EPHEMERIS

SUN.

Phases of the Moon for December.

Mail Notices.

Mails'close for Jthe following places, as under, subject to the necossary alterations TUESDAY, Deo. 9. SAN FRANCISCO MAIL. For Northern Ports and West Coast, also Samoa, Hawaii, Philippines, Japan, United States, Canada, etc, also Continent of Europe and United Kingdom, via San Francisco (due London Jan. 10th), per Rotomahana, at 5.45 p.m.

Commercial.

London Wool Sales.

United Press Association - By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, Dec. 3 At the wool sales the prices and competi tion were equal to the best of the series.

Sydney Stock Sales.

Sydney, Dec 4

At the Homebush sales, New Zealand bullocks averaged ,£l7 9s 6d. Two cows fetched £18 10s.

POTATOES IN SYDNEY.

Potatoes are in good demand at £11 to £12 for prime sorts.

Asgburton Guardian MAGNA VERITAS ET PRÆVALEBIT. FEIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 1902. DAIRY SCHOOLS.

In the tenth annual report of the New Zealand Department of Agriculture, recently issued, there are several pages devoted to the subject of dairy classes, etc. It is stated that arrangements had been made in the early part of last year with two of the Dairy Factories for the purpose of " holding short courses of instruction in dairying, etc., to factory managers and assistants. Several difficulties were en countered in the endeavour t© make these' fib in with the convenience of those inten ded to be benefited, but these were to a large extent overcome, and the results have been very satisfactory. At the Stratford class, held only from Ist to 13th August, the attendance numbered over sixty, and although the attendance at the class opened at Stirling was considerably less, the results were encouraging. In the former case the instruction—both technical and experimental—was chiefly devoted to butter-making, which included " prepara tion and propagation of a good starter, the control and ripening of cream, churning aud washing butter at low temperature, and milk-testing." Lectures were given at intervals during tLe course and elicited much -useful and interesting discussion. Che instruction imparted at the Stirling cheese clas3 was devoted principally towards producing a uniformly good article throughout the year; the methods of handling different, qualities of milk, pre paration and propogation of starters; milk testing, etc. Mr Kinsella, the Dairy Com missioner, goes on to discuss the question of establishing dairy schools to be situated in the largest centres in this colony for the purpose of holding winter classes for factory managers, etc. Such schools arc in operation in Canada, but Mr Kinsella does not think the experiment would be so successful in this country as in a colder climate, because persons engaged in dairy ing are employed nearly the whole ye:ir in this country, while in Canada and other colder localities the work i 3 given up for about three months in the year. Moreover it 13 stated that it.is impossible to station any of the present instructors at a winter school for any lengthy period, owing to the enormous increase in the work of grading at the various ports. " These duties," says Mr Kinsella, " together with the increasing amount of work of organisation in newly opened up dairying districts, keep the present staff busily oc cupied." He thinks that permanent dairy schools is the proper place to edu cate men who have only a limited know ledge of dairy matters, and farmers sons who are desirous of becoming acquainted with the principles of dairying and acquir ing a practical knowledge of the subject. Dealing with the question of tne locality for such an institution, the Commissioner remarks, " If a school is situated in a lonely out-of-the-way place, where there is no amusement of any sort, and where con veniences are not very good, it is sure to militate against its success." Where dairy schools are carried on successfully in other countries, they are situated near the brightest and most picturesque localities to be found in the agricultural districts. The experience Mr Kinsella has gained in Aus tralia has convinced him that it would be wise to establish (Jairy schools in the vicinity of large centres. This subject has a special interest for the farmers in this part of Canterbury, seeing that the remarkable growth of the butter industry in New Zealand has rendered this a much more promising source of revenue than our farmers have hitherto supposed. Our own opinion is that the Dairy Commissioner, assisted by experts, should be asked to report upon the various districts in the county which seem to offer facilities for currying on the dairying industry with success, and that thereafter an effort should be made to get, Dairy Classes opened in the vicinity of Ashburton. The expense con nected with carrying out such a proposal would be small, for the classes might be made self-supporting. We commend this matter to the notice of the local branch of the Farmers' Union, or of the Ashburton A. and P. Association, for we may depend upon it that jtho butter trade of this country is going to "tie,' 0n.6 at its most important Fndnsfcries. Already New Zealand butter comr^ds ft highor price in the Home markets than ©< any of the British dependencies, and its po^n Oontimin-Uy improving. .

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

Tin? LocAr, Option Recount.—Mr C. D. Hardie has been appointed by the Stipen diary Magistrate to supervise the recount of the Local Option ballot to-morrow. It will begin at 10 a.m.

An Enthusiastic Spout,—We under stand that Mr David Thomas is taking two team 3of boys from the High School and one te;im from the Borough School to com pete at the Pioneer Amateur Athletic Club's sports to be held at Christchurch to-morrow. Mr Thomas will accompany the boys to Christchurch.

Earthquake Shock.—A smart shock of earthquake was felt in the Mount Hutt dis trict, about 4.20 a.m. on Tuesday. The general direction appeared to be from west to east, and the earth tremors lastel for some time after the main shock.

Morgan's Millions.—During 1902, it is stated, the profits made by Mr Pierpont Morgan in financing his world-famous and other combines, are: —The SteeJ Corpora tion, 4>4-,068,000 ; the Louisville and Nash ville' Railroad, .£1,000,000; the Harvesters Merger, .£1,100,000; the Northern Securi ties, ,£900,000; the Reality Company, £600,000; the Steamship Combine .£500,000. This givea a total income from the six schemes of £8,368,000,

Weatheb Forecast. — Captain Edwin wires: —Strong winds from between north and west and south-west; glass fall after 12 hours from now. J

Election Petitions.—With last week's " Gazette" is issued a supplement con taining rules for election petitions under Section 181 of the Electoral Act, 1902.

Personal.—ln consequence of an urgent telegram, the Premier left Wellington at 3 o'clock this morning in the Tutanekai for Christchurch, where his daughter (Mr 3 Bean) is to undergo a serious operation.

Accidbnt.~A man named T. Shields was admitted to the Hospital yesterday suffer ing from an injury to his right side, caused by a fall oi: earth upon him while working in a cutting.

Catholic Literary Society.—The usual weekly meeting of the above Society was held in the boys' schoolroom on Wednesday evening. There was a very large atten dance of members. After the ordinary business had been disposed of, Mr D. Crow, of Tinwald, gave the members an enjoy able evening's ontertainment. Mr Crow has -recently importel an Edison phono graph with a large selection of records, and his kindness was much appreciated. The selections by Edison's peerless orchestra are well worth hearing.

The Chess Tournament. — The Otago Chess Club announces that the money prizes in connection with the New Zealand chess championship tourney, which opens in Dunedin on Boxing Day, are ,£2O, .£lO, £6, and £i respectively. The entries close on^the 12th inst. with ?»Tr J. A. Connell, S9cretary of the New Zealand Chess Asso ciation, Wellington.

Saturday IIA.LF-HOLtDA.T.~A meeting of shop assistants called by the Trades and Labour ('ouuo.il was hold in Christchurch last evening to consider the question of the Saturday half-holiday. It was decided that the meeting approved of the Saturday holiday. Messrs T. E. Taylor, H. G. Ell, (x. Laurenson, and T. H. Davey, M.H.Es., supported the motion. A loug list of leading firms which declared in favor of Saturday for the half-holiday was read. It was decided to submit the motion to the City Council.

Encoring a Speaker.—lt does not often happen that a speaker is encored, but such a compliment was paid to the Eev Mr Jackson, of Southbridge, who was present at the Presbyterian tea meeting at Tinwald last evening. The visitor was in good form, and reeled off sonva excellent Scotch ditties which were intermingled with his address, and delivered in his quaint style, called forth vociferous applause from the audience, who were not satisfied until the speaker complied with their demands.

Siberian Butter.—With regard to but ter production in Siberia, Mr Fraser, author of " The Real Siberia," states : "It was a Dane in St Petersburg who four years back •tccideutly saw Siberian butter. He was struck with its excellence. Three years ago •iOOO buckets, each containing about 361b, were shipped by way of Riga, and thence to England, and sold in the English market. Last summer (190 L) 30,000 bucket? a week were exported from Siberia to England— over 482 tons n week." ,

Scholarships.—The examination of can didates for the High School scholarships beeins at the High School to-day, Mr J. S. Tennant, the headmaster, being supervisor. There are 26 candidates from the follow ing schools:—Borough 12, Hampstead 7, Elgin 2, Rakaia, Winchmore, Lisniore, Hinds, and Eiffolton one each. The exami nation is expected to last two days. Only five competitors have, so far, entered for the combined school sports scholarship, all being from the Borough School, and amongst these is the name of one girl, who has our cordial wishes for her success.

The Poultry Industry.—The following is an extract from a letter received by a merchant in Christchurch from a busiuess trim in Durban; —" We wish to express our satisfaction with the consignment of poul try just received from you. Both ducks and fowls .-ire the best we have yet handled, whether from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or Eugland, and we have personally imported and sold very many from each of these countries." This refers to a shipment of poultry from Christchuach, which went through the hands of the Government grader. The prices obtained were satis factory, and an order for a large number of poultry accompanied the letter from which the above is extracted, also a promise of continuous business.

The Australian Drought.—Recent ad vices of the severity of the drought in Aus tralia point to th 9 increasing strain on stockowners. One of the finest stations in tha State of New South. Wales, carrying under normal conditions 150,000 sheep, has spent during the last twelve months no less a sum than ,£100,003 on artificial feeding, and the owners to-day are in a worse condi tion than when they started—stock much reduced and dying fast, no grass, and no signs of grass. Mr J. S. Horsfall, who is well-known in Dunedin, has secured good paddocks for 70,000 of his sheep, which are all of a high clas?, and can stnU'l out until

■lime, but at a considerable outlay. .When .the drought breaks up sheep must fetch very high prices, and owners who have been able to save their flocks will be re couped the cost in the increased price then obtainable.

Newspaper Changes.—The Wellington corrsspondent of the " Truth " wires that Mr Pirani has disposed of the " Mauawatu Standard " to Mr. Jones, Bon of tha Hon. George Jones, at present part proprietor of the " Hastings Standard." Mr Pirauri is not relinquishing newspaper work, but has purchased the " Petone Chronicle/ a fact that appears to indicate that he is pleased with the support given him in the recent political contest, and that he has designs on the Hutt seat when it next becomes vacant.

A Wkll Stocked Cave. —While on a pede'tiian tour on the Maungatapu track, Mr E. Allen, of Hardy street, Nelson, came across a cave about 15 yards or more square, and in it discovered several bottles of brandy and wine, and some dozens of beer. Signs of former habitation were present (says the Nelson " Daily Mail/) but the woodwork in the cave showed dry rot, indi cating that nobody had been in the cave for a large number of years. The brandy aud wino had matured, and were of the very best quality. Mr Allen has placed a flag in the locality. It is just possible that thia cave might hays been the haunt of the Maungatapu murderers.

The Prohibition DrsTRidTS. — Ten hotels v/ill be closed in Bruce, The four Milton hotels contributo J3160 in license fees and £40 11s in rates. The amount the borough will thus have to make up will be covered by a rate of 3d in the pound. In Mataura fifteen hotels will be closed. One licensee, at the request of the Licensing Committee, has mff completed improve ajeats ousting £1000. " T*hß six hotels in Gore pay per annum in license fees and £78 in rates, while one of them pays £114 in rent to the borough. It is estimated that a deficiency of nearly .£4OO per annum will have to be made up, which is equal to two-fifths of a penny in the pound.

Pauper Making Machinery. — 4-^ ie meeting of the Charitable Aid Board in Christchurch on Wednesday, Mr Board, tho retirino- chairman, replying to ;i vote of thanks, said that he had endeavoured thoroughly to understand their system of charitable aid, which many people, who know not a bit about it, thought they understood. He considered that their legislators should serve an apprenticeship on"a practical body like the Charitable Aid Board His own opinion was that their present system was a purely pauper-making machinery, and he folt sure that unless some alterations were made in }t the polony would ere long feel the evil effects of it. He had arrived at this opinion after careful consideration, an'l practical examination into tho working of the system.

''Plumping" at the Elbc*ioh,—ln the cities there is considerable discussion re '•' plumping " for one candidate. Whether the practjoe is commendable or not, it is a fact that'the electors of New Zealand are "plumping" for the Rudge-Whitworth, which they recognise to be the best and easiest running bicycle on the market. R. D, .Johnston, agent, Burnett Street,

The Concert To-night.—Tho very in clement weather this morning threatened to affect the attendance at the farewell concert to Mr Owen to bo given this evening. But shortly after midday the rain ceased, and there is every prospect now that a large number of the residents of Ashburton will be present at the farewell (for a time only* we hope) to our esteemed fellow citizen, Mr . Llewellyn Owen. The concert promises to be very attractive, irrespective of the object for which it has been got up.

Land Ballot.—A very successful land ballot for a large area of land in various parts of the Taranaki land district, mostly the north, took place at New Plymouth yesterday. The total area under offer was about 7500 acres. In the present lot 585 applications were made by 267 persons. For 51 sections balloted for comprising 3242 acres about 60 applicants were present. The sections balloted for are situated in various survey districts. Those in Ohura were keenly sought after, as many as 77 applications being in for one section. As a result of the ballot sections were secured by persons in all parts of the colony.

News in Brief.

Messrs Friedlander Bros, Ltd., in con junction with Mr D. Thomas, will sell by public auction at the Arcade to-morrow, the private hotel known as the Prince Albert Boarding House.

Great Britain is spending about £ 1,000,003 a year with French poultry-keepers, de clared Lord Brassey, speaking on poultry rearing at Ninlield, Sussex.

Mr H. M. Jones has opened forty cases of toys, fancy goods, books, stationery, .Japanese and leather goods, suitable for Christmas presents, which he is selling at lowest possible prices.

Mr Andrew Orr announces special attractions for Christmas wear. He is opening up a fine selection of new goods for ladies in the latest fashions. His dress making department is giving every satis faction, as is also his bespoke tailoring. He has also received a variety of dress patterns of the latest fashions.

Owing to an outbreak of measles in the locality, the Timaru South School has been prematurely closed for the Christmas holi days. This course was recommended by Dr Reid, who was consulted as Health Officer.

To remove the impression that people can get better value in Christchurch than in Ashburton, Mr D. Stock is giving away during December a handsome picture of His Mnjesty King Edward VII. with every cash purchase of 20s worth of foot-wear.

The Tinwald Town Board has appointed Mr W. G-. Biggs registrar of dogs for the year 1903, and Mr James Gudsell's shop the registration office. The fees for dogs kept solely for the management of live stock are 2s 6d, and for all other dogs 10s.

A Claim for Commission.

At the Magistrate's Court yesterday, before Mr C. A. Wray, S.M., an important case was heard in which the Merchants' and Traders* Association and William Stonyor, commission agent, sought to recover £90 from Samuel Brown, farmer, Wakanui, com mission charged on obtaining two loans, one for £8000, and the other for .£SOO, on behalf of defendant. The real plaintiff in the action was Stonyer, the Traders' Association having simply received instructions to col lect the amount for him.

Mr Francis appeared for plaintiff, and Mr Wilding for defendant. Mr Francis, in opening the case, said that au order had been made to change the venuo from Christchurch to Ashburton. Since then £20 had been paid into Court, but this was not considered sufficient. The caso was one in which the plaintiff sought to .recover the sum of 490 from defendant for commission for arranging a loan of £30. 0, and also a second loan of .£SOO, on his property at Wakanui. William Stonyer said that he was a com mission agent in Ashburton. Met Mr Brown in September of last year, who said he wanted to raise a loan, and that his (witness's) charges were 1 per cent, but could not s=ay what the legal charges were. Finally took the matter up, after consulting ' Bcown further, which was at that time in Stringer and Cress well's hands. Communi cated with his solicitor in Christchurch, and the loan was obtained from Mr Arthur Ehodes, which was for £8000. On the second occasion when witness spoke to Mr Brown nothing was mentioned about terms. When the latter got the £8000 he said that it was not enough, and wanted 1 .£SOO more, which was obtained from Mr Ehodes as well. Witness sent in his account charging 1 per cent for his services, which Mr Brown never refused to pay until the matter was put m witness's solicitor's hands Had been offered £20 to settle it, but offered-to take half the claim. Since negotiating the loans, the Chamber of Commerce rates had alterod. Had no com munication since the .£2O was paid into Court. Cross-examined by Mr Wilding: Had been in business in Ashburton for two years. Had been paid a commission on several j amounts raised for clients on first-class sg curity, and received 1 per cent. Told Bro'jyn j in the train that Mb charges were 1 per cent. His business consisted in the sale of implements as well as a commission agency. | Saw Brown in December three months after but no mention was made about rates. Would be surprised to hear that the rate of charge by the Chamber of Commerce was £ per cent when over £3000. Had "never; been in conversation with Mr Ehodes, but J had instructed Mr Francis to act on his | behalf. Never sent an accqunt to Brown ! till three months afterwards. Had no wit nesses besides himself, Tfyecase was trans ferred to Christchurch for collection. Did ! not tell Brown and his that his charge ! would be vexy small. Mr David Thomas and the defendant came to settle the matter by arbitration. Could not remember telling them that the charge would be_l per cent. Would be surprised to knpw that Mr Thomas had all tp do with arranging the loan.

To Mr Francis: Several questions had cropped up about short acreage. Nothing was said at the interview with SVTe Thomas and Mr Brown about the Chamber of Com merce rates.

Mr Wilding contended that the evidence was conflicting. If the Chamber of Com merce rates did apply, th,eu Jus client had paid in full. Samuel Brown, defendant, said that he was a farmer at Wakanui. Some years ngo bought some machinery from Stcmyer. Met him in the train, and told Stonyer that he would require money later. Nothing was mentioned about ft 1 pey cent charge, and would not have engaged Stonyer if he knew what the charge would be. Stonyer never said a word at any time about terms. The loan was put through subsequently, and a further loan was arranged by Mr Thomas for which £2 was paid. Saw Stonyer on one occasion and was given to, understand that the charges would be very little. Stonyer declined to arbitrate.

By Mr Francis: Tried to raise money after he saw Stonyer. Never tried the Hank, but Messrs Stringer and. Cresswell's Did not know that Stonyer was in com munication wiph anyone in Christchurch, Would deny giving instructions' to Stonygr about raising another loan,

David Thomas said that he had been in business for over 20 years here, and had had much experience in raising loans. Was not guided by the Chamber of Commerce rates. During the last l(f years had not charged more than £10 lp-5 for any loan he had raised, His opinion was that a fair charge by Stonyer would have been from 5 to 7 guineas. Had read the rates of the Chamber of "Commerce and knew what the percentage was.

T. F, G-ibson, manager of the Farmers' Co-operative, said that a procuration fee was not charged. £5 5s was a reasonably charge for Stonyer to make. His Worship in giving judgment, con sidered that the charge was too high, and was not satisfied that Bpown had arranged to pay a charge of 1 per cent. He woifld give judgment for £20, the amount paid into Court;, plaintiff .to pay costs.

Tinwald Presbyterian Church.

ANNUAL TEA MEETING.

The annual tea meeting in connection' with the Tiawald Presbyterian Church was held last evening in the Oddfellows' Hall, ( Tinwald. The weather conditions were not altogether favourable for a large attend ance, which was a highly satisfactory one, taking the wet weather iuto consideration. Over 200 persons sat down to tea, which was laid at 5.30, the tables being presided over by the following:—No I.—Mesdames Fevgie and MoLeod, assisted by Misses Lewis and Bradshaw; No 2. —Mesdames Gilmour and Hickman, assisted by Misses Campbell and Sim; Bachelor's table—Misses Moore, Meharry, Shearer, and Stewart. After tea, the room was cleared for the public meeting, which was presided over by the Rev J. C.Paterson, M.A., minister in charge of the Tinwald and Flemington districts. With him on the platform were the Revs G. B. Inglis, B. N. Blakeston, and a visiting minister of the Presbyterian Church, in the person of the Rev Mr Jack son, of Southbridge, The meeting was opened in the usual way, after which the Rev Mr Paterson said that he came before them as chairman for the first time, and he also came among them as a servant of his people. In coming before them it was his hope that they would work with him in unity and love. The past year was one of the most prosperous the church had ever experienced, and in the work which lay before him, he earnestly desired that his people would come forward and give their best assistance, and so help the church to advance. The only way to advance was to grow in the knowledge of God through Christ. In every other walk of life advance was looked for. He trusted his congregation would work together lor the good of all. Coming before them, as he did, from a far land, perhaps they were too advanced for him, but he hoped to catch up. Recent legislation had shown an advance^ and it was his hope that this country would continue to advance, and that he would understand the people in their advanced conditions of life. It was also his hope that his congregation would flourish. * -

Eev. Mr Blakiston said that they knew Mr Paterson had come from the other side of the world, and the people in these colo nies did things differently than at Home. They also knew that the district was a scattered one, and occasioned much travel ling among the ministers engaged in the work of the district. He considered that the chief thing that a minister should do was to ascertain the wants of his people. They would help Mr Paterson very muoh if they let him kno# their inward life. As it was they were shut up too much, and the inner life should be made more manifest and its wants to the minister. He fervently hoped that Mr Paterson's ministry would be a blessing to himself and the district wherein he worked,

Eev. Mr Inglis was glad to revisit Tin wald once more. He would like to plant one seed of thought in their minds, and that was that Heaven would help those who helped themselves. The rev. speaker devoted part of his address to character, and said that we might have good schools, colleges, and so on, but unless we studied hard we could not do much. The best laws and fullest liberty did not make men happy ; the wealth and character of a State was made up by the character of its people, and the greatness and ability of a State depended upon the class of people in the State. The future of New Zealand relied on the young people. If any nation were to be great its people must be God fearing. All would feel sorry if any New Zealander disgraced himself. The young people of the colony were at the head of a great moral reform. In concluding his re marks, Mr Inglis said that Mr Paterson was a good minister, and paid him a high complimept.

Rev. Mr Jackson, of Southbridge, soon had the audience in merriment by his humorous ditties, and went, on to criticise in a good humoured sorb of way, the re marks of Mr Inglis. An old writer had said that the oldost angel in Heaven was the youngest, and in that connection he be lieved ho was getting younger overy clay. (Laughter.) Mr Jackson then addressed a few words of counsel to the young, whom he advised to be courteous, which trait of character was always a noticeable one. He explained why it paid a man to be religious, and not indulgo in wrong-doing which was against the fundamental principles of man's being. If any man did wrong, he was un happy, and a discord was created. The rev. speaker concluded with one or two humor ous anecdotes which were so amusing as to gain a recall, which he responded to in a generous way.

Daring the evening capital songs were rendered by Misses A. Clark and H. Kidd ; Messrs E. Craighead, E. Manchester, J. Cow and Mathieson; Messrs Craighead and Manchester sang a duet" Larboard Watch," excellently. Mrs Donald McLean, Mus. Bac. played two "pianoforte solos in her usual accomplished style. The accompaniments for the vocal portion were played by Mrs McLean, and the Misses Watt, Kidd, Clark, and Meharry.

At the ppnclusion of the programme, Mr Shaw proposed a vpte of to the per formers, and at the same time remarked on the good behaviour of the young folk that been prevalent all through the meeting. The vote was carried by acclamation.

On the motion of Mr Meharry, a hearty vote of thanks was passed to the ladies who had given their assistance towards making the gathering a success.

We must not forget to mention the able assistance given in the cause of-the Church and especially on occasions like the present, by Mr McKay, Mr Fergie and others, who were, as usual, both courteous and obliging to everybody, A yote of thanks to the chairman was proposed by the "Rev Mr Jackson, and car ried in the usual manner, the meeting ter minating with the Benediction.

CRICKET.

United Press Association—By lijleofcric Telegraph - Copyright.

Sydney, December 4 The following have been selected to re^ present the Rest of Australia against the returning Australian Eleven i—Layer, War rail, Collins, McAlister, Hastings, Warne, Stuckey; Eeedman, Travers, Giffen, and Gregory. Dissatisfaction exists locally that only one New Seuth Wales man is included. Melbousne, December 5 The Australian cricketers have arrived.

A match waa played on the Domain Oval on Thursday afternoon between teams representing the Ashburton Cricket Club and thirteen of the Excelsior Cricket Club, the new local Clubj The game resulted in an easy victory for the senior Club, but some of the colts showed good form, with the exception of their bowling, which was decidedly weak. Following are the scores : ASHBUKTON C.C. Percy Orr, c Culverhouse b Stigley ... 61 F. Clark, thrown out ... ... 9 Gr. W. Andrews, c Kingston b Stigley 6 W. Powell, not out ... .. 28 W. Crowther, not out ... ... 28 Jj^tfcai ' „•  , 15 Total for three wickets ... ... 147 Innings declared closed. EXCELSIOR C.C., ' Stigley, bF. Claris , 0 Andrews, bP, Qrr , , ... 2 I Hillgrove, c Watson b, Orr , ... 7 <j, Thomas, b Orr .. ... ... 0 !J. Coffey, b Orr ... ... ... 1 BL Buchanan, run out ... ' 18 N. Wilkie, b Orr ' ... ... .[[ 9 S. Culverhonse, b Qrr . . 5 Q, Child, bQrr .'."4 Smith,'b Qrr McKonzie, b Orr ... ... , S. Thomas,not out ... ... ... 0 W. Page, b Orr ... ... .„ q Extras ••■ ... ... 8 Total ... ... .. fis

The A.A.C. and A.C. Club.

OPENING OF THE SEASON.

The opening of the season by the A.L.C. and A. Club took place yesterday on the Oval, when four events were decided- Pedestrian 100 yds and 220 yds, and Cycling and 1 mile. The former were both won by W. Anderson from the scratch mark, who showed excellent fornV especially in the 220 yds, but the times were not remark able—namely, Ilsec3 and 24; 3-sth sees. The cycling events also fell to ona ridei, namely, S. Grudsell, who promises' to iw heard of later on. The times recorded were good. The display of W. J. Robertson, who showed up well a season or two ago, was disappointing, but at this early period of the season some allowance may be made for indifferent form. It was remarked by many yesterday that far more interest was taken in cycling in Ashburton before the track was asphalted and made one of the best in the colony. The officials were Messrs Cos (Judge), D. Wood (Starter). W. Shearman (Handicapper), Dickenson, Campbell, Sol don, R. G. Shearman, Reid, W. Andersen, D. Friedlander (Committee), and Messrs D. Bruce (Hon. Treas.), and- M. J. Lynskey (Hon. Sec.) who all contributed to the success of the meeting. Following are results : —

100 Yards Handicap (Foot Race) —W. Anderson, scr, 1; T. Adams, 6yds, 2; S. Cul verhouse, 7yds, 3. Time llsecs.

Half-Milb Bicycle Race—S. Gudsell, 40yds, 1; W. J. Robertson, 50yds, 2; H. P. Arnsfc, 50yds, 3. Time—lmin. 3 l-sth sec.

220 Yakds Handicap (Foot Race).—• W. Anderson, scr, 1; T. Adams, 9yds, 2 ; M. J. Lynskey, scr, 3. Tims —24 4-sth. seo.

One Mile Bicycle Race—S. Gudsell, 90yds, 1; H. P. Arnst, 130 yds, 2; W. J. Robertson, 120 yds, 3. Time~2min. 12 3-sfch sec.

Irish Affairs.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, December 3 On the "motion of the Eev. Clancy, the Catholic curate of West Clare, the directory of the Irish League in Dublin approved of the decision of the Nationalists members ' of the House of Commons to preserve the peace of Ireland while the settlement of the land question, whereon depend vital issues affecting the faith of the country, is trembling in the balance. London, Dec. 4. Mr Eedmond has been severely criticised for his inconsistency in warning the Na tionalists .to return to Westminster, and then presiding at a meeting of the direc tory of the League, adopting Mr Clancy's resolution.

Melboubne, Dec. 4 Cardinal Moran has arrived from Borne, and was enthusiastically welcomed.

He said he found people of every denomi nation agreed that Home Eule for Ireland, in whatever form it might be granted mast some day be conceded to the people. The whole body of the Irish people were bent upon ruling their own affairs. A hostile Press magnified every little incident into a great dissension in the Irish party. As between the clergy and people there, was, in reality, nothing of the sort.

The Education Bill Passed.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. London, Dec. 3 Sir H. Campbell-Bannermsn, in a thin and listless house, moved the rejection of the third reading of the Education Bill. London, Dec. 4. Sir H. Campbell-Bannerman's motion for the rejection of the third reading of th# Education Bill was uegaiived by 286 to 134. '

The third reading was adopted by 246 to 123.

The Transvaal Bullion.

United Press Association— By Electrio Telegraph—Copyright. London, December 3 Great Britain is trying to attach the .£130,000 worth of bar gold handed to Dr Leyds, on the ground that she is entitled to the Transvaal's assets.. ■;'!

The Trades Union Con gress.

United Press Association—By Electric .Telegraph—Copyright

Sydney, Dec. 4 Other planks adopted by the Labour Conference are compulsory arbitration, nationalisation of monopolies, citizens' defence force, restriction of public borrows ing- ■■•*".,

German Action in China.

United Press Association—By Electrio Telegraph—Copyright "London, Deo. 4. A Blue Book just issued show 3 that Germany, on November 3rd, yielded to Great Britain's protest.

Lord Lansdowne on the 6th explained that England protested, objecting to the utilisation of the evacuation of Shanghai for the needless reaffirmation of the " open door "policy or China's sovereign "rights, or for the purposes of remuneration, which were seemingly specially aimed at Great Britain. Replying to Germany's assertion that she had satisfactory assurances from China covering, besides the Yangtse, the whole of China, excepting any previous alienation of sovereign or territorial rights, Lord Lansdowne declared that Great Bri tain would be no party to this arrangement, though she was not affected thereby. There is a consensus of opinion that Ger many attempted a piece of sharp practice to limit British influence in Central China for h©r own advantage.

The Elingamitc Wreck.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. , , , Sydney, Dec. 4.'" Frank Jobson, one of the raft survivors from the Elingamite, writing to his brother, denies absolutely the rumour about the men aucking blood. He says what they went through was bad enough without making things worse.

Victorian Harvest.

United Pre^ss Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. *v ■■ MKLBOURNEy DeC. 4 The " Leader" estimates that the wheat harvest of Victoria will be 3,055,000 bushels, an average of 4.8 bushels per acre, the low-; est yet produced. At the present high value of -w:heat the yield is equivalent to seven million bushel^ at normal prices. The lowest estimate of requirements i% 6,006,000 bushels. --

Fowndering' of a Steamer.

United Press Association—Hy Electric Telegraph—Copyright. Madrid, December 4. The Spanish steamer Ifeptune foundered in a galo in the. Bay of Biscay, 28 being drowned.

THE ASHBURTON GUAPPTAN : FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, ■ 190 a



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itises 4.17 4.17 4.17 4.17 4.16 4.16 4.16 4.16

Sets 7.21 7.22 7.23 7.24 7.25 7.26 7.27 7.28



'irsfc Quarter 'ull Moon iast Quarter Few Moon .pogee ... 'erigeo ...

a 8 15 22 30 3 16

h m 5.57 p.m. 3.17 p.m. 7.30 a.m. 8.55 a.m. 4.0 a.m. 1.0 a.m.



BUSINESS NOTICES. FOX WATCHES, CLOCKS^, JEWELLEKT, SILVER AND ELECTRO-PLATE, SEASONABLE NOVELTIES, Etc, - . _ GO TO G JESSOH, Practical Watchmaker aud Jewellei, Burnett Street, (opposite Somerset Hotel^ Ash burton. — -Repairs a Specialty — Presentation Committees liberally dealt with. KERB BROS." WISH to remind their Customers anc the Public that they have retnovec to their Shop opposite Mail Office and thre< doors above their old place. KERK BROS, Burnett Street. — NOTICE The Great Eugene Sandow , IS COMING. "ikTOW is tho time to buy Developers J3l and Spring Grip Dumb-Bells at HARDLEY BROS. i NEW ARRIVALS T~ (By the Steamer Rangatira) WE have just received the firat con signments of Drugs and Druggists Wares, carefully selected in London by Mr Cambridge. We are now using all new Drugs for dispensing. Entrust us with your physician's prescriptions, we will dispense them with cavo and accuracy, using fresh and pure drugs in their com pounding. The Popular Vinegar Essence is again in fun supply, Is Gd for a gallon. Sponges.—The selection is the largest and finest ever shown in Ashburfon, prices ranging from Is to 28s each. This quality of sponge is always reserved for the Home trade and seldom exported. Sparkf/ex Botti.es. — The new design, double size, with a syphon tap for drawing off small quantities of aerated water, also 5000 Sparklets and 500 packages of fruit crystals for mating delicious fruit drinks. Photogeaphig Camkras. — The Little Nipper No. 3, quarter plate, latest improve ments, a really good snapshot Camera, holds 12 plates, 10s. Fob the I>abies.—Everything is Corona tion. Buy tho baby a Coronation Dummy or Soother. Costs 9d. Far the best and lightest yet .introduced. Fob the Farmer and Cattle Owner.— We have a useful assortment of instru ments, such as gags and drenching bits for giving medicines. Probangs for choking, needles for wounds, enemas, etc. For the Ladies—(With apologies for placing them last) we shall have, by ss. Waimate, now in port, some of the prettiest novelties to be found in Lan don in per fumery, brush ware, and articles for the Dressing Table and Bath Room. The Ashburton Drug- Co., Ltd., J. M. CAMBRIDGE, 12 239 Manager. SPECIAL to Buyers of Ready-made CLOTHING. - — ;O:~ BEING considerably „OVERSTOCKED IN Boys,' Youths' and Men's READY-MADE ULOTIIING, WE "WILL OFFER During DECEMBER the whole of our stock of these Goods, to. ines . U . ."n .i ■'. i l!.K.'.\ AT SPECIAL SALE l'ii.l».ES. See our Dcor Display for Bargains ASHBUETGN 'DRAPERY CO Burnett Street. i Rheumatism ■ You've tried liniments and prescriptions without result. Now ... CURE YOURSELF with THE GREAT . .. CANADIAN . . . SEAWEED CURE. A medicine and Not a liniment. A Quick and Permanent Cure. SOLD BY ALL DEALERS At 3/6 per Bottle. Sole Agent for Australasia: GEO. W. WILTON, Wellington. H GRESHAM, SURGEON AND MECHANICAL DENTIST. By Examination, October, 1897- EiIGHT years experience with E. G. and i F. W. Gresham, Dentists, Dunedin and Invercargill. Has commenced practice in rooms np3tairs from the entrance to Thomas' Auction Booms, Burnett Street. Stoppings in Gold, Amalgam, and Cement. Gold and Porcelain crowns made ; also sets of teeth with Vulcanite and Porcelain guuns. Gas administered. AH work guaranteed. Hours of Attendancs —9 a.m. —5 p.m. PrivateEesidenoe -Care Mas Gbant, Willd Street.



. BUSINESS NOTICES ' SANTA CLAUS AID FATHER XMAS COMING AGAIN. - - H. M JONES. - - Af\ Cases of Toys, Fancy Goods, Books, Stationery, China, Glass, Plush, A,f\ Japanese and Leather Goods TCv Suitable for Christmas, New Year, Birthday & Wedding Presents Imported direct from Leading London Houses. Must be Sold Lowest possible Prices. Call early & often Christmas Cards in great variety. Pianos, Organs and Bicycles sold Easy payments ( ricketing, Croquet and Tennis Material . H M JONES. flffßW^ff~BHHHßHtfflf 11 r m T ' J tt? miT9ffl3WiNJ"WrYi I"T **~''a' J-if ■*"**ti*^]^T?:s-- 3r ■»h- b -__w* _j. mi ~ ;_TEt_r.*j'jv_. i ■■!—a. -• I_JMKl__j a v »_■.» /HTii r-t*fif__Jl—B~g.~M< HURDLES HURDLES SHEEP SHEARS PAINTING, PAINTING. THE BEST is the CHEAPEST. Visits Onr Establishment and obtain Prices, It^will pay you. W. 11. COLL NS & CO., Ironmongers, Painters Timber and Coal Merchants Sawmillera .■,'rtV. :;, -^ffiT ww-gpwyfff fjf^,ii||lfl fffa^*W"-BW^W_-FJ__H___Wt'l!_i"^niy^lHfff (FOE XMAS 1902. PRETTY PRESENTS, ~nr~HAT could be more appreciated by your friends than some article which displays your own skill in working. We are making a special exhibit of ART NEEDLE WO R X And as there is just time to work many of the pieces, which are Btarted or traced, all early inspection of our window and Show Ecem display is advised. - We have a choice collection of presents for the boy 3 and girls, and in fact suitable gifts for all, which we are going to distribute free with each cash purchase of 5s worth and upwards right up to the New Year, but advise all to select the"r presents as soon a? possible. G-cods of Quality. fjl ffill Ball _. inf^jl^l?,! HI Lv___lflnl ow ■^ >"CBS n ex*s^ SHEEP SHEARING SEASON. T HAVE. JUST LANDED MY SEASON'S S U PiP.L.Y OF ! 8s 6d. SHEEP SHEARS, 3s 6d 1 including T.U.S. and 8.8.A., N.Z., with plain and perforated grips, Turkey^Oil Stones, a splendid sample. Sweet Oil. Branding Oils—"Red, Black, and Blue, in 1 and s,gallon drums j Eaddle, Lamp Black, Etc. LAWN MOWERS in great variety, from 22s 6d to 503 each. GARDENING TOOLS of every description at reduced prices. BOWLS! BOWLS! BOWLS! As the season has just opened, I cordially invite inspection of my stock—Taylor's first quality only kept. SEWING MACHINES. lam sole agent for the celebrated " Davey " Machine; 7 years' guarantee ; Hand £3 10s; Trea 1? Je lrom .£6 lCs to £8 Kb. Call and inspect. They are worth lookiug at. G. M. E D D I N.S, The Peoples Ironmonger, Burnett Street, opposite Arcade. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. N.Z. CLOTHINa FACTORY. PHOTOGRAPHY, HALMA AIVI> CO., Saundcrs' Riiildin.^, Ashburton, WE are doing one dozen Enamelled Cabinet Photos and One Enlarged Photo, mounted on a beautiful Plate Sunk Mount, for the low price ot IBs 6d. 12s 6d. 18s Cdp SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. i ! Remember this is ior the month of December only.- Persons who wish to do their own Painting will fnd it to their advantage to call at my Oil and Color Store. 1 have Heady Mixed Paints, Genuine White Lead and Oils, or I will mix any shade of our own Genuine Paint. . W II,SON, Paperhanger, Painter, and Sign-writer.



STRANGE'S Famous White Patent Satin Quilt (full size) 15s 6d,



CJTEAN&E'S Eldredgo B. Sev.ing K^ Machine £Q 6s,



Tif c Cyclists' Vote. — Colonial made B.S.A. Bicycles, score by an overwhelming majority the largest number of votes every year, and especially those made by such firms as Messrs Oates, Lowry & Co. (solo makers of Zealandia Cycles), who are on the spot, and are over ready to meet their clients under a liberal guarantee. .



TAILORING. >— Strange's are unsure passed for fit and style at modera^f prjQ.es,