Mail Notices.

Mails close for the following' places, as under, subject to the necessary alterations. SAN FRANCISCO MAIL. TUESDAY, Oct. 7. 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 Nov. Bth), per Eotomahana, at 5.45 p.m.

Mining.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph. Dunedin, October 3 To-day's sales—Alexandra Lead 15s 6d, Prince Arthur 17s Gd, New Eoxburgh Jubilee (paids) 26s 6d.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 1902.

It does not appear to be generally known that the new Electoral Act omits the free hold as one of the qualifications of an elector, the residence qualification being the only claim to the franchise. Tie following are the clauses which deal with this matter: —

Clause 25 is as follows : —1. Every adult person who has resided for one year in the Colony and in the electoral district for which he claims to vote during the three months immediately preceding his registra tion on the roll of the district is entitled (subject to the provisions of this Actj ta be roistered as an elector and to vote at the election of members for that district for the House of Eepresentatives. 2. For all purposes of this Act a person shall be deemed to have resided within the district wherein he has his usual place of abode, notwithstanding his occasional absence from such district.

Clause 26—A person shall not be entitled to be registered on more than one electoral roll within the colony.

The above are all the provisions relating to the qualifications of a voter, and it will be seen that an elector holding a freehold property in more than one electorate, can no longer select that in which to record his vote. Thus, if a person having a property in the Ashburton county went to reside in a rented house in Christchurch for a few months for his health, or for any other reason, he could rot vote in the district where his interest might be, but only in the Christchurch electorate, in which he hap pened to have been residing for three months, unless sub-section 2 of clause 25 is specially elastic. There are instances in this district in which the boundary between the Selwyn and Ashburton constituencies is a road going through a property. In one, at least, the homestead is in one electorate, and the bulk of the property in another. It seems rough on the elector that he may not select for which of these he shall have a vote. There is no doubt this will create a great deal of dissatisfaction amongst electors in this and other districts.

TdtE reply of Mr Gilruth to the Ashburton A. and P. Association on the subject of the guarantee offered to induce a qualified veterinary surgeon to come to this district, was, as most of the members of the Com mittee thought, a very unsatisfactory one. As was pointed out at the meeting the'other day, that the amount guaranteed would by no means represent the total income a good man could depend upon. Yet Mr Gilruth's calculation entirely ignored that fact. He may have misunderstood the terms offered by the Association, and have supposed that private practice would not be allowed, but that is hardly possible, since the contrary was made quite clear in the advertisement which was published. It would seem, there foe, that Sir Gilruth considers better terms should be offered to a veterinary surgeon thiin to a doctor of medicine, for wo k:i <w that a similar guarantee to that offered by the Association for a veterinary surgeon, have been sufficient to induce doc tors and surgeons witli i-he highest diplo mas obtainable to come to country districts in New Zealand. It' this remarkable state of affairs really dnes exist, it is surely high time for the agricultural and pastoral com munity to fciko vigorous action to bring about a more healthy condition of things, and to insist upon the establishment in convenient centre*, of colleges for the instruction of-young men in the science of veterinary therapeutics. Thn letter from Mr T. Kingston, which we published yesterday, shows that this matter has been frequently brought under the notice of Ministers, but so far nothing has been done to meet the wishes of the public. The so-culled chair of veterinary science at Lincoln College is a farce, and Mr Kingston's remark that ho cannot find there is anyone practising in New Zealand with the diploma of Lincoln College, is an ironical, but correct statement of the position. Wo may go a little further than he has done and say that what lmy be taught in the Lincoln College about veteriuary science must be of an extremely elementary character, since it does not appear to aim so high as to instruct the student in the simple art of giving medicine to horses and cattle. But we can hardly b$ surprised at this, in view of the fact, that the gentleman who occupies the chair of veterinary science at Lincoln College is also Goyerninent Inspector at Islisgton.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

An Inland Seai-out. —An article de scriptive of the great American shipbuilding centre, Cleveland, situated on Lake Erie, will be found on the fourth page of this is sue.

Ashbukton Licensing Committee.—Mr John McQuilkin, of Winslow, has been appointed a member of the Ashburton Licensing Committee, vice Mr 11. Fried lander. Mr Seddon's Return.—A Press Associa tion teles-ram states that arrangements are being made to giv.a a civic reception to Mr Seddon on his arrival in Wellington. The Mayor, being assured that the demons tration would have no political significance, yesterday acceded to the request of a deputation jio.call a public meeting.

Eclipse Q? the Moon.—-There will be an eclipse of the moon on the 17th., visible in New Zealand. The moon will rise almost totally eclipsed about 6.20 p.m. The mid., die of the eclipse will be at G. 28 p.m., and the end 8.15 p.m., the full moon being at 8-31pm There will be an eclipse of the sun on the 30th inst., but this will not be visible in New Zealand. tteKoi,AittmiPS.~ In the opinion of Mr A. W. Hogg, expressed at the last meeting of the Wellington Education Hoard, the establishment of high schools in the various centres will eventually load to doing away with scholarships, thus enabling boards to dispose of money usually devoted to such ';uvjopes in providing maintenance for the children in scattered country districts who desire to attend Mgh U^oqla.

Weather Forecast. - Captain Edwin wires: Moderate to strong westerly winds; glass rise. Personal —Mr T. Harrison fell from a horse recently and injured his knee, but was able to take his seat at the County Council meeting to-day.

Trades and Labour Federation.—The Trades Council of Wellington, last evening decided to take immediate steps towards the creation of one federation of labour for the whole colony.

New Eoll—We learn that there are 5384 names ontheprincipalroll for the Ashburton electorate, and others are being added every day There are already about 600 more electors enrolled than on the occasion of the last General Election.

A New Explosive.-— Messrs E. T. Bicker ton and D. G. Morgan, of the firm of Stokes and Bickerton, New Brighton, have manu factured a now explesive, which is claimed to be as po .verful as dynamite without be ing dangerous. At the invitation of the Timaru Harbour Board the explosive will be tested in its quarries to-morrow (Satur day.) Escslsior Football Dance—The Excel sior Football Club celebrated their annual dance last night, which was a great success. Dancing was kopt up till the early hours of the morning. During the evening songs, were contributed by Miss Chapman and Messrs Child, Lloyd, and Whitmore ; Mr J. Cochrane danced a sailor's hornpipe. Mr G. Child officiated as M. C. Music was supplied by Messrs W. Anderson and W. Smith, which was all that could be desired.

Eoad Ea.ce—Tlie road race to Winch more and back, promoted by the employees on the Somerset Hotel building, took place yesterday afternoon from the north-west Belt. There were nine starters, H. Harri son, (handicap 2.\mins.) being the winner, covering the distance in 44 miv. 19sec.; W. Halbrook, (1-Jmins.) 46mins. 18sec, 2; and F. Hughe3, (H mins.) 46mins. 21sec, 3. The race was watched with interest by a large crowd. Mr Coghill acted as starter, and gave every satisfaction.

Valedictory—A farewell social was given to Mr J. Porter, statioumaster at Mouut Somers, who is leaving the district. Mr Clay officiated as chairman, and made a very c cellent speech, after which Mrs Foley presented Mr Porter with a case of silver mounted pipes, cigar holder, and tobacco pouch. Songs were sung dur ing the evening by those present, and Mr J. Rynn favoured the company with a step dance. Miss_A. Eiche also showed great skill at the piano, after which everybody wended their way home, thoroughly satis fied with their evening's enjoyment.

Sunday School Festival. —Energetic preparations are being made to ensure a successful anniversary celebration of the Baring Square Sunday School, to take place on Sunday week, 12th inst., and' ou the fol lowing Thursday. The preacher will bo Eev. C. H. Laws, 8.A., of Christchurch, and there is every prospect that the children's singing will be up to the standard of former years. A new gallery is being constructed for the use of the young folks, and it is designed both for comfort and utility.

Scenic Post Cards.—The department of Tourist and Health Resorts has issued a series of lithographed coloured scenic post cards. The set comprises ten different views as follows :—Maori Kainga, Auckland Harbour, Lake Eotorua, Geyser, Whakare warewa; Lake Taupo, Wanganui River, Queenstown, Lake Manawapouri, Waterfall, Stewart Island; Thule Bay, Stewart Island. These cards are intended for issue through booksellers and other agencies, and will not be retailed by the Department. The cards are works of art and should prove excellent advertisements for the scenic and health resorts of the Colony.

Dromore, —A temperance meeting was held in the Dromoie schoolroom last night, but unfortunately the attendance was not large, there being about two dozen present. Mr Syme kindly consented to take the chair. Addresses were given by Miss Addis and Mr Walker, who spoke upon the evils of intemperance, Mr Wa'ker quoting state ments by some of the greatest scientists of the day, condemning, liquor as a poison. After the addresses were given, questions were asked and helped considerably in making the meeting a lively and interesting one, Mrs W. Marsden sang several songs, the accompanist being Mrs Mackwell. Altogether a very enjoyable evening was spent considering the small attendance, and it is to be hoped that the next time a meeting of that sort is held in Dromore there will be a crowded house. Votes of thanks were accorded to all that had taken part, and to the chair. The meeting was closed with the Song " Strike out the Top Line."

An Examination of the 1902 model Eudge-Whitworth bicycle creates genuine enthusiasm. It is far ahead of anything ever shown in a popular-priced machine, and so nearly absolute perfection in a cycle has been obtained that it will be a long <;ime before rival makers can hopo to equal it. Inspect for you' selves at E. D. John ston's Cyqle Depot, Burnetfc Street,

News in Brief.

Mr H. Stephenson will sell at his rooms to-morrow one ton of sugar.

The annual parish gathering of the Church of St. Philip and St. James will be held in the Waterton Hall on Thursday, October 16th. Tea will be on the tables at 5.30 p.m., and the concert will commence at 8 p.m. Saturday, the 11th of October, being the great Day of Atonement, Messrs Fried lander Bros., will plose their offices and stores on that dajr.

Jt is reported that a Melbourne firm has placed an order for 30,000 boxes of North Island butter for shipment to. Spufch Africa. Messrs Friedlander Bros,, Ltd, will offer at the Tinwald yards on Tuesday next 1200 fat and forward wethers and 500 good hoggets, also fat and store sheep, cattle, and pigs. The statement has been made by two Sydney butchers that horseflesh is being sold for human consumption in the New South Wales capital. Ths Victorian engineer for existing lines reports that an expenditure of £200,000 is required to wake some of the lines in that Stafe) safe. ' '■■ !: . ' Full particulars of the ciearjng s&le t.Q be held by Mr David Thomas at LaiiristOrl on Thursday, October 16th, on account of Mr George Murdock, will he found in'out advertising columns. Conveyances will meet fchp morning train at Lauriston on the day of sale. Professor Davis, of Sydney, holds the opinion that earthquake shocks will be likely jji Adelaide for generations to come, owing to its proximity to the Fold Eanges of Mount Lofty. The Australian "Hen," a journal published in Sydney in the interests of poultry breeders, says that rabbits should supply the necessary animal food for fowls, and thus reduc.) the feed bill, The annual tea meeting of the Ashburton Presbyterian Church will be held next Thursday in the Oddfellows' Hall. Tea will be on the tables at 5.30, and a good musical programme is expected for the after meeting. Addresses will be delivered by visiting ministers.

Hospital Committee.

The Ashburton Hospital Committee met this morning. Present—His Worship the Mayor, (Chairman), and Messrs C. J. Har per, J. Davison, M. Stitt, and S. Chapman. The minutes of Jast meeting were read and confirmed.

MEDICAL OFFICER AND BY-LAWS. ' The question of the appointment of an assistant medical officer, and the considera tion of the by-laws was left- over for a future meeting to be held before the annual meeting of the Hospital Board, to be held on the first Wednesday in December. doctor's report. The doctor's report was read as follows :— There are now eighteen patients in the Hospital, two females and sixteen males, and nineteen have been admitted, sixteen males and three females. The fever ward is now empty. The old female ward is now unfit for occupation, on account of the con stant noise of the workmen on the new building. The matron has very kindly given up her bedroom for the two female patients, but-1 have no room for any more, should there ba further applicants. The new building is making very slow progress, and it is desirable that if possible, the work be hurried on. Two patients have been placed on the freo list, for, I think, very sufficient reason. The work of the Hospital has been as satisfactory as can be expected under the present unfavourable circum stances. —J. B. Trevor, Hospital Surgeon. The report was adopted. SENIOR PROBATIONER. A communication was read .from Mrs Grace Neill, Assistant-Inspector of "Hospi tals, pointing out that if the senior pro bationer has attained the age of 23 years, and is certified to as having had three years training as a nurse in a hospital, to gether with systematic instruction from the medical officer and matron, she can enter her name for the State examination to be held next December. The probationer should apply to the Eegistrar of Nurses for examination entitling to registration, and enclosing a copy of her Ashburton Hospital certificate. The same examination papers will be set over the whole of New Zealand. The communication was received, and a copy of the same to be forwarded to the hospital surgeon and matron, together with the syllabus.

FEES. The fees for September amounted to k /3s. VISITING COMMITTEE. Mr Harper was appointed to the Visiting Committee vice Mr Davison. EXTENSION OF LETTER OF CREDIT. Messrs Twyford, Limited, Cliffe Vale Pottery Works, Staffordshire, wrote asking for th& letter of credit on account of goods be extended for a month. It was resolved to grant an extension to the 31st October, and if the goods are not shipped by that time, the order will be can celled, and the draft withheld by the Bank. ACCOUNTS. Accounts amounting to £178 6s 7d were passed for payment, and the Committee adjourned.

Anama Road Board.

A meeting of the Anama Eoad Board was held at the Board room, Anama, on Wed nesday last. Present—Messrs W. Nos worthy chairman), D. Morrow, G-. Harrison, and J. G. Cree. NEW MEMBER. The Eeturning Officer advised the^election of Mr J. (t. Cree as a member of the Board. SUBSIDY. The .Commissioner of Taxes advised that a voucher for the Board's subsidy had been forwarded to the Treasury. FINANCIAL. A statement of the Board's financial position was submitted, the Chairman and Mr Morrow were appointed to sign cheques, Accounts amounting to £30 were passed for payment, and from Mount Soiners Board, extending over a considerable period, were held over for examination, WORKS. It was decided to have a dangerous piece of read lioar Mr Gallagher's repaired at once, to have the rough stones removed from Black's ford and to request the Eangi tata Eoad Board to shingle about 60 chains of Boundary road near Ballantynes, while it lias men on the other portion of the road adjacent thereto, also to have rough stone 3 removed from Mayh'old ford. RATE Iv pursuance of notica given at last meet ing v rate of id in the <£.was made, payable on October Ist next. DEPUTATION Messrs W. Gallagher and Oakley waited on the Board to point out the large amount of new work that required doing and ascer tain what the Board intended to do. They explained that they were not asking the questions in any spirit of complaint but simply to learn what prospect there was of the roads being improved. The chairman (Mr Nosworthy) said he had he:ml suggestions of raising a loan, and he would like to know if the deputation thought the works should be undertaken by this means or out of ordinary revenues. He was glad that the deputation had come to the Board, as it showed that the rate payers recognised (as the Board did) the amount of work that had to be done. As to past expenditure, the Board had only levied a farthing rate, while the late floods and other expenditure that could not be foreseen had entailed more expense than had been anticipated, but the Board had made up its mind some time back to do a good deal of work south of the Hinds, and the question was would the ratepayers pre fer to raise .£3OOO under the Local Bodies ■ Loan's Act or continue to provide funds from rates for three or four years. He thought the quickest and least troublesome way would be to levy the rates. It was pointed Qut that the Gqyernment had not sufficient funds on hand now to grant all the applications received, and could not get more until next session, and in any case before all the forms could be gone through from seven to nine months would expire. Mr Oakley said he did not like the old style of forming only the centre of the roads. Personally, he was quite willing to pay the higher rate and have some work done, and he thought most of the ratepayers were of the same opinion; he enquired what was the present financial position of the Board. '; The Chairman replied that notwith standing the ftood and other unforeseen calls, the Board would end the financial year within its legitimate income, probably with g, small credit balance. Mr Gallagher said he was extremely pleased to hear this statement, as a report had bQfln industriously circulated that the Board had suddenly found itself in a state of insolvency, as the late Chairman had involved the Board in a liability of fpr unauthorised work. Mr Nosworthy said the Board was in a sound financial position, better than many others, and a3 to the report in reference to their late Chairman, he would tell them it w<|3 an untruth and a calumy. Mr Oakley said he bad oome to the con clusion that members of the Eoad Board held a very unthankful position, and work could not be done without money. He thought it would be best to continue the |d rate, and he asked the Board if it thought a meeting of ratepayers should be called to consider the question of raising a loan or paying the higher rate for three or four years. After a short discussion, the deputation decided that it would, forward a requisition to the Board to call a ratepayers' meeting, and having thanked the Board for its reception, retired.

CABLE NEWS.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.

I London, October 1. > ' A new clause in the Army contracts in ; sists that the frozen mutton supplied must be exclusively colonial. The Marylebons Borough Council declin ed Mr Andrew Carnegie's offer of £30,000 | for a free library, on the ground of the mi i cidental expenses that its acceptance would ! involve.

An epidemic of diarrhoea i 3 raging at Fratton, Portsmouth, conveyed by flies fre qiieuting tho city dust heaps. The revenue for the quarter ended Sep- j tember was .£20,455,000, of which the cus toms contributed £8,390,000, excise .£8,920,000, and stamps .£1,820,000. London, October 2 The cost of two Ciinard steamers will be a million each. Mr Hastings, the editor of the " Western News," published at Ballinsloe, has been sentenced to two months' imprisonment for publishing incitements to intimidation. New York, Oct. 2 The price of coal in New York is affecting bakers' prices. Melbourne, October 2

The additional Federal estimates neces sitated by the non-authorising of the loan total £257,000. The greater portion will be expended in Postal Department works. To make up the amount the sums proposed to be returned to the various States will be reduced as follows :—To New South Wales by £109,000, Victoria £41,000, and Queens land £55,000, and the other States to a lesser extent. The famous trick, or as it was advertised " talking " horse, Mahomet, belonging to Fitzgerald Bros., circus proprietors, died at Newmarket. Mahomet was credited with having earned J2IOO weekly at the music halls in London before coming to the col onies. Sydney, Oct. 2 Two unionist shearers were sentenced to nine months' imprisonment each for forcibly detaining free labourers at the Corona station.

South Africa.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Capetown, Oct. 3- In the Cape Assembly Dr. Smartt's mo tion in favour of making the treason laws more stringent was negatived by 34 to 13. Commandant Kruitzinger has sailed for England on a few months' pleasure tour. When interviewed, he said he was thorough ly reconciled, and predicted a speedy and quiet settlement of South African affairs.

The Boer Manifesto.

United Press Association—By Electric Tel egraph—Copyright London, October 2 The chief soreness felt in Great Britain over the manifesto is that the Generals did not take the nation frankly into their confidence. This feeling is embodied in a remark by " The Times " that if they had submitted to the British people a plain statement of their wants, supported by adequate evidence, and giving a guarantee that the funds suppliod would not be mis applied to undermine what had been ac hieved, the charity which is never refused to Continental nations would assuredly not be withheld from those irrevocably incor porated in the Empire. Tho Vienna correspondent of "The Times " says the Emperor Francis, a soldier in heart and soul, never manifested an in clination to see the Generals. The Emperor is Great Britain's best and safest friend on the Continent. The correspondent adds that it is noteworthy also that Anglophobia in Austria and Hungary has all but dis appeared. Renter's Agency in Berlin states that official circles express regret that the pro posed audience, should have given umbrage to Great Britain. It was, and is, hoped that the audience, if sought, would be granted through the usual diplomatic channel, and that it would tend to dissipate some misunderstandings between Germany ami Britain, and would not be injurious, but rather favourable, to Great Britain's interests. Berlin, October 2 It is understood in diplomatic circles in Berlin that Great Britain will not object j to the Kaiser giving an audience to the Generals, but Great Britain will decline to officially recognise the visit, lest such action is interpreted as a ratification of the statements contained in the manifesto. The Kaiser in such case would refuse an audience. ,_ Paris, Oct. 2 " Figaro," commenting on the proposed audience, says: " The cordiality between Great Britain and Germany is a frail structure. Doubtless matters will be j patched up, but what a small thing the friendship of Germany is."

The Death of Zola.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright Paris, Oct. 1 Captain Dreyfus visited Zola's coffin. Several of Zola's friends claimed that the dead novelist' \ould receive a national funeral. An demonstration is feared. Some Catholic newspapers suggest that Zola committed suicide. Paris, Oct. 2. Zola's funeral has been postponed until Sunday, to await deputations from all parts of Europe. The French Minister iojc Educa r tion and representatives of literary socier ties will deliver speeches,

The Victorian Elections.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright MELBOURNE, Oct. 3 The Government majority of 3 before the election will be increased to 35 or 37. The Labour Party has gained three seats. A feature of the election was the alliance between the Civil Servants and the Labour Party, The alliance wagjed a'most deter mined fight to stave off the threatened retrenchment, and the result was seen in the defeat of several Ministerial candidates in metropolitan constituencies,. The country declared almost unanimously ' for the Qoyernment. Mr Williams, esj-Ministex for EaUways, was defeated

The Friedman Case.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. Sydney, Oct. 2. The censure debate is proceeding. The Labour Party held a caucus, but nothing definite is known as to the result. Colour was lent to the rumour that the Party intended to support the Opposition by the Government putting up Mr Gormley to move an amendment to Mr Carruthers' mo tion. Later indications point to the Labour Party voting with the Government. There is considerable excitement in the House, and there is no chance of the division being taken yot, The result depends upon the Labour vote, • . Received Ootober 3, 9.30 a.m. ' Sydney, October 3 On the censure vote, a division was taken at 5 o'clock in the morning, and Mr Carruther's motion was rejected by 72 to 39. • After a speech by Mr McGowan, the leader of the labor' party, wherein he justified the action of the Attorney-General, as being in conformity with the basic prin ciples of trial by jury, the result was a fore gone conclusion, as that party voted solid with the Government. Mr Sleath was removed for defying the chair. •••

COUNTY COUNCIL.

The ordinary monthly meeting of the Ashburton County Council was held to-day. Present—Messrs C. J. Harper (chairman), M. Stitt, S. Chapman, J. Stud holme, junr., T. Harrison, J. Johnston, J. Lambie, W. Morgan. The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed. - The usual lists of water charges, bank balances, etc., were laid on the table. engineer's report. Ashburton-Eakaia Water Supply—The - maintenance of the various headworks, fords, sheep bridges, etc, has had due atten tion, and the supply during last month has been satisfactory. The shed at Mill intake is in course of erection.

Ashburton-Eangitata Water Supply- There is now a good supply in all the mains, including those from Hinds Gorges, and the distributing races are generally in fair order. The new races in Coldstream and Ealing districts are now served, with the exception of about a mile at lower end of P race where some clearances of the old race are required. The contractor will execute some ford repairs next week, after which fair provision will have been made for the summer supply, but no further new races should be granted in this district. ■ -.. . Ashburton Forks Water Supply.—rFor this district there is an ample supply, and the service throughout is satisfactory. Protection of Boad Leading to Pudding Hill Bridge—Greater part of this work has been finished as arranged, but some cartings of stone, etc., to protect fascine work is still required. The cost of works will not exceed the agreed on amount of .£3O.

County Plantations.—Trees have been planted at South Eakaia, Chertsey, and Eecreation Beserve near mouth of Ash burton Eiver, all as tendered for at last meeting. Arrangements have been made for formation of road leading through Reserve 1770 to the Freezing Works, in accordance with your instructions. Babbit poison has been laid in plantations near Ealing. County Bridges.—Some minor repairs have been executed recently on the Ash burton traffic bridge, and some overhaul of decking and longitudinals Rangitatk Bridge will be undertaken next week. The ap proach to Stock Bridge, Ealing, bus been cleared.

Poisoned Grain.—There is still a great demand for this article, but the supply isj exhausted, as is also the rape seed which was poisoned. Stour Stock Bridge.—This bridge has been finished satisfactorily, and some winjf fencing is being erected.

Staveley Foot Bridge.—Tenders for this bridge will be placed before you to-day. You will observe from the Banger's report that the residents would prefer this bridge to be placed a little lower down Bowyer's Stream at McLean's crossing. I presume it would be advisable to consult the Mount Somers Eoa-d Board on this matter, and in order to give time for this, I have extended the time for construction by three weeks. Probably the same width of water way would suffice, but a ramp in the open river bed at North end would have to be formed, to serve as an approach. Winterslow Track—Some works are now in hand which will absorb the balance of Government grant.

Ruapuna Head Works—The clearance of terrace portion of main,* has now been ex ecuted over a length of four miles, and re taining walls for slips have been introduced where necessary. A further length of 60 chains or so has still to be cleared. This will be undertaken without delay. Men hare been at work clearing the foundations for walls, and pitching of concrete culvert iin head race, and cutting tail race for drainage. The concrete work has also been commenced, and will be carried through with expedition. I expect it will be finished for the most part by the next ordinary meeting of the Council. The upper section of channel will be filled in, as the culvert is formed, so as to render the bank more secure. chairman's statement. —,

The chairman's statement -was read, ■.. which stated that the subsidy promised by c the Government on account of the Council's expenditure for Coronation celebrations has been applied for. Mr A. F. Robert's had accepted the lease of Preserves 2243 "• and 2244 for another year, The purchase of birds' heads has now concluded, accord ing to the Council's decision, and 47,000 heads have been bought. (Left sitting.)

Weather Report for September.

ASHBURTON.

j The weather throughout the month was cold and unseasonable. The wind blew strong and cold from the S.E. on 20 days S.W. 5; N.W, 3, and N.N.W. 2 days. Its greatest velocity, 296 miles, was recorded on the 25th. The lowest, 4 miles, on the 2nd and 21st. Eain fell on 16 days, the highest 073 inches, on the 26th, the lowest, 00a, on the 7th/ the total being 2*009 inches. The maximum shade temperature, 57 degrees, was noted on the 14th, the lowest, 26 degrees, on the 6th. Frost was registered on 20 days the highest, 6 degrees, on the 6th, the lowest, one degree, on the 14th. Showers of sleet and snow fell on seven days, and there was one day without sunshine. The barometer regis tered a much lower average for the month than in any corresponding month since- the settlement of Canterbury. The terrestrial thermometer also gives a correspondingly low daily average. W.W.S. Domain, October Ist.

KYLE.

The total rainfall registered at Ijtyle for the month of September was 2-10 inch.es, Eain fell on ten days, the heaviest fall being on the 16th, when o*B3 points was registered. The weather during the month has been cold and backward, with a decidedly late spring. J. Lambib.

MOUNT SOMERS.

Eain and snow fell on 15 days during September, most in one day of 24 hours, on the 11th. when 0-52 fell. The total rain fall for the month was 2-94, against an average of 3;80 for the last nine years. The weather has been very cold throughout the "" nionth, frosts nearly every night, and more snow towards the ' end; of the nionth fchan' lias fallen' all through the winter. There has been hardly any growth in" vegetation unsil the last few days, when a decided improvement has taken place. A. Edward Prache.

Federal Defence.

United Press Association—By Electric -•Telegraph - Copyright. Melboubne, October 2 Sir W, J. Lyne, in submitting the Federal defence estimates, totalling .£872,000, loss £106,000 for the auxiliary squadron, stated that he had reduced the naval vote by £28,000, and the military vote by £147,000, as compared with the previous year. The reductions were largely made by disband ing and reorganising some of the naval forces, and reducing and reorganising the military and partially paid forces. The vote for small-arms ammunition was reduced by ,£53,000, and for new rifles by £15,000. Sir W. J. Lyne stated that the plan he had adopted had been to get back to the expenditure before the war,, during which it was largely increased. The; peace-es-" tablishment of the Federal forces' was I 29,000 officers and men, and tke war foot ing 44,000. They must not allow things to drift till a time of trouble came. THe Government would' have no' objection to the establishment of a navy when the proper time came.. T"he ' 'p.rese'nj; force was a toy force, but it was pxreni^ture ! altogether to talk about an " Australian navy. He gave an assurance that he'h'ad ! taken precaution against raising any sem blance of authority for sending men bu^ side the Commonwealth. ■ ;"% '' ' Eeceived Oct '3 9.§Q a.m. [ The debafea on the Defence estimates dis* i closed, that a majprity favoured furthe?

THE ASHBURTON GUABDTAN : FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, lgoit



F. FERRIMAN. BiSHO? JULIUS Says He Would Soonsr Die than Vote for Continuance. A T a public meeting held at Avonnile, J3L on Monday, August 18th, Uishop. Julius gave a stirring address in view of the earning Local Option Poll. He said that the thinking people of the world wen; giving their minds to this question, ami were striving to find a way out of tho appalling evil of drink. As they looked at the drink traffic, whether in England, or America, or Australia, one thing struck them very forcibly, and that wasthat.it was no ordinary foe. It was one of those exceptional foes which they met with now and again, maintained by private interests, by enormous wealth, and by vast influence. His Prohibition frionds said tho Trade Could not be regulated; he was not so sure of that. He was sure that they could not keep it out of a place wholly and absolutely. Yet it might be that the Prohibitionists m the long run might be right, and he might be wrong. They must resist to the utmost any encroachments, and if they had got the traffic out of Linwood, let them keep it TTT. Then came tho questior— WHAT WERE THEY TO DO AT THE ELECTION. At the present time he had to vote either "Continuance" (he would die first), or he had got to vote " Reduction," and what was the good of that—closing up the little miserable houses, and leaving the tied houses ? He wanted to vote State control, but he was not given the opportunity to do bo. "As he could not vote as he wanted to, HE WOULD VOTE "NO LICENSE." Let them romembor that under the present system every hotel and open bar planted in their midst was doing THE DEVIL'S WORK. |



You cannofc vote if you are not on the i roll. Are you on the roll ? If you do not know call on Mr "Ward, the Registrar, Tailored street, Ashburton, and see. If not, ask him or any postmaster for a form of application to enrol, and take a part m this great reform. Anyone, male or female, 21 years of age ia entitled to be enrolled and to Tote, who has resided twelve months m the colony and three months in the district, or one month if you come from another . electorate. BUSINESS NOTICES. TTgreshamj SURGEON AND MECHANICAL ! DENTIST. By Examination. October, 1897 }~>K3HT years-experience with E. tr. nr.d j *j F. W\ Gvesham, Dentists, Dnnedin i and Invercavgill. j Has commenced practice in rooms upstairs from the entrance to Thomas' j Auction Rooms, Burnett Street. j Stoppings in Gold, Amalgam, and Cement I Gold and L-'orceiain crowns made ; also sets j of teeth with Vulcanite aud Porcelain gums, i Gas administered. All work guaranteed. Hours o/f Attendance —9 a.m. —5 p.m. Private Residence - Care Mrs Grant, Wills Street. Wanted Known npO all who intend Purchasing a New -Bicycle, thai you will consult your interests by Inspecting Our Latest models, which j are Above all Others in appearance and wear. They cannot be beaten . Ask anyone who has ridden The Famous Massey-Harris. They run easy, and keep running easy. Easy terms can be arranged at Massey-Harris Depot, East Street. Where Do You Live? THREE-QUARTERS of your time iv your Boots of course. At present we are showing the best Guinea's Worth Of Foot Comfort for Men ever seen in Ashburton. This is a proposition worth considering* Have a look at our show windows. STO~CK'S BLUE BOOT STORE, Burnett Street. Ladies turn next week. We've something very special for them, <±,#O EOS <&Oe7» JUST arrived—Case Sample Clothing, contains Men's and Boys' Suits, Trousers and Knickers, Vests, Shirts, etc. Bought at 15s in the £, for immediate sale." Single article at wholesale price. All plain figures. ■ W. IT. PEARCE, Cash Draper and Clothier. "OEMNANTS and odd lines to be cleared JLAj Cheap to make room for new goods. W. H. PEARCE, Draper. Corner Burnett and East Streets. LOVELY Laces 4-Jd and 6fd. Lot trimmed Aprons (soiled) from Is 4d Hem Btiched Handkerchiefs 6 for Is. W. jr. PJ^IHCE Cash Braver & Clothier. "WfiXlAlir^HYD'E," BURNETf STREET, ASH BURTON. (Next Ashburton Club), WHOLESALE and retail Tinware Manufacturer, Etc Tinsmith, Gas fitter, Bellhanger, Locksmith, Gunsmith, and Wellsinker. Sole agent for Nicholas Celebrated Ball Bearicg Windmill. "% \ ' ANTED everyone to know that Jas VV Meli.ge is opening up his new stock of American Boots. They ace tip-top Goods and well worth a trial.



MRS J. LLOYD, MUSIC SELLER, &c. T^ EGISTEEED TEACHER OF MUSIC J&J . .4. Musical Instruments of every description. Latest Music by every mail. Agent for Wheeler and Wilson's Sewing Machines. The Latest and Best. The only Sewing Machine that does not fail in any point. Agent for Empress Needle Materials kept, New Transfers, Plushes, Arasenes, etc. TANCRED STREET, Next Hall, Her balist.



Helpless with gp. Rheumatism ■ You've tried liniments and prescriptions without result. Now ... CURE YOUBSELF with THE GREAT... CANADIAN . . . SEAWEED CUBE. ! A medicine and Not a liniment. A Quick and Permanent Cure. £OLB BY ALL ZKBALEBS kj 3/6 per Bottle. Sole Agent for Afflatr&lasia: GBO. W. WILTON, Wellington. linn .^.^^TTTr ■^"EVV SPRING GOODS now showing. JL^ New Prints, New Blousings, New Dress Materials, and a general assortment of New Lines in each department. Cash Discount at the rate of one chilling in the pound off all purchases from ninepence worth upwards, at 11. C. BAjaaE-WT-'.s Drapery, ClothiDg, and Boot Warehouse, | Sasfc .street. \ Wanted KaGwa.—That TDSSICUKA is jj thoroughly reliable ia complaints of j Throat, Lungs, and Bronchial Tubes. ! .Steange's for value in Boots and Shoos.



' BUSINESS NOTICES. '#' ~Z NEW STRAWS f |MK^f^H NEW STRAWS Just Opened. ifHLQ^THG^Eftfflrf^M " 50 Dozen Straw Hats. 50 Dozen. Boys' White and Speckled Straw Hats is. Men's White Straw Hats 3s. Men s White Straw Hats 4s 66. Men's White Straw Hats up to 8s See Window. Special Display. , Ladies' Folding " traw Hats 6s 6d. The latest fashion. New Zealand G^hm^Factoty^^^^^ "~^T^Fd dins "OESPECTFUL^ requests inspection of the following seasonable articles, just _fiX» landed, at prices which should tempt all to buy. GARDENING TOOLS. Including Spades, Forks, Rakes. Hoes, Trowels, Hedge Shears, Ladies' and Boys Spades and Forks, etc. FARMERS' REQUISITES. Leading, Plough and Back Cliains, Gorse Knives, (Martin's, etc.), Gorse Grubbers, Picks, Axes, Hatchets, Saws, handles of all kinds, Bluestone, Oils, Paints, etc. Best Kerosene ... ... 4s 3d per tin. WIRE NETTING.—Having a large stock on hand I am selliug-Sheep (with centre strand) at 3d per yard; Fowl, 18in, Id; 24in l£d; 36in, 2d per yard, smaller mesh £in to lin in proportion. SEWING MACHINES.- lam Sole A^ent for the celebrated " DAVEY Machine, the cheapest and best in the market. Hand—.£3 10s, Treadle from M 10s to .£8 10s, with 7 years guarantee. Needles for ' Singer/ ' Davey,'' Wertheim,'' Davis,'' New Home, etc., all at 6d per -dozen. ,-.., I make a specialty of CARPENTER'S TOOLS, and keep the greatest vanety rt at tbe lowest prices in Ashburton. The Peoples' Ironmonger, Burnett Street, opposite Arcade.



ISALE« AKF, ALL THE BAGE Special Reductions —so:- — Special Reductions NICHOLAS &PICRFORD INVITE COMPARISON OF VALUES. ' Ladies' Felt Slippers at la, Is6d, 2s 6d, 3s, 3b 6d, 4s, 4s Gd, ss, 5s 6d. Childrens from 8d per pair. School Boots from 5s per pair. Ladies' Walking Shoes from 5s Gd to 18s 6d ppr pair Ladies' Evening Shoes from 2s Gd to 18s 6d per pair " .Gent's Balmorals from 10s, strong Shooters from 9s 9d PLEASE to remember we hold an Extensive Stock of High-Class Boots, Shoes, and j Slippers of every description. Prove our prices. Boys and Girls Boots a specialty. Our Motto is—" Small Profits and Quick Returns." NICHOLAS &~PICKtfORD, I i EAST STEEET, ASHBURTON I J\ WILSON'S I «™*!?? l" I WAIT PAPRRS \ New Season's ■ \l XSIAjU JL .XXJL J-J JLVkJ I . . . ■ - Have Arrived- I And will be Opened up This Day, September 12th. 1 Simply perfect in Design and Colour. The Papers are quite different to anything of the sort before imported into this town, ; and vastly superior. The Prices are the same as for Ordinary Paper-hangings. Borders and Friezes to Match. Persons desirous ot choosin^fr^ThTfull stock, but not intending to use the Papers forsome lime, may have them laid aside until required. ZEALAEDIA CYCLES I\/f ADE from B.SA. Parts, specially !for New Zealand Roads. Better than any im ported machine for the every day cyclist. Fitted with latest Garrard Free Wheels, with patent Back Pedal Brake, Dunlop Vulcanised Tyres, Brook'sjSaddles, any stylo Handle Bars, Pedals, Gear, Etc. OATES, LOWRY & CO., Largest Cycle Makers and Importers in New Zealand. Ashburfcon Branch—Burnett Street



YES, I TOLD YOU SO, AND IT'S A FACT, — miIAT I am still selling Tobacconist 1, Goods cheaper than you can procure them elsewhere. But you all know that good things end, 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, Pipes, Pouches, Cigarette Holders, and. Walking Sticks all going for a mere song. Just to hand a splendid assortment of: Peterson's Patent Pipes, which will give you a good smoke ; also 30 dozen Slazenger?s new season's Tennis Balls. Now Don't Forget at H. A. FLOWER'S, (late F Clark's; Tobacconist and Hairdresser, East Street



Special Notice. FRU I T TREE S. All Kinds. A Eew Thousand Cupressus Macro carpa, x and 2 ye#r plds Cabbage and Cauliflower Plants, Good Eating and Seed POTATOES. JAS. PORTER, Allenton, Ashburton 7. 2 EyEEY Woman likes to know what is to be worn for Spring, even though unready to purchase. A stroll through our warehouse just now is &n inexpensive pleasure, and at .the same time a r l^bera^l education.—Mitchell and Tur^ee, The Drapers. WANTED KNOWN,— Where s?,e you going with your Eggs and Butter? Why ft? J. T.. COOCH'S of course. He always gives tfeg top price in Ashburton for all Dairy Produce, and I find he is the Cheapest Grocer to deal with. His shop is just opposite the Eailway Station, and so handy to all Trains.



Land Sales.-- On Saturday, October 18. th Messrs Friedlander Bros., Ltd, will offer for sale by auction at their West Street Mart the following properties :—Town sec tfon in Cat- Street: house and land, Tinwald; 500 acre farm at Lyndhursf, on account of Mr A. I. Dent; and 6QO acre farm, Somerton, on account of Mr W. S. Dickie,



Sander. Am> Sons Eucalypti Extract— Under the distinguished patronage of His Majesty the King of Italy, awarded Diplo ma at the International Exhibition, Am sterdam ; acknowledged by Medical Clinics and Universities'all over the globe. That the crude, resinous oils, which are now foisted upon the public under the name of, '•"ucalyptl 'Extracts, may not be mistaken for Sander and Sons' Pure Volatile Euca lypti Extract, we state s—lt is proved by : tests made by the Medical Clinics of the j Universities at Bonn and Griefswald )Prussia), that only products that are j saturated with .oxygen and freed of acids, | resinous and 6tW substances adherent to primary distijla&on, will develop the cuvatiye properties poscesstea by the plant. I To avoid the appallipg Consequences result^ in ff from fchp application <£ substitutes etc, inVoup, bronchitis, dijAfeber;a dysentery, internal inflammation, etc, insist on getting Sander and Sons' Puke Volatile Evcu . lypti Extract and be sate,



Tailoring.—We have just veceheq. pur first two shipments of new summer goods comprising the most up-to-date suitings as now worn at Home. We always encourage customers to select from the web which is far more satisfactory than ordering from .small patterns. We have a very large istock to select fr.cn;. We employ first class ifcrac3esm.on - every 'gariiienp' made on our premisses. We guarantee alj '.our wo^'k, fit and sty Is at prices that will compare favoutably with theso **£ any leading New Zealand city firm. We respectfully inyite customers to kindly order early to prevent disappointment in the " rush " before the chows- Craighead and Berry man the leading tailors Ashburton. [Advt.] i STBANCfE's Sample Booing, Burnett Biro®



The Peerless Incubators are the Greatest moneymakers for the poor man, rich man farmer, housewife, or anyone else. Ducks, chickß, geese or turkeys, find a ready sale, and each one means a profit with hardly ■ any •work. Seed for our catalogue . We sell on cash or time payments, and can give yoj-i real assistance when you need it. The advice'and help of our expert always at , your service. We keep the best of every thi'n for the poultry yard.-—Advt. For Asthmatical troubles of any kind the only certain specific is Evans-"' Mountain King Asthma Powder, Lovely Ties and Sunshades at Strange's



Furniture—The best place in Ashburton is Stjbange'&|