Mining.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

DUNEDIN, Oct. 31

Dredging Returns. —Cromwell 1540z Idwt, Hartley and Kilsy 105oz, Electric I. 620z 3dwt, Electric 11. 5303, Enterprise II 50oz sdwt lOgr, Junction Electric 490z lodwt, Enterprise I. 390z 1 Idwt Dgr, Waimumu 390z, New Alpine Consols 350z 16dwt- 4gr, Davis Bend 290z lldwt, Mystery Flat 270z 15dwt, Central Mataura 240z 16dwt, Teviot 220z Idwt, Waimumu Extended 20oz 15dwt, Charlton Creek 20oz, Wai mumu Central 17oz 16dwt, Ettrick 15oz 17dwt, Cen'ral Charlton looz Bdwt, Spec Gully 12oz, Molyneux Kohinoor 9oz 7dwt 9gr, Point DOr 9oz, Inchdale ooz 4dwt. « Dunedin, November

To-day's sales— Alexandra Lead 15s Oid to 5s 7id, Bendigo 10s 9d, Leviathan pref. 2s 6d.

Returns — Clyde 550z lOdwt, Mosquito 63ozs 4dwt, Dunstan Lead 450z K'dwt, Mokoia 20oz 3dwt lOgr, Nevis 6oz lOdwfc, Leviathan 270z.

Commercial.

Ashburton Grain Market.

The Ashburton Agency of the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association of Canterbury, Ltd., quotes as follows on Oct. 31st, 1902: Wheat- Tuscan 3s lid to 4s Pearl 43 to 4s Id Hunters 3slod Oats—Duns 2s 3d to 2s 4d „ Danish ... 2s 3d to2s4d „ Sparrowbills ... 2s 4d to 2s 5d „ Canadians ... 2s7dto2sßd Barley—Malting, prime 2s'9d to 3s 3d Inferior ... 2s to 2s 3d Peas—Prussian Blue ... 5s „ Partridge ... 3s Gd Chaff Goodoatsheaf ... £31756 d to£4 Grass seed-Farmers' ... 3s to 3s 6d The above are prices current paid to farmers on trucks at Ashburton.

I The following is the Grain Report for the week ending October 31st : —

Wheat. —Prices for wheat still remain firra, although there is little business being done in prime milling, the bulk offering being in small lines. There is a good demand for damaged wheat and seconds for fowl feed, and any parcels offering find a ready sale. Prices ai'e nominally Tuscsin 3s lid to 4a, Pearl 4s to 4s Id, Hunters' 3s lOd, Fowl feed 3s Id to 3s 2d, Seconds 2s lOd.

Oats. —Both feed and milling are in good demand, but there is difficulty in filling requirements, as the stock of oats in this district is very small, consequently prices quoted are firm. The quotations are - Duns and Danish 2s 3d to 2s 4d, Sparrow bills 2s 4d to 2s scl, Canadians 2s 7d to 2s Bd.

Oatsheaf Chaff of good quality meets with ready sale, but prime bright chaff is very scarce and hard to get, and commmds from .£4 to £4 2s Gd.

Oatstraw Chaff is selling freely at 30s on trucks.

Timaru Grain Market.

(From our own correspondent.)

Timaru, Oct. 31

Owing to the annual Show this week business got out of joint, and merchants report very little doing. The wheat and cits markets remain firm, with no change in last week's quotations. There is likely to be a shortage of good fowl wheat, and an advance in prices at an early date.

Dates of London Wool Sales.

Messrs Dalgety and Company have re ceived the following cable from London, dated October 28th : —The datea of the wool sales for next year have been fixed as follows First series, 20th January, 1903 : seo.md, 10th March ; third, oth May; fourth, 7th July; fifth, 15th September ; sixth, 21th November. There is no limit as to quantity for llj.e first and second series while for the remainder the limit if any will bo arranged hereafter.

Frozen Meat.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

Christchuech, Ocfc. 31

Messrs Dalgety and Co. have received the following cable from London, dated October 30th : —Any change in the price of frozen mutfcon and lamb is in favor of sellers. Frozen beef prices are unchanged. Business is interfered with by the high p,rice3 asked for by owners,

Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1902.

Cg,ble News will be found on the *.rs*; page io-day and Social Column on the fourth pagj?,

! Weather Forecast, •??? Captain Edwin wires : — Moderate winds from between south-west and south and south-east; glass rise.

JJank Holidays,—The banks in Ashbur- wilj observe Saturday, Kpvember Bth ; the day of tb.6 IjTcy Zealand Gup, as a close holiday, and alsp Monday, tho 10th, in honour of the King's Birthday. The banks will ba closed from noon next Thursday for the A. and P. Aesogiation's Show..

Rev. F. W. Isitt.—We learn that the Rev. F. W. Isitt, secretary of the New Zealand Alliance, will address aNo-Ljcense nieoting in Ashburton next Friday night in the Oddfellows' Hall, particulars of which will appear in a future issue.

An Extra Express.—An extra express fcr&iii, to relieve the ordinary express of intermediate traffic, will run from Timaru to Christchuroh on November 6th, and from Oamsiru to Christchui'ch on Novem ber 7th, arriving at Ashburton at 5.55 $nd Christchurch at 7.45 p.m. An advertise ment appears elsewhere.

jvjj MTARY Concert. — The Ashburtou Guards will liold a military concert on both Show nights. The corps have been re hearsing their various iten>3 for some Considerable time, and with the assistance "of all the leading local artists, th£s conpert promises to eclipse anything of the-kind ever held in Ashburton. The Committee wish it to be known that tickets already sold, are available for either night. A. change of programme will take place on the second night. Cycling.—The FaiiTield Employees Eoad Race was held ou Thursday, and resulted : G. Makeig 1, D. Makeig 2, H. P. Arnst, fastest time. All the above riders were mounted on Rudge-Whitworfch. Eoad Racing Bicycles, which are recognised to be the easiest running machines ia the market. inspect ioj." yourselves at R. D. Johnston's ifejcle D.ep'ot., B.arnett Street, 116

■ Vital Statistics—The following are the vital statistics for the month of October :— Births 24, marriages 6, deaths 12.

Favourable Weather.—Our Mayfield correspoadent writes.—The warm weather of the pact week has transformed the country, as regards, feed, which is at last getting ahead of. the stock.

Home from the Coronation.—Sergeant Donald McLaren, who left New Zealand with the Ninth Contingent, and has been to London in the Coronation Contingent, returned to May field on Eriday, - after having had a very enjoyable time.

Unclaimed Letters.—Letters addressed as under, from places beyond New Zealand, were received at the Ashburton Post Office during the month of August, and are still unolaimed :—From United Kingdom—John Keagen, Wilton House, Mick M'Aulay, Mark Siddall; from Victoria—A. Eoss, C. Turner; from South Australia —Alfred Stor rie.

Personal.— We regret to learn that Mr P. Drumtnond met with a painful accident on Friday afternoon. He had his thumb and a portion of his index finger cut off, by a chaff-cutter. He went to Christchurch by last evening's express in order to be treated in the Cbristchurch hospital.—Mr J. Lane, who is slowly improving, ha 3 gone to Christ ohurch for a time.

Mb Brock and State Banking—W6 are requested to state that as Mr Brock had not expressd his viewß regarding the es tablishment of a State Bank, he was asked a question bearing on the latter, when in answer thereto he said that he was in favour of the conversion of the Bank of N. Z. into a State Bank, but not with a paper issue.

Eeducinu Stock at a Zoo.—Owing to the scarcity and dearness of fodder and meat in Sydney, the directors of the Zoo are offwring the surplus animals and birds for sale, imcluding three lions and three leopards, for .£1.5 each, and Zebu bulls at £25 , per pair, wnile a pair of ostriches is valued at .£IOO.

Primitive Methodist Chttrch.—lt will be seen by advertisement that Mr T. Sharp, who conducted the anniversary services a year ago in the Primitive Methodist Church" will preach twice in the same church to-morrow. It is needless to say Mr Sharp will be welcomed by good con gregations.

Khaki Cycle Depot. — Messrs Porter Bros, having taken over the agency for the celebrated " Khakijbicycles," will endeavour by strict attention to business to push these splendid machines in Ashburton and sur rounding districts. Messrs Porter Bros, have also the agency for the "Mascotte Cycle," which is a splendid, machine at a low figure, and fully guaranteed, also for the "Mitchell Motor Bicycle." Intending purchasers will do well to see these well kuown machines before buying elsewhere. Every information will be given with civility and promptness. —(Advt.)

The No-License Campaign. — Mrs C. Clark, of Westralia, who is now engaged in the No license campaign in this district, had a drawing-room meeting at the Hectory, Mt. Somerset the invitation of Mrs Purchas. There were a good many ladies from stations and farms in the district, and Mrs Clark's address on the No-license question was listened to with great interest, and the ladies present took part in the discussion that followed. Mrs Clark also held a meet ing in the Alford Forest School, Mr S. Baird being in the chair. She also took the services on Sunday last in the Staveley Hail and at Bushside. Mrs Clark will be at Flemington on Monday evening.

A Bad Practice. —The practice cf road scrapings and sweepings being . used for blinding street metal was soverely con demned at a meeting of the Duned'n City Council. It was pointed out that under the expectoration by-law the sputum of diseased persons was lodged on roadways, and that added to this the streetways suf fered from the pollutions of diseased aui mals pasbing over them, these pollutions were scraped and swept up, and instead of being carried away and destroyed, they were re-deposited on the roadways under the, name of blinding. The filth of street ways under this system was thus never re moved, and in dry weather it was blown about into shops and houses, spreading disease wherever it went. It was said on competent medical authority that to this cause was to bo traced the large proportion of throat affections and glandular swellings so prevalent. The local health officer had ordered tho discontinuance of t;he practice,

News in Brief.

Mr D. Thomas will conduct a clearing sale at Highbank on Monday next, on ac count of Messrs Davis Bros., who have sold their lease in perpetuity.

Messrs J. and M. Jackson call attention to the fact that they wil|.open isheir refresh ment rooms in Saunder§' Buildings next Monday,

Mr If. C. Barrett, draper, East Street, is offering a special line of ladies hose cheap, also new assortment of blousings, prints, muslins, laces, etc. He is still giving sj, cash discount on all purchases of one shil? ling in the pound.

Mr D. Thomas wilj. submit by auction oia Saturday nest, in the Arcade, light quarter "•fire gfjQbiona in the township of Waterton, on account of Mr H, Smith,

Messrs Grant and Moore, Saunders' Build ings, have opened out Ashburton Woollen Mills hosiery and blankets, aud the goods compare very favourably with other makes, jboth as regards qjjaUty a.nd price. The firm invite inspection of'a new Hue o£ gent's cauvas boots and shoe 3 for summer wear, which they are selling cheap. Messrs Halma and Co, photographers, Sauuders' Buildings, return thanks for the patronage bestowed on them during the p:ist three years, and announce that during the present month (November) they will sj<> one dozen enamelled photos and one en largement for 12s Gd. Tho work will be executed in their ÜBijal high class style.

WATERTON.

The auniversary of the W&ter|;on Metho dist Chvu'ch. was celebrated on Thursday last, and considering the counter attractions, passed off very satisfactorily. On Sunday lasfc E V G7 T. Fee" preached in the afternoon and evening appropriate sermons to good congregations, the sermous beintf much ap preciated. On Thursday th.c usual tea meetinsr was hold in the Library Hall, and was well attended, thore being 1 representa. tives present from all the neighbouring districts. Tho tables were provided by Mesdames Watson, Weston, and Miss Wil liams, awd were presided over by Misses Watson (2), ft, Taylor, E. Thompson, Wes ton (2), Myors^ Williams, Msurcji., Mrs Stevenson, and Mrs March. Tea being over, a public meeting was held in the Cfyurch, presided over by fcfis Bey J. D. Jory, and addresses were given by the Chairman, and Messrs Watson, Harding, and Chap-

man. A musical programme was contri buted by Messrs Undrill, Fowke,and Jones, and Misses Jones, Williams, Watson Chap man, and recitations by Miss Lill, and Mr J. Williams. Messrs Undrill ooattributed two instrumental pieces, which were much appreciated, as were also the soloists, each performing in a very creditable manner. Several voles of thanks having been given, ,ths n;ee,ting was closed by the Chairman pronounci&g'^ benediction.

Majeroni Dramatic Com pany.

"THE SHAMROCK AND THE ROSE."

The Oddfellows' Hall will be reopened on Monday evening by the above splendid dramatic company, who will produce for the first time in this town the charming' Irish drnma " The shamrock and the rose " The author, Mr Walter Reynolds, has ela borated a very ingenious plot. The motif of the piece is the present condition of Ire land under the tenant system, and this is a subject sufficiently wide to admit of the colours being laid on with a generous hand for the purpose of the general audience. And while the wrongs of that " most dis tressful country " are brought out in their most lurid light, the author has been care ful to conciliate the Sassenach portion of his audience by throwing in a good deal of Elnglish patriotic sentiment. The drama abounds in striking situations and witty dialogue, and during its recent productions in England, America and Australia, has drawn packed and delighted audiences wherever presented. In Sydney it ran for over four months, and in Melbourne it oreated quite a furore, so much so that night after night the Theatre Royal was packed to overflowing for over three months. In the hands of such capable artist? as Mr Charles MacMahon has brought to the colony, a really tip-top representation, of this excellent play will be given. Mr George Majeroni, who personates '• Dandy Dunraven," has a character in which he fair • ly revels, and Mr Mario Majeroni as Stephen Flint has no equal in that part. Miss Hilda Meade, the leading lady, is a young Eng lish actress, gifted with great histrionic abilities, and sustained the part of " Rose Riversdale" to London and Australian audiences with pronounced success. The long list of characters are in most capable hands. The scenery, which has been speci ally painted for this production by Mr Harry. Whaite, will be a revelation to the theatregoers of Ashburton. A first-class orchestra has been engaged under the leadership of Mr C. Fox. The doors will be opened at 7.30 and the performance will commence at 8 sharp, when all patrons aye requested to be seated, as the interest in the drama commences from the rising of the curtain.

Election News.

Mr McLachlan, M.H.R., gave a resume of his speech on Thursday evening to an ap preciative audience, at Mayfield. He spoke for two hours, and at the close of his address answered questions. On the motion of Mr Dellow, seconded by Mr Christensen, a hearty vote of thanlcs was given to the speaker. Mr W. G. Gallagher occupied the

chair. The Mayfield school was packed, standing room only, being available for some, on. Fri.lay evening, when Mr Brock delivered his speech. Mr Gallagher being voted to. the chair, introduced the speaker, who ie ceived a good hearing. At the close of a very interesting and well delivered speech, Mr Brock was asked a great number of questions, all of which he answered in a very straightforward and acceptable manner. Mr Brock said he was a firm supporter of the present Government, and not an ludepen dent Liberal. Mr Dellow proposed a vote of thinks, which was hoaptily secqndod by Mr Ham, and as heirtily carried by the audience.

At Lismore on Wednesday night, Mr J. Studholme, jtmr., addressed the electors. Mr P. Emerson was in the chair, and there was an exceptionally large attendance. The candidate was greeted with applause, and received a most attentive and appreciative hearing. The lines of the address were similar to those delivered in Ashburton, and showed an all-rouud grasp of the present situation by a man with a real stake and bona fide interest in the district. The value of the legislative measures enacted by the present Government was fully acknowledged, but their shortcomings iv administrative and financial policies were forcibly demonstrated. The candi date's views on the Freehold Tenure, L md Settlement, Civil Service appointments, and religious instruction in schools were loudly applauded. All through an ex haustive and practical speech, a most favourable reception was accorded, and with a hearty vote of thanks to candidate and chairman, the most enthusiastic poli tical meeting ever held at Lismore termi nated. Mr John Studholme, junr., addressed th« eldctors of the Ruapuna district, on Thurs day evening. Mr 0. Jaine occupied the chair. There was only a moderate atten dance o? between oQ and 60, owing to the unsettled weather. His address was on the same lines as the reported delivery at Ashburton, with the addition of some fresh matters of interest to the farming com munity. The burden of the present pro tection tariff was clearly shown by a few apt illustrations. Referring to the Com pensation for Accidents Act, Mr Studholme approved of it applying to agricultural pursuits. On the question of the Licensing Act, ho favoured leaving it in its present form. He stated that tho Ashburton county's share of .£2,143,000 spent on Public Works last year, should have amounted to £48,000. With regard to the lease in perpetuity, ha held that " the Government must keep faith with the tenants, and carry out the original agree ment to the latter. AH the present holders, who elect to do so, must be allowed to con* tinue holding their land under the lease hold tenure, at the original rental, and there must be no revaluation, or rise in rental. Let the leaseholders have the addiilQntjl privilege given them to acquire ,the freehold. No more land should be parted with by the State undei? this system, but under the tenure of lease, with the option of freehold, which has all ,the advantages, and none of the disadvan tages of the Jeaso in perpetuity system. Leasehold tenure is the best possible system for a start." He strongly advocated " giving the tenant when he has made a certain amount of improvements, the option ,of acquiring tho freehold at the original valuation of the land." Speaking on the advantages of this, bis opinion wa« that it would "call out; the continued pnergy of the settler; make his farm his Saving Bank, and supply an ever recurring fund for the Government £o further extend the lauds for settlement policy, without additional borrowing." Mr Studholme was in favour of reducing the payment of members of the House to .£2OO. Mr Stud bo?iye received an attentivo hearing, and created a favourable imsi?63sion by his able manner of dealing with the questions of the day. A vote of thanks was recorded, the meefciaft* closing wjth thp usual ack nowledgment to the chairman.

Mr John Studholrae, junr., addressed abouc 40 electors at the Wester field school room last evening, the chair being occupied by Mr Thomas Stone. The speaker was ac corded a very atfceutisra hearing and ap plause was frequent. Special interest was taken in the questions of education, land laws, and farming pursuits. At the con clusion, Mr W. Lang-don proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Mr J. Studholme for his able address, which was carried by accla mation, and a similar compliment was paid to the chair.

Mr Brock will addre&s the electors at G-reenstreet next Monday, at Hiertsey on Tuesday, at Baling oh Wednesday, at Dromnre on Friday, at Alford Forest on Saturday, and at Flemington ou Monday, November 10th. All meetings to commence at 7.30 p.m.

Mr 0. 4- .0. Hftrd^ has l^eon well received at the varioiis meetings he'has'addressed in the northern portion of ' the Selwyn electorate, and the meetings have been very well attended, much enthusiasm being shown at some of them. At Sheffield, after passing the usual vote of thanks, the meet ing sang " For he's a iolly good fellow." Mr C. A. C. Hardy will meet the elector?l of Selwyn at Lauriston School on Thursday, Highbank School on Friday, and Methven School on Saturday. All meetingg at 8 p.m.

POLITICAL.

MR A. AGER AT THE ODDFELLOWS'

HALL.

The fourth candidate for the Ashburton seat, Mr Albert Ager, addressed a meeting at the Oddfellows' Hall last night. There was an attendancfi of about 150, and the Mayor presided, briefly introducing Mr Ager, and asking, on his behalf, for a fair and patient hearing.

Mr Ager was received with applause on rising to speak. He said that it gave him great pleasure to meet si many as had favoured him with an audience that even ing on tho subject of politics. As he had long had a desire to be able to take part in public affairs, he announced his intention of standing for the forthcoming election, but had not done so until he he had waited to know the mind of a prominent towns man, whose name was mentioned at the same time as his own among those likely to contest the seat. As soon as he knew that that gentleman had declined to come for ward, he (Mr Ager) made his announce ment, and was first in the field, although followed the next day by Mr Brock.

LOCAL REQUIREMENTS,

Mr Ager said that he was fully convinced that the Ashburton district was a very im portant one in the colony of New Zealand, and if well and faithfully represented in the House it would commend the attention to its development that its importance de manded, and although he had heard it stated that we were in the happy state of having everything, and wanting nothing, he thought that possibly it would be found that both in town and country some im provements could be made, and with profit too. For his part he should very much like to see the Comthouse removed from the valuable site it now occupied, and a better one, more up-to-date, placed next the Post Office. This would bean improve ment to both places, and the ground rents of the land would more than pay the cost, improve the town, and increase the revenue at the same time. (Hear, hear.) Again, he would like to see a more up-to-date rail way station, and grain sheds built for the use of the farmers, so that storage could be found for those who would like to hold their grain when prico3 were very low, and until better "markets could be found. Being in the stores of the Government, some of the loan money could be used in this direction also, as advances to farmers. He could not see why the Government could not help the farmer to sell at better prices as well as to secure land. That would be profitable for the producer, and also assist the revenue. He believed that these things, and others also, would be done if the member returned clearly laid those claims and improvements properly before Parliament. (Applause).

HIS CANDID ATUKE In coming forward to solicit their suffrages, Mr Ager said that he would announce himself as a Liberal and a direct supporter of the present Government for two reasons: Ist—Hecause he believed that Liberal interests tended to progress and general prosperity. 2nd — Because the present Government had placed upon the Statute Book of the Colony measures that were in advance of anything that had been done by any Government before. (Hear, hear and applause.) Liberalism had the tendency to break through the old set forms, believing that in all" human arrangements there was a possibility of improvement, and because man as man claimed the right to think for himself, therefore a man, because he is a man, claimed for himself the rights of manhood, and liberty of action as long as^his liberty did not affect the liberty of his neighbour. Where those principles were wisely adhered to they did not degrade the noble, but elevated the lowly, and a man, irrespective of wealth or poverty, may be, and should be, and can be, a gentleman. By virtue of the Liberal reforms of recent years, one individual and another stood to-day on terms of equality. Wisdom and ability stood for their proper worth, and many of our noblest and best men have risen from the ranks. (Hear, hear.) Eobert Burns was a day labourer; Sir Henry Parkes, Premier of New South Wales, was a farm labourer ; President Garfield, of Democratic America, wag a pfior farmer's boy; and cur own Richard Seddon. He would now give, them an exarpple which he considered would at once, help to prove his contention. The British army had been perhaps the least affected by the many reforms of recent years. The nobleman's son who entered the Army by purchasing a commission Lad the opportunity of rising to an Earldom, or win a Dukedom; but the poor man who enlisted as a private could not until recently by any means rise beyond Sergeant-Major, which, when won by bravery or ability, was still lower in rank than the lowest commission obtained by purchase. Such was the effect of the old Conservative principles. The result of this class distinction is the unthinking, mechanical Tommy Atkins of his class. For example, see him in the late Bqer war, side by side with our Colonial bays in the ficsld, wfyere everypne vyas at liberty to think and act accordingly, not without officers, but in concert with them., and mark the contrast. The old Conservative rule caused men in different countries to become Comjnunista, Socialists, Nihilist^, etc.* of wliioh, happily, we knew very little by experience.

OUR LAND LAWS. The progressive principle of Liberalism had given vis our land laws, At the time of the Ballance Ministry he remembered reading about Sir John McKenzie, who saw the struggling farmer being driven back to inaccessible districts without roads, while a few men held the large areas of good ls-nds moi'ely as §heep-vu»s, and he introduced the Act which enabled the Government to purchase those large estates and settle hundreds of farmers on this valuable land, with the result that the country was ng^r studded all over with prosperous homesteads.' Surely no one would deny that that measure had been 'of untold benefit to the colony at large, 'and made many happy homes. The Cheviot and Highbank estates were notable exam ples of this valuable law. Thosje estates were purchased out ot loan monies, and as a commercial transaction they'paid well, for the loans bore interest at the. rate of 3* i and 4 per cent., and are bringing back ' interest it the ra,te'o| § per cent., wfth all qqsts of reading andsuyveyi^g acjded. He Ihcught that to give the freehold of landg that have been repurchased by tlie Govern ment back to the speculator would he a njistake. and the farmer who has tasted the sweets of his, acqjjiijed leasehpld^ WQn't want the freehold unless he wants to. s,ell out. This would reintroduce the system of dummyism. A lease of Q93 years is jje.cu.rity enough, and his impression was that thg desire fco make fpeei}old§- by the fortunate tenant is tlie effect of agita [ tion <jn the part of some leaders who lja\re pskga prominence. A lease, with the Gq vernmenfe as landlovd^s, is bett^F I°F § yery holder than the 'freehold, becaus^'" %c farmer has all his money to use instead of sinking it, and if he spends it in improve ments, those improvements are saleable, so also |s the, good trill of an improved farm, Tf the farmer had sunk his njoney ia buying, then he would mortgage and Ws <fe§"§ wqul4 be in the hands of u}6npy:lende.rs instead gf with the Government.

THB EEEMIEE'S ADMINISTRATION, H© was a supporter of the present G-Q? vernmenfc, because, in his ojbinion, Mr Seddon was the most capable Premier the colony had ever had. (Hear, hear, and ap plause), That opinion was based upon his own observations as far a? he had been able to trace the progress of the. colony. At any rate, during his (the Premier's) term of office, some of the best and mcst advanced measures had become law, and which had commanded the confidence of the people, and although hampered by much'opposition, had excited the admira tion of the other countries, for example :— The Adyap.ees to Settlers Act, which was universally acknowledge^ to be the best ever introduced for tß.e farmers, and. the colony, by helping the strugglpfg. settlor, and by reducing the pate of interest,

OhD AGB BEKSIONB, He looked upon the Old Age Pensions as the most ndvanced legislation that had ever been introduced. Of course, it might be possible to improve that yet, and no doubt attention would be •. given to the subject with that object in'view. He would be glad to help' in'!its extension, 'but ibt

the time it was a bold and beneficent measure. At the time Mr Seddon intro duced it he (Mr Ager)_happened to be in the (House, and heard his arguments in favour of the aged poor. He also heard Sir Wil liam (then Captain) Russell oppose it, and after hearing the latter th*e candidate was filled with admiration for Mr Seddon. (Applause).

THE WOMEN'S FRANCHISE was another good and progressive Act. As the country developed and education ex tended with a few lessons in political economy it would tend more and more he had no doubt to the country's good.

THE FACTORY ACT, which compelled payment to girls and boya for labour done had greatly helped many ft poor mofhor, and put workers on a better footing. Not many years ago apprentices were being taken on without pay, and at the ftnd of twelve months were pub off, and others taken on still without pay, and bo on.

THE CONCILIATION AND ARBITRATION ACTS had stopped the hardships and sorrows caused through strikes. It stepped in be tween master and servant to give each his due. In the Old Country he had seen much misery caused through strikes, where men had baen ground down to the smallest wages, and were afraid to ast for more through fear of losing the little they had., In London, he the candidate) had several men in his employ at a time when there was a-general strike in the building trade. Himself and some others gave the advance of an id per hour as soon as it was de manded, and kept the works going on. He heartily approved of the Arbitration Aot, and as Minister of Labour, Mr Seddon had done good work for the people's good in these Arbitration laws. (Applause.)

THE WORKMAN'S INSURANCE ACT, which compensated in some measure the injured worker and made some provision for the man in his suffering aha for his wife and children was also a wise provision. These and other like things made him a firm supporter of the present Government. THE CONTINGENTS. ~ ~ He did not hesitate to say that Mr Seddon's ready attitude in sending con tingents to the war had raised the honour of the colony, and done much to cem«nt the Empire, and ha felt confident that his visit to South Africa and the Homeland recently would prove to have been of lasting benefit to the commercial interests, and all indus tries carried on in New Zealand, by the manner in which he had advertised the colony, and laid the foundations for future prosperity.

GOVERNMENT MEASURES, Ho felt sure that most of. them would agree with him when he said that it waa necessary t.» keep the present Government in office (applause) to enable them to add perfection, or at least improvement, to the laws that had been passed whero some weakness might have been discovered in the working of these measures, for perfec tion was not attaiued at once. The Opposi tion would be ready enough to point out any defect, and would probably, if returned to power, so alter them, or some of them, as to make them abortive and afterwards repeal them. For example—The land laws relating to leaseholds were, perhaps, capable of improvement, but how would they be improved if the Conservatives had the altering of them? He left them to answer that question themselves.

THE PUBLIC DEBT. Eef erring to the public debt, Mr Ager said that according to the Year Book for 1902 it stood at .£49,591,245, an in crease of £10,760895 for the last ten years. Things were not so bad as the Opposition would make them appear. He thought that if the ten million was added to the debt, most of it was spent on reproductive items. He noticed that tinder the preced ing Government when Sir Harry Atkinson, Sir Julius Volgel, and Sir Robert Stout were Premiers, say for the preceeding I<X years, the colony's debt had increased under their anministration" by the sum of £10,644,640, and this when the population. was 625,508, while at the time these figures were taken it stands over 770,682,, nearly 230,000 more, and the Joans for settlers and the land purchase Acts were not iia force, Things were not so bad as they would, make it appear.

GOVERNMENT LOANS. . The candidate expressed the opinion that money must be obtained for the proseou? tion of railway extension and other pro gressive and remunerative works.

EAILWATS. He was of opinion that the main trunk lines should be carried on as fast as the finances would admit, for it was a necessity in the development of the colony. A refer ence to the railway report for the past year was generally so satisfactory financially that there was every reason to expeess confidence in the present management of the Railway Department. Concessions were not as much as desired, but there was indications of more to follow. Thefarmers particularly should be content, since con cessions amounting to ,£365,000 had been made to them on railways alone. Sir J. Ward had said this in his speech at Auck land, and yet the revenue from the Bail way- Department has increased this year by .£22,961.

PROTECTION. He did not agree with Mr Studholme on the question of a protective tariff.- Victoria had done all right under protection, and America too. The protective duties com menced the industries in Australia until they could compete with the world, and so young New Zealand must be assisted in the commencement of manufacturing indus tries.

OUR INDUSTRIES AND PRODUCTS. | The timber trade was the principal i industry in parts of the North Island. Very little grain was grown anywhere in New Zealand 1 eicept in Qanterbiir^jr, Marlborqufeli and Otag'6'." ' Canterbury produced fa&i thirds of the entire crop of wheat grewhiji the colony, two-fifths of the" entire crop q£ oats and about two-fiffcha of the" entire crop of barley. Canterbury" also exported the. primesfc inuftqn,' but Taranaki e?portpd the most dairy prqduce.. But with all .fliig, h,e. favoured the fostering of industries to give employment to mechanics and factory hanc|s, and to develop tb,e country facilities inu4 be given tq bring the various ; .indqa*^ tries into wording order.. (Applause,) J '

PATENT tAWS, , "*■- He t^oug^ht the patent laws could be jinproved so, th.at a n>echanio couldvuse his talents for the public good, In he believed a man could protect his inveu-. j;ion for 2s 6d, but here, as in England, the diaries were too high. America's pro- was due to the help and encoitragement given to. tpj skjll Qf (fee, thoughtful worker.

■ gTAfTS BANS. * : ,•'., He was in faVovu? of a State Bank* The Government had now to stand security for the Bank of New Zealand, and at the same time pay interest out of the revenue. KEfßfiß|jr)Uii:, The candidate agreed with tHe referea^ dum, and jf introduced.iufco the House he would support itt • BIBLE IN SCHOOLS. * , Although he held great reverence for the Bible, he thought it would be a mistake to alter ouc education system for this purpose. If ministers* used the opportunity afforded, that should be enough. He would be against ita compulsory use in the schools. conclusion. • . In concluding his address, Mr Ager said that he had not troubled them with many figures, which were tedious to the electors. ilf elected, he would use his best endea vours-to assist the present -successful and progressive: Government;- •• (I^eud- applause.)

QUESTIONS $epjying to question?, Mi?. Ager said tnat he understood that the honorarium had boen reduced in times of oppression; he would certainly favour excursion'fares being granted to working men' and their families on the railways ; when the Govern^ ment had purchased lands, the leases should be held and not-parted with, and he would not favour revaluation; co-operative works had helped the poor man to a great extent, and he^avGured'the system j iris

THRj^ASHBURTON GUARDIAN|: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER i, 1902



aam." ■" -" ' '""' '' ' " ' ' '"''" ""*T F. FERRIMA.N. | FOR SAL*. WILLS STREET WEST. I HAVE received instructions from Mr ! F. 11. Beckingsale, who is leaving for Wellington, to Sell his property situated as above, comprising Town Section 1135, con taining one rood and a modern built Dwel ling of 6 rooms, bathroom, pantry and wash-house. The grounds have been well laid out in gardens, and from the admirable situation of the property it is well adapted for pur chase either as an investment or for residential purposes. To Trustees in search of a sound invest ment this property is well worth attention, as it will return a good interest on the purchase money. full particulars can bo had on applica tion. F. FEKRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent. FOE SALE A GOOD Sheep Farm of 800 acres, with good bnildings, near to School and Church, and within an easy distance of a railway. F. FEEEIMAN. FOR SALE. WILLS STKEET, WEST. I HAVE received instructions from Mr William Sparrow to sell his two sec- j tions No. 582 and 583, situated in Wills j Street, West. : Ihe sections are well fenced and are | admirably situated, facing the Domain and j within a minute's walk of the Railway Station. Terms can be arranged to suit pur chasers. FEREIMANj Land and Estate Agent.



FOR SALE A FARM of 640 acres, in good heart; fences in first-class condition. F. FERRTMAN, Land and Estate Agent mO Let or for Sale, at Tinwald, oorner i ■with a four-roomed Hoase, \' acre saction, near to the fechool and facing Graham's Koad. P. FERBIMAN, Land and Estate A gent I AM instructed by Me Haae to Sell his comfortable home on the N.E. Town Belt. This property is cheap and well worth your inspection. Land and Estate Agent. BUSINESS NOTICES H GRESHAM, SURGEON AND MECHANICAL DENTIST. . By Examination, October, 1897 IT* IGHT years experience with E. G. and I"'^ . F. W. Greshain, Dentists, Dnnedin and Invercargill. , Has commenced practice in rooms upsfciirs from the entrance to Thomas' Auction Eooias, Burnett Streeb. "Stoppings in Gold, Amalgam, and Cement. Sold and l'orce'ain crowns made ; also sets of teeth with Vulcanite and Porcelain gums. Gas administered. All work guaranteed. Houbs op Attendance—Pa.m. —5 p.m. j Private Residence—Care Mrs Grant, Wills Street.



WAITED, LADIES about to purchase Slimmer Shoos to have a look at our WINDOW DISPLAY of thi3 season's Foot-wear. OUR LEADING LINES at 8s lid and 11s 6d have the snap and style which always appeals to the feminine taste. D. STOCK'S BLTJS BOOT STORE, Burnett Street. Note—Discount Coupons for Cash. : Special Prices : FOR 1 MONTH WANTED Ladies to see Fast Prict3 3Jd, Delaines 53 d, lovely Blouse Pieces from Is 3d, Pinafore Muslins GJd, wide Nainsook s£d- W, H. PEARCE, Cash Draper. WANTED all mothers to see Girlp Leg horn Flop Hats Is 66, 2s 6d, 2s 1 Id, ladies Sailor Hats, (samples); special lot I Corsets 2s lid a pair. W. H. I'EARCE, Cash Draper. ' WE WANT ROOil FOR XMAS GOODS. WANTED all wording men to see . Dungaree Jackets, Is lid each. ' Special prices for all Dungaree Goods thia ; reason at W. H. Pbarcb's, Cash Draper. j WHAT a pretty Brooch ! Yes, I got it at Peakce's for a shilling. They ; have such a lot of different kinds to select from. I mean W..H. PEARCE, Cash Draper and Cluthier



J±IiEZZZZZZZ==I Mll Helpless with A Rheumatism ■ Yon'vi tried liniments and prescriptions without result. Now . . *. CTJP.E YOURSELF with THE BREAT ... CANADIAN ... SEAWEED CURE. A medicine and Not a liniment. A Quick and Permanent Cure. SOLD BY ALL DEALERS At 3/6 na Bottle. Sole Agent for Australasia: GEO. W. WILTON, Wellington. W" ANTED Known—Wonderful value in Boots and Shoes at Jas. Mrt-lob's. Tancred Street. W' HAL 1 prize takers for pastiy use Patty Pan baking powder the great novelty FOR tip top value in Boots try Mbi.lor' Zealandia Boot Stox*o. npHERE is no doubt, no possible doubt J_ that MEiiLOß's Zealandia Boot Store is the best Shop to buy your Boots. '



BUSINESS NOTICES _ ' ' PHOTOGRAPHY* HALHA AND CO., Samites' Buildings, Ashburton, TT» ETURN Hearty Thanks for the patronage they have received during JLIL/ the past three years, and beg to-announce that during the Month of November ■we will do One Dozen ENAMELLED PHOTOS and One ENLARGEMENT on a beautiful plate sunk mount, for IBs 6d. 12s 6(1. 12s 6<L The work will be up to our usual standard. "Visit our Vestibule and see specimens. 11 8 ZEALANDIA CYCLES Built of B.S.A. Parts throughout.' 12 months'guarantee nnHESE Machines we make to order. Old Machines ta'cen -I. in part payment. Highest Prices Given. VULCANISED TYRES. We hold the Largest Stock oE Vulcanised Tyres. All the Latest Styles in Handles, Lamps, Bells, Toe-clips, etc. In fact, anything you require we will supply at Prices Lower Thau Elsawhere. j OATES, LOWRY& CO., , ; Cycle Manufacturers and Importers, Burnett Street, And at Christchurch, Timaru, Wellington, Napier, etc.



THE GREATEST EVEXT OF THE YEAR: ' THE A. & P. SHOW." SPECIAL ADVICE: "YTISITORS to Ashburton during Next Week are advised that the Best Establishment for Superior Ready-made Clothing. Mercery, Hals and Hoots, is the NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. Vhe best shirts the best hats the best ties THE BEST CLOTHING THE BEST BOOTS THE BEST OF EVERY TBLIrftjr SPECIAL WINDOW DISPLAY THIS WEEK " HALLENSTEIN BROS. ALEX. HENDRY, Manager : 11 111 "IjII CrA.TEfe lllllif lill HURDLES HURDLES ! SHEEP SHEARS



PAINTING. PAINTING. THE BEST is (lie CHEAPEST. Vitit Om- Estatn'shnienfc and obtain Prices. It will fay you. W. H. COLLINS & CO., Ironmongers, Painters, Timber and Coal Merchants, Sawmillers. I ,^ imm w LaCCS. silk blouses, REAL LACE GOODS. CIIIOICC SpHllg WASHI!IG BLOUSES LACE COLLARETTES WHITE APRONS, LACE TIES, NOVELTIES HOLLAND APRONS, RUFFLES. UNDERSKIRTS. , ow • ■ ■ Showing- in New and Up-to-Piite Drapery, at MITCHELL & SUNSHADES TURNER'S fUST COATS, UM BRELLAS, JA CX BTS, hosiery, Burnett Street, mantles, gloves, Warehouse, ribbons, TRIMMINGS, MILLINERY



JV WILSON'S I. E?J!^sl n E wse A so N -s I WALL PAPERS Have Arrived- And will be Opened up This Day, September 12th Simply perfect in Design and Colour. The Papers are quite different to anything of the sort before imported into this (town, and vastly superior. GIT The Prices are the same as for Ordinary Paperhangings. Borders and Friezes to Match. Persons desirous ot choosing from the full stock, but not intending to use the Papers for some time, may have them laid aside until required.



I ' YOU Mfe'ST EAT £0 LIVE. | If you. don't eat you'll starve,' a;e.d starva tion ends ill death. Hunger' is n'atur<^g call for nourishment;; fchfi demand is impera tive, for the hourly waste caused by the mere act of living must be promptly ps, paired. To obtain full nourishment, the I essentials of the food you eat, your diges tive organs must be in good working order. Digestion is a chemical process needing a full supply of gastric juices. If the diges tion is impaired indigestion and dyspepsia S-me&Uy follow ; the system gets clogged up ,w&h ygdigs?*e.4 food, which ferments and poisons and-" dqca^gep the entire human .system. Impey's May Appl§). i;h f G ideal fenjijy medicine, gently moVes the .boy^ig and fileaw the stomach of all impurities; it j stimulates bh& liver and kidneys into healthy i action, aids digestion $n& restores good ' health. Impey's May Applp gold by all ! dealers at 2s 6d per bottlo. If no* obtain abla Jocally fiend a pistnl notes to the • wholesale agents, Sbarland and Co., Limit" od, Wellington . ,



The Cycle Trade in Ashburton. We beg to infovn? our i',esdgrs thafc the largest and most complete stock of cycling requisites is at the Zeaiandia Cycle Works, Burnett Street. The firm have just unr packed an immense quantity of new goods for the season just commenced. Wo must admit that the latest models of their Zoalandia Cycles are simply perfect, the machines being made of B.S.A. parts £h*roug<.u9uj!; ? and fitted with either Palmer or .Vulcanised' fcyre?, .&#•. %? best to be had iv the Colony. Messrs Oate?, "Lovyuy and Co. being direct importers, 1 their prices aro, if anything, somewhat lower than else yhsrs. ancffor a more complete stock'of everything it would be hard to find, iv thi3 cw»ty at all f -A4yt ?



fTHIJjORIKi'If. — Stra.nge's are unsvr -13 passed for dfit and style afc moderate price?. !' CJTRANGE'S Famous White Patent Q Satin Quilt (fall size) 15s 6cL