EPHEMERIS

SUN.

Phases of the Moon for December. d h m First Quarter ... 8 5.57 p.m. Full Moon ... 15 3.17 p.m. Last Quarter ... 22 7.30 a.m. New Moon ... 30 8.55 a.m. Apogee ... ... 3 4.0 a.m. Perigee ... ... 16 1.0 a.m.

Mail Hotices.

Mails close for the following places, as under, subject to the necessary alterations: • TUESDAY, Dec. 23. For Northern Ports and Westpo'rt, per Eotomahana, at 6 p.m.

Commercial.

Havelock Street Mart

Mr Henry SCfpheuson reports that there w.ia a very good attendance at Saturday's market. There was a very large entry of pigs, prices being 3s and 4s in advance of last week. Weaners sold at Bs, 10s, 11s 6d, up to 15s 6d; stores 16s, 17s, and 20s; small porkers 255, 27s 6d; large sorts, 31s to 37s Gd. Owing to the approaching Christmas season there was n. very large entry of poultry. Fowls sold at Is to 3a, geese 4s 6d to 6s 6d, ducks, 2s 6d to 3s 6d, turkoys 8s fld to 18s, all at per pair. 112 pairs wore disposed of. Calves sold at .£1 Is and JEI 0s Gd. The demand for potatoes was not so brisk, and prices ranged from 7s to 9s 6d. A lot of furniture, sundries, and Christmas goods sold at satisfactory prices.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. MONDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1902. A CRUEL DISAPPOINTMENT.

The attempt made by Mr Witheford, one of the Aucklaud members of Parliament, to arrange for the settlement of some of the Returned. Troopers on land, does not seem to promise much success. Some little time ago it was officially announced that Govern ment intended to throw open about 8000 acres of bush land in the North Island for the purpose of enabling men, who had been to the front, to take up lantl if they so de sired, and great hopes were indulged ia by many of them that they would be able to do so. An advertisement previously in serted in mo3t of the newspapers in the colony, resulted in a great number of let ters being sent to Mr Witheford from troopers or their friends, stating what they wished to get, and how much money they could find to begin with. Later on the bush land was thrown open for selection, under the perpetual lease system, with an intimation that some .£4O would be required in each case to cover cost of survey and other charges. There were 36 sections put up to ballot, and there were nearly 600 ap plicants, all of whom it may be presumed, had signified that they were prepared to comply with the conditions imposod. There wore therefore, over 500 men who had been induced by the prospect of getting land to make financial and other arrangements to meet the requirements of the Land' Depar tment, who were unsuccessful. It caunot be denied that this is a most regrettable and.un satisfactory state of thing?, and is the more so, because the hopes of the men had been raised by the promises which were made by Ministers, not only when the New Zea -Imd Contingents were starting for ' the front to fight in the armies of the Empire, hut quite recently, after their return. Five or six hundred of our young men who have sacrificed a a^o'd deal for the cause oi: their country, and have asked to be allowed' to settle on the waste lands of the colony, are now in at least as bad a position as they wcro before their applications went in, with only tho supreme siatisfactiou of knowing that they had the same chances as any of their successful comrades. This is a situ atiou which is not creditable to New Zea land. There are lands in tho hands of the Crown, which would carry nearly 30,000 set tlers, and every one of these would be wealth producing, and yet here are over 500.young men of the right stump ready to take up land, and only thirty-six sections can be divided amongst them. The ballot is an unsatisfactory method of selecting settlers in any case, because the unsuccessful appli cants often get sick of failures, and turn their attention to something else, for a living. We have known several cases of this "kind. But as no better system of allotting Crown 'hinds has yet been dovised, it is perforce, the law of the laud. Never theless, it would have been an easy matter during the last snssion of Parliament to make special provision for dealing with the case of our returned soldiers. It would be greatly to the advan tage of the country if those 500 odd men who were unable to get land in the north could be settled elsewhere, and we hope the Minister of J^ands will lose no time in considering the position, 'Uhqre is any quantity of land in South Canterbury, and even in this county that can be pur chased for settlement, and we should like to see something done by the Government to secure some of it for the benefit of the returned soldiers, and to the advantage of the whole community, tt is a great re proach to this country, that such numbers of tho men who have assisted to bring honour to New Zealand, should now be in cluded in the mfcis of £lip "unemployed; and we trust Ministers will recognise fhly, and take effective measures to do away with such a state of affairs.

We have received a letter from another country teacher anent the Coronation medals sent by Mr

THOSE SOUYJSjaJiliiv

Sed4o» —not to some of the larger sghools

only as we gathered from the expression m his letter "as far as they will go"—but also to the small schools like those in charge of the teachers who have objected to cur first paragraph on this interesting subject. As these gentlemen appear to have taken umbrage at our reference p the Borough School in the paragraph referred to, we may explain that we understood some racdalc hftd been received from the Premier, and therefore sent a reporter to the headmaster of the Borough School for further information- That gentleman merely handed our reporter the Premier's letter to him; heuGe our paragraph. Had Mr Seddon's letter not implied thp-t these medals might not go round, we should have concluded they had been sent to all schools. This seams 4 small matter to call for so much notice, but we are anxicus to relieve the minds of those Country teachers who seem to fear that the Borough school might possibly be looked upon as the leading school in the couDty, if people were per mitted to suppose that Mr Seddon wrote only to the teacher of that school. We trust, however, that this explanation will Lritty^nt £he public from making any mistake about a matter which appears to exercise a few of our worthy teachers in a most remarkable manner.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

Weather Forecast. — Captain Edwin wires :—Strong winds to gale from between north-east and north and west ; glass fall ; indications of rain.

Retribution.—Constable Hogan arrested a man at the Ashburton Railway Station on .Saturday morning, against whom a warrant had been issued two years ago in Otago for neglecting to pay a fiae.

Nurses' Examination.—Among tho list of nurseß who have passed the preliminary examination in anatomy and physiology appear the names of Misses Esther Gates, of Timaru, and Mabel Wilkio, of Ashbur ton.

CoMPLttTKNTS OF THE SEASON.—The staff of the Ashburfcon Guardian desire to acknowledge the good wishes for a Mevry Christmas and. a Happy Now Year con veyed t" them in a neatly got up card by the staff of the Ellesmere Guardian.

Fatal Accident at Temoka.—Edward .Tames Graham, of Temuka, was killed on Saturday through a dray team which he was driving bolting and throwing him on the road breaking his neck and left arm. Deceased was 38 years old.

Boeough School Picnic.—The Ashbur ton Borough School will hold their annual excursion to Timaru on Friday, the 30fch of next January. Full particulars will be advertised later.

Record Pigeon Homing.—A record hom ing pigeon flight was accomplished last week from Parengarenga (Auckland) to Wellington. Ten birds were liberated, and despite tho heid wind and fogsjy weather, covered 382 miles, by the air line, under 134 hours.

The Saleyauds and the Local Option Poll.—ln conversation with a gentleman connected with the Saleyards Company our reporter was informed that "the result of the Local Option Poll would not materially affect the Saleyards. "Under no-license keener competition would ensue for the refreshment booths, which have hitherto been competed for by only the publicans. The resuit of a stronger competition would naturally help to make up any deficiency for the loss of the licenses.

PnorosED State FfiOUK Milt.,—Rum ours are afloat as to the possibility of the Dunedin flour mill, to be sold by auction next month, being purchased by the Government; but, in the face of Sir J. G. Ward's distinct declaration to the contrary the other day in Christchurch, the rumour does not gain much credence. —" Otago Times."

Flour Milt.kes' Association.—There is considerable speculation in the trade (says the " Otago Times " concerning the future of the New Zealand Flour Millers' Associa tion. The present agreement expires early in tho new year, and no announcement has yet been made concerning the new agree ment. Mr G-. Jameson, the general mana ger of the^association, in Dunedin, was last week questioned on tho subject, he said that matters were still in abeyance - he was not prepare i to say anything as yet, either one way or the other.

Labour voa Harvest.—The Hon. T* Y. Duncan, Minister of Lauds, met the Farmers' Union at Onmaru on Saturday relative to farm labour for harvest. After discussion, in the course of which one farmer said that he had greatly redu .ed his s)wing for several years on aocount of the scarcity <.t labour, Mr Duncan suggested that the Union should collect information of the number of men likely to be required for the harvest, and the Government would then sea, as it had always done in the past, that requirements were provided for.

Fishing.—Messrs Pilbrow, Rickman, J. Stephe s, junr., and others who have ■been fishings at the mouth of the river, have been rewarded with a fair amount of success. One good sized trout landed by Mr Stephens is a"? present oil view in the window of Messrs Hnrdley Bros., East street, and weighs 9.\lb. Messrs L'ilbrow, Rickman, and G. Densl.i:e, wl o camped at the mouth of the river on Saturday hi a ded 24 flsb altogether, varying in weight up to 71b. Messrs Knox and Corbett's takes averaged up to 121b. Fish are reported to be very plentiful.

Proposed Amateur Operatic Society— A meeting of the Ashburton Musical Union will be held to-morrow (Tuesday) evening, at 8 o'clock, in Saundera' Build ings, to consider the practicability of starting an amateur operatic society. As it is not intended to confine tho scheme to present members of tho Union, all those interested from either a dramatic or musical point of view are invited to attend. We feel sure this endeavour to encourage musical talent will be welcomed by the Ashburton public, and we wish the venture success. Mr Gillies is working up a strong Committee, so that the management will be in capable hands.

A Nh.w Insect Pest,—Mr Smith, of Westeriield, brought to this ofQce on Saturday a young wild duck which had been mught by his son, Mr J. Smith, a member of the N.Z. Contingent, and also several insects, which had been found on the bird. These insects are about the size of a field pen, when distended with blood and are of a very dark green colour. The neck of the duckling showed plainly how severely these ticks had affected it, and it is probable that had it not been greatly weakened by the drain on the system resulting therefrom, it would not have been so easily caught. Mr Smith, jnr., thinks the ins^ots are the Afrfpan tick, but Mr Vf. W. Srqith—who attended at the Farmers' Union meeting on Saturday, at the President's invitation, to report on the matter—says they are not, but a« parasite peculiar to water fowl. But oven then t'hq progeny of these pests \n New Zeal'ind is a matter, that has not hitherto been known to the general public, and they must surely be a recent arrival in this country.

Tj.it: San^qw Season, —At the opanjng of the bo* plan for th,e Sjandow season,'com moncinor at the Oddfellows' Hall on Wed nesday next, a great rush for seats took place, and, to judge by the demand, the success of the season is already assured. Everybody is already on tip toe of expec tation to witness the marvellous feats with which Sandow is accredited. ■ The incalcu lable good' that Sandow has done by the introduction of his teachings £j,nd exercises alone, stamps him as a benefactor of man kind, aad for his pupils to gaze upon the original himself will he a memorable occa sion and a rare treat. The Christchurch season is enormous, Sandow creating an enormous furore.

News in Brief.

Tho Ashburton Rifles will hold a daylight parade to-morrow evening at 7 o'clock.

The N.Z. Fanners' Go-operative Associar tion will offer at the Ashburton Yards to-morrow a large number of sheep and cattle. Mr H. C. Barrett, draper, The Hall, East Street, has a notice in 'another column to. phose Who wish tp minimise the cost of living. The offices of the Ashburton County Council will be closed from 4.30 p.m. on the 21th inst. till 9.30 a.m. on January 2nd for the holidays,

A Christmas tree with attractive side shows, in pid of Herrioks' Home, will be held in the big store, Methven, on the afternoon and evening of the 24th inst.

A telegram from Dannevirke states that Martha Hoewaka, a centenarian, died at Kaitoke Pah on Friday night. -The deceased was aged one hundred and ten years. Mr George Meddins, the people's iron' monger, has just landed preserving pans' cooking utensils, ' harvesting requisites, paints and' oils, a"nd ironmongers goods of every description. He jis agent for the Atlas, Orion, Zealandin, and Hepburn ranges, and the well-known Dayey; s sewing machine. ______________„

Lauriston.

(From a Co-respondent.)

As a suitablo conclusion to what may be indisputablytermedamosfc enjoyable day, the local Sports Committee resolved upon holding a race ball, on the evening of An niversary Day. The ball was held in Mr A. Drummond's granary, and as the services of Terris's Band ba,d been secured for the occasion, it was well patronised, and the floor, which was in excellent, condition, pre sented quite a gay scene as the opening strains of the music were sounded. Num bers of visitors were present, and it was evident from the happy countenances of one and all that they were enjoying them selves to the full. A refreshment booth, stocked with all sorts of good things, was presided over by Messrs and Mesdames Buchan, senior and junior, and appeared to be doing real good business. Several extras were played by Mr Walker, while songs were also rendered throughout the evening. So great a success did the Sports Com mittees' first venture prove, that there is little doubt that, henceforth, the future will be an annual one, and with the same excellent arrangements, further successful gatherings may be safely guaranteed. Mr W. Pearce acted as M.C. throughout the evening, and gave general satisfaction.

New Zealand Rifle Association.

Per Press Association—By Electric Telegraph

Wellington Dec. 19

J,The programme for the annual prize meeting of the New Zealand Rifle Associa tion has been issued. The meeting opens at Trentham on Thursday, March sth, and JilOl3 is offered in prizes, exclusive of troph ies. The King's prize takes the place of the Champion Match, the conditions being that the fifty highest aggregates in the Auck land, Wellington, Nelson, Canterbury, and Otago Matches fire a final stage of 700 yds, fifteen shots, to decide who holds the belt. In the matches mentioned a certain amount of prize money is allotted to tyros, that is, to men who have never won a prize at any New Zealand Rifle Association meeting. The service matches include snap shooting, a cover match, volunteer matches, a car bine match, a defence cadet match, a rapid firing match, a disappearing-target match, and carbine snap shooting. The team matches include volley firing, rapid firing competitions of companies and teams' matches. Ammunition, including sighting shots Jis supplied free. The competitors must use only the class of weapon with which his corps or club is armed. Magnifying sights ,and artificial rests, shading, or sheltering, or assistance of any kind when firing is prohibited. Orth optics will be al lowed in the belt matches only. Competi tors will not be allowed to use any kind of oil or grease as a lubricant for the bullet.

Correspondence.

(We do not hold ourselves responsible foi opinions expressed by our correspondents.)

THE LATE SCHOOL SPORTS.

TO THE EDITOR,

Sib,—Will you allow me through your valuable paper to express an opinion on the meeting of the Ashburton Combined Schools athletic meeting, vie,., that we owe a heirty vote of thanks to the worthy Presi dent and all those whose eflforta assisted to make the meeting a success. It is to be regretted that more country schocli were not represented, and also country folk present, as [ fancy that some of fche events, to wit, " physical drill," would have astonished them, and 1 trust another year there will bo more competition in this event. Might I suggest to the Committee that a race for Officials to wind up thß day would be very taking, say a 75yds handicap which I trust would be won by their genial President, whose efforts to encourage sport and good feeling amongst the children are so well known, and I would suggest calling ou the public for assistance, which I am sure would meet with a ready response for such a laudable object.—l am, etc, E. 8.0.

CORONATION MEDALS.

TO THE EDITOR

Sir, —In support of Mr Hunnibell's letter to you a few days back, re Coronation medals, I send you this leaflet which I received, accompanied by 41 medals in four different designs. I could mention several other schools which have boeu treated like wise by Mr Seddon; therefore you will see that tho Borough School has not been specially favoured by Mr Seddon, as you implied. —E am, etc., J. Campbell, Fairton School.

Sporting

TINWALD RACING CLUB.

The following nominations have been re ceived for the Tinwaid Racing Club's Meeting on New Year's Day :—

Grove Farm Handicap, of ?■ soys; six furlongs.—-St Finbar, Renounced, Bendoe, Lady's Chain, Mavis, Sandhurst, Kitty and Nutcracker.

Farmers' Trot Handicap, of 10 soys; one mile and a half—Experiment, Siesta, Fanny Tracey, Merry Girl, Velfcha^ Tenby, and Battles.

Tinwald Cup, of 20 soys; one mile. — Soubriquet, St Finbar, Lady's Chain, Barnoy, Fairy Rose, Helios and Nutcracker.

Farmers' Plate, of 7 soys j pee mile.— N,eve*i Mind, Lambkin, Mavis, ,Bendoe, Sandhurst and Juju.

Tinwald Handicap Trot, of 10 soys two miles.—Spotwood, Terata, Experiment, Siesta, Sydney, Boxwood, Fairboy, Nana, Veltha, Hard Cash, Dolly Moore, Tenby, Merry Girl, Hamlin, Monkey Brand, Transit Royal, Edward R.

Domain Welter Handicap, of 7 soys; seven furlongs. — Soubriquet, St Finbar, Fairy Rose, Barney, Lambkin, Lady's Chain, Helfps, Sandhurst, and Nutcracker. Thompson Handicap, of 9 soys; 1} mile —Bendoe, Barney, St Finbar, Fairy Rose, Bendigo, and Sandhurst.

Speech by the Premier.

THE IRON AND STEEL INDUSTRY

THE CABINET.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.. Wellington, Dec. 20 Speaking at a banquet to Mr Hogg, the Premier sjaid ttyat if private enterprise failed to rise tq the occasion the State would go in for manufacturing iron and steel, and keep .£1.00,000 a year in the country. He had made up his mind that not another waggon or locomotive would be brought from abroad. About £150,000 would be invested in machinery, and the

extension of buildings which would meet all requirements, There were times when combines were essential to the interest of producers, and it was wrong to make them

illegal, but they should be brought under control. There must be only one monopoly, that of the Liberal party and the present Government. Alluding to the rumours of the recon struction of the Cabinet, Mr Seddcn said there had been much talk made by those who had nothing to do with it. He was pleased to see the flattering references to Messrs Hogg and Millar (who have been spoken of as likely Minjster.s), and looked fq'rward to tho. d'ty when they would be re garded by promotion to Gabinpt rank, but

I fcfeey wantgd 110 advie,e from the Opposition \ press,

Eggs.—Messrs Fletcher Bros, are buyera of fresh eggs in any quantity at 8d per d^zen, either cash or contra 3 until further notice.

Farmers' Union.

5 A general meeting of members of the f Ashburton branch of the New Zealand '.■Farmers' Union was held on Saturday after- I noon, when there were present—The President, Mr G. W. Leadley (in the chair), and Messrs J. S. Bland, Thos. Harrison, Ja«. Bishop, J. Studholme, junr,, W. T. Lill. E. Taylor, T. Taylor, C. Keid, P. Doig, M. Friedlander, W. Harding, and others?

The minutes of,,thts lust general meeting were read and confirmed.

The President said that the business to be brought before the mooting was some what varied. The principal item for discussion was the question of fire insurance. Another question was that of the half holiday, which he did not think farmers were much interested in. As the matter of fire insurance was the most; important, he would ask members to take it into consi deration. The President here briefly referred to what had been done at the Wellington Conference in regard to fire insurance, at which it was thought advis able to adopt a scheme of mutual fire insurance

In connection with this matter a circular was read from the General President, Mr Wilson, the purport of which stated that a certain firm was prepared to do business on very liberal terms with the farmers, and asking how much support would be forth coming from this branch. Mr Leadley said that the name of the firm could not be divulged at present, lie did not wish the branch to commit itself on this auestion; at the same time it was worth* the best consideration. The New Zealand Farmers' Association also did a large amount of insurance business with members of the Union on liberal terms.

Mr Studholme said that perhaps all they could do was to urge on the members of the Farmers' Union to do their duty and back up the General President, Mr Wilson. The President and Mr Studholme were both of opinion that the very least the members could do would be to fill up the circular and return it.

Mr Lill said that he put all his insurance into the Farmers' Co-operative Association two years ago, and wished to know whether they were likely to get it done better else where. He saw no reason to run about un less he was likely to gain by it.

The President said that was true in re gard to a number of farmers, but the business of the Association was confined to Canterbury. The proposal under notice was to embrace the whole colony. The Co-operative would not cover accident risks.

Mr Lill thought that as far as Canter bury was concerned there would be divided interests.

Replying to Mr Tho^. Harrison, the Pre sident said that no information was to hand regarding the capital of the Com pany. Mr Taylor asked in what way the Far mers' Co-operative Association had mot the farmers.

The President said that the advantage now was that a person could become a shareholder by ss. Previously .£1 had to be paid and 5s called up. Mr Studholme remarked that as Presi dent Wilson had gone to a lot of trouble to get this information, it would be dishearten iug to him if they did not supply the infor mation ho wanted. He wished it to be understood that they did not in any way commit themselves. He thought that the North Canterbury Executive was in favour of the New Zealand Farmers' Insurance Company. He took it that finally their aims would be to all pull together in con sidering the two offers. At anyrate, the least they could do now was to give the information asked for by Mr Wilson. He did not consider that the Farmers' Union should attempt to bind itself in any way. Tne President reminded the members that in giving Mr Wilson the information, they were not binding themselves in any way, and were perfectly free in so doing. Mr Wilson's pet idea was that the farmers should do their own business in every way, but to do that, it would be necessary to get special legislation. If they got a pre pondering influence, they wou'd be able to keep any Company from " kicking over the traces."

Mr Studholme then moved "That all members of this branch of the Farmers' "Onion be urged to supply the information asked for to "Mr Harding, in order that the Executive, and that the information be sent in as quickly as possible." Mr Tall seconded tha motion, which was carried unanimously. ACCIDENT IN.SUUA.NCK. Speaking on the question of accident in surance, the President said that the arrange ment mado with the Commercial Union had ended. His own belief was that they had joined with the other companies with a view of forcing up the rates. The Go vernment would accept rates of 5s centum. The Commissioner had written in reply to a communication of Mr Harding on the sub ject. Mr Studholme stated that in any further reply it be stated that the Union was not an Employers' Association.

THE THRESHING QUESTION. A letter wns read from the Probbleton branch regarding the question of threshing by the thousand" or by contract. The let ter contained references t? the action of the Waimate Industrial Union, and the side they had taken up thereon. The Prebble ton branch objected to the views of the Waimate Industrial Union of threshing by the hour.

Mr M. Friedlander advise.d members to be careful when dealing with matters of this kind.

Mr Reid moved and Mr lA\\ seconded, that a reply be sent endorsing the action of the Prehbelton branch.

Mr Studholme said that there was some thing in Mr Fricdlander's contention that they should be careful. They should avoid taking any particular side and not commit themselves. He would much rather see the matter postponed. They all seemed to be very hazy on the matter, and it would be better for it to be postponed- Mr Taylor said that the system of thresh ing by contract was the best. Everybody was unanimous about it in Canterbury.

Mr Thos. Harrison wished to know how the branch stood in regard to, tha resolution passed.—"That we take no part in internal disputes." (air Studholme—Hear^ hea?.) Mr LiJl took it that they were only oon firming the idea that they preferred to go by contract. There was no d,isput& Mr Studholme moved an amendment— "That the discussion of the matter be re ferred to a future meeting for more infor mation."

Mr M. Friedlander seconded.

The President said that the labour dis puted seemed tq emanate from South Can terbury, and he was sent there as a special ambassador of peace. He. thought that as this was simply an expression of opinion that the contract system was preferable to any other, hfa vc^e would go in favour of the endorsement of the request. Mr Studholme.explained that in moving his amendment, he did not say that the system of threshing by contract was the best. Personally he was in favour of thresh ing by the thousand rather than by. the hour. If this was no dispute, then he would endorse the recommendations of the Prebbleton branch. If, on the other hand, it was a dispute, then they should take no action.

Mr Taylor knew that in the south there was a lot of threshing-done by the hour, Mr Reid was surprised at the discussion. They were simply expressing an opinion— that was all. He had been told that the shifting of a threshing machine was an arduous duty down south, but here in level oountry it was different. There was no dis pute, only an expression of opinion. He svas gHd to find that Mr Studholme' was in sympathy with it. Mr M. Friedlander: This is quite a dif ferent position. ' '

Mr Reid: I rise to a point of order. The discussion is irregular.

Mr; Sfcudholme's amendment was then pjit and lost, and the original niotio.n car ried, a satisfactory reply to be sent to the Prebbl§ton branch.

FINANCE,

A circular was received from the Provin cial Exejufcive re making a levy of Is 6d per member.

If, was moved by Mr Bland, seconded by Mr Taylor and carried, that the levy of Is 6d be paid by this branch.

THE FROZEN MEAT TRADE. / The President said that at the last Christchurch meeting a deputation was received re the frozen meat trade. Pro posal? were made, and the suggestion was that an-Advisory Board should be consti tuted at Home, and that this Board should be represented by purely selling brokers. At this end they should have the Bame, where the balance of power should be retained. The business of the Board fit this end would be to regulate shipments, and keep in touch with the farmers as a whole. He advised them to keep the matter in view, but not to attempt any thing yet in the present condition of the meat market. He had been advising the men down south to rest on their oars.

Mr E. Taylor (Eaupuna) pointed out that just at present they were reaping the bene fit of the prices. It would be to their bene fit also if the steamers could discharge at Southampton, and Liverpool. Frozen meat from other countries was dealt with under a "preferential tariff. When at Home he was surprised that we were being charged a higher rate than that charged on meat from Argentine. He did not think that ifc would be out of the way for one shipping company to discharge at the ports named. As for the other question, it would be better for it to be left over for a abort time.

Mr Eeid eulogised the President, •whose action was a wise one. It would not do to stop, but go right on, and begin at this end by inducing the Government to oarry our meat at a cheaper rate. Tb c concern would be a great benefit to the farmer.

On the question of cheaper rates, the President said that when in Christchurch he could get no information, being unable to interview the Premier. ■ Another gentle man, however, was successful in obtaining an interview. He was glad to say that the present parliament was more of a farmers* parliament. It was a gross injustice that we should pay 18s a ton for dead meat from here, when only 18s 4d was charged f rom Timaru.

. Mr Reid, said that it was all very well for the Government to say that they helped the people, but he would like to mention that the shipping companies were brought into competition with the railway at Timaru.

Mr Lill ako considered that the rates o£ freight vrero extraordinary.

Mr Reid moved—"That the Ashburton branch of the Farmers' Union desires to call the attention of the Minister for Kail ways to the high charges on frozen meat from Fairfield to Lyttelton, and asks for a reduction on the same."

Mr Lill seconded the motion, which was carried, a copy of the resolution to be for warded to the member for the district. GRAIN AND PRODUCE PRICES. Mr Eeid enquired if the Union had kept in view the matter of obtaining reliable in formation respecting grain and produce* prices. The newspapers did very well, but their information came from the buyers; they ought to get information from the sellers as well.

Tho President: They get their infor mation from a tainted source.

Mr Bgid moved, Mr Lill seconded, and it was carried—■" That the Provincial Exe cutive be asked to obtain the available crops, their condition, and the prospects of the available outpub and all agricultural commodities."

The President remarked that this year he computed that he had lost £1509 through not knowing the trend of the market, A lot of other farmers were in a similar posi tion. He was firmly of opinion that every Monday moruing farmers should be in a position to know how the market stood. He believed that otic man. in the room had sold lambs at 13s when he should have got 15s. There being no other business the meeting adjourned.

The Convent Schools.

To all lovers of art the exhibition of oil paintings now, on view at the Convent Schools presents quite a study in itself. Through the courtesy of the Rev. Mother, a representative of this journal was shown round the room in which the paintings and drawings were on exhibition when visiting the school on the day the prizes ■were distributed. Miss Mildred Brock's pic ture of " The Remarkables" is a very faithful representation of mountain scenery in Qtago. The shading is excellent, the shadow throwing back into (the waters of Lake Wakatipu with much natural force. The same young lady's picture of Glouces ter Street Bridge, Christchurch, is another clever piece of brush work, and leaves very little room for criticism. Miss Northcofce's " Entrance to Dusky Sound," a picture which at all thnes tests the capabilities of any arlist, is truly defined in many particu lars, the rays of light being depicted very naturally, the weird surroundings of the scene "where the cry of native birds that break the solemn silence '* not failing to escape the notice of the artist ia her colour work. Her southern scone was another piece of good work, showing much natural "ability. The aame young pupil exhibited an excellent monochrome paint ing in black and white, the flowers being very natural and lifelike. Miss Ila Paul exhibited two sea scenes, which were very natural in colour, and the tender brush work required in this class of work showed much care and taate on the part of Miss" Paul. Tha; sailing crafty by nomeans easy to paint as every artist knows, are cleverly depicted, the light and shade good, and the sky colouring excellent. Special mention must also be made of Miss Paul's flower paintings,. In this department the young. lady showed that she is possessed of many of the essential qualities for painting from Nature. Her water lilies presented the meek appearance that always; accompanies the flowers of the lake* The outlines were nicely done, the pure white showing up well, with the pink flower and white petals standing out in bold relief. As pride-of place must be given to Mis 3 Paul for her flower painting, so must the same position be given to Miss Lena Coster for her crayon drawing of a horse's head. The drawing is very natural indeed, and the more it is looked at,the more impressively it strikes the eye. Another drawing of a like nature, the b,ust of a child, is well worth inspection. Brawn very lifelike, and of equal propor tions, the artist has bestowed much, cai© aa the facial expression, which, is not in any way overdone, the figure representation; carrying with it that natural composure so much, associated with children of tender years. Miss Rose Morland is, another gifted young lady, whose oil paintings call for special remark. Perhaps the best of her a.dmjra.hle collection is^ Lake Manapouri." In #ris she shows many good qualities. Th,e rugged scenery shadowing on the lake, and the sky and foliage of the trees which adorn the mountain slopes are faithfully portrayed, the wate,r- colouring not too Wd, and. the tints softly placed in their true position. Miss Dove's hill scene left little to be desired, the shade of the rear ground falling lightly, over the scenery in the foreground. Miss Dove's work* shows much taste and delioacy, and is utterly devoid of that harshness so common among young artists. Her fire screen painting is another piece of good work. The work of the young ladies reflects much credit on . their teaoher3, upon whom the responsibil ity rests of bringing them to such a high, stage of perfection." *

Imperial Parliament.

United Press Association—Hy Electric Telegraph—Copyright.

London, December 19 Parlininent has been prorogued to Feb ruary ;7tU '' . The Speech from the Throne was hopeful with regard to South * Africa, it acknow ledged the nation's sympathy and afrection, during his Majesty's illness, and dwelt on, th,e notable features of the year, the, Coro nation, the Colonial Conference, the mani? fsst'a&ons of the attachment of the colonies tq the Motherland, Mr Chamberlain's tour, the sugar question, the Education Bill, the Alliance with Japan, the Treaty with China, the measures to obtain redress from Vene zuela and the improved agricultural outlook in India. " Satisfaction was expressed that ihe Durbar at Delhi would be associated wth a period of unusual commercial and, jEiuare'ial prosperity,

THE APHBURTON GUARDIAN : MONDAY, DECEMBEB ai, 1902.



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F. FEERIMAN. FARMERS.! f |IHE recent wet weather will necessitate inoreised attention to your Sb9f>p and Lambs. Do not neglect them by allowing them to suffer from Scour or Lung-Worm. Josepli Ford's Scaur and Lung-worm Mixture, Is an a iknowleJged cure for both Scour and Lmgworm and its use greatly im proves the tone anJ cond tion of Sheep und Lambs. The following are the opinions of two of our well-known breeders who use FORD'S MIXTUBE :- Buccleuch Station, MountSomers, 14th March, 1903. Mb F. Ferriman, Ashburton. Dear Sir,—Be Joseph Ward's Scour and Lung-Worm Mixture.—For many years past I have heard good reports attending the use of the above drench, but until this season I have not had occasion to put it to the practical test. Early in the season my lambs were scouring badly and in some cases before the usual outward appearances of Scour were apparent, some of the biggest and fattest of them had died. I obtained sufficient Mixture from you to drench 300') lambs, and from the results obtained, I consider that it is impossible for mo to speak too highly of it. At a cost of about lid per head to drench, it has been the means of saving many of my lambs which were worth l?s Cd each. lam so satisfied •with my experiment, that I intend to use Joseph Fard's Mixture as often aa I may have occasion to deal with Scour or a thrift leas condition in my flock, and I can con fidently recommend any farmer whose Sheep or Lambs are suffering from either of the above causes to use Ford's Mixture. He trill be well paid for bis outlay. Yours faithfully, (Sgd) E. GATES, Ashburton, January 10th, 1902. Mb F. Ferkiman, Ashburton,— Dear Sir,—Re Joseph Ford's Scour and Lung-Worm Mixture. — Last season I drenchen 450 of my Stud Lambs with the above drench. They had commenced to fccour suddenly, and I had already lost ten by death. I drenched the whole lot once and they commenced to improve right away. A week after drenching they were totally different sheep. The best proof that I can give of the drench is that I have this season drenched the whole of my flock •whether they showed signs of scour or not, as I consider it improves the tone and vigour of the Sheep. I can confidently recommend anyone having culls or sheep that are not doing well to drench them with the above Mixture. Yours faithfully, (Sgd) T. E. UPTON. F. FERKLMAN, Patentee and Proprietor. " BUSINESS NOTICES. H ■ GRESHAM, -SURGEON AND MECHANICAL DENTIST. By Examination, October, 1897 T?» IGHT years experience with E. G. and Pi F. W. Gresham, Dentists, Dunedin and Invercargiil. Has commenced practice in rooms upitairs from the entrance to Thomas' Auction Rooms, Burnett Street. j 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. TtooßS of Attendance—9 a.m. —-5 p.m. I Private Residence -Care Mrs Grant, Will* Street. Railway Refreshment Rooms. TH.X Kooms having been thoroughly renovated right throughout, I am now in a position to cater for all. I have now on tap a special brewed New Zealand Ale, ual to English ; made fiom pure English malt and hops. N.B. As usual, the best brands of Wines and. Spirits J. DINEEN, LESSEE. Helpless with A Rheumatism « You've tried liniments and proscriptions without result. "CUBE 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 fib Bottle. Sole Agent for Auitralaßia: GEO. W. WILTON, Wellington. XMAS EITEAS-At the Ready Money Shop, Tancred Street, you can get best value for your money in Lace Curtains, Quilts, Table Covers, Art Muslius, Cre tonnes, Towels, Sheetings, and general drapery; smallest working expenses ; losses by book debts avoided; Stock clean, fresh, aod up-to-date. Lowest Bedrock Spot Cash Prices. "VTEW Fruit just arrived—Extra Prime J3J New Currants 5d Ib ; New Sultanas 7dlb; New? Valencia Kaisins 6d lb; New Seeded Kai.-ins lib packet (not 12o<as some •tores sell) 7d; New Layer Figs 8d lb; New Bags T?igs7dlb; lib boxes New Figs 7id per box, at Fletcher Bros', Cash Supply Stores. _ Oh, Yes ! Oh, Yes ! TfcTOW is the time for Brass and Euam- JS elled PRESERVING PANS. SANDOW'S DEVELOPERS and I)um bells (Sandow will be hero on 24th inst.) Good Cycle Covers at 12s 6d, fitted, guaran teed for G months. The Cheapest Shop in Ashburton for Ironmongery and Cooking Utensils.—G. 31EDDINS, The Peoples Ironmonger. "V-JlTs EX IRAS ~59 only English JOk. Sample Umbrellas, (all different bandies) 2s 6d to 12s Gd, well worth 3s lid to 17s 'lid; Ladies' Hand Hags (11 only), real Russian leather 4s lid to 8s lid, worth double; White EmU-oidered Blouses3s lid and 4s lid, usually Gs 6d to 9s Qd; very suitable for Xaias presents, at E. Gibbaed's Kendy Money Draper, EOR SALE —Lawn Mowers in any make, from 20a upwards; mowers sharpened and repaired at reasonable rates —Haj&di.et Bros. 1o per lb, Finest Fresh Separator ft Butter, Willowby Factory; acknow ledged superior flavor to any other brand on the market,—Caeson and Co, Sole Agents,



BUSINESS NOTICES. . j|j|&! Rudge-Whitworth Cycles. |Rr^ ryjf ' 1"i~"] They Cost Money, ij - (,\ ' . w N Everything worth having does, / \ \ t T1 U'I ifcsa wasteful saving that won't II ' fi^ )tm 1 \ yvL \ Pa ye Pri°e ofa good Bicycle. Any ' *^ c the 1 j deiler will tell you that. ' iT^^^^T^E^^^^SjH DON>T BTJY ANYTHING CHEAPER. ; P^^^^^^^^Mi ' " You Cant £ et Anything Better.' ! iBl LifG is to° valuable t0 experiment,. lWm<(. lWi RIJI)€E " WHITWORTH.-&0. IH^pl v<£ % \w\\ x"t Catalogue Posted Free on application. . B|^^^lbJi-R> D- JOHNSTON, i'^^lfcjp AGENT, BURNETT STREET. CKEO. MEDDINS, I The People's Ironmonger. I HAVE just landed ex " Waimate," etc., direct from the makers—A Great Variety of Goods suitable for the present season, including BRASS AND ENAMEL I'RESERVING PANS, Cooking Utensils to suit everyone in Tinned and Enamel Ware, Brass and Copper. Harvesting Requisites. Hay Forks, HayKakee, Scythes* and Handles, Ec-ip Hooks. Tools for Harvest Field, such as Screw Wrenches, Sets of Spanners, Filus, Hammers, Vyces, Punches, Cold and Wood Chisels, Plyers, Pinceri, Copper and Iron Rivets, Tacks, etc. Castor and Otto Machine Oils Ready mixed, in all o >l<->rs, "V\ he and Red Lead, Hematite, Boiled and Raw Linseed Agent for Scott's!" Afclas," Shacklock's " Orion," " Zoalandia," and Hepburn's Ranges, Davey's Celebrated Sewing Machines. Inspection Cordially Invited. Burnett Street—Opposite Arcade. SANTA CLAITS AND FATHER XMAS COMING- AGAIN. - - H. M. "JONES. - - Af\ Cases of Toys, Fancy Goods, Book?, Stationery, China, Glass, Plush, A^f\ Japanese and Feather Goods 5000 BOOKS. BOOKS. 5000 — Prize, Reward and Presentation Books. Leather Goods. Leather Goods. Dolls. Dolls. Dolls. Dolls Great Variety. All sorts and sizes from Id to 15s. Toys, Toys. Toys, Toys. . Toys. . All imported and best value obtainable Christmas Cards in great variety Must l>c Sold. Lowest possible Prices, fall early & often . H, M. JONES. Something Useful from the Zcalandia Cycle Works, YOUTHS' "Atalanta" Bicycles ■•• £15. Just the thing for a Bright School Boy. GIRLS' " Atalanta " Bicycle ... £16. An ideal Preseut for a young Lady. These Machines are fully guaranteed and of new designs. Easy terms arranged if required. Genuine English Silver King LAMPS. These beautiful Lamps are very acceptable to any Cyclist. Packed in neat box re".<ly for post -'4a M each. TO TOURING CYCLISTS.-Call on us, and we will examine your machine (tree nf ohavso') before stirtinsf on your holiday tour. . ACCESSORIES-Our Stock of Cyclm* Goods is the most up to-date in the district. CHARGES.-All Repairs aud Suudries at Chmtchurch prices. Ashburton Branch—Burnett Street. "new zeaxaio) clothingi- FACTORY. CHRISTMAS^PRESENTS. SENSIBLE and Useful Presents to give to your friends. A GENT'S SILK TIE, __^ Nw Zeftland cl^injf Flic tory.. A SET OE STUDS, Zea i an d Clothiag Factory. A GENT'S SILK HANDKERCHIEF, —Call at the New Zealand Clothing Factory. A TRAVELLING RUG, A GLADSTONE BAG, . -Call at the New Zealand Clothing Factory. SEE OUR GREAT CHRISTMAS DISPLAY. N.Z. CLOTHTfa FACTORY. ALEX. HENDRY L Manager. ""(DOME AND SEE OUR CHRISTMAS PRESENTS IN ENDLESS VARIKTI. Electroplate Goods or very best quality and design. Knglish Cutlery of every description. WATCHKK, WATCHES. €LO€KS, CLOCKS. Presents for Ladies. Presents for Gentlemen. COME AND SEE. W, H. COLLINS & CO., Persons who wish to do their own Painting will £nd it to their advantage to call at my Oil and Color Store. 1 have Heady Mixed Paints, Genuine White Lead and Oils,; 1 or I will mix any shade of our own Genuine Paint. • f win SON Paperhanger. Painter, and Sign-writer,



The Tailoring Tradk Dispute — The secretary of the Tailors' Union objected in Court that Cbaigijead and Berryman put ) far more work, iv suits than ordinary (Christclmrch) tailoring. Manufacturer's agents explain tha'o Craighead and Berry man's linings have to be made and imported specially, being bettor qualijby than usually sold. They have just engaged several extra experienced men to cope with the rush of orders. Craigheai and Berryman pay extra for both labour and material because their motto is " Satisfaction." Up-to-date suits from £3 10s. New summer hats, shirts, ties, boots, etc., just opened. Compare I ipric,c>i> * Observe the quality !—(Advt.) FA THJSIt Christmas at Strangk's— Burnett Street '"':'



STANDI'SH AND PREECE, Photographers under the Eoyal patronage of the Prince and Princess of Wales. Studio High Street, Christchurch. STRAWBERRIES and Cream at II Baibstqw's?,