council Chambers yesjcerdW evening, M* Humphries in the chair, "An apology was revived fqr the, absence of Mr Bullock. After seme discussion, Mr Willis moved that a subcommittee be formed to ascertain what support the Band would receive from the public. The following were appointed to the committee —Messrs Bullock, Saodgrass, H Baker, Carson, BfcDonald, Leitcb, Humphreys, and the-"Secretary. Mr Willis thought thab the Borough Council wosld subsidise the Band.' It was decided thai-applications be incited By advertisement/ for the position of bandmaster or conductor "to t_he Ashburton Brass JBand. Qandidates tp state remuneration required, andapplica' tions to be forwarded to the Secretary by the 18th Inst. A committee W3S set" up to draft the duties of the bandmaster. The meeting then adjourned until the I9th inpti.

One Month Only—Messrs Gates, Lowry cad 00. are prepared to receive a few second .&&D& Bipyoles In part payment for new ones. H'fghe'.b''^iarkeb yaluo jwiijl be avowed on Ingiiah OFGoipolal ju^kee;"

Jam Making SEA«f»y-sAny of our readers wanting Jam, Jelly, or Preserving could nob do better than read Messrs Fletcher Bros advertisement, as they have a great many kinds to choose from, and their pdoes ure bedrock. Owing to being such a phenomenal Fruit S^co throughout the oountyj there" ie likely ~.b be,', a .jabortaga ia Jam Jars, so any lone requiring'any should l?uy #blle prices ap low/1 ' '

The New Orleans Jovjbhile Minstrel Company — Toe above talented company of Young Boys will pay this town a visit on Monday evening, when they will open in the Oddfellows' Hall, for a season of two nights. Thoy have lately arrived from Australia, and have played at Invercargill and Dunedin with great success. Messrs Fitzgerald Brothers' Circus people are tbe proprietors of this Company. The Otago Caily Times speaks in high terms of ihe combination, and states that the Boys have first class voices, and sing the latest songs and ballads. Popular prices are to ba charged, 2j, la 6d, and Is. The plan is now on view at Jones', where seats may be booked without extra charge. This Company, being a novelty, should draw crowded houses.

News in Brief.

A Wellington telegram states that the body of a newly born male infant, wrapped in fhnoelette and laced iv a pillow-slip, was found by some children on Thursday iv Thorndon Esplanade. The child had been dead from five to ten days

The Railway Department is well pleased with the results of the experimented running daily trains between Wellington and New Plymouth, and has decided to continue the service permanently.

Messrs Biilin Bros, of Christohurcb, ad vertise their famous sarsaparilla la this tasue. They claim that it is made from the pure root, and is an excellent remedy for all blood disorder?.

Tho Wairarapa Star states that a settler no'; a hundred miles from Maslerton recently imported eight youog Danes, under a three years' engagement. Four of them have cleared out, one has br-en arrested on a oharge of lunacy, and three remain.

In this issue appears an announcement having reference to an interesting booklet entitled " All about Dunlop Tyres*" The booklet forms a most interesting souvenir of the past season's bioyole racing, and gives aa information for tha management and repair of this'famous tyre. Copies may be had free on application to the Dunlop Tyre Company, Christchuroh.

THE NINTH CONTINGENT.

THE ASHBURTON SECTION.

The following men have been selected by the Ashburton Reoruiting Board, Captain E F Nicoll, Lieub A Clarke, and Dr Bo'gar, for the Ashburton Section of the Ninth Contingent. lb may be mentioned that the original number allotted to this distriob was twenty, but C»ptaln Nicoll was instructed last evening that the quota was raised to twenty-six. Those marked by »n asterisk (*] are ex-members of Volunteer Corps. Clark, Ohas. Tinwald, Ashburton Guards Coldiootb, W J Ashburton (*) Campbell, T J, Ashburton Forks Ohaliis, JG, Weatei field Chapman, G L R, Ashburton Doherty, C W, Tinwald, Ashburton Guards Goldsmith, F E, Staveley Lenoo, A T, Aehburbon Long, R, Ashburton Mitchell, A W, Ashburton, Ashburton Guards Mitchell, J H, Ashburton (*) McLaren, Donald, MaySeld McKay, J J, Ashburton, Ashburton R'fles McCartney, ffy, Ashburton (*) Pyoroft, W, Rakaia (*) Payne, J H, Hinds, A M.R Sutherland, J W, Ashburton, A.M.R Bhellock, Geo, Rakaia Scott, H L, Ashburton Stephen, G 8, Staveley Sharplin, H H, Staveley Tait. Thoa, Ashburton, Ashburton Guards Thomas, S, Ashburton (*) Willis, A, Ashburton, Third Contingent WiUon, J«, Wakanui Wilson, Joseph, Aehburtoo, Ashburton Guards

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph —Copyright

A FAILURE IN MARCONI MESSAGES.

London, February 6

A company after wording the Marconi system ab Nawair (query Hawaii) as a commercial undertaking for two months, failed from lack of support, owing to the unaccountable disappearance of whole messages.

PURCHASE OF DAK3SH WEST INDIES.

Washington, Feb 6

The Senate's Foreign Committee favourably reported oo the treaty for the acquisition of the Danish West Indies.

STOCK RETURNS.

Sydney, Feb 6

The stock returns for New South Wales on Ist January show an Increase of cattle for the year of 39,187, and of sheep 1,335,627, Horses decreased by 3216, owing to the large asportations.

CARDINAL MORAN.

Cardinal Moran, accompanied by Dr O'Haran, sails for Rome at the end of the month.

SOUTH AFRICA

United Pre.s Association—By Electric

Telegraph—Copyright

London, Feb 5

The Independance Beige is publishing Dr (Jonan Doyle's pamphlet on the cause and conduct of the war, refuting the Continental calumnies, but it is im possible to find publishers in Germany or Holland.

The late pastor at the Irene camp, protests against the wild and indecent charges, destroying the character of modest Afrikander girls, in order to serve lying tongues and unscrupulous peps. An intercepted letter sjhows _baf; Botha directed seuth a number of Boer women into the British lines.

The British have granted twelve thousand pounds to compensate Italian undesirables deported from South Africa, Tbe amount covers one hun dred and twenty claims.

February 6

The National S outs captured thir teen J^ders at Middleburg, and Geaeral Phimer sevpn at Ajnerspbort. Colonel Gilbert Uainilton, after a long pursuit, drovp a fonoof Boers in-* to the blockhouse line, capturing thirty two.

Colonel Byng specially mentions the gallantry of the New Zealanders in the South African Light Horse. The killed include Oornet Weasels, and the pris oners Captain Mulier, of the Staats Artillery; fifLany cattle were captured, The British casualties were sli|h^ " '

The Boer delegate^ angrily pontest Lord Lansdowne's assertion that they have no voice in the Boer Councils. They allege that Great Britain is aware that the leaders in the field consulted them by cable in June last. Great BrUain_, they say, is still trying to exterminate the Boers by wrecking pyery effort for peacK The terms of Lore] Landsdowne'a reply rendered it impossible for £he .debates to apply for a iafe eoodggfc or for apytljipg else.

You can depend on ridding your Children of Worms with Wade's Worm Figs, the wonderful worm worriers price is

Nelson's Diamond Jubilee.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

Nelson, February 6 The jubilee celebrations were continued today. Tbe children's fete and athletic sports at Richmond Park attracted six thousand people.

At the sports F Nattrase (scr) won the Five Mile Cash Cycle, Q Bradley (76yds). second, and E H Best (75yd6) third. Three Mile Cash Cycle-F Baigent (210 yds) 1, F Hart (320 yds) 2, F Nattrass (30 yd*) 3. Two Mile Wheel Raca-FNatbras (20pdf) 1, G Bradley (45yds) 2, B H Best (50yds) 3. At gun club matohes, in the £30 match, H R Duncan (handicap 8), and Col. Wood (handicap 10), with 21 divided first and second money, F Bed wood (handicap 4), with 20, takincr third place. In the Championship, W Squires obtained 17 out of 20 birds, Mr Eccles (16) bdng next. In the team match Nelson v Blenheim, the visitors won with 23 against 21. Blenheim was represented by Eccles, H Redwood, F Redwood, H Checseman, and A Redwood.

Ths display of fireworks by the Chinese tonight in aid of the hospital was very largely attended.

Nelson, February 7

Excellent weather has bren experienced all through the Jubilee celebrations, whioh are being terminated today by a regatta and other amusements

The Liberal Party's Picnic.

SPEECH BY THE PREMIER,

Wflmnoton, Feb 6

The Liberal pionic, held at Dalefield to day, was attended by the Premier, Hon T V Duncan, Hon 0 H Mills, Messrs Horasby and Hogg, In the course of a speech the Premier, referring to land settlement io Wairarapa, said all the efforts of the Govern ment to acquire land there bo far had ben frustrated. Either the land was not suitable or tbe price offered was tower than owners could reasonably be expected to accept. Though the Government had attempted time after time, it had not been able to secure one estate. The officer in charge of the Land Purchase Department had been charged, and now two or three estates were being reported upon. There would be no more humbug. An off Jr would be made to owners, but if it was not accepted tbe oompulsory Clauses of the Act would be invoked.

Referring to bhe statement thab there would be two short sessions during the year, the Premier said there would be no each thing. Though he might have a diffidesoe in going to England with bhe responsibility of representing New Zealand, he left the colony to the control of hia supporters with perfect confiderce. Speaking on the finances of the colony, the Premier said the revenue of the colony for ten months cf the financial year exceeded that for the same period of laeb year by £150,000.

FIRES.

SERIOUS OUTBBEAK AT NEW PLY-

MOUTH.

United Press Association—By Electrio Telegraph

Nsw Plymouth Feb 6

A serious outbreak of fire occurred at eight o'clock tonight in the centra of one of the principal business blocks in Devon street, which threatened at one time to do a very large amount of d*mage< The upstairs part of tbe London Dental Institute and the premises of C Cottier, photographer, ap peared to be the Seat of the fir?, and both were tborougb'y gutted. Tne Dresden Piano Company, under Cottier's had al! their stock cleared out, so that the damage there was only slight. The other down stairs premises were Daviee, laud agent, and Birr Brown, commission agent. The amount of damoge to theße is nob ascertainable, but both places were e'eaned out. Grave fears were felb ab one time for the safety of the Go if a 9 Palace, a large building adjoining, which was f ;il of borders. Willing hands coon removed he goodß from portions of the buildings nearest the fire, bub fortunately there wis no wind, and tbe Fire Brittle managed to ga' the flames under before they got through, though the wails were slightly charred. There was a good pressure of water, and, despite the difficult Usk the B igade had in dealing with theflunes in the intricate passages ia the upstairs portion of the bur ling building, all danger was over in about an hour. The insurances were not ascertainable beyond Cottier's, as the several people effected were oub of town, the day being a holiday, Cottier had £100 insurance on the stook in the New Zealand office, and estimates his loss at £300 above this.

Rebuilding an Hotel

A TECHNICAL POINT DECIDED.

United tfress Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph

Wellington, February 6

The Public Trustee, being about to reconstruct the larger portion of the Rutland Hotel, Wanganui, applied to the Supreme Court for Its advice and direction as to whether he was bound to leave at the side or rear of the new structure a strip of land as provided by section 352 of the Municipal Corporations Act, 1900. lb was contended for the Public Trustee thab section 352 did not apply to the erection of dwelling houses, lodging bouses or hotels on sites where such buildings had existed before the section 352 became law, and that the section only applied to buildings erected for the first time on. vacant'land j and further that the section did not apply to the rebuilding of an old portion of a dwelling house, etc (is In the present case), if the rebuilding was on the tite of an old portion removed. The Chief Justice has now delivered judgment upholding this contention.

Australian Defence.

United Press Association—By Eleotrio

Telegraph—Copyright

LoNiCrbiir, 'F^brnary |

Sir George Sydenham Qlarke, tha Governor of Victoria, referring to the defences, advises the Commonwealth to obtain from the Admiralty the loan of fairly modern ships and modern armaments so that Australians may go to sea to be taoghc gunnery at sea, He thinks the equivalent spent in training the Australian seamen on larger efhips wqnjd ' be found ■a^ more yalgable pontribntion than the ssjn? at present devoted in the auxiliary squadron.

Queensland and Federation.

MR BARTON AND MR PHILP.

United Press Association—By Electrio . . Telegraph—Copyright

SyDHBY, Feb 6. Mr Barton characterises Mr"Phftpk remarks on federation as pop-gun critipism, calculated to spare "nobody but himself. Before the referendum Mr Fhilp posed as an ardent Federalist, but his action since tends to the con clusion that he never really understood what federation is. Changes of a com prehensive character were always liable to be accompanied by these irritations. The life of jihe Federation solely de fends upon tfte greaf pub%: opjnioii. Mr l?hilp retorts that he jg sorry Mr Barton te sa angry, but the latter knows very little about Queensland, and the pity of it is that be will not ieixa

Magisterial

ASHBURTON-THURSDAY.

(Before C A Wray, Esq, S.M)

H A Lloyd v John MoOonnel, claim £187 7<s, damages for breach of agreement. Mr Harper, with him Mr Purnell, for defendant, and Mr Cresswell for tbe plaintiff.

The following completer our report of this oJ.ee :— Mr Harper, in opening for the defence, stid that he would admit that there had been a bteieh of contract with regard to the aommissioa whioh Stonyer was to receive. They shou'd abide by tbe rate adopted by the Chamber of Commerce. It was unfair thab hie client should be bound by a private arrangement. If tho soale of the Chamber of Commerce were adhered to, the commission on the sale would be reduced to something like £30; In all cases of this Bocb there was a properly drawn up agree* meat, Mr Lloyd has not tested the matter ar all. Iv this case, Mr Lloyd had not en deavoured to sell after his client bad thrown up the bargain. Some damage m»y hava been caused by work on the farm being suspended, His client had really only offered to buy the property, and nothing adduced by the other aide could make id more than an cffer. He cited several oases to show that this was adopted by Judges in . England. He submitted that when MoCon. Nell signed the agreement, although there was an agreement te buy, until the vendor agreed to that, it was no more than ao offer. His client had afterwards repented of hie action, and and he thought that only very small damages should be allowed. To hit mind, the evidenoe bearing on the damages sustained had been very unsatisfactory. Mr Cresswell said thab the defendant had made a bad bargain, and now was trying to . get out of it by any means. The other side admitted thab everything was satisfactory except that the name of the vendor was omitted from the agreement. He submitted thab the agreement was in order, as bis learned friend admitted that it was not neces sary thab the vendor should be named! Their argument was that it was conceivable thab McDonnell was nob buying from Lloyd but from someone else. He contended that this was not a good argument; Even stronger than tbe agreement was the letter from defendant to Stonyer, whioh ran as follows :—Mr Stonyer,—Dear Sir,—Having made a thorough inspection of the farm , of Mr Lloyd's, X find it is nob up to expectations, and I cannot go on, as lb ia very poor in places,—Yours truly, John MoConnbjxj la this letter the - defendant admitted that he knew who the - owner of the property wast The argument of his learned Mend, therefore, fell to the • ground. He submitted that the memorandum was sufficient as it stood. If thab was not accepted, there was the letter to support it. . In reference to th? other contentions of hie friend, he thought they wtre too far fetched bo merit consideration. They contended thab the agreement was not a final one* That there was to be a more elaborate agree ment drawn up he admitted. Still tbe agreement in evidenoe was sufficiently binding. This was signed, and what more, a deposit of £15 had been paid. To hold thab this was only ail offer be thought wan bhe height of absurdity. His friend, had asked thab Stonyer'i commission be reduced to Chamber of Commerce rates. If that was done, the commission would be just £20 more than at presenti claimed, Mr Lloyd was quite right to. suspend farm operations as aeon at be heard of the sale, it was only the reasonable thing to do< He asked for judgment for the fall amount claimed.

With regard to the teohnicai atpeot of the case, His Worship thought thab the agree* meet satisfied the requirements of the case. He thought that there had been an ia and oub sale, and not an offer, He did cot think Stonyer's commission excessive. Judgment would be given for plaintiff for £100 oommiesloD, and £10 for loss of time.

OLD AGE PENSIONS, Several old age pensions were renewed*

Ashburton Town Clock.

The following contributions have been received towards the Ashburton Town Clock : £ s d Amount previously acknow ledged ... _. ... £225 13 6 H McElrea 10 0 T Stooe 0 10 0 P Chalmers .. .. .. 110 R Bird .. .. .. 1 1 0 D Wilson .. .. .. 2 0 0 T H Undrill .. .. .. 0 10 6 D Thomas .. .„ .. 2 2 0 T Bullock .. .. .. 3 3 0 Total £257 6 0

Lyttelton Harbour Board

United Press Association—By Eleotrio Telegraph

Christohurcr, Feb 6

The annual report and balance sheet of the Lyttelton Harbour Board states that the financial operations during the year have been very satisfactory, the excess of revenue over expenditure being £17,320. This will be required to meet the demand for extension ef wharves and jetties, in consequence of increasing trade at the port of Lyttelton. The total increase of receipts, as compared with the previous year, is £6823. The chairman In his report, said that it might be well for the Board to consider whether, in the Interests of the Canterbury public, it would be advisable to obtain information and a report as to the feasibility of constrncting a harbour at Sumner in con j unction with a canal to Christchuroh Oihor members of the Board, however, did not fall in with the "suggestion, and said that It should riot have been iriserted In the report. "Th'a Idea is really the outcome of a'feeling in Canterbury that the charges on the railway from Lyttelton to Ohristchurch are exorbitant, and should be reduced, an assertion having been made that it would have been cheaper to build a canal than mike the railway tunnel through the port hills.

Proposal to bring Boer Prisoners to the Chathams.

United Press Association—By Sleoteio Telegraph—Copy righ b

Christohuboh, February 6

The adjourned meeting of members of Parliament and others interested, was held re the question of using the Chatham Islands as a depot for Boer prisoners. The Hon Major Steward was in the ohalrt A letter was read, signed by 26 settlers, who ex pressed themselves favourable to receiving the Boers, and a similar letter from other parts of the Islands, la the discussion, it was stated thab lG,l}2ty. >ojes we«p untile offer to the l]ew~ Zealand GoverntwSflti Whioh at present owned only IS acres at the Chatham Islands, capable of producing abundant food, and only tea, sugar, and other stores would require to be imported, also wood and iron to build barracks. One speaker said that there was room for 3000 prisoners, bub others, on the basis of a 1000, said that it would be necessary to keep 500 men and others to aob as a guard, besides a man of war on bhe adjacent ooasb, Major Steward, and Messrs GLaurensoa, MHS, Ohudlelgb. and Hoban were appointed a committee to wait upon the ftgigief dufio(| hjs yiaib to Ghristoh'jiroh. "

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN : FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7, ld< %



uafce 'ebruary 19 II tl 91 II

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Rite* 6 10 5 11 5 12 6 14 5 18 5 16

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F. FERRIMAN j FOR SALE Goodwill oi Farm oi 552 Aoret>, part tf the Pareora Estate, held under Leae© in Per petuity for 99S year?. I HAVE received inetruo ioriß to dell the Goodwill of & Farm of 852 Acre?, forming part of she Paieora Fatate, situated »»bo«t6 miles from tha St Andrew* Railway Station, and 10 milts below Timaru. "I h* improvements consist of threw mileaofnsw fencing, three roomed or>tt»g«< and sculler;, . •table and ohc-ffroom 50x14, impUrmn' Sh*d3os:l2< The buildings atea'liew; 140-a-res are laid down in grass mi« year, 54 acres are sown down 1 w'ea', 30 acres in bats, 85 acres in turnips, and llm re fitainder is in old pasture. Ibis property is one of the pick of the estate, and is in good heart it will carry two sheep to tha acre, ant? last yenr fattened 400 lambs, whioh were sold on the furm al l4i <M mob, ' Fal! particulars can bi> had on application to F FERR'MAN, , Land and JFatate Agent, Ashburton FOR SALE' TANORED' STREET, ASHBURTON. A SOUND INVESTMENT. IHAVE received instructions from Mr Edward Gibbard to sell part of Town Section 108, situated in Tancred Street, upon which is erected a veij ctmmodious and convenient Draper's Shop, with dwelling attached, large front glass windows, good position. The property le let to a good tenant, and is yielding an annual rental of £91. Full particulars may be had on appll **Uonfc° F FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent, Ashburton SBIEP FARMS. IHAVK'Beveral Rood 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* Foil particulars on application. F. FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent • BUSINESS NOTICES LIVERPOOL AND LONDON AND GLOBE INSURANCES COMPANY. Fire Reserve Fund, £2.040,000 Fundi" over Ten Million Pounds Sterling MR JOBEt'H WARD having resigned tbe Agency of this Company at. Ashburton, Clients and others are ( informed that Mb J B Christian, Burnett Street, has been appointed aa his successor; The Company is noted for its liberality aad promptness of settlrment of c'aimg. BIRD AND ADLIiY, I 74 Managers, Cbrhtchurch n_aL_^BLLTIT"owSNr" MOSM. CERTIFICATED & REGISTERED TEACHER. SIUDENTS prrpired *or *ny Musical EKamioa'ion held in Nw Zealand. AH branches of Music taught. Candidates presented a* ' xaninitlone 157 ; average marks ga ned, 94 per cent. __ . _ . . -if V• v j GREAT StOGlcf-alclng 1 deductions At THB NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING X? AOT OR V LOTHINO J? ACTOR V Boys' Straw Hats reduced to 6i M en's St raw Hats 7a 6d reduced to 2s Men's Hard and Soft Felts la Men's Black Soft Felts, 2* Qi Mend Drab Soft Felts, 5j 6 J Boys' Tweed Cape, 3d and 6 J Boys' Tweed Hatp, 6d and Is CLOTHING ~ Boys' Tweed Suits reduced to 5a 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 -out for ABSOLUTE SALE, so come ♦airly. THE NEW ' % 15ALAND CLOTHING FACTORY JP. H. BKOKIKGSALE, Manager Fishing- Season, 1901-1902. HABDLEY BROS AGAIN to the fore with Vnek new . IMPORTED STOCK. OF FISHING TACKLE io jjreafc variety—Mimiowß.iiFiieis, fUelßfLinee, Waders, Rods, eto, etc Anglers call and inapeoh WE aw alee p-spared to give estimates fur ( Hot and Cold Water Services, Tanks, Baths, I Portable Boilers* sad Tinware of every description j HARBLEY bps- EAST STREET I WANTED every one to try Mjo£o3?» jb j Zealandia Hoot Store for wonder* 4ul value. j



DOn READ THIS AND THEN FOKGET IT. GREAT BED LETTER BAY. FTIHE Polytechnic Drapery Company has J. purchased the entire stock of Mb E,' Gibbard's, Tanored Street, for cash, and intend to sell it for what it will bring. Having large consignments coming from Eng land, and very little room, we will mike prices blush at their own cheapness. Prices completely upset ! A Sale prolific with price surprises! A carnival of cut prices Look here Auction prices without the auction) Linen Faced Paper Collars 2a 93 dcz boxes 1 Men's Braoes, Hats, Ties, and Box, all at 6d Gents' 35* Tweed Suits for 21s 6<l Faccy Pioafore Muslin, 8a lid dcz Sbsndard Prints, 39 lid dtz Pink Twill flannelette, 3s lid dos Sootoh Cotton Shirting, 4s lid doz White Linen Handkerchiefs, la 6d half dc 2 4s 6d Men's Felt Hats for U ) Id Blaok and coloured Dress Stuff', Curtalnp, Calico, Prints, Quilts and Hosiery, all out price marvels In addition to this the new Manager will give to evory customer spending 5s a piece of musio worth 2s. This is a chance in a life time of securing a good stock of music ABSOLUTELY FOR NOTHING. Remember the ad I: c i —Lite E Gibbard Tanored Street, now the POLYTECHNI J. PARALYSING, POLYTECHNIC PRICES Come and share in the spoil. THE SALE IS ON TO-DAY. COMPARE ~ *tt* ____r _^_H ■__ — .." j_B_r __■■ __r _ t _£» B&F _e_e_r _^r Ar ATAOT PRICE SBgft 1/6 l/B 2/4 2/8 MISS M. BICfIAj|PBON s mEAC HX R Oif PIANO, Term begins on February 1, 1902. Belt Roao, Allenton. 1200 _ _ • J WBIGHT, Conductor and Promote? (ft the Ashburton Bar Jo Band, TS Prepared to receive Pupils lor BAFJO, MANDOLINE and GUITAR. Concerts, At Homes, Garden Parties, Etc, attended, A good supply of Inalrumpnia and Mueio kept in stock, For Terms, etc, apply 2 33 J» WRIGHT, Tanored Street. i TTAViS you noticed what a nice finish in ' JO a room pictures neatly framed makes H. BAißSffoy/ will be pleased to frame any you have ab a yory moderate price. Address —Baßb Street, two do.o?s below W H Col ins & Co. I* ULSTER Bx>b Shop-THOS, YOUMG, Bootmaker, thanka his numerous friends for their liberal support, and wishes them a Happy Christmas, and a Prosperous New Year. >©n amount of not being able to assure Almana,o3, I &*$ return to every I parehaser for one mont.h from date, f nual to '10 per ceefc on (Goods purchased. |j£a,yirig I completed my stack of Footwear, 1■ aoUofc inspection of the aaai«—rH.o3. y,VUW,G, | Uister Boot Shop, Tanered Street, Ashburton | I TAMES BAKER in thanking Patrons for I*§ past favours, would solicit ft oontinu f ,anee te (hip successors, j W. & M. BAKER, I who will carry on tho buiiirsepa as usual at the fnrnjsblDg Wa^bouae, Ha.velock



PRICE



BUBINEBB NOTICES . ' J. WILSON HAS Jast received ANOTHEH 10 Bales of Lovely WALL PAPERS. ?NOLUDRD in tho Shipment are some beautiful Deaignafin Dining Room, Bedroom, and Hall Papers. | Persons desiring to choose their Papers from "the full stock may have them j laid aside until rf quirtd. houskHpainting. TBrS part of tha business receives our special attention, none but GENUINE Oils and White Lead being used. Thorough tradesmen sent to town or country at shortest notice. Sign-writing a specialty. SALE TO"DAY. MEN'S Olobhing, Boys Clothing, Boots, Shoes, Muslins, Prints, Dress Materials, Millinery, EtJ. All the latest and newest must be soli to make room for Winter Shipments. SAVE YOUR MONEY AT ALOOEUN'S. ™4' NICHOLAS & PICKFORD'S IS THE BEST AND CHEAPEST PLAGE FOR FOOTWEAR THERE IS NO DOUBT. ORDINARY PRICES! Ladies' Glace 2 Bar Shoes 5e 9d, only a few pairs Ladies' Glace Walking Shoes, Patent OapLaee or Strap, 6s 9d Ladies' Tan Walking Shoes from 7s Ladies' Smart Oanvas Shoes 33 9d and 4s 9d, black or tan Gent,/ Oanvas Shoes 5s 6d, 6s 6d, and 7s 6d Girls' and Maids' Oanvas Shoes 3s 3d, 3s 6d, Ss 9d, 4s and 4s 6d Ladies' Tennis Shoes 2s 9d, 3s 9d, 4s 6d, 6s 6d, Bs, lis 6d. and 14s 6d Gents' Tennis or Bowline Shoes 2s 9d, 3e 6d, 7a 6d, 12s 6d,;i6s 6d, 18s 6d 6d, 20s, 22s 6d Ladies Evening Shoes from 8s Men's Bluchers, nailed or plain, from ss*6d Boys' and Girls' School Boots from 4s 9d Children's Strap Shoes, sizes 2 to 6, at from 2a 3d Girls' 2 Bar Shoes from 3s 6d Gents' Cricketing Boots, Running and Cycling Shoes, at various prices Hundreds of other lines at equally low prices NICHOLAS AND PICKFORD, EAST STREET;



j Government Notices. II NEW ZEALAND RAILWAYS. Train Arrangements for Daparture of E'ghth Contingents f\TX February Bth, a Special Train for \J Passengers for Chrißtchurch from stations between Timaru and Tinwald, wilt leave Timaru ab 630 a.m., Rangitata 7 42, ) Hirde 8.15, Window 8.30, Tinwald 8.41 ; and return from Christoburch at 7.15 p m. , The evening train Christchuroh to Ash. burton will start) at 6.15, and be due from Rakaia at 8.13, Chertsey 8,29, Ashburton arr 9,0 (Bhe evenlag train Rtk&ia bo Methven will start at 8 20, Lauriston 9,6, Mathven arr 9.40 For particnlara re excursion fares see bills 2 48 By Order fuumii ' iiis_j-M_wi-i_ii-»ii|iij_iiLa_g ASHBURTON LADIEd AGREE THAT _^— —i _—* ~> is the choicest and most delicious; TEA On the Local Marke*, Packed in lead, and encased in card board Oartona to ensure freshness and flavor right to the breakfast table. Sole Agent— J. T. GOOGH, Ariiburton. JUADItfS, LADIES; = NOTICE = HAVING PUROHABED FOR CASH an Extraordinary Line of BLACK SERC4ES AND PLAIN AND FANCY LUSTRES, We Can Offer You During "OUR SALE," Now in Full Swing, DRESSES COMPLETE As Under: — (Made in the latest style, and fib guaranteed Black Heavy Diagonal Fancy Serge (very | suitable for Autumn Wear)i Dress ( {Complete for — TWO POUNDS';- Plain Black Lustre, dress complete ... ... & 0 6 Fancy Black Lustre, dress complete ... ... 3 "<l 0 Superior Fancy Black Lustre I dress complete ... 3 5 0 ' Superior JPlain Black Lustre, drees compMa ... 3 5 0 Extra Superior Fancy Black Lnstrr, dress complete .3 10 fy Elytra Superior Plain Blank Lfiistr©, dr_3Bß .complete 2 10 0 Extra Extra Superfine, (very choice) ... ... %15 & HQBTKGOTE& KEFFORD ••THE CORNER." i^JP^TER&~TOOL_J. — I bavelutt tes&v?M'®> )arge Shipment of QBools of alt descriptions ab'« fwbatly reduced price, and am selling same at f#% #? pejf cent reduction in price. —G. Medians, Wfce People's Ironmonger. ANTIED~iNOWN^We consider thab eatiefied Customers are the beat j J possible advertisement, and we do al! in our : power to "get ,thesr* u " Pon'b forget this when making out ybur household list nf Drapery and visit'Mitchell & Toiupp. The Drapers__^ [_2 " 'J^. GREAT CASH BALEn-Japaneae Goods Just Boughb ab Half Prise; Ob&a Afternoon Tea Sets 2a 6d, China Cups mi j Saucers 03 doz, Handsome Vases from 2s 0 1 | per pair, Japanese Coffa 43 pair, Japanese , | Tooth Powder 3d boy, China Mugs 4d, Chin* J " powle 61—CAWOH * Co. I



We wish to notify oar readers that Messrs Fletcher Bros Seeorid Tea Competition closes ou February 28th, so thab all who hold Coupons must send them iv before the above date, if they wish bo have a chance in this Prize Distribution



Hollis Cycles—The display of Hoilia cyoles now ou view ab John Orr k Go's is well worthy of inspection by all cycling enthus iasts. These machines are made from genuine B.S. A parts by the celebrated guomakers, f« ||ollis It Bons, Vjiinainghatj), wfciob should. \% spipcie^b gqarapfcgb of.their e^oleno^ J' 'Spa j ino.cVls'we hatfe seen are supefbly uriiebed, and the high standard of quality attained In the manufacture of the Hollis bicycle has baou most rigidly maintained.



Smoke New Venap