DEATH.

At Longbeach, on December 16th, Joseph, the beloved husband of Mary Susannah Werren, and fourth son of the late John Werren, Boyton, Corn wall, England. Aged 36 years. '" Rest at last."

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 1902. LOCAL AND GENERAL.

Weather Forecast. — Captain Edwin wires:—Gale after ten hours fiom now, from between north and west and south west, with glass falling; probably rain. Property Salf.—Mr Henry Stephenson reports the sale of a house and section in Peter Street to Mr J. Aslett. Ashburton High School. —The annual presentation of prizes will take place at the Ashburton High School to-morrow, at 3 p.m. A Good Passage.—The Moeraki made the run from Wellington to Sydney in 3 days IOJ hours. Her best day's run was 381 knots. Ashburton County Brass Band.—The Secretary of the above Band, Mr Horace A. Gates, has received notice to-day that the Band has been duly legistered under the I " Unclassified Societies Act." I. Personal.—Mr Robert Kennedy, who has been assistant to Mr Tayler, clerk of the Court, for about 12 months, has passed his final solicitor's examination. Mr Ken nedy has made many friends since he has been in Ashburton, and we heartily con gratulate him on his success.

Packet Licenses.—At a meeting of the Wanganui Licensing Committee yesterday, the rehearing of an application for packet licenses for river steamers took place. The committee decided not to grant licenses within the proclaimed area. Musical Union.—The fourteenth sub scription concert of the Ashburton Musical Union will be given in the Oddfellows' Hall to-night, when Mendelsohn's" Hymn of Praise " will be rendered, also a number of vocal and instrumental items. Feed Plentiful.—Owing to the late J rains feed is very plentiful all over (he county. Iv the Winchmore and Lauriston districts the feed in some padd <6k s is so high that the sheep are almost hid from view. Farmers are unanimously of opinion that a spell of seasonable weather is now badly needed to bring the crop 3on to maturity. Ashburton Borough School.—The an nual distribution of prizes at the Ashburton Borough School will take place on Thursday, the 18th insfc., at the following hours : — Allenton, 11 a.m. infant school, Ashburton, 1.30 p.m., main school, Ashburton, 2 p.m. Parents and friends are cordially invited to attend.

The Weather.—The remarkable atmos pheric conditions existing just now were further illustrated this morning, when a pretty sharp hailstorm fell about 9 o'clock. Rain has also fallen intermittently during the day in town, and the hills are still heavily coated with snow, —The heavy rain which fell on Monday night made the roads in the Lauriston district very heavy for traffic. In some places water was lying to a depth' of nearly a foot. The paddocks were deluged, but owing to the porous nature of the soil, the water soon disap peared. Telephone i'o Westerfield. — Mr F. Mainwaring, clerk of the County Council, has just received from Mr Gamiaway, of the Telegraph Department, a reply to an enquiry recoutly forwarded re telephonic communication with Westerfield, to the effect that he hopes to be able to open to Westerfield on Saturday or Monday next. Wesleyan Bazaar. —Our readers are reminded that the bazaar in the Baring square Church grounds will continue this evening, when there will be fre&h attrac tions, fresh competitions, and a fresh pro gramme for the concert, which, in itself, is worth more than the money charged for admission. There was a large attendance last night, and no doubt the bazaar will be weH°attended again to night.

Treatment of Consumptive.—Owing to tho complaints from Kurow the Health Department have decided to insist that no consumptive patients are to bo sent there without, due notification to the local health officer. In connection with the proposed establishment, of a sanatorium in the South Island for the treatment of consumptives, it is understood that a private residence and grounds in the neighbourhood of Du nedin has been placed under offer, and is likely to be accepted. Obituary. —We regret to have to record the death of Mr Jcseph Werpen, dairyman on the Longbeach Estate, who had been ailing for about twelve months and died on Tuesday. He was born in 1866, and was consequently only 36 years of age when he died. He was the fourth son of the late Mr John Werren, of Cornwall, England. Deceased was much esteemed in the district, and the Longbeach bachelors ball has been postponed in consequence of his death. The funeral will take place to-morrow at Watorton at 2 p.m.

Fire Brigade Picnic—The Firo Brigade i held their annual picnic at Lagmhor yes terday. The morning did not augur well for such an undertaking, but by starting time the sun shpae brightly. The party journeyed to the Lagmhor station in two i drags supplied by Mr Newman, and also in other conveyances, which were well filled. The party reached the paddock opposite the woolshed about 11 o'clock, and in a short time the large marquee was pitched and everything ready to go on with the sports. Captain Barber acted as starter, and ex fireman Compton as handicapper, which was no easy matter, as there are some very fleet men in the Brigade. However, every one seemed out for a holiday, and when any dark crack camp he.m© a winner, no one seemed to envy tiitn his win. Some real good racing was done by tho young ladies, and everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves. The party reached home at seven p.m. Breach of the Health Act.—At the "Wellington IWagristrate's Court yesterday Michael Sullivan, dairyman, carrying on , business in the city, was fined 40s_, with 28s ' costs, for a breach of the Public Health Act. It transpired that the defendant's daughter was'found in November iron* scarlet fever on the premises used as a dairy. Warning? ware given that the milk should not be sold fr^tn the house while the period of infection lasted. Later on the patient was found working about the premise* while the skin was peeling from the body. Further investigation showed that a neighbouring family, amongst whom the fever had developed, had been supplied with milk from this dairy. Another case ija a second family was also suspected to have the same origin.

News in Brief.

The Elingamite enquiry has been further adjourned til! Friday. , The official re-count of the Mataura licensing poll declares no-license to be carried by 43 4-slh votes. Owing to the death of one of the em- j ployees, the Longbeach bachelors' bull has ' been postponed till further notice. Messrs Friedlander Bros., Ltd, will hold a clearing sale of euiplus implements at their West Street Auction Mart on Satur day. Particulars are advertised, Messr3 Shearman Bros, announce that they have a fine assortment of cutlery, plated ware and Chinaware, suitable for presents for the Christmas season. They have in stock Sandow's developers and j dumb bells, suitable for all.

The S.C. Amateur Meeting.—The meet ing of the S.C. Amateur Athletic Club, held at Tim'aru yesterday, was a very successful affair. The representative from Ashburton, Mr W. Anderson, succeeded in annexing the chief trophy for the 440 yds handicap. Starting from the 14yds mark, he won by tw# yards, in 53 4-sth sees. He was beaten in the semi-final of the 100yd3 handicap by Keating, who won the final in 10.3-sth sees.

Social to Mr Mclachlan. —The social tendered to Mr John McLachlan, M.H.R., by his friends and supporters, took place in the Oddfellows' Hall last night, and was a great success. Over three hundred parsons were present, including representatives from all parts cf the district. The hall was very prettily decorated with flags and evergreens, and presented a gay appear ance. Dancing was indulged in with mivh spirit to excellent music supplied by Miss Richardson (piano), and Mr E. Cullen (violin.) Messrs Shepherd and Childs made efficient Ms.C. During the evening Mr McLachlan took occasion to thank his Committee for the manner in which they had worked to secura his return at the head of the poll at the late election, and also for tho honor they had done him in promoting the social that evening. Mr McLachlan said he would endeavour to do his duty to his constituents, irrespective of class. Speaking of the ladies, he said he had been asked to try and disfranchise them, but he would rather that his right hand wns cut off. The Government must not go back on past legislation, but keep in the van of progress. Mr Joseph Ivess, by invitation, took occasion to congratulate Mr McLsichlan on his magnificent victory, and said that the ladies should be allowed to take a seat iv Parliament with the men. An apology was made for the absence of Sir William Steward, who had been de tained in the south. Mrs and Miss Simp son rendered songs, and Mr Henderson danced a sword dance, all of which were acceptable items. The catering, which was in the hands of Mr H. P. Madden, left nothing to be desired. The gathering dispersed at 2 o'olock with the singing of I' Auld Lang Syne," and three cheers for Mr McLachlan.

Mount Hutt Road Board.

The first meeting of the new Mount Hutt Road Board was held on Monday, December Bth. Present—Messrs W Morgan, F. J. Millton, D. W. McLean, and W. Power. Mr Morgan was elected Chairman. It was decided that the Board would not increase the amount offered for clearing cutting to Messrs Steele and Watt's land, and the Clerk was instructed to have the track cleared. It was decided to arrange, if possible, for a trial of Duncan's road making machine. A circular was received from the Lands Depattinent, forwarding list of districts, and copy of Birds' Nuisance Act. —The division of districts was considered satis factory. The Ashburton County Council forwarded copy of " Gazette " notice re new boundaries of the district. Mr E. A. Look wrote, complaining that his sheep had been unnecessarily im pounded.—After hearing the Banger's and Clerk's statement, it was considered that Mr Lock had no grounds for complaint. The transfer of contract from J. Blair to J. Good was sanctioned. ' C. Brimmicombe was granted an in creased sum for ins contract for grubbing gorse. Mr Rutherford was ■ granted the use of gravel reserve at Highbank. The Clerk was authorised to deal with the cocksfoot on the roads; also to make arrangements for fencing road in the rail* svay yrad. Accounts amounting to .£169 9s 8d were passed for payment.

Correspondence.

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

"A NOTE OF WARNING."

TO THE EjDITOR, Sir,—T have read your leading article, and other items bearing on the licensing question, in Monday's paper, and venture to hazard the opinion that if those who belong to the " moderate party " will seriously note the effects of intemperance, and read thp best temperance literature, a big majority of them will como over to the "No-license party." Although the traffic in strong drink has been in existence for centuries, that is no reason why it should be per petuated for ever. If it is wrong, wasteful, and dangerous to the national well-being, enlightened public opinion '.will eventually declare that it must be suppressed. Hither to it has had the support of custom, appe tite, avarice, and natural depravity. But the a^gresnve Christianity of modern times has declared war against these forces, and will push the contest on to victory. I oppose the traffic mainly on religious gpoundg, be cause of the moral ruin that it everywhere produces. But I am also convinced that drink ing habits are the cause of enormous waste of money, property and life, and of unspeakable misery in tens of thousands of homes. I oppose it for religious* patriotic, philan thropic and economic reasons, believing that on all these grounds it can be successfully assailed. The writer of your article says: — "It is a terrible reflection upon the county of Ashburton that the great majority of electors think the only way to keep the in habitants sober is to place temptation' out of their reach.*' The vote was not cast as an intentional reflection upon the sobriety of the electorate, but it should not be for gotten that every week on an average two persons are. convicted in the lqoal Court for drunkenness, and every fortnight one per son is prohibited. I venture to say that most of our citizens could give you a very formidable list of townsfolk who every week drink to excess. Since election day I have come across a good many sad cases, none of ■which have ever been in Court. Doubtless a hundred different motives swayed the voters, but probably the chief were, com passion for those who suffer, and well grounded fear lest young people be! seduced into drinking habits. With re gard to compensation in Victoria referred to in your local, I may say that the owners qf houses remaining after reduction is earned (•ompensate those who lose their share in the monopoly. $ut there is nq State compensation. la 1890 the Salisbury Ministry in England proposed compensa tion, and resolved to set aside a fund from tho liquor revenue and apply it to buy out licenses here and there over the country Mr Gladstone and others characterised the Bill as one for the " endowment" of drink trafSckers, and in the end it was w thdrawn absolutely. Morpover. the Appeal Court and the House'of Lords botfe rejected the proposal in the famous case of Sharp y. Walrefteld. Tho American Supreme Court also unanimously repudiates the claim. Your quotation from the Presbyterian " Outlook " is misleading inasmuch as it is ! incomplete. Prohibition is a partial remedy; to make men Christian is the final and effective remedy. lam convinced that if Moderates" and "Prohibitionists" of all degrees can work harmoniously together for the moral and social welfare of the com munity, All gopd citizens daily restrict their personal liberties for the cake of others. This form of self restraint is con sisteut with the truest freedom.—l am, etc.,

Ge0..8. Inglis (The ' intention" of the no-license vote does not remove the slur cast on the district. We have no doubt that the Prohibition ists and Moderates could work harmoni ously together if the latter will accept the platform of the former as laid down by Mr Tnglis, that "all good citizens should restrict their personal liberty fcr the sake of others." With regard to our quotatipn from the " Outlook/ that was a distinct expression of opinion by the journal in question, and could not there fore be misleading,—Ep,)

Ashburton County Combined Schools Athletic Sports Meeting.

The third annual gathering of tho Ash burton County School Sports Association took place in the Domain yesterday. The attendance was not so good as it should have been, owing probably to the number of other attractions, and to the unpromising weather in the early morning, which certainly kept away a good many country people. The youngsters however, showed up in force, and, it i 3 safe to say that all who were present thoroughly enjoyed them selves. The educative and healthful value of these gatherings has been more than once pointed out in this paper, and it must have been quite a revelation to many to see the proficiency in physical drill, which can be reached by some of the pupils attending our public schools. It ia to be regretted that only the Borough School was repre sented in tho items of this class on the pro gramme, but it is not too much to say that they were by far the most attractive of a very interesting list of events. The three squads were one of boys, and two of girls, sixteen in each. The boys had been trained by Mr E. Purchase, the secoud master, and were equipped with cadet rifles, and their drill and marching were very correctly done. The senior girls had been trained by the hr ad mistress, Mrs Willis, and their exhi bition with the dumb bells was admirable, the time being perfect, and the effect very striking. The junior girls had been trained by the other mistresses, Misses Curd and Tresize, and the little girls, who were very tastefully dressed, went through their exercises in a manner that reflected the greatest crodit on the skill of their teachers, and their own industry, attention, and intelligence. All these items were applauded throughout, and each squad was lustily cheered as it left the Oval, where the dis play took place. : The athletic items were of the usual character, the hero of the meeting being undoubtedly, S. Kingston, who won all the pedestrian events in which he competed. He is a very pro mising youngster, but should not be tempted to do too much until he is set. R. Coward also showed that he is cut out for athletics, and was nearly as successful as was his brother last year. Honeywell, of Lismore, also ran well, showing great deter mination, but he was not able to down his bigger opponent, J. Sinclair, (High School), although he made several determined at tempts to do so. The country boys who competed were rather on the small side, except 0. Digby, who shaped well in the bicycle race, but little N, Fitzgerald who is only 12' years old, (Catholic School) sur prised everybody by winning his heat and final of this from the 48ydB mark with plenty to spax%e. The jumping was good, King ston's high jump of 4ft 4in being excellent. The late bad weather reduced the decorated bicycles to three, but they were prettily got up. Perhaps the most amusing item was the menagerie rac;, in which the competi tors all selected dogs to drive over the course set. Three went away in style, leaving the smallest of the drivers (Owen Silcock) behind, Two of the dogs stopped to fight, and the third turned back to see what the row was about; but Owen's little doggy trotted serenely on, and passed the post an easy winner, amidst the shouts of delight of his admirers and the spectators. The officials were here, there, and every where. Mr D. Wood (starter), Messrs Snod grass, Lynskey and Brock (judges), Messr3 J. V. De Beer, R. Curtis, C. D. Hardie, I. Baigent, E. Purchase, John Wilson, H. Thompson, Cullen, MeSherry, and Colee in other capacities all contributed to get the events off, and the meeting was carried out in the most expeditious and satisfactory manner, and the promptness -with which the items on the programme followed each other was worthy of commendation, and imitation. Mesdames Collins, D. Thomas, and R. Coward judged the decorated bicy cles, which oould not have been an easy task, and Mr D. Thomas, to whose energy and perseverance these valuable and inter esting meetings are largely due, rendered yeoman's service during the day* Lastly, the Hon Secretary, Mr C. Campbell, and the Hon. Treasurer, Otr'tvr. firuct, are to bo Congratulated upon the admirable manner in which they looked after everything. Refreshments were well catered for by Mrs Beech, in the pavilion. Owing to the great number of events on the programme, and the. pleasure on our space to : day, we are oompelled to hold over till to-morrov? a detailed statement of the various events, which were all got off by about five o'clock.

Ashburton Lawn Tennis Club.

A match between the Avonside and Ash burton Lawn Tennis Clubs was played on t&e Domain Courts yesterday under most favorable circumstances. There was a large attendance of spectators during the aftern.oqn, so that Mrs Moritg Friodlander and Miss Shury, who very kindly presented tea for both the tennis and croquet players, were kept ve^y busy all the afternoon. These ladies were ably assisted by Miss Gresson and Miss Newman in looking after both visitors and players. The visiting teams were entertained at dinner at the Commercial Hotel, and afterwards left by the 8 o'clock train for home. Before leav ing they expressed their pleasure, for a. most enjoyable day's outing. The match resul ted in Sf win far Ashburton, the scores being Ashburton 190, Avonside 167. Following are the results of the various games :— Ashburton v. Avonside, . men's sinqleej, 6.Sahnona .„ 9„ C. Webb ... 3 p. Cox ... 0„ L. Longuet .. 3 H. Fooks ... 7 „ F. Cowper ... 9 D. Friedlander 7„ H. Perm... ... 9 E. Shearman .. 6 „ S. Taylor ... 9 Key. Whitehouse 3 „ A. Whitehead ... 9 F. Seldon ... 5„ F. Bank 3 . 9 G. Friedlander 9„ W. [Jeswick ... 8 men's doubles. L. Longuet and Salmond and Cox 9 „ Cowper ... 1 Fooks and Rev," S, Longuet and Whitehousa S „ Taylor ... 9 D. Friedlander and C. Webb and Shearuian 9 „ Whitehead ... 7 Seldon and G-. Beswick and j Friedlander 9,, Banks .. 8 LADIES' SINGLES. Miss A. Obe ... 3 „ Miss Clarkson ... § Miss Whitehouse 6 „ Miss Crawford ... 2 Miss W. Purnell G „ Miss Whitehead 4 Miss Alcorn ... 6 „ Miss Beresford ... 4 Mrs Tennant ... 5 „ Miss Curiett ... 6 Mrs Moritz Fried lander ... 6,, Miss Webb ... 4 LAPIES* DOUBLES. J Misses Whitehouse Misses Clarkson anclOrr ... 8,, and Crawford 9 Mrs Tennant and Missea Whitehead Miss Purnell 9  and Beresford 7 Mrs Friedlander and Misses Curlett and Miss Alcorn 9 „ E. Webb ... 4 COMBINED DOUBLES. Miss Orr and Sal- Miss Clarkson and mond ... 9 „ L. Louguet ... 4 Miss Whitehouse Miss Crawford and and Cox ... 9,, S. Louguet ... 3 Miss Purnell and Miss Curlett and Fooks ... 9 „ Webb "... 4 Miss Alporn and Miss Whjtehead D. Friedlander 6 „ and Taylor ... 9 Mrs Tennant and Miss Beresford Shparman... 8 „ and Perm ... 9 Miss Friedlander Miss E. Webb and and Seldon 9 „ Whitehead .. 8 Totals ... 19{j ... 167

A tennis match was played at Christ church yesterday on the Avonside courts, between tho Baring Square (Ashburton) and East Belt Clubs, the home team proving victorious after some very interesting play. The visitors were treated with great hos pitality by members of the East Belt Club, at the residence of Dr Orchard, returning home by the evening train, after having had a most enjoyable outing. It is pro bable this event will be an annual one. The Bast Belt Club in all probability will play a return match at Ashburton during Easter.

Lauriston and Lyndhurst Sports Meeting.

I The gentlemen who were responsible for the inauguration of a sports meeting at Lauriston are deserving of much congratu lation on the success which has attended their efforts. The gathering yesterday was the first of its kind yet held in the Lauris ton distriot and was attended by fully 500 people. Drags went out from Ashburton carrying full complements of passengers, the assemblage being further strengthened by contingents ot visitors from Methven, Highbank, and Rakaia. The success of the, meeting was due to the united efforts of the Dent Bros., and Messrs Denis and Daniel McKendry, McCafTerty, O'Grady, Murdoch, Law, and the secretary, Mr A. Drummond. A number of bookmakers were present doing business on tho various events nnd appeared to be not wanting in customers. The racing was more than particularly interesting, especially the trotting evonts, in which some good horses competed, including Hamiin. Among the flat racers was the evergreen All Saints, who had no difficulty in annexing the Cup, after a brief struggle with Rye. The Farmers' Plate was secured by a represen tative of Thackeray ia Wild Man from Borneo, who belied his name, for, unlike his sire, he is a very docile horse, and a, game one a3 well. An unfortunate inci dent occurred in this race whereby that popular sportsman, Mr Sam, Brown, lost the race. His nomination, a slippery look : ing mare by Gorton from Fairy Queen, after getting away badly, scored easily from Wild Man from Borneo. The rider of the winner steered too short a course for the jockey on Borneo's liking, who lodged a protest for running outside the flags, which was upheld by the committee and the race awarded to the second horse. In the last race the rider of Woodbank got a break of several lengths on the field, and making every post a winning one, got home first by a good margin. Some diversity of opinion existed as to whether the start was a genuine one, which was set at re^t by a verdict being given in tho affirmative. The handicapper, Mr E. W. Osborne, did^his duty very well, considering how difficult" a matter it is to bring horses together of the sort that generally compete on country courses. Mr C. Morrison, the starter, per formed his responsible duty very creditably all through. The position of judge was ably filled by Mr Denis McKendry. Mr S. Casey had charge of the scales, and Mr A. Dent essayed the task of keeping the course clear, both these gentlemen doing justice to their respective positions. In the athletic events Messrs D. McKendry, W. Pearce, and A. Dent acted as judges with occasional assistance from others. The secretary, Mr A. Drummond, had his hands full, but was quite equal to the occasion. Mr W. Buchan had a refresh ment booth on the'ground. The meeting was held iv a paddock opposite tho Lauris ton railway station, kindly lent for the occasion by Mr A. Stewart. The sum of J>l9 2s 6d was taken at the gate during the day. Following are details : — HORSE RACES.

Maiden Hanpicab, of 5 soys ; second 1 soy. . from the stake, H mile, Mr J. McDonnell's b m Monkey Brand, 7socs bhd .. .. (R. McDonnell) 1 Mr S. Lemon's b m Brizzle, 2secs bhd (Owner) 2 Mr W. Candy's b g Barbwire, 2secs bhd ... (Owner) 3 Doublewood scp (A. Stewart), Kamil scr (Owner), Maggie C 2secs bhd (F. McTeague) Longfellow 2secs bhd (Owner), Safety Pin 2secs bhd (Owner), Mac 2secs (Owner), and Jessie B lOsecs (Owner), also started. At the half-mile Doublowood led, closely fol lowed by Brizzle and Barbwire. Biizzle got into the lead at a mile, but threo fur longs from home, Monkey Brand got on terms with the leader, and going on, won with a bit to spare, Brizzle three lengths in advance of Barbwire. Tim.e—4.s3 4-sth sec. Betting—2 to 1 against the winner. Farmers' P&ate, of 7 soys; second 1 soy. fiom the stake. One mile. Ms D. J. McCormick's b g Wild Man from Bornoo, 6yrs. by Thackeray — Spreydon Lass, 11.0 (H. Ireland) 1 Mr E. Law's eh g Galwaj Jack, 4yrs, 9st 7ib ... .. - (McConnell 2 Mr S. Brown's eh m Fairy liose, 4yrs, i 9st;7lb ' ... ... (Sussey) disq : Cannonshot 12.3 (Fox), Fiction 10.3 (H. Tillett), Victoria Cross 9.7 (Crowley)j and Swartzrenicha 9st (Burgess) also started. Fairy Rose got away badly, the leading pair being Victoria Cross and Wild Man from, Borneo. At the half-mile post, Fairy Eoae had caught the field, and shartty after- dis possessed Borneo of the. lead. From this out, the race was a. mere procession Fairy Rose winning by four lengths. Time—l.s6 l-sth sec. A protest was lodged by Ireland against Sussey, the rider of Fairy Rose, on the ground of running ins,ide, a posb. The Committee disqualified Fairy Bose and awarded the stakes to Wild Man from" Borneo. Betting—2 to 1 Fairy Rose, 4 to 1 Borneo.

Handicap Trot, of 7 soys; second 1 soy from the stake. Two miles. Mr W. Cromie's b g Impudence, 24secs bhd scr (Owner) I Mr J. G. MoConochie's eh g Sydney, ' 37secs bhd scr (R. McOonoohie) 2 Mr H. Gordon's h g Simple Harry, 12secs bhd aor ... ... 3 Barbwire scr, and Jessie B 6secs bhd also started. The limit horse lead for the first mile, when Impudence joined issue. Sydney came well from behind, and caught Simple Harry and Barbwire $hree-quarfcers of a mile $rom home. Impudence, however, had too much of a lead at this point, which he kept to the end, winning by forty yards, Sydney about four lengths in advance of Simple Harry. Time—s.46. Betting—2 to 1 against the winner. Latjriston Cup, of 7 soys; second 1 soy from the stake. j Mr J. Nee's eh g All Saints, by Gorton aged, i 1.3 (Pox) 1 Mr E. Curdy's b g Eye, syrs 11,12 (Mr F, P, Clavidge) 2 Mr G. Carten'a b g Woodbank, 4yrs (McConnell) 3 Wild Man from Borneo 10,12, and Gal way Jack 9.7 also started. From a good start All Saints was taken to. the front, Woodbank lying second and Borneo whip ping in. At the half-mile post Eye com meuced to move up, and nearing the dis tance was on terms, but onoe heads were turned for home, All Saints drew away again, IV^r Nee's horse eventually winning by a couple of lengths, Woodbank a length and a half away. Time—l.sl3. Betting—; Evens Rye, 2 to 1 All Saints.

Ltndhubst Handicap Trot, of 7 soys j second 1 soy. from the stake. One mile. Mr R. McDonnell's b c Hamlin, 3yrSj by Prince Imperial--Mjn,n.i&, lQseo, bhd (Owner) 1 Mr T. Hickman's b m Jessie B, 4yrs, 2secs behind ... .... (Owner) 2 Mr A. Ironside's b g Mac, aged, scr (Owner) 3 Maggie C. scr, (Owner), and Bertie C, scr, (W. Price), also started. Jessie B. held the lead for about half the distance whore Hamlin caught her, passing the other.3 in rapid succession, and winning wish the greatest ease by five lengths. Time-r^ 2.514-sths. Betting—4 to lan Hamlin, Consolation Flat Handicap, of 5 soys., 6 furlongs, Woodbank ... ... (E. Griffen) 1 Galway Jack ... . ... 2 Rye' .„ ... ... 8 Woodbank won all the way, Galway Jack beating Eye by two lengths for seoond place. Time —1.21. Betting—7 to 1 against Woodbank.

ATHLETIC EVENTS, 100 Yards Handicap, first prize .£1; sacond ins.—J. Davison, scr, 1; G. Hill, 11yds, 2; F. Eands, 7yds, 3. J. MoTigue 3yds, W. Campbell syds, T. Nolan 6yds, P. Fahey and J. Healy 7yds, W. Baker and T. Hughes Byds, H Ledgerwood, T. Lemon 9yds, and P. Cronin 12yds also ran. Davi son caught the field about twenty yards from home, winning comfortably by about n yard. Time—lo l-sth sees. 220 Yards Handicap, first prize .£1; second 10s.—J. Davison, scr, 1 ;G. Hill, 14yds, 2; S. Lemon, 20yds, 3. J. McTigue 7yds, W. Fitzgerald 10yds, W. Campbell and J. Healy 13yds, J. Major 15yds, F. Rands 13yds, P« Fahey 17yds, and W. Lemon 20yds also .

ftarted. Won by two yards. Time—l 23 l-sth sees. 440 Tards Handicap, first prize £1; second 10s.—J. Stephens, 25yds, 1; W. Fitzgerald, 18yds, 2- J. Major, 17yds, 3. F. King 15yds, J. Coffey ?oyds, F. Ledgerwood and S. Lemon 25yds, W. Baker 27yds, and P. Cronin 30yds also ran. Won by five yards, two yards separating second and third. Time-—s4£ sees. Single Women's Race, first prize trophy —Miss Lemon 1. Ten others competed. High Jump, first prize 15s j second ss.— L. Dalton, sft 6in, 1; J. McTigue, sffc4in,2j M. McAnulty 3. G. Hill also oompetedL Married Women's Race, first prize trophy —Mrs Murray 1, Mrs Maidens 2. Running Long Jump Handicap, first prize 15s ; second ss.—J. E. MoTigue, 21ft 2in, 1 ; W. Fitzgerald, 19ft (2fthandicap) 2. M. McAnulty also competed. A ball was held in tlie evening in Mr A* Drummond's shed, which was well attended and passed off successfully. The music was supplied by Terris's band and Mr W. Pearce made an efficient M.C.

Methven Sports.

The following are the entries for thft sports, to be held on January Ist, 1903 :— Maiden Flat.—Brass, Firebrand, Kopu» Chainguard, 801 l Rock, Merrymaker, Vic toria Cross, Fiction, Swatzenricba, Galway Jack, Woodbank, Marksman. MethvenJCup.—Ngaheri, Birthday, Miss O'Connall, Merrymaker, Firebrand, Eopu, Wild Man from Borneo, Gold Bangle/ All Saints, Beira, Marksman, Gal way Jack, Cannonshot, Rye. Ladies Purse.—Ngaheri, All Siints* Tenderfoot, Beira, Fiction, Gal way Jack) Swatzenricha, Jess, Cannonshot. Maiden Trot. - Wildman, Jaok Nimble* Coral, Black Boy, Phem, Brown Prince* Juno, Maggie, Little Spec, Mispah. , ; < Open Tkot.—Ambition, Miss Blanch, Jack Nimble, Pierre, Lignite, Carodin, iEstella, Impudence, Mizpah. ~

Bright Hours' Children.

Our readers will regret to learn that the Bright Hours' Children can, after all, give only one of their delightful entertainments in Ashburton. The calls upon their services have been so numerous and pressing that Mrs Saunders has asked the" Beautifying Association to forgo one of the dates, and the Committee of the Association has felt that under the circumstances it can only accede to the request. It has been arrang ed, however, that the programme for the one night—Saturday next—Bhall be a tru ly " monster " one, containing all the new items that were being reserved for the sec ond night as well as many of the old fav ourites. The children were at Sonthbridge on Saturday evening and received a great ovation from the largest audience ever seen in the place. On Thursday they appear at the Theatre Royal in Christchureh, and on Saturday take their farewell of the public It is hoped, however that it may be arrang ed for them to give a special programme on Monday .afternoon for the entertainment of school children, who will find it a very pleasant beginning to their holidays.

A Mad Music Pupil.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. Melbourne* Deb. 16 While Mrs Gould was giving a music lesson to a youth named Osmond, the latter went mad and proceeded to wreck the furniture with a hatchet, ultimately setting fire to the debris. Passers-by extinguished the flames. Osmond was arrested.

Mr Seddon's Offer

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. JSydnet, Deo. 15 Sir W. J. Lyise speaking at Gundagai, said Mr Seddon's action over the fodder was such as he expected from a large hearted capable administrator of his cali bre. Mr Seddon was a most astute poli tician. Although the offer to grant free carriage to the fodder within New Zealand would result in a loss to the railway reve nue, whilst it would briDg benefit to us, Sir W. J, Lyne said he thought Mr Seddoa could foresee that such a move would beat off foreign competition from our markets by placing New Zealand products in greater favour. Sir W. J. Lyne concluded these remarks by professing the greatest admiration foe Mr Seddon. -. : • i

The Baring Square Church Bazaar.

Between two and three o'clock yesterday afternoon His Worship the Mayor formally opened the Wesleyan bazaar. There ira a very nice display of goods, both Tiseful and ornamental, together with a big variety of attractions in the shape of side-showe. The married ladies' stall was presided over by Mesdames Fee, Thomas, Jones, Hol brook and Hayman. The young peoples' } stall by Mrs F. Steel (superintendent) with .the Misses Rowbotham, and E. Bonnington, Miss Burr and a number of her Junior En deavour girls looked after the Christmas tree which they had prepared. The straw berries and cream stall and flower stall were presided over by the Misses B. Alcorn, Beare, Collins, Moodie, and R. Williams. The refreshment stall was attended to by Mesdames C. Baker, Burr, Timmins, with. Misses Baker and Rattray, The side-shows dips, etc., were looked after by the Misses M. Andrews, Church, Johns, Holbrook, Box ton, Heseltine, with Messrs Geo. Carson, R, Collins, F. Buxton, C. Alcorn, F. Rands, etc., etc. The lolly stall was presided ore* by the Misses Fee, Rattray, and Harris. The concert, which was given at inter vals, was a very good one and seemed to give general satisfaction, while, a number of excellent phonograph seleotions given by Mr Humphries were very muoh appreciated. TheAshhurton Band kindly gave their services for some time in front of the grounds, thus rendering very efficient help. The bazaar as a whole was well patronised, and the ladies report good business. It will be continued this afternoon and even ing, when there will be fresh attractions and a complete ohange.'of programme. Admis sion will be free in the afternoon, and after 7 p.m.. §d,

San Francisco Mail.

United Pres3 Association."—By Eleotrio Telegraph Auckland, Dec 16 The Ventura arrived from San Fradcisco at 1.50 a.m. The Aotual time taken in the trip across was 17 days 7 hours 55 minutes, steaming 16 days 7 hours 43 minutes in fine weather. Wellington Deo. 16 The San Francisco mail is expected here to-morrow evening. The Rotomahana will bo delayed t6 take on the southern por tions. '.

German Affairs.

United Press Association—Hy Electric Telegraph—Copyright. Berlin, DecJlß Count yon Bulow declined the offer of the title of prince. Professor Mommsen, the eminent Ger man jurist, has issued a manifesto declar ing that the overthrow of the Constitution is progressing, and that the nation is on the eve of a coup d'etat, whereby the Kaiser and the Reichstag will be subjected to the absolutism of an alliance between the Junkers and the priests.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 1902.



F. FEBRIMAK. I ■ I F. FERRIMAN,: HAS^for Sale a Leasehold Grazing Property of about 1000 Acres. A good Sheep Farm, FOR SAIE, f^K ACRES, -well -watered land, within a mile of Mr John Cochrane'B^ Wakanui property. F. FERRIIIAN. FOR SALE. : SEAFIELB. •. : tr*f\f\ ACRES of Land, in capital con €>OO ditto. The greater part o£ the purchase moi©y can remain at 4i per cent, per annum E. FERRIMAN. * * BUSINESS NOTICES, H GRESHAM, SUEGEON AND MECHANICAL DENTIST. By Examination, October, 1897 }7- IGHT year 3 experience with E. <J. and 'i F. W. Gresham, Dentists, Dimedin , and Invercargill. i Has commenced practice in rooms upstairs from the entrance to Thomas' Auction Rooms, Burnett Street. Stoppings in Gold, Amalgam, and Cement. Gold and Porcelain crowns made ; also sets of teeth with Vulcanite and Porcelain gums. Gas administered. All w.gj£ guaranteed. Hotjbs of Attendance —9 a.m.—s p.m. Private Residence—Care Hes Grant, Willd Street. Helpless with n Rheumatism ■ Yovl't* tried liniments and prescriptions without result. Now ... CURE YOURSELF with THE GREAT ... CANADIAN . . . SEAWEED CURE. A medicine and Not a liniment. A Quick and Permanent Cure. SOLS BY ALL DEALERS At 3/6 p*b Bottle. Sole Agent for Australasia: r GEO. W. WILTON, Wellington. KERB BROS. WISH to remind their Customers and the Public that they have removed fe o their Shop opposite Mail Office and three doors above their old place. KERR BROS, Burnett Street. Oh, Yes ! Oi, Yes ! nVTOW is the time for Brass and Enam- I JM elled PRESERVING PANS. I SANDOW'S DEVELOPERS and J)uin bells (Sandow will be here on 24th inst.) Good Cycle Covers at 12a 6d, fitted, guaran teed for 6 months. The Cheapest Shop in Ashburton for Ironmongery and Cooking Utensils.—G. MEDDINS, The People's Ironmonger. WANTED KNOWN,—That if other * cannot satisfy you in your purchase? of Drapery, because you're so hard to please, couie along to us, you're just the sort of customer we enjoy serving at Mitchell & Turner's. _ -THIRST-CLASS Columbia Bicycle in real S2 good order, £8 cash. Rudge Whit worth, used only 12 months, £8 10s. Stars £5 and £7, and many others. No reasonable offer refused. Easy terms arranged.—J. Okb & Co. . JUST flj .o'kk'm.ind'you 1 fl ■ That with every 5s fl A I worth bought for ■ fl Cash this month fl WORD I we are Sivin° afl B Christmas Present H -i g^S. OUR 15s line of Covers is going _|_O fast. Guaranteed for six months.. Better have one. They're real hard wear. G. H. Carbon, Eclipse Cycle Works, yancred Street.



' BUSINESS NOTICES. ' j LADIES & GENT'S., . First-class Bicycles for lire. Every Machine €oini>lete & In Perfect Order. IV EW CYCLING REQUISITES.-Our stock of accessories is the JLI largest in the Colony. Just landed new shipment oi Continental Vulcanised Covers, 82s 6d each. —-—New Spring Pump Clips, Candle Lamps, Acetylene Gas Lamps. REPAIR DEPARTMENT.—Our repair plant is capable of turning out the work in a most satisfactory manner. English and American Machines repaired on the spot. Christehurch, Wellington, Napier, Timaru, and Burnett Street, Ashburfcon. 13 170 r i mi mm iiiiiiiii»iiii n mm—w«n—n—mmr~i mrn~T^^ OYEB, I THE THE WOMEN TEA FOLK I TALK I l^fe F tlie Pleasures an<* unpleasant wgmmem»fmmiaM^mmm lKn ammiMn^^»^ featurea of Housekeeping and Dressing, and we venture to say that.a favourite topicjj ust now is The Paradise ol Summer Millinery anil Dresses, now BEING SHOWN by MITCHELL & TIMER, THE DRAPERS. " Britain's Best ; I5fCi 7CLE," JSSSk! BEST IN BRITATN. . -: .; :,,. a : j best in mAoriland. Favors RUDGE-WHITWORTH Ife' 7 ■ I Vi I j Hj^ rail* **) Kjbijuo&u \_y JL \_y JLJ JLJkKJ • •/?) It D N AGENT, BQRN.3 rIT STREET. fBJlr o£2o# Inspect for Yourselves. SANTA CLAUS AND FATHER XMAS COMING AGAIN. - - H. M JONES. - - dLC\ ases °f Toys, Fancy Goods, Books, Stationery, China, Glasg, Plush, A,f\ '^Xs Japanese and Leather Goods Tel/ Suitable for Christmas, Year, Birthday & Wedding Presents ! Imported direct from Leading London Houses.—™- Must be Sold. Lowest possible Prices. Call early & often Christmas Cards in great variety ; Pianos, Organs and Bicycles sold, Easy I payments Cricketing, Croquet and Tennis Material H. M. JONES. NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING . FACTORY. sOrEEIOB i^^^^^LA^M SDPEEtOB I c LOTH»Nc F^CTORY. | N.Z. CLOTHING FACTORY. SHEEP SHEARING SEASON. THAVE JUST LANDED MY SEASON'S SUPPLY OF 3s 6d. SHEEP SHEARS. 3s 6d including T U.S. and 8.8.A., N.Z., with plain and perforated grips Turkey Oil Stones, a splendid sample. Sweet Oil. Branding Oils-Hod, Black, and Blue, in 1 and 5 gallon drums; Raddle, Lamp Black, Etc. LAWN MOWEES in great variety, from 22s 6d to sds each. GARDENING TOOLS of every description at reduced prices. BOWLS! BOWLS! BOWLS! As tbe season has just opened, I cordially invite inspection of my stock-Taylor's first quality only kept. SEW^tG MACHINES. I am sola agent for the celebrated " Davey " Machine ; 7 years' guarantee ; Hand £3 10s • Trea? le from £6 10s to £8 10s. Call and inspect. They are worth looking at. G. MEDDINS, The Peoples Ironmonger, ;Bur».ett ptreet, opposite Arcade.



Those of our readers intending to buy Christmas or New Year present, should give Fletcher Bros, a call, as during. De cember they are giving 2a in the £ discount off all plafcedware, clocks, and cutlery, so that anyone studying economy, should see their stock, and get prices before buying elsewhere -



STANDISH AND PREECE, Photographers under the Eoyal patronage .of the Prince and Princess of Wales. Studio High Street, Christchurch. nnOY Land at Stbange's, Burnett Street?



TTSEFUL Present for young and old can U be found in endles3 variety at Stranqe's Sample Rooms



STKANGE'S Toy and Fancy Bazaar here is causing a sensation. Eggs.—Messrs Fletcher Bros, are buyers of fresh eggs in any quantity at Sd per d^zen, either cash or contra, until further notice,