EPHEMERIS.

SUN.'

Phases of the Moon for July.

Mail Notices.

Mails close for the following places, fas under, subject to the necessary alterations.

SATURDAY, July 12. For Northern Ports and Westport, per Rotomahana, at 6 p.m.

TUESDAY, July 15. SAN FRANCISCO MAIL. For Northern Ports and West Coast, also Samoa, Hawaii, Philippines, Japan, United .States, Canada, etc, also Continent ot Europe and United Kingdom, via San Francisco (due London Aug. 16th), per Rotomahana, at 5.45 p.m. ALTERATION IN THE CLOSING OP MAILS. On and after the Ist July, the express mails for North will close at 6 p.m., and the pillar boxes in East and Burnett streets will be cleared at 5.30 p.m., in consequence of alterations in the Railway time-table.^

Commercial.

London Markets.

United Press Association—By Elestric Telegraph—Copyright. London, July 10 At the wool sales the Otaira clip realised 4_d, the Dunrobin clip lOfd, and the Lowan clip lOgd.

Ashburton Grain Market.

The Ashburton Agency of the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association of Canterbury, Ltd., quotes as follows on July llth, 1902: Wheat — Tuscan ... 3s 9Jd to 3s lOd Pearl 3s 9d to 33 9_d Hunters 3s9dto3s9_d Oats —Duns ... ... 2s 4d „ Danish ... 2s 4d „ Sparrowbills ... 2s 4d „ Canadians ... 2s 6d Barley—Malting, prime 2s 9d to 3s 3d Inferior ... 2s to 2s 3d p ea g__Prussiau Blue ... 5s 6d to 6s „ Partridge ... 4s Chaff Good oatsheaf ... 75s to 80s Grass seed—Farmers' ... Ss to 3s 6d The above are prices current paid to farmers on trucks at Ashburton.

The following is the grain report for the Ashburton County for week ending June llth, 1902:

Wheat.—-The local market jis in a very stagnant state and millers absolutely refuse to make any offers whatever for wheat and have gone completely out of the market for the present, consequently although many holders who wish to sell have reduced their reserve quite 2d per bushel, still no business results. The local mills will shut down shortly for rebuilding and new machinery, so that their stocks are therefore not being kept up. Prices quoted are merely nominal, and no sales have taken place during the week. Tuscan 3s 9d to 3s lOd, Hunter's and Pearl 3s 9d to 3s 9_d on trucks, sacks extra.

Oats.—As with wheat, sale 3 are very difficult to effect and practically no. busi ness has resulted. Sellers' values are Canadians 2s 6d, Sparrowbills 2s 4d, Duns and Danish 2s 3d.

Oatsheaf Chaff.—The large quantity offering has lowered prices quite 5s per ton, and to-day £3 15s is top value for bright heavy chaff.

The Oat Market.

Apparently there is not much hope for further War Office contracts for oats coming to New Zealand. ' The Melbourne " Argus " reports that the altered condition of the South African market for oats has, within the last few days, been illustrated in a 1 rather remarkable manner. The War Office authorities offered •to sell for ship ment to Melbourne or Sydney 8000 tons of oats, half en route from Puget Sound and half from New Zealand. But as the busi ness appeared to be risky, the offer was de clined, and the oats will he landed at the Cape, where they are likely to be " slaugh tered."

Timaru Grain Market.

(From our own correspondent.,)

The chief feature of the week is the firmness which characterises the wheat market, buyers having now fallen in with the idea of sellers as to values. The re sults have so far been very satisfactory, and some good lines have been sold at 4s f.o.b. Growers have for weeks held out for even money, and now that they are getting it, stocks of prime will move off freely. Oats on the other hand are slow of sale, moving off in small lines at late quotations -2s 5d to 2s 6d. Sellers are asking 2s 9d for feed barley, but there are no buyers at that figure. For potatoes 50s per ton is quoted, but there is very little doing.

Christchurch Grain Market.

(From G»r Own Correspondent.)

Cffß-STCifirBGH, July 11

There appears to be a much better feelr ing in the local grain market than for soma time, and though the volume of business is not large, there is more enquiry for wheat and oats. Orders for wheat are coming in from the North Island and Otago mills, and several lines have changed hands on a basis of 3s lld to 4s f.o.b. In most cases, however, holders are very firm in their Aenj&nd for higher prices. Very few oats are offering, and the market is stronger, several enquiries "having been made for parcels of short feed for Ausjsrajlia. Nothing is doing in barley. /Quotations are.—Wheat, prime milling Tuscan 3s -04; Pearl and Hunters, 3s 10d; wfeote fowl feed, 3s 6d; at country stations! Parley—Waiting (nominal* feed, 2s lOd at eosntry stations. OB^3 —Ca^g,dijjiiis- 2s Sd ; short feed, 2s 4.d to 2g gd; 'Duns and Danish, 2s 3d at country stations.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. SATURDAY, JULY 12, 1902.

The annual report $ the Commissioner of Police supplies" information S^hjch is well worth the serious consideration *of eyery man and woman in New Zea= Jand." According ,tp this document, the ,total number pf offences committed in the flotoy'e.¥ce.eds jfcly? Record for many years, by 1551, The greatest increase is in the convictions for drunkenness.' yhjcl- were 8057, being an advance of 758, on the pre vious twelve months. Commenting on this", Commissioner Tunbridge says with regard to chronic drunkards:—" It will be observed jth#fc 40.4 per cent of the males and 75.819 ' _tfjepspk> of the females have been previously convicted, Tho 1287 males and 515 females (22.30 pei- cent qf ,Uw $I} 9} B)> wita four or more previous 'conviction's may seasonably • be classed as chronic d_unka_aS, ©.']&-_ons who require ' saving from the_a.-ives,' ana i I submit it has become a moot question whether the time has not arrived when ! Ahese'perjßs'n^ ought to be treated as suffer liftg-from-?T\dis%sej instead of vainly en -1 deavom-ing to coerce Jth^m into spljrKjty'by the imposition of a monetary P#na]"ty or temporary loss of liberty as at present. Dealing with tha*. 'old drunks' lender th£ i

present system takes up a very considerable' portion of the time of the police, magis trates, and prison officials, and is a very considerable expense to the commumty, with no good result." There can be no doubt that the Com missioner is right with regard to the fal lacy of attempting to deal with confirmed J drunkards by inflicting monetary penalties or merely temporary loss of liberty. They are long past the stage when repressive measures of that character could have any effect. This matter is one deserving the earliest and most careful consideration, by the legislature. Mr Tun bridge refers to the fact that the municipal authorities have not yet availed themselves of the power which has been given to them to regulate private billiard rooms, many of which are kept open till all hours of the night " much to the detriment of respectable young men who are unveigled into them , . for the purposes of gambling." The Commissioner also urges that all second-hand dealers should be licensed, and he maintains that the ready method of disposing of stolen property which some of these dealers supply, " makes juvenile thieves." In this connection it will have been noticed that the Hon. _Mr McGowan has just introduced a Bill to regulate the busi ness of second - hand dealers, which, amongst other things makes it unlawful for any second-hand goods to be purchased before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m., or at any time from any person apparently under sixteen years of age. The Commissioner comments on the offence of Sunday trading, which shows a distinct increase, and points out that in the present state of the law it is very difficult for the police to cope with this evil. He ropeats his opinion persist ently expressed in his reports, that the licensirig laws shonld be amended in the direction of making all persons found on licensed premises during prohibited hours (except lodgers and bona fide travellers), liable to prosecu tion. This is a drastic proposal, but coming from such a quarter it indicates pretty clearly where the difficulty exists which prevents the police from checking Sunday trading. ,

Local and General.

On the first page to-day will be found the conclusion of our special reporter's notes on the Farmers' Union Colonial Con ference held in Wellington; on the fourth page, cable news.

Mount Somers Hotel. —It is reported that Mr Bate, has disposed of the freehold of the Mount Somers hotel, and the price Mentioned is .23000.

Ashburton Poultry Show.—Mr D. D. Hyde, the Government Poultry Expert, has notified his intention of being present at the Ashburton Poulty Show on the 25th and 26th ipst: The entries for the special class for bona fide farmers, for the special prizes presented by J. Studholme, jnr., Esq, are extended to Saturday next, July 19th. The entries for all other classes close to-night.

An "Importing" Government—Mr C. J. Harper, at the meeting of the Hospital Board yesterday morning, attached a new adjective to the already numerous list of names given the present Government,, calling it "The importing Government." He said that they were importing officials of all descriptions, including vets, in spectors, etc., the cost of which came out of the same old store—the ratepayers' pockets.

Palmerston North Enterprise.—A special committee has been appointed by the Palmerston North Borough Council to invite alternate competitive designs for the ei*ection of a Town Hall containing munici pal offices, a public library, and a hall with seating accommotion for 1500, or an Opera House only, to seat the same number. Ap plications for debentures for £6000, allotted for the purpose, arc invited in Wellington, Napier, Wanganui, and Palmerston.

The Keniffs.—-When the Keniffs arrived at Brisbane a number of persons crowded round the van in which they were secluded, and peeped through the bars to try and obtain a. glimbse of the prisoners' faces. The two brothers gazed stolidly on the crowd, and in low tones commented upon their inquisitiveness. The appearance of the Keniffs was that of apparent noncha lance, and James the shorter of the two brothers, grinned at the crowd. Patrick, who was a big gruff-looking man with a stubby beard, and wears a scowl, appeared to be morose. They are both rough-looking men, and each was wearing plain, dirtylook ing clothes, apparently the same as those which they had worn while living in the bush. They were handcuffed to one another, and their legs were fastened to gether by a chain attached to the ankles.

1.0.0. F., M.U.—The first anniversary of the 1.0.0. F., M.U. Mayfield Lodge, will be celebrated by holding a sooial in the Lis more Schoolroom, on Friday, August 15th. The usual fortnightly meeting of the Loyal Ashburton Lodge, No. 6003, was held on Thursday evening last, on account of the hall being engaged for Friday, the usual meeting night; N.G., Bro. Thos. Barber in the chair. A large number of members and visiting brethren were present. Sick pay to members on the sick list and otjaer ac counts were passed for payment. Five candidates were initiated into the Order. The Social Committee reported that they had a surplus in hand from the last Anni versary, and advised that a balance sheet and report would be finished next meeting, After transacting usual routine business, the Lodge was closed in due form.

Tinwald School Coit.iiTTEE,---The usual monthly meeting of the Tinwald School Committee was held on Tuesday last. Pre^ sent—Messrs Clothier (chairman), J, Gudr sell, Hampton, Tremain, Giles, Fergie, and Bonnington. Mr Gudsell brought a state, ment showing that he had got rid of the pastry, &c.,with a balance to the good of 2d, but the flags were on hand, which would do when the Coronation took place. A vote of thanks was passed to Mr Gudsell and also to Mrs Rowntree, for boiling the ham. The Raster's report was read as follows:—'•' The number -of children qn the roll is 124, being a decrease qf two fpr the quarter, The, average attendance for the two weeks before the holidays vras QS.Q. The Caretaker's duties have, beep satisfac torily carried out." A letter was received from Miss Douds resigning her position on the teaching staff, and Miss Bonnington was recommended to the position of Infant Mistress. It was decided to pass a hearty vote of thanks to Miss Douds for the way she had done her duties while she had been at the Tinwald school, and that the Com mittee should not let her go without some recognition of her past services. A letter was received from the Technical Class As sociation, Ashburton, asking' for a small donating to. the funds for the initial expense's, ft was decided to apply to' the parents of the lads wh,q attended these Classes!! Accents pq thp amount of £3 13s. were passed for payment, and the meeting adjourned. The Ou'i' That Ghe_i*s.—What ig more invigorating than a nice cup of Coffee thesp frosty mornings; and you get one if you buy some of Fletcher Bros, fine blend of Java and Mocha, which makes a cup of Coffee fit for the Gods. We grind the Coffee on the premises, thereby ensuring its freshness. We have only one quality and one price, namely, ls 6d per lb, and .here ia nothing better to be had.

A $oon to Cyclists.—The sale of second liarid bicycles and' cycling sundries at E. D. Johnston's City Cycle Works and Budge- Whit worth Agency, Burnett $_' is proc-edihg merrily. Every line is reduced Bcnsiderably,' and is fully 10 per' cent. lower thw *»y 9?^ f h _? m _.A? hbWton: We have no' doubt mv at tiiese prices every article wiil be cleared by the end of July, when the sale positively closes. Tailoring. —The public are respect ully reminded that we do not make strano-e fitting suits, nor charge strange prices! Advance Ashburton, by supporting ioc&l industries. Compare our fit! Compare our tirs-& 'I Observe the quality and " up-tVdate *,' stylo of our gppds, and remember that our motto is'always " sati^ faction."— Craighead' AND B_rbtman:A_, [Advt.] In case of attacks of Colic, Cramp or Sna-ms Evans's WITCH'S OIL will be iri viii'uabte. "Qlt»t%|n»^lp eyezjwlidtre. ' '•'"

Weather Forecast. — Captain Edwin wires ; —Gale from between north and east and south-east j glass fall; indications of rain.

Active Geysers.—A. Press Association telegram from Auckland last night states that there is unusual activity among the geysers at Taupo.

A Volunteers Record.—A Christchurch volunteer who is shortly to receive his long-service medal, calculates that during the past 16 years he has walked close on 5000 miles to attend parades. This is ex clusive of marching competitions and marches to camps.

Military Ball.—Tickets for the" Guards' annual ball, which takes place on 23rd inst, may be obtained from Messrs F. R. Curtis, J. V. Deßeer, H. C. Percy, or any member of the Corps.

Ashburton County Band.—At a meet ing of the Committee of the Ashburton Brass Band held last evening, Mr E. Undriil was elected a momber in place of Mr Fellingham, resigned.' It was resolved to give a sixpenny concert in the Odd fellows' Hall on Wednesday, July 30.

Methven Yards Company.—The annual shareholder's meeting was held on July 7th. The balance sheet and report for the year ending March 31st, 1902, were adopted, and a dividend of 7. per cent on the capital de clared. The retiring directors (Messrs J. Baker and J. Batty) were re-elected, and Mr Denis McKendry elected in the place of Mr H. G. Baker. The report showed that seventeen sales had been held at the yards during the year, at which 60,302 sheep, 298 rams, 380 pigs, 74 cattle, and 67 horses were offered. A vote of thanks to the directors and secretary was carried unanimously.

ASHBURTON WOOLLEN MILLS.—MeSSrS Lilico, Mcßae, and Crosbie, three of the partners in the South Canterbury Woollen Mills Company, which in tho beginning of the week purchased from the Mosgiel Com pany the Ashburton Woollen Mills, were in Ashburton to-day and inspected their new property. We understand that they are well pleased with their purchase, and intend pushing ahead with the preparations for the re-starting of the mills.

Cheap Telephones.—lnspired by the fact that the penny postage and sixpenny telegram schemes have justified themselves the Auckland Herald advocates cheap telephones:—" We would suggest to the Postmaster-general that he should give the telephone business the benefit of his cogitations. We have the penny post and the sixpenny telegrams. Cannot we look forward not merely to the shilling cable, but to the shilling-a-week telephono ? "

Allenton. —The weekly meeting of the Ailenton Debating Club was held on Wed nesday evening. There was a splendid at tendance, several new members being elected. The time was occupied by a do bate " Hack versus bike," tbe former being taken by Mr Hewson, and the latter by Mr Stokes. After a lively discussion, and the opinion of everyone being expressed, the hack was triumphant. A musical evening has been arranged for by the committee for next Wednesday,

Baring Square Church.—The ladies of the Baring Square Wesleyan Church have commenced to work for a gift sale, which they contemplate holding about the middle of December next' with a view of helping to pay off the total indebtedness on tbe Ashburton Church Trust and Circuit, amounting to about -3250. There is little doubt their object will be accomplished be fore the end of the year.

Windermere. — The residents in the vicinity of W Tinde_mere enjoyed an unex pected pleasure ou Thursday last through the kindness of Mr and Mrs E. G. Wright, and were treated to an unusual sight, in the shape of a fine display of fireworks, followed by a grand bonfire. After this an excellent supper was kindly provided by Mrs Wright for all present, numbering about a hundred. " God save the King" was sung by the company, and hearty oheers were, on the motion of Mr Reginald Coward, given for Mr and Mrs Wright, in recognition of the pleasant evening they had given to the residents of the district.

Old. Men's Home. —The master of the Home desires to acknowledge with thanks the following contributions:—Mrs Sandoe, papers and magazines; " Charlie " (Chinese gardens) vegetables; Railway receiving box, papers, etc.; Mr Gordon, regular con tributions "Australasian" and London " Times "; Mr F. G. M. Buckley, papers and magazines; Mr C. Hardie, papers and magazines ; Mrs V. A. Banke., illustrated papers; Mr W. G. Brittain, Christchurch, magazines; Mr Silcock, sausages.

Street Expectoration.—ln New York 50 persons were charged at the end of March with spitting in public. Of those 32 were fined sdol. apiece, and eighteen were discharged because they had been in custody for at least six hours before being brought before the justice. Maryland is to have a law which empowers railway officials to arrest people who expectorate anywhere in the lines of the State. The panalty is to be 3dol. and costs, with the alternative of spending a period not exceed ing five days in durance yile. The informer is to receive half the fine on conviction of the offender.

Hints frq_ Boer Methods,—Captain A. A. Fooks, who is now on his way home with the Eighth Contingent, writing from Klerksdorp, on May 30, to a friend in Christchurch, says:—"We are just now having plenty of time for a good think, and I have been asking myself whether our experience in South Africa will be of any permanent value to*me as a Volunteer officer. I haye no doubt that it will. We haye had no severe fighting, but I have seen put into practice the various manoeuvres I had previously studied on paper. My conclusion is that the success of every movement, disposition, or whatever it may be, depends mainly upon the efforts of the subordinate officers. Tt does not matter whether it is night outposts or protection on the march by screens, unless the officer, in charge of units grasps the principle of the work, and uses care and intelligence, the best devised pan will fail. ... I fancy if it were not for the clever scouting of the Boers they would not have hel4 put half as long. They always man age tp fjnd out tfye weak spots in their enen^y, and to know when it is wise to fight, and whpn wisfl to run away. .... We have just been told that peace will be declared at once, so I suppose that our chance ef having a good * scrap , is out of the question. We shall be sent back to New Zealand at an early date, though a large number of the men would be glad to stop here."

News in Brief.

«- ;— Tfie Opposition has decided not to elect a leader.

The Canterbury A. and P. Association has intimated to the Mariawatu A. and P. Asso ciation -tftat it can^qfc alter the dates of its next annual s^ow, which clasfc with the _4anawatq fixture.

With this issue we distribute on behalf of the D. I. C, Christchurch, a circular re lating to their sale which is now on.

Mr Edwin Hall, who acted as honorary secretary to the Farmer's Union Colonial Conference, has definitely declined, owing to the state of the union's finances, to accept the sum of 20 guineas voted to him by the conference in recognition of his services.

Mr G-. Meddins, ironmonger, announces that he is sole agent for the Davey 'sewing machine, arid lie challenges all competitors afe regards price and working. Prices and full particulars of the machine will tie found in our advertising columns. «....•■

l^essrg Fyiedlauder Bro., Limited, imder instructions' fpqm "Mr ' Ma<c Friedlander (who has disposed of his Irdagh property, Lyndhurst), will hold a complete clearing sale of his live stock and implements at Lyndhurst on Wednesday July 23rd. The purebred sheep and rams comprise Hamp shires, Lincolns, Border Leicesters and Shropshires, and will be offered in lines to suit buyers. The draught horses are all good 'workers, and among the 1 light horses are the progeny 'of Wit- well known sires as Wildwobd, Specification, Blackwood Ab dallah, Double Eventj Perkin Warbeck, a lnd Artillery, ' •' ■ •'

Hospital Board.

The Ashburton Hospital Board met yes terday morning, when there were present — The Mayor, and Meters J. Studholme, junr.,< H. Willis, H. M. Jones, H. Davis, C. J. Harper, H. Davis, G. W. Andrews, C. Reid, J. W. Timrains, J. Davison, and S. S. Chap man. Apologies for non-attendance were received from Messrs E. G. Wright and W. Morgan. In the absence of Mr Wright, Mr Harper i was appointed chairman for the meeting.

MEDICAL OFFICER. The appointment of a medical officer for the hospital was then considered.

In reply to Mr Studholme, the Chairman stated that the salary attached to the posi tion was .£l5O a year. The Chairman proposed that Dr. Trevor be re-appointed. Good work had been done by the doctor, notwithstanding that he was getting up in years, and he was recognised as one of the first surgeons in Canterbury. There was plenty of " go " left in the doctor yet.

Mr Andrews seconded, and bore out the remarks of the chairman. Dr. Trevor had done good work since he had held the position.

Mr Davis considered that the position should be advertised. It was like keeping the nest warm for Dr. Trevor. He sug gested this in fairness ; but was not opposed to the appointment of Dr. Trevor all the ame.

The Chairman said that according to the rules it was not contemplated the applica tions should be invited.

The Mayor thought that it was a pity the by-law passed.' It would not do to appoint a fresh surgeon every year. It was quite right there should be notice given ©neither side. The position should be a permanent one, and Dr. Trevor's experience was such as to justify the Board in placing confidence : n his ability. Mr Jones supported the motion. He was j quite sure Dr. Trevor had given every satisfaction, but was one of those who thought the other doctors should have access to the hospital. The position should be notified through the papers. < i Mr Reid, although at times advocating another system, was quite in accord with the appointment. He wished to remove an impression that he was in any way antago nistic to Dr. Trevor. The proposition was then put and carried, 5 committee's report. . The report for the six months stated that Mr H. Friedlander had resigned his position as Chairman of Committee and Treasurer of the Board ; and the Committee desired to place on record its appreciation of his valuable services. Miss Denniston had been appointed nurse, vice Miss Bennett resigned. The salaries of the subordinates had been re-arranged. The Committee would like to see more donations given, as the Government subsidy is 24s for _21 re ceived. \ ■ The Mayor moved the adoption of the report. < ■ . < Mr Chapman seconded. I_ reply to Mr Timmins, the Chairman said that the question of drainage was receiving attention. Levels were being taken, and other matters of detail were being got ready. Replying to Mr Davis, the Mayor said that the fees were coming in slowly. It was a.rather difficult matter to get the fees collected. , Mr Chapman did not think that any great headway could be made. It. was a difficult matter to get the fees collected for an in ; stitution of that sort. The Chairman wished to remove an im pression that some patients evidently had, viz., that being ratepayers they should have a free use of the hospital. The insti tution was not built for the purpose. The Committee's report was then adopted. NOTICE OP MOTION. Mr Eeid then brought up his notice of motion, in effect that other doctors should have access to patients in the Hospitals. **c thought the Hospital should be made more popular,and not recognised as a charit a^e institution. In the motion under notice, the hospital medical staff would be honorary, as far as the. new appointmonts went. He moved—"That the duiy quali fied medical men practising in Ashburton county be appointed an honorary medical staff in conjunction with the medical officer of the Hospital for a period of twelve months, and the said staff bo required to work under and conform to the rules, regu lations, and by-laws, whioh may from time to time be made by the Board, and be allowed the privilege of treating in the hospital any patient who they may recom mend, provided the patient comply with the necessary rules and regulations." Mr Reid spoke at considerable length on the subject, laying especial stress on the advan tage it would be to patients to be able to secure the servioes of their own doctors, who knew them and the constitutions much better than a stranger could do.

Mr Studholme seconded. On two occa sions they had approved of the idea of other doctors seeing patients. The institution should be made an popular as possible. One thing that was objectionable was that persons who had had the services of a par ticular medical man,-who knew their con stitutions could not have his services as now constituted. The institution should be made so that those who were willing, and could pay, should be allowed to be visited by their own medical men. Under the present conditions, nursing homes had been started, which were in .competition with the hospital. The Chairman had seen Dr. Trevor, who had no objection to other doctors coming in. The institution was open to everybody, rich and poor, and if he (the Chairman) was taken seriously ill he would certainly go there, * *■••:' Mr Jones supported the resolution, par ticularly as the principle involved .would allow people to use their own doctors. Mr Willis was in sympathy with the proposal that patients might have their own doctors, as had been suggested by the mover of the motion, Mr, Jones, and other speakers. But seeing that 'the doctors could not receive any fee for services rendered in the hospital, he doubted very much whether they would approve of the proposed arrangement- At anyrate if he went to the Hospital he would not like to ask hia doctor to attend him under such conditions. The scheme might work well enough with regard to members* of Friendly Societies whose doctors were paid by their lodges. He suggested conferring with the medical men before adopting the motion.

Mr Chapman would support the motion, which was a step in the right direction.

The Mayor was not averse to free trade either in doctors or anything to the success •f the country, but he took exception to the use of the word ' appointed.' They had no right to appoint an honorary medical staff without their consent. Ifc would be awk ward, and probably cause confusion, if several members of the profession were practising in the Hospital at one time. He would also point gut that it was not a charitable institution in the strict sense of the word. He had no objection to the medical men being let in. As pointed out by Mr Willis, the question of allowing members of Friendly Societies in. free would give rise to the opinion that others would like the same favour extended to them. The present charge was £2 2s a week. He was not sure the doctors would take any notice of the concession.

Mr Davison said that in many hospitals specialists looked after certain patients. The doctors should be asked if they would accept the position or not. ' Mr Reid, in reply, was pleased at the friendly criticism of his motion, of which, he had not taken notes. The matter, was entirely one for the doctors themselves to consider. It was for the Board tP affirm tKe principle, and he trusted it would do so. _fye MayQK wished to point ous that every doctor would have access to the Hospital for tlie purpose of performing an opera* tion. It was not like appointing an honor ary staff. He did not think the Committee would take the responsibility which should rest with the Board.

The Chairman said it was a question of how the Government would take it. But he believed that the motion might be worded in such a way that tfhe Government, could hot object to it. It would not $0, to, risk'their subsidy. The' Chairman wa.s about tp. put the mptiqij when

Mr Jones moved an amendment, " That the appointment of an honorary medical staff for the Hospital be referred to the Managing Committee to confer with the doctors in the county and report to the next meeting of the Board." Mr Willis seconded. Mr Reid pointed out that Mr Jones w;as delaying the matter. The amendment was lost, and the resolu tion carried, and a copy of the same was ordered to be forwarded to the Department of Public Health. r THE PLAGUE. The Chairman referred to the question of providing for plague patients. He read the legal authority on the subject of the ! County Council being a local authority under the Act, which stated that the Council was not a local authority under the Statute. He thought that a Bill should be drafted to enable the Hospital Board to be the controlling body. Personally, he con sidered the Government were working up another large Department for which the taxpayers would have to pay heavily. The Mayor said that most of them were" aware of what had taken place. The Act provided that all local bodies were responsible^ and the Act would have to be altered to give the Hospital Board authority. The position in regard to the treatment of plague patients was considered by himself and Dr. Symes. He thought the County Council was the proper body to get' the consent of the Road Boards. His idea was that the Borough would have to make arrangements for cases that might occur in the Borough. The Hospital Board should be the Board of Health in lieu of the Borough, Town and Road Boards.

Mr Reid thought that the local body was practically the one that should have control under the Act. The Government was not very particular in the matter at all. The question of disease rested with the Hospital Board.

After a long discussion Mr Studholme moved—" That the Government be reques ted to so amend the Infectious Diseases Act at the session of Parliament now sitting that the Hospital Boards of the various districts shall be constituted to be the Boards of Health for such districts, for all infectious cases requiring removal from the district in lieu of the .local bodies as at present. This was carried, and the Board there after adjourned.

Orange Social.

The Star of Ashburton Loyal Orange Lodge celebrated their twenty-third anni versary last night in the Oddfellows' Hall. Over 300 persons sat down to dinner,) which was provided by Mr Beach, of the Triangle, and left nothing to be desired. The even ing being fine, a large number of country folk attended, among whom were several members of the Order. P.M. Bro. James Cock burn occupied the chair, and among those present were W.M. Bro. Chambers, P.M.'s Bros. Rountree, Dixon, and James Hampton, Bros. S. Brown, S. Hume, and others. After dinner had been partaken of the chairman proposed the toast of " King Edward VII." Other toasts proposed and duly honoured were " William 111. of pious and immortal memory," " The G.M. of the Imperial Orange Lodge." Bro. S. Brown sang " The Orange Lily," for which he was heartily encored, and responded with " The Irish Brigade"; songs were also contri buted by Bro. J. Cass, and Messrs A. Bray and W. McLauchlan, while Bro. Paull gave a humourous recitation. The toast of "The Press" concluded this portion of the evening's enjoyment. The floor was then cleared for dancing, which was indulged in till the early hours of the morning, the music for which was supplied by Miss Cochrane and Mr W. Anderson.

Mr Anderson, of Wakanui, was an effi cient M.C., and during the evening Mr T. Cochrane danced a sailor's hornpipe.

Owing to bereavement, Bro. S. B. Nelson, who was present, was unable to take his usual active part in the proceedings. Several members of 'the Ladies' Lodge gave valuable assistance during the evening in the various matters of detail which are always essentialto the success of gatherings of this kind.

The secretary, Bro. W. Thompson, to gether with the chairman, W.M., and other officers of the Lodge, are to be complimen ted on the success of the anniversary and celebration of the Twelfth of July.

Social Column.

The matter included in this column is contributed and paid for.]

Prohibition in Common Principle.

The principle of Prohibition is much more common than the most of ns supposed Statute law is nearly all prohibitory.

The Adulteration of Foods Act is a pro hibitory law, and a very wise provision it is; those who condemn it are only those whose actions are interfered with by it.

The Quarantine law, is prohibitory. Every person who is not subject to its operation is favourable to it. The ship laden with precious merchandise for which a market is passing away, may not be per mitted to open her hatches while there is a single patient on board suffering from an infectious disease, no matter if merchants be ruined by the detention.

Sanitary laws are prohibitory. Men may build in our cities; but they may not build contrary to tha regulations affecting sani tary conditions. A few persons die an nually from diseases preventible by sanita tion, and we prohibit wilfnl neglect of the health laws.

We have a prohibition law against the importation or publication of obscene litera ture. It has been ascertained that indecent pictures and vile publications are detri mental to public morals, and the good of the community demands their prohibition. The Marriage laws are prohibitory. Men and women are prohibited from marrying a second wife or husband while the first is still living. The Criminal Code is prohibitory. Were criminals at liberty to continue their crimes society would be upset. So we punish crime by prohibiting certain of the privileges of life.

The Ten Commandments is a list of ten prohibition enactments. The first law promulgated for the guid ance of man was a prohibition principle, as well as a permissive provision— ' Thou shalt not eat of it."

In fact, turn whioh way we may, we find ourselves hedged aboub by Prohibition. The Patent Act is prohibition; the Land Act is prohibition; the Dag Tax is prohi bition ; the Education Act, the Stamp Act, the S>ops Act^ and even the Licensing Act is a prohibition measure—for qvery one who has not a license is prohibited from trading in alcoholic liquors.

Our social fabrict is built upon a system of Prohibition; and must be so until men ar© advanced so, far as to '• Love their neighbours as themselves." When we reaoh that stage* Prohibition Acts will b© no longer necessary.

The only thing we seem to stand in awe of prohibiting is the greatest enemy of social progress and of human happiness— the greatest producer of misery, degrada tion, and crime known to our country. Not other prohibited custom has done, or is capable of doing, half the mischief the liquor trade is doing, yet we hesitate to* interfere in this one case where interfer ence is most called, for-..

Does i,t not seem unaccountably strange that TW should habitually prohibit so. many small evils, while we grant permission to certain persons for a sum of money to.con tinue this greatest of all evil customs . There is not another instance of an ad mittedly immoral and demoralising traffic being legalised by popular vote and Government authority for the sake of revenue. There is. not another instance in which the voters of the* country have the power to prevent a hurtful and corrupting business, aud yet Y9te for its, coatinnanoe- This dreadful traffic has secured a gigan tic nßonopolyi. and has presumed to dietat terms to all otter interests, until people? seero. tP, have bpcome its willing! slaves-^oir trembling victims.. We prohibit thelesseui. but sell our liberty to the giant of all oppressive evils. s _

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN : SATURDAY, JULY 12, 1902



Date "uly 5 6  ? 8 9 „ 10 » 11

Eises 7.36 7.36 7.36 7.35 7.35 7.34 7.34

Sets 4.32 4.35 4.34 4.35 4.35 4.36 4.37



Sew Moon First Quarter Perigee ... Pull Moon Last Quarter ipogee ...

6 13 5 21 28 17

0.29 a.m 0.17 a.m, 1.30 a.m, 4.15 a.m, 4.45 p.m, 1.0 p.m.



P. FERRIMAN. j F. FERRIMAN LICENSED LAND BROKER, LAND AND ESTATE AGENT, - HAVELOCK STREET, ASHBURTON, ' HAS FOR SALE The undermentioned Properties, full par ticulars of whioh may be had on application:— FOR SALE. * 2. Acres Land, Belt Road, Allenton. "ft ft RS Randall haß instructed me to *l Sell that very desirable residential site, situated in the Belt Road, within a few chains of the north-west corner of the Domain, containing 2. acros. Part of the land is laid out in garden and orchard, and the latter is well-stocked with choice fruit trees. Other improvements consist of a stable and trap house. The property is for immediate sale and an early inspection is invited. F. FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent. Nelson Street, Hampstead. Within a few chains of the School. MR T. G. HIGHT, in consequence of his having removed to Mangasturoa, in the North Island, has instructed me to , effect an immediate sale of his property ' situated as above. It consists of a sub stantial Brick Dwelling containing four rooms, erected on a quarter-acre section. I My instructions are to sell, and no reasonable offer will be refused. Immediate inspection is invited. Full particulars can be had on applica tion. F. FERRIMAN, ' TO LET. SHOP and Dwelling in Tancred Street, recently occupied by Mr Wright. Apply F. FERRIMAN. I, nmfn, iwwiwiiiim ii_w________p CLEARING SALE. • TRKES : Giving up Business. THOS. SEALY, N URSERYMAN, *TTAVING decided to relinquish tha Nursery Business, the whole of the large and choice stock is offered at much reduced prices. The whole must be cleared before the end of the present season. 10,000 FRniT TEEBS- Apple, Pear, Plum, Peach, Cherry, etc. 10,000 Gooseberry and Currant, choice sorts 60,000 Macrocarpa 150,000 Larch 200,000 Pinus Insignis, one and two years > 5,000 Walnuts and Chestnuts , 10,000 Oregon Pine 120,000 Forest Trees, all sorts 15,000 Ornamental Trees and Shrubs 5,000 Roses, ohoicest kinds And many other varieties too numerous to mention. In lots at your own Prices Large orders will be executed at a fraction of usual cost I The Nursery must be closed 30th Sept. next THOS. SEALY, Riverbank 7 59' _.„ . ■ hTgresham. SURGEON AND MECHANIC A_ DENTIST. 38/ Examination, October, 1897 TT'IGHT years experience with E. G. and JH i F. W. Gresham, Dentists, Dunedin and Invercargill. .Has commenced practice in rooms •upstairs from the entrance to Thomas' Auction Rooms, Burnett Street. Stoppings in Gold, Amalgam, and Cement, -old aud Porcelain crowns made ; also sets . teeth with Vulcanite and Porcelain gums. ' <Gas administered. All work guaranteed. J__-_s of Attendance —9 a.m. —5 p.m. _ im • ■ ~ ■ Permanent Building and Invest ment Society. __- lOANS GRANTED FROM .£25 and upwards at current rates. i. _■ Full particulars on application. Office — Tancred Street. Office Hours — 9.30 a.m. till 4 p.m. First Tuesday in Month-9.80 a.m. till 4 p.m; and 7 till 9 p.m. ALBERT ROBERTS, Manager. The N.Z. Farmers' Co-opera tive Association of Canter bury, Ltd. • Offices, Warehouse and Grain Stores, West Street, Ashburton. EVERY description of Merchandise and Farmers' Requisites at lowest rates. Stock, Grain, Land, Wool, etc., sold on commission either privately or by Public Auction. Amongst others we have the following properties for Sale by Private Treaty. Kyle District ... 1100 Acres Mayfield ... 872 acres, leasehold Mayfield ... 967 „ __&_ field ... 2«0 „ Asfafeurton Forks 140 „ WiiefiAetone ... 262 „ "Rangitata ... 050 „ Hinds ... 1800 „ Hinds ... 1500 „ Coldstream ... 500 „ Coldstream ... 350 „ Ealing ••• 595 „ Westerfield ... 336 „ Sjpringburn ... 370 „ Springburn ... 495 „ T. F. GIBSON, Manager Wanted Known. .•SEOOND TO NONE Water Race Cleane S wn be bad for £6 upwards, being made to suit any size Kace, according to °rdei\ F.W.PAGE, 124, Chertsey.



The Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society, Ltd I T_ olict Holders are hereby notified that Mb Henry Stephenson has been appointed Local Agent at Ash burton, vice Mr William Stonyer. The Society ie bow issuing Policies con taining new and attractive features guaranteed bonuses, etc., full particulars of jvhich may be obtained on application to Henry Stephenson, Auctioneer, Agent for Ashburton, or T. E. Walton, 6 110 District Manager, Christchurch. METHVEN COACH. |7ROM JULY Ist, 1902, till further uotice. the Methven Coach will leave New man's Stables, Ashburton, for Methven on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 3.50 p.m., instead of 4 p.m. MRS DUFF, Proprietress. Smoke New Venus



J mp*TNBSS NOTTCKN ' 'CLEARING SALE °* BICYCLES' i Oates, Lowry & Co. Now Holding Their [ AN N (IU SALE. Bicycle Goods at Prices never before offered iii Ashburton. Some of our Prices- Outfits 6d, 9d, Is I Oil Cans (various makes) 3d, 6d, 9d, Is Bells, all kinds, from 6d | Celluloid Mud Guards 8s per pair Toe Clips, a large stock to choose from, 9d, ls, and ls 6d per pair Trouser Clips ia endless variety from 2d per pair. — B ICYCLE LAMP S. We carry the largest stock of Bike Lamps in New Zealand. Acetylene Gas Lamps at 163 to 17s fid, We guarantee these. Lucas Candle Lamps 10s fid, usual price 12s 6d Oil Lamps (large stook of various makes) from 3s to 15s. 12 Special Model 2 Atalanta Bicycles. f p-to-date in every detail. Choose your own gear, saddle, pedals, handle bar, etc. These Machines are known throughout New Zealand as equal to the best imported Bicycle. Each Machine is guaranteed for 12 months. That's good enough !. Nil Only 5 Gents' at £15 IQa Cae__. • __>•" Only 7 Ladies' at SIQ Qas__ Easy Terms arranged to suit buyers. A Few Second Hand Machines from £3. Largest Cycle Manufacturers in New Zealand. Ashburton Branch—Burnett Street. Miiiiiiiiiiii»«iiiiiimNiiiin_iTm"«'"'»*'^^ ' ■ "" '" ' iiii-ii—m-- i ■ m-i—i SEWING MACHINES. — o — I am sole Agent for the celebrated" DAVEY " Machines for Ashburton County. They are the cheapest and best in the market. I challenge ali competitors—as regards price and working,-—l 2 months' guarantee with each machine HAND Machines „3 10s; Treadle machines £6 10s, £7, £7 10s, £8, £8 10s. All these machines have latest improvements up-to-date. ALSO, I call attention to my large stock of Farming and Carpenter's Tools—including Spades, Forks, Martin's and other Gorse Knives—Garden Rakes, Hoes, Etc. All at Bedrock Prices G. MEDDINS, The People's Ironmonger, Burnett Street, opposite Arcade. PAINTING, GLAZING, HOUSE DECORATING, SIGN-WRITING. WH COLLINS AND CO., Painters, East Street, Ashburton, are making a • Specialty of their Painting, Glazing, House Decorating, Papering, Graining, ' and Stan-writing Department. Every effort is being made to keep up to date in every respecf and tffprices are Right. Competent workmen only are employed, and prices and any information can be had for the asking,



HARDLEY BROS., ' PLUMBERS, IBOSMONGBBB, AND TINSMITH Our Saaeon's Stock of GtTSS, CARTRIDGES, AND GUN FITTINGS T. to H&txl; and Our GTTNBMITHING, ENGINEERING, and BRAIZING DEPARTMENT, la in the Hands of a Cenincat-d Ei>pi"«r, therefore all work wiil be carried.ou. 0n ittteebßoinntific linee, and guaranteed m v„m _ I*-.* Btoek of ■ WIM-^iTLi-irTANK«, BATHS. POHOB and LIFT VUMI- INKS LAVATORY BASINS. Hiok PRK_SURB BOILERS, ft., a_d m „_e ROT and CO!D WATER and SANITARY WORK * PpceWty QPniTTIIJo RIDGING and all dawes of Tin and Iron Good, M*nuf*.turea\ P™ Welt Driven,P?mi, Bydr-Mio R-m.. Windmill, and Water Wheel- fixed and BUPPA e sta_ ..f Competent Workmen always avaiUble for all o'ag.es of f lu.nbing^work in aDy part of the county. _*,_. . HARDLEY BROS, ™ -82 PLUMBERS and SANITARY ENGINEERS, EAST STRKKT SIGN WRITINGr~ ■r HAVE secured the services of ME BRADW_LL as Sign-writer, Gilder, etc. Mr Bradwell has been in the employ of Mr W. Soy, of Christchurch, as writer for the past twelve years. This branch of the business entrusted to me will receive p.o_jp- attention, as hitherto. j. wTlson, BURNETT STREET, Painter and Decorator. Direct importer- Wail Papers, Window Glass, Paints, Oils,



J Special Notice. ttth^NTED all about to Plant this Season ito inspect my Stock of over 250000 r Fruit and Forest Trees and Shrubs, I Before Purchasing elsewhere. All well grown and will be sure to giye satisfac tion, j „NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED. | JAS. PORTER, Clifton NuFS-^y, Allenton, Ashburton 72 * ' | HE Gynomo Silent Primus Cookiiifii 1 Stove iii 6d, u;os ordinary k^D.eoe; 1 also Pnn.us Hoc Plar. 17s 6d. and. Primus Iron ileaLcr, „s —CARSON j &ro_ ; , i TiT.VVS FO< ALL-Keioiene 4-3 d per J_\ lit. o. 8 6.1 per c-.f, Su.ar 14a Ue, \ h„ or 2ii t.«t- lh, O. m al 4i per bag, Outin: 1h 2». Ai-, Pirn« P«rwen. Potatoes lor e*le _c Kbkk B'ius, Burt etb Street , i