Mail Notices.

Mails close for the following places, as under, subject to the necessary alterations, j THURSDAY, Sept. 25. For Northern Ports and Westport, per | Sotomahana., at 6 p.m. FRIDAY, Sept. 26. For Northern Ports and Westport, also Australian States (due Sydney Oct. Ist), and South Africa, per Waihora, at 10.30 a.m.

Mining.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.

Dunedxn, Sept 25 To-day's sales—Alexandra Lead 15s Gd, 15a 3d, 15s; Alpine IL 17s 3d, 17s; Golden Beach, 2s 3d; Golden River, 13 9d; Eiley's Beach, 20s.

Commercial.

The London Wool Sales.

London, Sept. 24 At the wool sales the Hiku clip fetched s|d.

[By Telegraph.] \ Chbistchueoh, Sept. 2l Messrs Dalgety and Co., have received ! the following cablegram under date, Lon don, Sept. 23rd:—" The wool sales continue with increasing spirit, and prices have gained further ground. American buyers are buying fine merino greasy wools, also five and medium crossbred greasy wools."

Australian Markets.

« Sydney, Sept. 24 Wheat—Nominal at 4s lid, chick to ss. Flour—£lo to ton;Manitoban .£l2 10s to £12 15s.

Oats — Algerian, 3s 7d, New Zealand prime feeding, 3s 7d. Barley, Cape, 4s to 4s 3d Maize —Prime 5s 9d. Bran —Is Gd Pollard—ls 6d

Peas—Prussian Blues, 7s 6d. New Zea land 8s to 8s 3d.

Potatoes—Tasmanian, £7 to £7 os per ton; New Zealand Derwents £o 15s.

Onions, Victorian .£6 15s to £7, Califor nian .£9 10s per ton. Butter—Prime, Is4d.

Cheese, N.Z. prime loaf B£d to 9^d. Bacon-lOdto ll£d. Melbourne, Sept. 24

Wheat—4s Bd. Flour - £9 15s per ton. Oats—Algerian 38 5d to 3s 6d. Maize—ss Bran—ls 4d Pollard—ls 4d Potatoes— to £6 15s per ton. Onions -<£3 5s to £3 10s per ton Adelaide, Sept. 24

Wheat—4s Bd. Flour— £9 5s per ton Bran—ls 6d Pollard—la 6d Oats, Algerian 3s 4d to 3s 7d ; stout, 3s 7d to 3s lOd.

Addington Live Stock Market.

Ckristchurch. Sept. 24,

Thore were only medium yardingg of stock at Addmgton to-day. The attendance was rather larger than of late, a number of farmers being attracted to town for the horse parade.

Cattle.—Fat Cattlo— About 150 were yarded, including a few prime heavy weights and c. lot of lighter sorts. There was keen competition. Prime beef 30s to oos per IGOlbs, other sorts 24h to 29.3. ifuavy bullocks JSI4 to =Sl6, good steers £9 to .£l3 ss, lighter £•> 17s fid to £'i 10s, prime heifers £U to .£ll 7s 6d, others £5 16a to =£8 10s, prime heavy cows £10 2s 6d to £L 2 10s, others £5 to £9. Store cattle — About 300 came forward, mostly (iood young sorts, but the market was easier. Calves 27s to 335, yearlings £1 Ws to £1 18s, 18 months old £2 5s to £2 (is, 2-year old steers £4 2s, heifers <£3 12s Gd to M 16s i!<i, three year-old stears £5 15,-s to £6 12s i\o, heifers £1 17s 6d, cry cows .£1 13s to £L ss, dairy cows £!• to £9.

Km hep. — About 3500 fat sheep wore yar ded, including a few Hues of extra prime crossbreds and £a large {supply of prime lunriDO wethers. Competition was mostly in the hands of the local tradp, the export buyers not boing much in evidences. Prices for all good sort, especially ewes, was firmer. Extra heavy wothera 225, 2:Js 6d, and up to 275, freezers 16s to 20s, un finished 135 to lGs, heavy ewes 2s 3d to 22s 9d, prime 17s Gd to 20s, others 13s Gd to 16s, prime merino wethers 18s to 21s G<l, good 14s Bdto 15s 9d, others 13s 6d to 14s. Fat lambs..—Aboub 80 came forward, prices ranging frdm lls to 16s. Store sheep.— There was a mixed yarding of 1480 store sheep, but owners would not accept the prices offered, and nearly all were with drawn. The only sales were 103 hoggets 9s lid, 85 ewes with 120 per cent of lambs 8s 9d all counted, 143 merino ewes 4s Gd.

Pigs.—4so were penned. The sale was easier,and as stores were mostly inferior the demand fell off. Baconers 38s, 535, and up to 68s for heavyweights, averaging 4-J-d per lb, porkers 22s to 255, large stores 16s to 20s, smaller 8s to 14s.

THE LATEST ORDER FOR OATS.

Tho Invercargill correspondent of the " Otago Daily Times " telegraphs:—With regard to the report in your Saturday's commercial that Melbourne firms have placed an order in New Zealand for 38,000 bags of oats, and the regret expressed that the order should not have come direct to New Zealand instead of filtering through Melbourne merchants, I am assured that the order referred to, which is for 28,000 bags, not 38,000, has boon placed direct from South Africa with an Inyercargill firm, 200 to)is to be shipped in the Kent at Dimedin, and tho balance by the same boat from tho Bluff.

Property Sale.

Mr D. Thomas reports having sold on account of Mr T. Dowling, his house and four acres of land, at Kakaia, to Mr George Murdoch, of Lauriston, and on account of same owner 4-}. acres to Mr Greenwood ; on ■^twunfc of Mr A. IJ. Field, section 1186, Cmneroi'i irtrcej;, to Mr Eobt. Smytbe; on account of Mr Duycau Gainarpn, 22 acres, at Mitch am, to Mr VV. B, 'Cla'rksoa.

Burnside Stock Market.

Dunedin, Sept 24 At the Burnside market 124 head of fat caitle were yarded. The demand was keen, and every 'lot sold at advanced prices. Best bullocks made from £12 to £14, medi um £9 15s to £11 17s Gd, others £8 10s to £9 12s 6d, best cows (heavy) Jgß'los"fco. £d 17s Gd, medium £6 2s 6d to £8 2s 6d, others .£5 to £6.

Fat sheep—2l7l were penned, which did not prove quite sufficient for the demand, and a decided advance was experienced, especially towards the close. Tho quality on the whole was not good, but there were <a' £bw drajf,ta well finished. Best wethers realised 18s 6d to 20s 3d, medium 17s to 18s, others 14s 9d to 16s B,a, best ewes 16s 3d to 18s 9d, medium 14s Gd to lfis, others 12s 6d to 14s'3d,

Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 1902.

The Timaru " Herald " draws attention to a rather curious question in connection with the electoral law which returned .troop- has cropped up in \ bbs electoral Timaru, and the same I rights. point has Leen raised' in Ashburton also. Our contemporary says: — " One of the qualifications for an elector of the colony is a residential qualification, but not all mi.y be aware that there are conditions to be fulfilled. The Act of 1893 provides that a person claiming to be enrolled as an elector must have resided for one year m the colony, and in the electoral district for which he claims to vote, during the three months immediately preceding the regis tration of his vote. An amending Act of 1900 provided that a person who has been temporarily absent from the colony, for a ! period noc exceeding three years, may ! within three months of his return be re registered, if his name has been struck off the roll, either because of his absence or because of his not having voti'd at an election. There is, however, no provision made for registering, for the first time, a person who has been temporarily absent ! from the colony, until he or she has com pleted the full" qualifying term of twelve months' residence. It appears that the absence of such a provision disfranchises a considerable number of young men who have attained their majority since the rolls were last compiled, who have been absent from the colony with various Con tingents in South Africa, and who have returned within the past'twelve months. We are informed that this is the reading of the law accepted by some at \east of the Registrars of Electors, and it appears to us to be correct. If so, it is probable that a lurge number, possibly a couple of thousand, of young men who, if they had not volunteered for South Africa, would be entitled to votes in the forthcoming General Election, Jwill be debarred from voting, unless the law is amended during the present session." It is to be hoped the Government will remove all doubt on this question at once.

Local and General.

On the Crsfc page to-day will be found the Transports Commission's report with regard to the Britannic and Orient; on the fourth page, Parliament News. Weather Forecast. — Captain Edwin wires: —Moderate westerly winds; glass rise. The Inwabd Mails. —A British and Aus tralian mail arrived by the express from the south last night. Appointment.—Miss E. Lawrence has been appointed mistress at Newlands school.

A Good Price. —At the Addington Yards yesterday, Messrs Hibbs Bros., Methvon, sold a big bullock at the satis factory figure of £16.

Election News.—The Temperance party in the Awarua electorate will, at its next meeting, nominate candidates to contest the seat.

Resignation.—-At the meeting of the Education Board yesterday, Mr Cromie, master of the Winchmore school, sent in his resignation, as he was removing to another part of the colony.

Education Grants.—The Education Department has informed the North Can terbury Board that it cannot at present take steps to increase the grant to the Board to 12s a head. The lettor was received by the Board at its meeting yes terday with an expression of regret.

Horse Fair. —Farmers and others are reminded that Mr D. Thomas will hold his usual moatbly horse fair at the Arcade to morrow. The entry comprises over 100 head of all descriptions. Those who are in need of good draughts should make a point of attending the sale.

" Tuabanqi" . Ho.urc. — The master ac knowledges with thanks the following gifts, etc: —Ashburton Clothing Factory, hats; Sergeant Barlow, papers and magazines; Mrs Trevor, clothing; Mrs Boyd, papers and magazines; Mr Gordon, English and Australian papers; Mr W. G. Brittain, (Christchurch) magazines; Mrs C. Norfch uote, illustrated papers; Mr J. McKeague, "New Zealand Graphics."

A Hint to the Bo hough Council. —The Works Committee of the Napier Borough Council last night agreed upon a loan of .£50,000 for various Borough works, includ ing public baths, park, and a duplicate pumping plant. The Committee will recom mend the Council to ask Mr Carnegie for a grant for the public library.

Tailoring. —On Saturday next, 27th inst, Mr Kerr, representing Strange and Company's famous Christchurch Tailoring Department (and who is one of the firm's smartest cutters), will pay another visit to Ashburton and may be consulted at Strange arid Cos. Agency in Burnett Street (Mr Saadrey's) between the usual hours—l p.m. to 6 p.m. For fit, cut, style, appearance, and workmanship Strange und Co's tailor ing leaves nothing to be desired.—(Advt.)

New Zealand Bbass Band —Mr H. M» Gooch, canvassing agent of the New Zea land Representative Brass Band Fund, is now in the South Island, and intends pay. ing Ashburton a visit within the next week- His object in touring the Island is to col lect funds with which to send the New Zea land Representative Brass Band to the Old Country, under bandmaster Herd. Those wishing to assist the movement can obtain information from MrH. A, Humphreys.

Voting Papers.—At the meeting of tho Board of Education yesterday a letter was received from the Education Department recommending that voting papers used for tho election of members of the Board should conform to the Act, notwithstanding an iui-onsistency between Section 16 of the Act and the form of voting-paper pre scribed by the schedule.

Dr Toeby on Qamuling—Commenting on Dr Torry's statement that " Every man who gambles, every man who bets.' on a horse race or invests in 'J'attersall's or bets on cards or on the totalisator and wins is a thief, and the man who bets and loses is a fool," a correspondent of the Dunodin '• Star " says:—" This may be true, but the man who runs religious services on the circus principle aid is presented with a purse of sovereigns occasionally is—well, certainly not a fool."

Pave !—Tn consequence of the reports of Sunday drunkenness in Summer about half i, dozen constables in plain clothes went to that seaside town. Everything in each of the three hotels was in apple pie order—no drunkenness, no residents eujoying a glass, no doubtfuls. The constables themselves tried to get drinks, but were all refused, and they returned to town not a little dis gusted. The secret of all this is said to fee that notice of the visit was sent down by some kind 'friend with a clear description of each constable,

Returned Troopers.—A notice appear* in our advertising columns from Mr J. H, j Witheford, one of the Auckland represen tatives in Parliament, inviting returned ! troopers desiring to settle on tho land in the North Island, to communicate with him at once Mr Witheford desires to point out that his object is to make a good c*se to enable him to help the returned contm gentws to/get special consideration from the Government,' It will be seen that in the House on Tuesday lie brought the sub ]e<STBENGTH and Eigiditv make theEudge. Whitworth the ideal of that great class of | accomplished cyclists who know what con- | stitutes a genuine high grade bicycle, and •iw > willino-to pay the difference in the cost SPn^KiJ between a cycle of this kind and a "medium grade or cheap trashy j •nanhine ' Inspect"for yourselves at E. D. Johnston's C?ole Depot, Burnett Street, o 208 ! For Asthmatical troubles of any kind the o-iy certain specific is Evans' Mountam King Asthma Ponder. Furniture-The best place m Ashburton is ■■■ -■ ■■ "• STRANQE.S

Catholic Literary & Social Club

The fourth annual general meeting of the Catholic Literary and Social Club was held last night, when there was a large attend ance of members. Mr W. Soal (President) occupied the chair. Before commencing the business of the evening, on the motion of Mr McShfrry, seconded by Mr A. J. Muller, Mr F. Cooper was unanimously elected a life member for the services rendered by him to the Society. The Secretary brought forward hi ß annual report and balance sheet. The former showed the Society to be in a very flourish ing condition, there being a credit balance of £12, and assets to the amount of £30, with no liabilities. The report and balance sheet were adopted. The Librarian Reported that the Library was in a satisfactory condition. The election of officers was then proceeded with, and resulted as follows :~ President—Mr A. J. Muller; Vice-president —Mr S. Madden; Treasurer—Mr J. Moison (re-elected); Honorary Secretary—Mr D. Moriarty (re-elected) ; Librarian—Mr F. Healy; Council—Messrs H. McSherry, W. Soal, L. Hanrahan, M. J. Burgess, and J. Murphy; Trustees —- The Rev. Dean O'Donnell and Messr3 J. Moison and J. Kennedy; Auditors—Messrs F. Cooper and H. P. Madden. After the newly elected officers had returned thanks, a vote of thanks to the outgoing officials brought the procoediiigs to a close.

BAND CONCERT.

The third sixpenny concert under the auspices of the Ashburtoa County Brass Band, took place last night in the Odd fellows' Hall. There was a record atten dance, the building being packed to the doors. The Band performed its portion of the programme in a very creditable manner, playing "Gems of Operatic Melody" (Eound), "Sabbath Chimes" (T. H. Wright), " Hours of Beauty " (Bound), and " Fighting Mac," (Lithgow). During the latter march, Mr G. Trethowan, late of the Christchurch Garrison Band, gave an exhibition of side drumming. Mr R. B. Postgate, a singer new to Ashburton audiences, greatly pleased his hearers with " Tell her I love her so," and afterwards " The distant shore." for which he had to x%espond to an encore. The cornet solo " Ar hyd y Nos" by Mr Duncan Leitch was much appreciated, as was the cornet duet " Home to our mountain" by Messrs Wm. McDonald and H. A. Humphreys. The other performers, Messrs J. Trezise, A. Claridge and E. Manchester rendered items which helped to make up an attractive programme. Before the close his Worship the Mayor shortly addressed the audience, thanking the Band for the excellent en tertainments to which they had treated the residents of the town. He also announced that during the summer evenings free open air concerts would be given in the Domain.

St. John's, Methven.

The second anniversary of St. John's Presbyterian Church, was held in the Methven schoolroom on Friday last. It took the form of a tea and concert, and the large attendance again proved that Meth ven is badly in need of a suitable hall. The tables were ably presided over by several ladies of the congregation, who were assi duous in their attentions to the wants to of the large number of people who partook of the dainties with which the tables abounded. In the centre of the bachelors' table was a large three-decker iced cake. After all had partaken of the excellent refreshments the tables were cleared away, and an excellent programme proceeded with. The Rev. B. J. Westbrooke was in the chair. The first item on the pro grainmo was a chorus by Misses Lock, Campbell, Leggett and Duff, and Messrs Lock (2) Rand 3, and Kersel. This was fol lowed by an orchestral seleotion by Misses Lock and Duff and Messrs Lock (2), Hughes, Heer, Putt and Rands. The following also contributed items : Miss F. Westbrooke, a song :Mr McDougal, song (encored); Miss Mounsey, song (encored). A chorus by the children, entitled " Nursery Rhymes," was cleverly rendered, and Misses Willis and D. Duff, deserve great praise for the excel lent training of the children. Miss Donald son, of Waterton, sang a song, and was en cored. Miss Hardy, of liakaia, also contri buted two songs; Miss Leggett a song; and Mr Kersel, of Ashburton, a song (encorod). The Rev. F. Robertson gave a short and interesting address on " the Church of to-day." This was followed by a violin duet by Miss Lock and Mr Hughes. Messrs D. Cameron and J. Henderson, in a few words, conveyed the thanks of the Com mittee to the visitors who had helped to make the concert such a success. Mrs Batty and the Misses D. Duff and Hardy acted as accompanists The National An them brought the concert to a close.

Steam Ploughing in South Africa.

The following letter appeared in the latest issue of the " Engineer" :— Sir, —Your leading article on " South Africa from an Engineer's Point of View," ought to create much prospective interest in the reports of your Special Commissioner to South Africa.. And because you ask for points upon which information may be desired, may I suggest that your Speciul Commissioner's attention be directed to obtain information on such important under takings in agricultural districts as steam ploughing by direct traction. That it can be successfully done is evident from the photograph which I enclose, the work represented on which was carried out in June, 1899. I may say that the name Knapdale, was the prospective name of the farm, but Rooi Kraal, which is situated on the Natal line, about 18 miles from Johan nesburg, is the correct looal name. The engine is a ten horse-power compound, made by one of the best builders in Leeds and the ploughs were made by Messrs Reid and Gray, of Dunedin, New Zealand. The engine is too heavy for such work, and an eight horse-power engine would suffice. The ground was virgin veldt, very hard, and it was ploughed in the dry season, when such was 'impracticable by any other method. Gentlemen came from far and near to see the work, and one old farmer remarked in Dutch, which on being interpreted was " that it would be a pity to shoot fellows | who could plough like that," In the en graving six furrows are shown as being turneel, but ten have been turned on more suitable ground by the same engine. Alexander Dalyrmple.

July 19th,

News in Brief.

Messrs Friedlander Bros, will offer at the Ashburton Yards on Tuesday, 1200 fat and forward wethers and 500 good hoggets; also fat and store sheep, cattle, and pigs.

The arrivals in the colony during August were 3865 and departures 1309, against 1530 and 1101 respectively in August of last year. '"'".'

The latest figures of the Bible in Schools plebiscite in Southland show 6295 "yes" votes, 1143 " no, 0 and 427 refusals to vote, but the returns as yet are by no means complete.

A telegram from Waimare states that the lo3s of lambs throughout the district from the cold wind is very great.

An exchange states that during heavy rain at Picton the other day, there was an appreciable fall of sulphur.

While two farm hands were scuffling near Qrange (New South Waler) the other day one of them fell on a knife, which entered his back and caused fatal injuries.

According to a return presented to Par liament on Thursday, of the granted during last year in subsidies for public libraries, .£670 went to the Auckland dis trict, ,£478 to North Canterbury, and .£350 to Qtago.

CABLE NEWS

United Press Association-

— % Electric

Telegraph—Copyright

THE NAVY LEAGUE'S ENVOY. London, Sept. 23 Mr H. Wyatfc, the Navy League's envoy, has started for Caua-la and Australia. Sir E. Barton and Mr Seddon promised him their support. LORD HAWKE'S CRICKET TEAM\ Lord Hawke's team starts for New Zea land on November 12th, via San Francisco. THE PERSECUTION OF ROUMANIAN JEWS. The " Times' " Vienna correspondent says that Roumania is obdurate as regards the Jews. THE DARDANELLES. Bucharest, Sept 23 Roumania has asked the Porte's "permis sion to allow two warships which have been repaired at Toulon, to pass through the Dardanelles. WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY. Paris, Sept 23 Owing to frequent interruptions to cables, caused by volcanic eruptions, France is arranging to instal wireless telegraphy between Guadeloupe and Martinique. THE ALPINE FATALITIES. The bodies of the Fearon Brothers, who ueiished in the recent Alpine fatality, have been recovered. THE PLAGUE. St Petersburg Sept. 24 Seven deaths from plague have occurred at Odessa. A RUMOUR DENIED. The Plague, Sept. 24 \ Mr Kuyper, the Dutch Premier, in the Second Chamber, stated that the rumours of an alliance between Holland a Foreign Power, were pure imagination. THE FIJIAN MAIL SERVICE. London, Sept. 24. Mails for Fiji for the remainder of the year go via Vancouver or Suez. THE CANADIAN TROOPS. I Mr Chamberlain, in a despatch announc ing that troops have been sent relieving the Canadian regiment at Halifax, states that Mr Brodrick desires to express his apprecia- i tion of the Dominion's valuable services' , and testified to the good behaviour of the battalion. TAXATION IN SOUTH AFRICA. Mr Chamberlain, replying to a correspon dent, says no authentic statement was made on the question of taxation in South Africa since his speech in the Houso of Commons. OBITUARY. Admiral Watson died at Malta from pneumonia. The King sent a spontaneons message to the Admiralty expressing his sympathy at the loss-of so distinguished an officer, and desired that his message be conveyed to the widow. FATALITIES IN JAMACIA. Numerous thunderstorm fatalities by lightning have occurred in Jamacia. Severe earthquake shocks were felt on Monday. THE ROYAL COMMISSION. Capetown Sept. 24 The Assembly adopted Mr Sampson's motion in favor, of the extension of the powers of the Royal Commission.} The Earthquakes in Australia Adelaide, Sept. 24 The effect of the earthquake was more severe on the other side of the gulf. At Corny Point the lighthouse swayed so much that it was feared it would topple over.. The base of the tower is cracked all round four feet from the ground. There is hardly a chimney standing at Warooka. Professor Gregory, of Melbourne, thinks the earthquake was not of volcanic origin, but was due to the subsidence of blocks of the earth's crust. Income Tax, The Government propose to reduce the income tax exemption to i 5120, where salaries exceed i>4oo, or are below the present exemption. On incomes under .£BOO, the rate will be -lid in the £, over that 7d. The rates on incomes arising from pro perty are fixed at 9d and 3Jd respectively. BUDGET. Sydney, Sept. 24 The State Budget, delivered to-night, shows the revenue to be J511,377,000, and expenditure £ 11,374,000. The estimated revenue is £i! ,236,000, inclusive of £2,475,000, expected to be returned by the Commonwealth. Expenditure £11,1^7,000. The total public debt amounted to .£75,991,000, with assets to show for it valued at £86,000,000. On the past year, tho drought has caused a considerable in crease in the expenditure, and a decrease in the revenue, while the effect of the drought and injury to the harvest will prejudicially refloct on the accounts next year. The old age pensions represented £367,000, and next year would require £581,000. FEDERAL AND STATE TAXATION. An important decision was given by the Court of Review in a case in which a Federal officer appealed against the State income tax assessment. Appellant relied on the opinion expressed by the Premier and Attorney General of the Common wealth, that Federal officers were exempt from State taxation. The Court held there was nothing in favor of the theory that Federal officers were exempt from the income tax. If had been held to be leviable upon Imperial officers who happened to be working and earning an income in this State. It was quite immaterial what was a sonrce of income. The Court dismissed the appeal, THE STATE ELECTIONS. Melbourne, September 24 Mr Peacock is being opposed at Chines by a reform candidate, A close contest is expected, Besides Ministers, fourteen Ministerialists have been returned unop posed. Altogether there are 167 candidates for 95 seats. 116 -have been nominated in the joint interests of the Minister Reform League, 28 Opposition, and 23 Labour. All the members of the Ministry, except Mr Kirton, were returned unopposed.

South Africa.

United Press Association —By Rleotric Telegraph—Copyright , London, September 23.

The De Beers Company is leg-ally con testing the claim of the Inland Bevenue Commissioner, which at present is restricted to the last two years' dividends. The colonial and foreign shareholders of De Beers contend that the company's domicile is at the Cape, and that the London office is merely a branch. [ The transport Oswestry Grange has ar rived. A Court of Inquiry was held, and measurements were taken before the troops , landed. Eeporters interviewed many of the Boldiers, who/stated that they were par fectly satisfied, that they were well fed, and had no sickness. It is reported that the Transvaal will raise a loan of £20,000,000 for reproductive public works, irrespective of the war debt. 1 ' '■■''■ ' London, Sept. 24 The revenue of the Transvaal fo'rthe year" onding 1 June, 1903, is estimated at four millions, anc£ the expenditure at •£3,700,000, ■■■'•••'>■ .: The " Standard " states that it is reported that the loan of twenty millions becomes an immediate charge on the revenue of the colonies.

The " Morning Post" say 3 the report is significant of the confidence of the people of Johannesburg in Lord Milner.

Aid for the Boers.

London, Sept. 23. The "Daily Telegraph's" Brussers cor respondent states that Kruger received from Lehmann, the publisher of his me moirs £30,000, which he is devoting en tirely to the aid of the Boers. The first edition will appear in German and Eng lish, in November.

The " Berlin P6st" and " Pester Lloyds " discourage the idea of the Boer' Generals making 5 a European tour, lest by appeal ing to foreign sympathy they irritate the British, and injure their cause in Great Britain. ■'

Correspondence

[We do not hold ourselves responsible for opinions expressed by our correspondents.]

LAND TENURE.

TO TTTE EDITOR. Sit?,—Over the signature of "Pax" there appeared in your Monday's issue a most amusing letter on the above subject. After reading the able manner in which you have handled the subject and writer in your leader of the same date, there would ap pear little more to be said. But you, Sir, seem to have lost sight of a very grave danger to the whole community under our present system of land tenure. It is hard to conceive wherein lies the difficulty o£ restricting the area of freehold land pur chased from the Crown. Surely if it is pos sible to limit the area of leasehold," there is nothing to prevent a clause being inserted in every grant providing that any land pur chaser from the Crown should not be added to any other land, the aggregate of which would exceed the legal limit, whatever that; might be. The lease in perpetuity may fairly be described in sporting parlance a 8 being—by Imbecility from Ignorance, by Breach of Faith from Fraud. For, if the present or some future Government does not bring in a Bill having for its purpose the periodical re-valuation of these leases, the lease is a fraud on the general public, and if such a Bill is introduced it will be a distinct breach of faith with the lessee. But worse remains yet to be told, and the danger I refer to is this: —That in a few years more the Government tenants will be the most powerful body in the colony, and will be able to return any man they choose to go back to the House of Representatives, and we may rest assured that if the option of making their holdings freehold is not given, when bad times come these lease holders will return only men who will pledge themselves to vote for reduction of rent or no rent, the deficiency in interest having to be made up by the general tax payer. One cannot imagine any man of common sense objecting to the suggestion put forward by the Farmers' Union—That all Crown tenants be allowed to make their holdings freehold, subject to restriction of area, and that all monies derived from that will be devoted to the purchase of more land. Such a course would mean security to settlers and State.--I am, etc., Pa-sc Vobiscum.

PARLIAMENT.

House of Representatives.

Wellington, Sept 24 (Continued from page 4.) The House resumed at 7.30. REFERENDUM BILL.

»The debate on the second reading, of the Eeferendum Bill was continued.

Mr Arnold hoped the Bill weuld be placed on the Statute Book, although he recognised it had defects, but these could be remedied as the time went on. It would be necessary to have both sides of a ques tion put before the electors before a re ferendum was taken. He agreed that the people should be given the power of initia tive, say, upon a petition of 15 per cent. of the electors. •■„ • .

Mr Willis said he had consistently op posed the Referendum Bill. It would not be in the true interests of the colony, as it would relegate to the people for their decision questions that could be better ad judicated upon by their representatives in Parliament.

Mr G. W. Eussell supported the referen dum, but in committee would move for the excision of the provision which proposed to allow a resolution of Parliament to be sub mitted to the people. His opinion waß that the machinery of the referendum should only be set in motion in regard to a Bill, and that, after it had been thoroughly threshed out in the Legislative, it should then, if necessary, be submitted to the people before it finally became law.

Mr Wilford supported the principle of the referendum, but critieisnd some of the details of the measure.

Sir Wui. Russell believed the principle of the referendum, if applied to New Zealand, would have a tendency to lead to undesir able legislation. It would mean a complete alteration in the constitution under which, we new lived. The result would be that questions of great importance would be decided by a minority of the people, and legislative power would bo thrown into the hmds of residents in the cities. The whole thing would be absolutely ludicrous, and there would be no real expression of public opinion. Under a referendum a member of Parliament would occupy a very unjust position.

Mr W. Fraser opposed the second reading, and Messr3 Collins, Hogg, and Pirani sup ported it.

Sir J. G. Ward, in replying, Jsaid if some members had their|way in widening clause 4 it would mean that instead of the House being able to carry on the business of the country, it would be kept sitting for months discussing resolutions that any member might bring forward. He believed the country wanted a system of referendum establsshed, and fae~hlid heard no reason adduced why the House should not reaffirm, its decision of last session,

On division the second reading was car ried by 45 votes to 10. Those voting against the Bill were: —Messrs Bennet, Bol lard, Carncross, ."b'isher, Heke, Lethbridge, Palmer, Parata, Sir- W. B. Russell, and Mr Willis. WORKERS' COMPENSATION The Workers' Compensation for Accidents Act Amendment Bill was introduced by (3-overnor's message, read a first and second time, and referred to. the Labour Bills Com mittee, FISHERIES CONSERVATION Sir J, GK Ward moved the second reading; of the Fisheries Conservation Act Amend ment Bill, whioh has passed the Legislative Council, He said it gave power to the Go vernment to acquire lands for hatcheries, and dealt with the matter of fishing righta on private lands. He thought it proper that the owners of land should have the right to control streams running through their lands, but, in turn, it should be made unlawful for any person catching fish in the rivers to sell the fish.

Mr Wilford said he would move in Com mittee in the direction of limiting the power of owners of property to delegate the right to others to fish. He desired to give the owner and members of his family the right to fish wiHiout a license, but end it there. He would also move a proviso to prevent the sale of fishing rights. After further debate Sir J. G. Ward stated that he proposed to put the Bill through all its stages at the next sitting, so that fishing licenses could be issued immediately.

The second reading was agreed to on the voices. BILLS PASSED. The Lands and Deeds Eegistration Dis tricts Bill, and Wast Coast Settlement Be serves Act Amendment Bill were read a third time and passed. LOANS TO LOCAL BODIES. On the'motion for the third' reading o£ the Local Bodies Loans Act 4inendmeriti BilL Messrs Herries, Q'Meara, and others, complained that Sir/J. G. Ward had refusf ed an amendment enabling local bodies to borrow money to len ld for'the, ejection 61 creameries and dairy factories; Sir J. G. Ward, in reply, said he opposed the amendment because at the present moment there was not sufficient money available under the Act to meet the^ ordi nary requirements of local bodies, owing to the fact that the Government was not given authority to increase the amount ifc could borrow for the purposes of the Act. The dairy industry was now aided to the extent of .£6OOO a year in one direction alone. He coulc[ not increase the loans to, local bodjes for any putpose whatever without increasing the borrowing powers of the Government.

The Bill passed its final stages, The House'rose at 12.S a.m.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN :

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, i 902



BUSINESS NOTICES. j • *i ! flflSW ZEALAND j { NEW GOODS jHRB^I NEW GOODS j Just Opened. pßSSßßj^^^^ USI PE3SitD> "> ' 0 Men's Colonial Tweed Trousers 7s 6d : Men's Saddle Tweed Trousers 10s 9d Men's Colonial Tweed Suits 19s 1 id j Boys' Norfolk Suits Colonial Tweed r is 6d New Ties, Tennis Shirts, Straw Hats, at prices that cannot be beaten anywhere. New Zeahnd Clothing Factory, J; WILSON'S I ™™™H *„**■■. 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. Hgif The Prices are the same as for Ordinary Paperhangings. Borders and Friezes to Match, v Persons desirous ol choosing from the full stock, but not intending to use the Papers for some time, may have them laid aside until requited. I SES^TEI^fEESKj 1902 « ■ Its time for Spring Dresses j 'immii urn inn iwnn —r ~-—-"»-~— jj MITCHELL £s TUHHER Have added new laurels to their prestige by the DISTIMSII STYLE AND MOT Of their Importations for this Season. And confidently Invite Inspection. ... /Mw^/^^i^p^ 4^ "ft^TADE from TJ.SA. Tart?, specially for Novf Zealand Roads. Better than any im-j ported machine for the every day cyclist. Fitted with latest G.irrard Free Wheels, with patent Back Pedal Brake, Dunlop Vulcanised Tyres, Brook's] Saddles, any stylo Handle Sara, Pedals, Gear, Etc. GATES, I/)WRY & CO,, Largest Cycle Makers and Importers in New Zealand Ashburton Branch—Burnett Street FRIDAY & SATURDAY THIS WEEK j "¥T7"E will make our First Display of Spring and Slimmer | YV Goods, and invite inspection oi alt. | H^__k2r It&i. m BBk^s^l^i'^^r^^^^^S I ■Mb J__k^^H -JB- 4A^ ■n«aPsl j^^ v . ■ ■■■ . I I Ladies are especially invited to Visit the | I I IWIBHIIIIIP ■111 "Mr ——-'1-^Jy "~building~^[ateria£ ' ' i X)ERSONS about to BUILD would do well To thO3B XS 3" JL to visit our establishment. about to We Lave 100,003 feet of Seasoned Flooring BUILD. I and Matahlining 1 in stock ready for use. ; We are Making Grates and Hurdles every day, to suit the require ments of our customers. We cap supply Timber siwn to any size required. Persons about to Paint or Decor- ( T> A TT\r rFTI\T^ ate their homes, should see our -j JL jljlJlJli J- jLJJvVjr* NEW WALL PAPERS. We use Genuine Leads and Oils * only. It will Pay You to Visit Us W. H. COLLIWS.& CO., .; Timber Merchants and Sawniillers, Ironmongers and Hardware Merchants, Painters, | Decorators, and Bignwriters.



I P. FEEEIMAN. 1 I" FOB SALK { MARKET GARDEN, j Alford Forest Eoad. ME GEOEGK ELLIOTT having dis posed of his business in'l'own, has instructed me to sell his property situated on the Alford Forest Road. 'i he properly is well adapted for "a market garden, and will be sold as a going concern. Immediate inspection is invited, as Mr Elliott is anxious to retire from active business. Full particulars can be obtained on application F. FEERIMAN, Land and Estate Agent. FOR~SALE^ | A POULTRY FARM, doing a good business. Large , stock of good, healthy, and well bred Poultry. F. FEREIMAN. FOE SALE. THE undersigned is instructed by Me Moo die to sell | acre of good land, 1 fronting the Alford Forest Road and corner of Andrew Street. Upon the land is erected a comfortable 4 roomed Cottage. Easy termß. F. FEEEIMAN, Land and Estate Agent FOR SALE A GOOD Building Site on the North- East Town Belt, containing two Roods. The section is well stocked with fruit trees. F. FEERIMAN, : Land and Estate Agent. FOR SALE. ALLE.NTON. 4 DESIRABLE little property cotupris s ing nearly i acre of land and a Dwelling of three rooms with double brick chimney. The property is for immediate sale and possession. F. FEEEIMAN, Land and Estate Agent FOR SALE, CHARLES STRHPJT, near the WOOLLEN MILLS, ALLENTON. Sf HAVE for pale a comfortable dwelling JL -hou=e of Six Rooms, situated within throe minute-^' walk of the Woollen Mills. The land comprises two acres and other improvements consist of Good Stabling and Poultry Yards. The Property is for immediate sale, and is well worth inspection. Full particulars can be obtained from F. FEEEIMAN, Land and Estate Agent. ~~FOR SALE Charles Street near the Woollen Factory v GOOD Building Site, containing two Roods, planted with 70 fruit trees in full bearing. Easy terms can be arranged. F. FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent. FOR SALE. Near the Alford Forest Road. A FOUR-ROOMED HOUSE and Section planted with Fruit Trees. Price .£l3O F. FERRIMAN. BUSINESS NOTICES. Y¥s, I TOLD YOU SO, AND IT'S A FACT, ■— HPHAT I am still selling Tobacconist' •' Goods cheaper than you cm procure them elsewhere. But you all know that good things cud, so will my Sale on Satur day next. Only three more days, so roll up smokers and get your Cigarettes 3 packets for Is ; 5 choice Manilla Cigars for Is, Pipns, Pouches, Cigarette Holders, and Walking Slicks all going i'or a mere song. Just to hand a splendid assortment of 1 Peterson's Patent Pipos, which will give you a good smoke ; also 30 dozen Slazenger's 1 new season's Tennis Balls. Now Don't Forget at 11. A. FLOWER'S, (late F Clark's; Tobacconist and Hairdresser, East Sfcreot J. SEALT & CO. EXPIRATION OF LEASE. Giving up Business. Stock must be cleared by end of October. Z^IOME early for bargains in Garden Seeds, Flower Seeds, Garden Tools, Clover Seeds, Mangold Seeds, Ryegrass, Cocksfoot, and Field Peas. Complete Seedsman's Fittings for Sale, including nest of 30 drawers, shelving, show cases, desks, counter, etc. Hast be cleared by 31st October J s SEALT & CO. 7 131 II GRESHAM, SURGEON AND MECHANICAL DENTIST. By Examination, October, ISO - BRIGHT years experience with E. G. and |"?J F, W- Gresham, Dentists, Dunedin and InvercargilJ. Has commenced practice in rooms upstairs from the entrance to Thoma^s' Auction Rooms, Burnett Street. Stoppings in Gold, Amalgam, and Cement. Gold and Porcelain crowns made ; also sets of teeth with Vulcanite and Porcelain gums. > Gas administered. All work guaranteed. lloubs o!"Attendance —9 a.m. —5 p.m. Private Residency -Care Mes Grant, Wills Street. Public Notice WA NT E D-2,000 rv)ZEN LGGS, by Matthew G-ilmour, .(Late M, A. Flower). Having purchased the ,vfd-fistablished • Confectionery and Pastrycook Businesf pi Mr H. A. Flower, I am now supplying the best of Pastry and Confectionery Bought of the best makers, and made of the best ingredients. Only " our own make" of Pastry sold and supplied in tlifi Tea Rooms. Parties and Weddings catered £oj>. Wedding and Birthday Cakes a specialty, MATTHEW GILMOUR. 9 156 Smoke New Venus



Tailoring.—We have just received our first two shipments of new summer goods comprising the most up-to-date suitings as noy/worn at Home. We always encourage customers to select from the web which is far more satisfactory than ordering from j small patterns. We have a 'very kjge stock to select from. We employ first dlass tradesmen-every garment made on our p*ejnijses. We guarantee all our work, tit and stylo at prices thab will compare j favourably with .those. $j? any leading New ! Zealand city firm. We respectfully invite ; .customers to kindly order early "to prevent i ciisappojLntmjant in the " rush ' before 'the shows. Craighead and Berryman the leading tailpre Asjjbuj-tpn, [Adyt.] « ■ , ? ■■...., j



Wade's Worm Mgs—the Wonderful Worm Worriers—are always effective. ■ boxes every where Smoko New Yenns Strange's Sample Koonfs, Burnett street



,- Never despair! The worst Covigh or Cold will succumb to the irimionoe of TtFSSI CURA.. Try it' ' ' ' * Choice Blousings at Stance's. Worms undermine Children's Constitute 008, Use Wade's Worm Fig s, , Is b#se,g,