EPHEMERIS

SUN.

Phases of the Moon for December.

Mail Notices.

Mails close for the following places, as under, subject to the necessary alterations:

TUESDAY, Dec. 23.

For Northern Ports and We3tport, per Rotomahana, at 6 p.m.

Commercial.

London Markets

United Press Association —By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, Dec. 21 Frozen meat quotations are nominally unchanged. The trade is at a standstill, owing to the usual large Christmas Home supplies.

Sydney Markets.

Sydney, Dec. 22

At Home Bush the sales offering are exceptionally heavy, owing to no further sale taking place till Monday next. In sheep the bulk of the mediums were odd lots. Fifty-two prime New Zealand cross bred wethers fetched 20s 9d, ewes 18s to 19s, local lots of crossbred wethers, medium, 11s 6d, good las to 15s 6d, best 18s; ewes, medium, 11s; good 14s to 14s 6d; best 7s to 19s. Merinos sold up to 16s 9d. The cattle supply was beyond requirements. Prices were easier than last week. Two lots of New Zealand bullocks averaged £14 13s, and .£l9 2s 9d respectively; local lot?, medium, i£Bj good £12, best £16. Cows medium, £fi 15s, good £8, best £10 103, best beef 47s per hundred lb?.

Ashburton Grain Market.

The Ashburton Agency of the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association of Canterbury, Ltd., quotes! asj follows on Dec. 22nd 1902: Wheat- Tuscan 1 Pearl 4s Od to 5s I Hunters ) \ Oats —Duns £3 6d to 2s 9d „ Danish ... 2sGdto 2s fid „ Sparrowbills .., 2s fid to "2s 9d „ Canadians ... 2s 9d to 3s Barley—Malting, prime 3s 3d Inferior ... 2s 9d to 3s Peas—Prussian Blue ... 5s „ Partridge ... 3s Gel Chaff Good oatsheaf ... £i 10s to M 12s 6d Grass seed Farmers' ... 2s 9d to '6s o& The above are prices current paid to farmers on trucks at Ashburton.

Sale of Wheat.

Mr D. Butterick, of Wakanui, has sold his wheat (1100 bushels of Hunter's and Tuscan) at 5s per bushel, delivered in store at Aehburton.

THE WHEAT MARKET.

We learri that a line of wheat (pearl) recently changed hands at os 5d per bushel in store Addingtou. This Hue again changed hands at an advauced price, and finally was purchased by an Otago Miller at a cost to him of 6s per bushel in his mill.

We understand that Messrs Wood Bros., of the Canterbury Flour Mills, who a fort night ago bought about 50,000 bushels of prime milling wheat from Mr D. Thomas at ss, have sold part*bf their purchase at 5s 2jd.

DUNEDIN WHEAT MARKET.

Business in tho breadstufts market for 1902 has practically closed, and no fnrther changes are likely to take place until the new year opens. There is little or no wheat offering, except a few lines of Hunters and Tuscan at prices which preclude business, and millers do not appear anxious to operate for the moment. A little could possibly be done in velvet, but there is none available. Canterbury holders control the market, which keeps firm. Quotations are nominally the same as a week ago—viz : Hunter's and Tuscan, iss 3d tv 5s 4d on trucks Canterbury sidings, equal to 5s 7d to os 8d Dunedin ; velvet, 5s Gd to 5s Bd, on trucks equal to 5a lOd to 6s Dunedin.— " Otago Times."

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 1902. RATING ON UNIMPROVED VALUES.

Councillor Andrews sprung a mild sur prise on the Borough Council last evening when he handed to the Mayor a portentous looking document bearing a number of signature?, pui*porting to be a demand that a poll shall be taken on the question whether properties in this Borough shall bo rated in future on tho basis of the unimproved values. It was understood that Councillor Andrews was anxious to have this question dealt with, but it was not supposed that he, or anyone «Isq for that matter, would at tempt to force on a poll until after the bur gesses had been given time and opportunity to consider the proposal, which is one that certainly does require consideration. 10 is all very well for Dfr EH and his local follower, Mr Andrews, to have made up their own minds, find to butfcon-ljole rate payers while setting forth their own views, all on the one side. But seeing that the change proposed will very seriously affect the pockets of many of the burgesses of Ashburton, and, to some extent also, the Borough revenue, it is scarcely fair to any body to precipitate the decision on the sub ject without giving people time to think it over, and to understand it. We do not pro pose to deal with the question whether the proposed system of lating would be advan tageous or otherwise, so far as this Borough is concerned, and ws may admit at once that a good deal may be said in favour of the principle in a general way. But we recog nise, as must evsry fair-mindod person, that if it were applied—in Ashburton for instance it would press unduly upon a good many of the ratepayers, and for that reason alone we say that the three weeks—which Mr ' Andrews 1 action will give us to look into the qnestiou —is not enough. It is true that a public meeting may be called to discuss the matter, but only a small proportion of ; the burgesses would attend, for it is diffi cult to induce people to realise the danger of letting things slide. The tendency to do this is responsible for a gaod deal of trouble socially, commercially, and politically, for it is becoming more and more apparent that experimentalists on all those lines

I have traded upon it with success. By a I judicious use of their knowledge in this respect, they succeed in presenting always the one view of a subject—their own—and that is enough for many people. However, if Mr Andrews and those who wish this poll taken will not give more than the three weeks (to which their action haR limited the time) to consider the matter, tl c"c is noth ing for it but to invite the burgesses to ** discuss it;; and this, we bolieve, the Mayor intends to do. There is one point which appears to have been quite overlooked by those who have been promoting the agita tion—if we may call it so—for rating on the unimproved values, and that is how the adoption of the principle by the Borough would affect the question of a greater Ash burton. It must strike most people that the position would be complicated a good deal, seeing that the people of Hampstead, Tinwald, and Allenton might not agree to the proposed system of rating. This view of the matter seems to show that a poll on the question now would be decidedly pro mature. We fthink that it should be de ferrad until the larger and much more im portant question of the amalgamation of the borough with the adjoining local bodies has been dealt with.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

The Ashburton Guardian will not be published on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, December 25th and 26th.

Cable News and other reading matter will be found on the first and fourth pages to-day.

Weather Forecast. — Captain Edwin wires :—Strong winds to gale from between north and east and south-east ; glass fur ther fall; much rain.

Personal. —We regret to learn that there is no improvement in the condition of Mr H. W. Barrett.

Night Trains.—Particulars ef the night trains for tho holiday season will bo found in our advertising columns.

Committed to Sonnyside.—A resident of the Winslow district was yesterday com mitted to the Sunnyside Asylum by Messrs Thomas and Alcorn, J.P's., on a medical certificate.

Tinttald Eaces—We are requested to mention that the name of " Cocoanut" has been omitted from the Farmers' Trot at the Tinwald Eacing Club's meeting.

Thk Ashburton Guards.—The Guards had a daylight parade last evening, march ing to the Domain, where they were put through some of the new field movements by Sergeant-Major Jones and the non commissioned officers. Captain Clarke was in command.

" Only a Penny."—The pennies thrown on the stage last evening at the Bright Hours' Children entertainment in the Odd fellows' Hall, when little Marjorie Saunders was singing her song " Only a penny," were handed to the Mayor for the old men in the Home."

A SrccKssFUii Angler.—Mr H. G. Berry nian again secured an excellent basket of fish at the uiouth of the Ashburton river last night. lie caught seven trout, weigh ing in all 331b3, one of them turning the scale at lOlbs, and anothor at 71bs. Four of them were on view in Messrs Hardley Bros' window to-day.

Eating on Unimproved Values.—Cr. Audrew3 handed to the Mayor la3t evening at the Borough Council meeting a formida ble looking document bearing 108 signa tures of burgesses, requestiug him to call for a poll on the question of adopting the principle of rating on unimproved values. It is understood that the Mayor will fix the poll for about the middle of January.

Wakanui Wesxeyan Church. — The annual social andcoucertin connection with the Wakanui Wesleyan Church will be held on Boxing night, when an excellent programme will be submitted. Friends from Ohristchurch, Ashburton, and else where will take part.

Christmas Greetings.—We are in re ceipb of "kindest greeting for Christmas and New Year" from the Minister of Trade and Customs (the Hon C. H. Mills), which we cordially reciprocate.

Ashbtjbton Gas Company.—A meeting of shareholders in the Ashburton Gas Company was held yesterday afternoon to confirm a resolution passed at tho last meeting with regard to increasing the Company's capital by a new issue of shares. Present—Messrs Thos, Bullock (chairman), Max Friedlander, J, Ward, W. H. Preston, R. Friedlander, and F, B. Standish. The resolution was confirmed unanimously.

Trap Accident.—An unfortunate acci dent happened to Mrs Clifford, of Winch more, yesterday afternoon, by which her right leg was broken below the knee through the wheel of a trap passing over her. She was brought in to the Ashburton Hospital, and is progressing as favourably as can be expected under the circumstances.

An Acknowledgment.—The boys and girls of the Borough School who formed the two senior sections in the physical drill competition on Anniver sary my invited iheir teachers to a picnic as some acknowledgment of the trouble they had taken in making them so pro ficient in their work. The party proceeded (o the beach to-day in Newman's drag, but the weather must have interfered greatly with their enjoyment.

A Curious Incident.—At the Christ church Magistrate's Court this morning, James Young and Thomas Coverdale, em ployees of Strange and Co., were charged with causing people to congregate so as to impede the traffic in High Street. Young is a pupil of SandoHr, and has been giving exhibitions of the Sandow system in the window of Strange and Coy's shop. So many people attended that both the foot path and road were blocked. Young was convicted, but no fine or costs were irapqsed. The charge against Coverdale was then withdrawn.

The Young Man's Maoazine.—We have to acknowledge the rocoipt of a most in teresting little magazine published quar terly-for the St. John's Young Men.s Bible Class, Wellington. Tt is called the " Young Men's Magazine," and according to it 3 title pasre its object is to promote the " spiritual, mental, social, and physical" welfare of the young men of the colony. It contains a number of excellent photographs of New Zealand scenery, and most interesting con tributions from such well-known writers as the Eevs. Hugh Kelly, M.A., of Auckland, W. C. Oliver, and Newman Hall, of Wel lington, Messrs H. 11. Barton, M.A., George Hoghen, M.A., and J. W. Black. Prize essays, poems, and photographs form an important feature in this magazine. Part of each number is devoted to sport and pastimo, and this column usually contains an able article on the secrets of success in some particular game. I

FIRE.

j At 2.30 this morning the firebell sounded j an alarm, and at the same time huge vol umes of smoke and fire were seen issuing from the eastward. The brigade was quickly on the move, and on going in the direction indicated, it was found that Messrs Huston and Son's grocery store Gn tho East Belt was all ablaze. Two lines of hose wepe run out, but from s^me cause the steamer could j I not be got to work, something apparently ; having gone wrong with the pump valve. ; On arrival it was at once seen that the ' building was doomed a 1? the flames had a ; firm hold, and, spreading with alarming j rapidity carried all before- them. A light northerly breeze blew at the time, driving the sparks in the direction of Mr Reid's house, but fortunately no damage was done, excepting that the fence on the opposite side of the road was charred. The origin of the firo is a mystery, Mr W. Huston was sleeping on tho premises with a nep hew, and the first intimation he had of the fire was that he found himself almost suf focated by the smoke coming from the front part of the shop where the fire evidently started. The two occupants had barely time to escape. The building and stock were insured for ,£275, and were the pro perty of Mr Huston, senr., but Mr Huston estimates his loss at considerably over the insurance.

OBITUARY.

DR. BLUETT, RAKAIA,

It is our painful duty to-day to announce the death of Dr Bluett, of Rakaia, whose sudden demise has cast a gloom over the whole of the district where he was most intimately known, and although only a short time in our midst, he will ba widely mourned n this district, where he has made many friends and acquaintances. It is only a few days ago that the deceased was walking about apparently in his usual state of health, and attending to hisjmtients in the ordi nary course of businesa. He had only been ill a few days, suffering from pneumonia, which proved fatal this moruing. The late Dr Bluett succeeded the late Dr Cordner, who, singularly enough, also passed away unexpectedly. He came to Eakaia about twelve months ago, from Wellington, New South Wales, where he had. been practising his profession for some time, but as the clim ate was unsuitable for the health of himself and wife, he was determined to try his for tune in New Zealand, and took up the practice of the late Dr. Cordner at R ikaia. Being a very skilf ul,practitioner, Dr. Bluett soon possessed not only the respect, but the confidence of the Rakaia public, nnd his fame as a practitioner soon spread far and wide, with the result that patients fromelse wheresought his advice. In this respect his loss will be a great one to the community indeed. As a private citizen, Dr. Bluett was much esteemed by all those with whom i he came in contact. His gentlemanly' manner and straightforwardness won him many friends, and during the short time he has been in practice in Rakaia he has made himself very popular. Dr Bluett hailed from Woolwich, England, where he was in practice prior fto coming to the colonies. He was twice married, and has two sons, who aie surgeons in the navy. The family of the second union are young children, one being a little over twelve months old. Mrs Bluett shares the respect and esteem which was bestowed on her late husband. Much sympathy is felt for Mr 3 Bluett and family in their bereavement.

High-School Board.

A special meeting of the Ashburton High. School Board was held yesterday afternoon. Present—Messrs A. Orr (chair man), M. Stitt, D. Williamson, W. B. Den shire, S. Chapman, D. Thomas, and His Worship the Slayor.

The business left over from the last meeting was dealt with.

A notice of motion given by the Mayor at a previous meeting re scholarships was then discussed.

Mr Thomas moved that it be deferred. He thought that the question of scholar ships would die out, and then they would have to begin again de novo.

The Mayor moved and Mr Denshire se conded that the former resolution be rts cended.—Carried.

Upon the motion of the Mayor, seconded by Mr Thomas, it was decided to hold over the question of scholarships till the first meeting in March.

An application was received from Mr Tennant for an increase in salary. As this matter had been gone into by a sub-com mittee, as was also a similar application from the caretaker, a recommendation was brought in that the headmaster's salary be increased by £30, which was agreed to. In respect to the application by Mr Cates, the matter was allowed to stand over in accordance with a motion by the Mayor seconded by Mr Denshire, that the Visiting Committee report as to what improvements may be made, and also report as to whether the applicant was entitled to an in crease of salary. The ordinary meeting of the Board was then held. The question of Mclntyre's lease was left in the hands of Messrs Stitt and Wil liamson to inspect and report. A letter was received from the Educa-

cation Department in regard to the new secondary school regulations, and Mr Ten nant's report theron was read, which stated that the adoption of the new regime would increase the income. Mr Tennant was personally in favour of a free system.

Mr Thomas moved that the Board fall in with the views of the Government to admit pupils on the Government scheme, and the Education Department be written to to that effect.

The Mayor seconded, and stated thnt he would like to hear Mr 'Pennant's views.

Mr Tennant was called, and explained the contents of his report. Ho stated tint about 50 per cent of the pupils leave at the end of the year.

Mr Thomas said that if they managed to get the goods train that arrived here at 9.30. a.m. to carry scholars, it would be a great advantage to those coming in from the country.

Mr Teunant said that if 60 soholars came to the school, the Government would grant capitation for 45.

The master's report advised that the scholarships be awarded to the first two in each list as sent in by him. A table of results was also appended. The matter of scholarships was deferred until the Board knew more about their position, on the motion of Mr Williamson, seconded by Mr Thomas,

Fourteen applications wore received for the position of mistress vice Miss Bauchop. resigned. It was decided to make a definite selection on Saturday next.

After passing accounts, amounting to .£65 9s 7d, the Beard adjourned.

The Sandow Season.

Mr Harry Ilickards' No. 3 company of Vaudville stars, including the famous Eu gen S,andow, the prophet' of physical ouU turo, will appear at the Oddfellows' Hall to-morrow evening. Everybody is on the " gui vive," and Ashburton is sure to give this artist a roya.l welcome, Sandow's various experiences are highly interesting. We herewith give our readers his own descrip tion of his fight with a lion:—" Yes, that was when I was performing in San Frau f rancisoo. A fight between a lion and a bear was advertised. The menagerie pro prietor, who owned the lion, wanted the

beast done away with, as it had killed no less than three men. Evei'y seat in the tremendous tent was sold, but the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty stepped in and stopped tha fight. The idea then occurred to me to pit the strength of a man against the strength of the lion, I thought I should be armed with a weapon to make up for the lion's claws and teeth. The Society for Pre vention of Cruelty would not allow such a fight, so then I agreed to test the lion's strength minus any weapons if they pufc mit tens on Leo. The society had no objection to offer to that. So the event was adverti sed and the tent sold out in no time. The

lion having beon mittened, during which operation he nearly escaped, was driven in-

to the caged arena and Ijfollowod after him stripped to the waist. In an instant the brute jumped at me. I had anticipated this movement so 1 twisted round on a sudden, caught the lion by the head, and somersaulted him several - yards away. That surprised Leo a little bit. In fact, he was astounded. Then he * came again ' for me. As he jumped forward I brought my right hand round his neck and "pressed his chin on my shoulder. With my left hand I kept his body off me, £o he could not harm me with his hind legs. We had a, fearful struggle. Blood began to flow, my skin was knocked off all over me, and the people shouted ' Stop ' ! ' Stop * j I was unfortunate to fall. As the wild animal came at me I quickly rammed my 1 arm down his throat, and as quickly drew it back. Then I fastened the lion's Hp over his teeth. 1 gave him a few such squeezes that what he had inside came out. A few tumbles varied the performance. At last ! the beast was absolutely beaten, and he ! buried his nose in the sawdust. I took his tnil and twisted it; he would have nothing more to do with me. I got so disgusted that I picked the monster up, carried him on my shoulder, and then drew him down. The excitement was so great during the seven or eight minutes of really lightening work that 50 or 60 of the spectators fainted. The lion was put back into his cage, and sometime after a newspaper man bet mo kT would not go into the beast. I did though, and hit Leo over the body and on the mouth with my hand, but he only replied with ugly snarls and growls."

BOROUGH COUNCIL.

The ordinary meeting of the Ashburton Borough Council was held last evening. Present—The Mayor (in the chair), Crs Aloorn, Andrews, Davis, Reid, Willis, Clark, Davison, Timmins, and Jona3. FINANCE. The Mayor reported that the debit balance at the Bank was £ 1 154 18s 3d, aud that the amounts received from all sources since last meeting totalled £7& 5s 3d. COBRBSPONDEtfCE. Correspondence was read— From the Department of Labour, re half holiday. Cr Davis suggested that the Mayor be appointed as a delegate to the conference of local bodiesto fix tbe half-holiday. Cr Willis moved that consideration of the question be-deferred until after the matter had been settled in Christchurch. Personally he would like to see Saturday the half holiday, but as this was an agricul tural community, the farmers should be considered. Cr Andrews seconded. Cr Reid moved as an amendment that it be left in tbe Mayor's hands. Cr Willis would withdraw his motion if the Mayor took the responsibility of settling it.

Cr Timmins, as an individual, was in favour of Saturday, but as a business man, he was against it. He had not the slightest doubt but that an Act of Parliament wocld be brought into effect. After further discussion, the matter was allowed to stand over. , From the District Health Officer, re cellar bakery, and stating that he saw no reason why an exception should be made.— .Received. Mr 0. W. Purnell forwardod his opinion on the Ashburton ceineterie-?, and stating that the Government had full power to remove the trustees, notwithstanding that one was outside the boundaries, and a copy of the Mayor's letter to the Colonial Secretary, in terms thereof, was read. On the motion of Cr Andrews, the Mayor's action was approved. From Mr 3 Ann Jame3, applying for shop in East street.—Referred to Works Com mittee. From Mrs B. Price, asking for remission of rates.—Remission granted as asked. From the Secretary of the County Band, stating that the Band had been registered under the Unclassified Societies' Act.— Received. From the Commissioner of Taxes, re sub sidy.—Received. From Eev. R. Raine, asking for the use of the Domain on the occasion of Methodist Conference. The Mayor and Cr Alcorn were appointed to welcome the delegates to Ashbnrton, and request for the use of the Domain was granted. I Some discussion took place on the ques tion of allowing parties the use of the Domain, Cr Davis remarking that a deposit should be put down to cover cost of cleaning up.

Cr Reid supported the remarks of Cr Davis, and contended that the Oval was a portion of the Domain which had been handed over to the Sports Association, and that body was entitled to demand that proper care should be taken of it. Cr Willis concurred with Crs Davis and Roid, and thought all persons or parties who obtained permission to use the Domain should be treated alike. The Mayor undertook to see that no damage was done, UGHTING COMMITTEE'S REPORT.

Your Committee beg to recommend the Council that the Ashburton Gas Compaify be asked to give prices for which they will light, clean, and extinguish the street lamps of tho Borough on similar conditions to previous contracts, for a further term of either one, two, or three years. Cr. Davis moved the adoption of the report. Cr. Clark seconded. Agreed to. SANITARY COMMITTEE'S REPORT.

1. Scavenging Contract.— As the existing scavenging contract expires on the 31st January next, your Committee beg to | recommend the Council to renew the pre ! sent contract for the period of one year, I with the same contractors, on similar terms and conditions to the previous contract, and provided the contract may be cancelled at any time on three months notice being given on either side. 2. Sealed Pan System.—Tour Committee beg to report that they have considered the advisableuess of including a septic tank for disposal of the night soil in connection with the sealed pan system, and would be prepared to recommend the Council to adopt the same, but in view of the necessity arising for making arrangements respecting , the raising of loans for other necessary | permanent works, your Committee would I recommend that this matter be held- over ' for the present. Tho report was received. Cr. Timmins moved the adoption of the two clauses, which was agreed to, and the report as a whole was adopted. RESERVES COMMITTEE.

Cr. Alcorn reported on the question of reserves, and certain buildings, which had been iet subject to improvements. Cr. Davis remarked that the Council had taken rent money in advance, and subject to the premises being put in order, and now they wanted to shuffle out of it. The place should be put in order. Cr. Davison did not consider that .there was any question of shuffling at all. If the Council chose to say that the work had to be done, then the Eeserves Committee were prepared to go on. The Mayor said that the Ee3erves Com mittee had done the correct thing. All that was necessary to be done, the Eeserves Committee had proposed to do. Cr. Eeid. gave it as bis opinion that fairness should be meted out. Whatever was done should be done in a legal and proper manner. Cr, Davis still adhered to his opinion that be could not see why they should take this man's money and then try and baok out. The question was aga;n referred to the Reserves Committee with power to act. inspector's report. The Inspector's report was read. Cr. Davis enquired if any report were sent in regarding the milk sold. •

The report was received. foreman's report.

The foreman's report was read, setting forth work done during the last fortnight. The report was received. TENDER.

Mr Smithel's tender was accepted for a house and not the paddock on a borough reserve which he tendered for.

BOROUGH VALUER. Cr Clark moved that the tender of Mr Makeig be accepted. Unfortunately for Mr Barrett the Council was in the same posi tion as before.

Cr Andrews seconded,

The rating on the Unimproved Values Act of 1896 was included in the resolution oil the suggestion of Cr Jones.

DOG REGISTRATION PEES. Cr Timmins moved and Cr Alcorn seconded that the fees be the same, as' last year, viz ? 2s Gd for sheepdogs and lQs fctr sporting dogs.—Carried.

NEXT MEETING. The next meeting of the Council was fixed to be hold on January 19th; 1903.

BY-LAWS. The special orders relating to traffic on streets, keeping of poultry, and billiard

rooms were confirmed in the first two in?

stances,

The by-laws were thereafter confirmed relating to billiard rooms, and the Mayor was appointed to fix the seal.

LICENSES. Licenses were granted as under : - Auc tioueers— E. Friedlander, D. Thomas, E. P. Curtis, H. Stephenson, and H. A. Lloyd. Carriers—W. Lindsay. Milk—John Olsen.

Meat—T. Young.

ACCOUNTS. Accounts amounting to £70 4s 10 1 wera pa^ed for payment, and the Council sat as a

DOMAIN BOARD. A letter was received from the Eolleston School Committee, and asking what pro vision would be made for hot water.—lt

was stated that the use of tha Domain had

been granted, and that anything required would be met as far as possible. The Curator suggested that the swim ming baths be cleaned out, and his recoui-

mendations were agreed to. The Board then adjourned.

Valedictory Social.

A farewell social was given at Mr A. T. Maiden's Bhed, Mitcham, Friday, to Mr and Mrs Dickie, of Somerton, who are leaving that district. Amongst those who took part in the musical and vocal selections given, were Mrs Marsden, Misses Oliver, Helms, Stock, Healy (vocal), Messrs Morrisey, Pearee, and Lenmon (instrumental), W. Hinds and K. Taylor (recitations), a mock speech by Mr Healy, also a character sketch. Mr Pearce officiated as M.C. in the dance that followed.and which was kept up with spirit for some hours. During the evening, Mr T. Morland presented Mr and Mrs Dickie with 8 marble clock, as a mark of the esteem in which they are held in the district, and in doing so, Mr Morland took occasion to express his own appreciation of the qualities of their guests. Mr Dickie was a good neighbour, and Mrs Dickie was always ready to give kindly help when it was needed.

Mr Dickie returned thanks briefly for himself, but said ho would leave Mrs Dickie to speak for herself, and that lady, in an admirable little speech thanked her friends for so pleasantly showing their appreciation of what little she had been able to do in a neighbourly way. * Mr T. Morland then presented Mr Geo. Dickie, who is also leaving the district, with a silver mounted pipe, as a souvenir from his friends.

Mr A. T. Maidens also added his testi mony to the esteem iv which their guests were held by every one of their neighbours. Mr George Dickie suitably acknowledged the gift to himself.

Refreshments were liberally provided, and the whele of the proceedings were carried out without a hitch of any'sort.

Correspondence.

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

ROAD IMPROVEMEMENT.

TO THE EDITOB,

Si i^—Now that the election is over, and the electors may he expected to have returned to a rational state of mind, per haps they will listen to a suggestion re road improvements. During my visit to the Old Country one thing above all others that impressed me as having been greatly improved in the last few years was means of communication and locomotion, and this applies especially to " The Publio Eoads." By enquiring and observation, I found that the chief factor in this improvement was steam road rollers, and as I travelled over the roads, whether on bike, on foot, or behind a horse, my thoughts often travelled back to this laud, the boast of whose people is that we are alive and able to show the way to that Old Land, and longed for the time when I might enjoy driving over such roads in tha Ashburton County, minus the gradeß. My idea, Sir, is that the County Council should purchase a steam road roller, to be at the call of the various Eoad Boards and the Borough Council on terms/ and at times as per arrangement. Does it not appear foolish for us to roll our roads with our horses'.hoofs and the wheels of our vehicles, instead of with a properly made roller. What would we think of a farmer who rolled his paddock with his gig or buggy, instead of a roller such as are sup plied for the purpose by oar agricultural firms. Taking the value of this county at £4.000,000 for rating purposes at id in the £, plus Government subsidy, the income of the various Local Bodies is (outside County Council) over ,£IO,OOO, and I think it is a fair assumption that at least half of that sum is expended in work which is never used for, say, twelve months on an average, .£SOOO -work lying idle until some poor unfortunate is forced on to the new metal, etc., on account of impnssability of the side tracks. We tear our horses to pieces, and depreciate the price of our wool and cereals through extra cost of haulage. Ifc would be a great boon [ am sure, to the com j xnunity generally, if you would bring the matter before the public, and perhaps some member of the County Council might think it worth while to raise the point at one of their meetings.— I am, etc., Edwakd Taylor.

BEACH RESERVES.

TO THK EDITOR.

Sir,—T cannot understand your correspon dent about a water supply at the Beach. ihero has always been since I came to it a good supply. Suraly the two mill races are quite enough. Thepublio have only to go about three chains round the corner of my fence for water. But perhaps it might be thought advisable to fence off cay about halt a chain of the lagoon at the south end for watering horses, etc. I cannot see that the public has any need at present for land for recreation ground. If the public would keep within bounds, and not trespass through crop, ono might try and do some thing. We all know that a house is greatly needed at the Beach so that one mio-ht get \CU^xf tea 'and Perhaps stay all night, should they require. But something more is to be considered, the house cannot stand empty in the winter, when it might not be required. Would it pay to keep some one in it all the winter ? I think not.—l am, etc., James Wilson, Seaview.

Prize Distribution.

EANGITATA.

The annual treat and prize distribution in connection with the Eangitata Station school, took place on Thursday last. The weather was not all that could be desired, frequent showers somewhat marring the day's outing. Shortly after 1 p.m. the chil dren assembled in the school, and were reo-aled with sandwiches and cake. An adjournment was then made to the grounds to contest the racing prizes, each child carrying off some useful trinket. About 3 p.m. the prizes were distribnted by Mr J. E. Brodie, who spoke a few words of advice and encouragement to the children. Mr J. Haar, Chairman of the School Committee, occupied the chair, and at the conclusion called for three hearty cheers for Mr Brodie and the teacher. These ware lustily given by the children, as were also cheers for the Chairman aud ladies assisting at the treat. Another tea followed, and also a liberal supply of Jollies and nuts, kindly provided by Messrs Palmer and Mason. In the evening a dance was held, which was very wellattended. Under the able directorship of Mr D. Taylor, as Kf.C., a very pleasant time was spent, all present apparently being thoroughly satisfied with the evening's enjoyment. On -motion of Mr J. Stranger, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mr D. Taylor, and also to the musician Messrs'Abbott arid Dorwacd, !wh% discoursed excellent music daring. thQ evening, their services being gratis. The ladies who had charge of the refreshments, worked very hard, and the Committee is very, much indebted to them.

Sander and, 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 Kucalypti Extracts, may not be mistaken for Sander and Sons' Pure Volatile Euca lypti Extract, we state:—lt is proved by tests made by the Medical Clinics of the , Universities at Bonn and Griefswald JPrussia), that only products that are saturated with oxygen and freed of acids, resinous and othci substances adherent to primary distills feion, will develop the curative properties possessed by the plant. To avoid the appalling consequences result ing from th application of substitutes, etc, in croup, bronchitis, diphtheria, dysentery, internal inflammation, etc., insist on getting Sander and j>'ons' Pure Volatile Eur» - lypti Extract and be safe.

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

THE APHBVRTON GUARDIAN : TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 1902.



Dat •cc. »» v » » » »

te 22 23 24, 25 |26 27 28 29

Rises 4.20 4.21 4.21 4.22 4.23 4.24 4.24 4.25

Sets 7.38 7.39 7.39 7.39 7.40 7.40 7.40 7.41



'irsfc Quarter Moon jast Quarter I"ew Moou apogee ... 'erigee ,

d h m 8 5.57 p.m. 15 3.17 p.m. 22 7.30 a.m, 30 8.55 a.m. 3 4.0 a.m. 16 1.0 a.m.



F. FESRIMAN. ] FARMERS ! tIiHE recent wet weather will necessitate ioereised attention to your Sheep and Lambs. Do not neglect them by allowing them to suffer from Scour or Lung-Worm. Joseph Ford's Scour anil Lung-worm Mixture, Is an acknowledged cure for both Scour and Lung worm and its use greatly im proves the tone and condition of Sheep and Lambs. The following are the opinions of two of our well-known breeders who use FORD'S MIXTURE :- Buooleuch Station, Mount Somers, 14th March, 1902. Mb F. Fkeeiman, A&hburton.



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. T obtained sufficient Mixture from you to drouch 3000 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 IJd per head to drench, it has been the means of saving many of my lambs which { •were worth 12s 6d each. lam so satisfied with my experiment, that I intend to use Joseph Ford's Mixture as often as I may have occasion to deal with Scour or a thrift less 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 bo well paid for his outlfiy.



Yours faithfully, (Sgd) E. GATES. Ashburfcon, January 10th, 1902. Mb F. Ferbiman, Ashburton,—



Wear Sir,—Ke Joseph Ford's Seoul* and Lung-Worm Mixture. — Last season I drenchen 450 of my Stud Lambs with the above drench* They had commenced to scour 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 wore 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 ifc 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. i



Yours faithfully, (Sgd) T. E. UPTON. F. FERRIMAN. Patentee and Proprietor.



BUSINESS NOTICES. Only this season's Tweeds sold. TAILORS. &



Eailway Refreshment Rooms. THE Booms having been thoroughly renovated right throughout, I ;im now in a position to cater for all. I have now on tap a special brewed New Zealand Ale, ual to English; made From pure English malt and hops v N.B. As U3ual, the best brands of Wines and Spiiits kept. J. DIKEEN, LESSEE.



H GRESHAM, SURGEON AND MECHANICAL DENTIST. - By Examination, October, 1897 EIGHT years experience with B. G. and F. W. Greshain, Dentists, Dunedin and Inyercargill. ' Has commenced practice in rooms upstairs from the entrance to Thomas' Auction Booms, Burnett Street. Stoppings in Gold, Amalgam, and Cement. Gold and Porcelain crowns made ; also sets of teeth with Vulcanite and Porcelain gums. Gas administered. All work guaranteed.



Hours op Attendance —9 a.ai.—s p.m. Private Residence—Care Mbs Ghant, Wills* Street. To the Electors of Ash bisrtoii. Another Man in the field. | J» lie Hl€rGrS ? PAINTER, of Tancred Street, HAS decided to stand on the Liberal platform, and would solicit your support and patronage in all branches of the Painting and Decorating Trade. Pictures Framed, Sign-writing a specialty. Call and see the latest in PAPERS.



Helpless with f* Rheumatism * You're tried liniments and prescriptions without result. Now . . . CUKE YOURSELF with THE GREAT... 6AHADIAN . . „ SEAWEED CURE. A medicine and Not a liniment. A Quick and Permanent Cure. SOLD BY ALL DEALERS At 3/6 per Bottle. Sole Agent for Australasia: GEO. W. WILTON, Wellington. '■ • « ... 1g per lb, Finest Fre3h Separator Butter, Willow by Factory; acknow ledged superior flavor to any other brand on the market.—C4BSQN and Co, Sole Agents.



XMAS EXTEAS—At the Eeady Money Shop, Tancred Street, you can get best value for your money in Lace Cui-tains, Quilts, Table Covers, Art Muslins, Cre tonnes, Towels, Sheetings, and general drapery; smallest working expenses ; losses by book debts avoided; Stock clean,fresh, and up-to-date. Lowest Bedrock Spot Cash Prices. """" 01i7 YerTOhTYesT ' "VTOW is the time for Brass and EDam -LM elled PEESEEVING PANS. j SANDOW'S DEVELOPERS and Dum- j bells (Sandow will be here on 24th inst.) Good Cycle Covers at 12s 6d, fitted, guaran teed for 6 months. The Cheapest Shop in Ashburton for Ironmongery and Cooking Utensils.—G. MEDDINS, The Peoples Ironmonger. TOYS, Toys, Toys of every description at Stbange's.



BUSINESS NOTICES. GEO. MEDDINS, 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 PRESERVING PANS, Cooking Utensils to suit everyone in Tinned and Enamel Ware, Brass and Copper. Harvesting Requisites. . Hay Forks, Hay Rakes, Scythe? and Handles, Reap Hooks. Tools foe Harvest Fie! d, such as Screw Wrenches, Sets of Spanners, Files, Hammers, Vyces, Punohes, Cold and Wood Chisels, Plyers, Pincers, Copper and Iron Rivets, Tacks, etc. Castor and Other Machine Oils, Ready mixed, in all colors, White and Red Lead, Hematite, Boiled and Raw Linseed Oils. AgeDt for Scott's!" Atlas," Shaoklock's " Orion," " Zea'andia," and Hepburn's Ranges, Davey's Celebrated Sewing Machines. Inspection Cordially Invited. X — Burnett Street—Opposite Arcade.



A MERRY CHRISTMAS *** * - - HAPPY NEW YEAR. AS usual MELLOR'S Zealandia Boot Store is having a merry time in Footwear. Remember if you want to spend a Happy New Year go to FELLOE'S and buy a pair of his easy fitting Boots or Shoes. You can get any styie or shape you like, DO NOT FORG-ET THAT— AIELLOR. gives by far the best value ia Boots & Shoes in Ashburton SO BE WISE AND BUY YOUR BOOTS AND SHOES AT MELLOR'S i ZEALANDIA BOOT STORE, Tailored Street.



SANTA CLAXTS AND FATHER XMAS COMING AGAIN. - - H. M7 1 JONES. - - ZLsn Cases of Toys, Fancy Good?, Books, Stationery, China, Glass, Plush, /jT4~| ■jcl/ Japanese and Leather 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 be Sold. Lowest possible Prices. Call early & often H. . M." JONES. Something Useful from ike' Zcalaiidia Cycle Works, j YOUTHS'- "Atalanta" Bicycles ... £15. | Just the thing fur a, Bright School Boy. I GIRLS' " Atalanta" Bicycle ... £16. [ An ideal Preseut for a young Lady. ; These Machines are fully guaranteed and of new designs. | Easy terms arrange I if required. ! ! Genuine English Silver King LAMPS. These beautiful Lamps are very acceptable to any Cyclist. Packed in neat box ready for post —14s 9d each. TO TOURING CYCLISTS.—CaII on us, and we will examine your machine (free of charge) before starting on your holiday tour. ACCESSOKIES.—Our stock of Cycling Goods is the most up-to-dite in the district. CHARGES.—AII Repairs and Sundries at Christchurch prices. Ashburton Branch—Burnett Street.



NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY. CHRISTMAS PRESENTS. SENSIBLE and Useful Presents to give to your friends, A GENT'S SILK TIE, —Call at the New Zealand Clothing Factory. A SET OE STUDS, —Call at the New Zealand Clothing Factory. A GENT'S SILK HANDKEECHIEP, —Call at the New Zealand Clothing Factory. A TRAVELLING RUG, —Call at the New 7«aland Clothing Factory. A GLADSTONE BAG, —Call at the New Zealand Clothing Factory. SEE OUR GREAT CHRISTMAS DISPLAY. "NT TJ f^T ATTTT\rr< TH A r^TWE? V IN.Zu ULAIJL HJ-JM fjr Jo A.v> ± \Jjoi x • ALEX. HENDRY, Manager



COME AND SEE OUR 'CHRISTMAS PRESENTS IN ENDLESS VARIETY. Electroplate Goods of very best quality ami design. English Cutlery of every description. WATCHES, WATCHES. CLOCKS, CLOCKS. Presents for Ladies. Presents for Gentlemen. COME AND SEE. 'W, H. COLLINS & CO.,



nnilE Cost of Living is considerably JL minimised by making your purchases as advantageously as possible. Drapery, Clothing, and Boots are big items in the year's total, and therefore deserve a fair share of attention. For " all-round sterling value" in Reliable Goods try H. (J. Barrett's Drapery, Clothing, and Boot Warehouse, "Tho Hall," East Street. Note—Discount at the rate of one shilling in the Pound off all Cash purchases.



EOE SALE—FowI Netting, 36 x 2, at 2d per yard for 50 yards, and lid for 100 yaud lots.—Hardley Bkos. 10 101



FOR Christmas Season.—Just Landed.— New Currants sd, New Peel Bd, New Sultanas 7d per lb. New Almouds and Muscatels, Chocolates and Confectionery ; aleo a shipment of Choice Japanese Goods, at Carson & Co.'s, Tailored Street, t



iTo Subscribers and Advertisers. i Christmas and New Year Holidays mHB ASHBURTON "GUARDIAN" Avill not be pnblished on December 25th, 26th, and January Ist next. ROBERT BELL, Proprietor.