Commercial.

SYDNEY FAT STOCK SALES.

Sydney, Sept. 4' At the fat sheep sales heavy sorts gen erally were easier. The few New Zealand lots offered were decidedly cheaper. They ranged from 22s to 30s 6d. Cattle also were easier.

The late rains have considerably .aug mented the Sydney water supply, but the dam is still so far below its usual level that the Water Board has given notice to the City and Suburban Councils that no water will be available this summer for street watering or flushing.

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 1902.

i We give those members of the Borough ; Council who were opposed to any move | inent for the removal of the Courthouse .to j another site, full credit for disinterested | action in the matter; and we may admit that they think they are representing the views of the majority of the ratepayers con cerning this question. But we are satisfed that their attitude is not in accordance with public opinion throughout the Borough. The proposal to have the Courthouse re moved from its present site was made years ! ago, it being clearly recognised that as j business increased and expansion of the ! town became necessary, every available | portion of East Street would be taken up. I Indeed most of us can remember that there was a strong effort made some years ago to get Baring Square East cut up into build ing allotments. Fortunately this attempt failed, but it showed that long ago there wns a desire to fill up the open spaces in East Street and to connect the two extre mities of the town. Since then the bur gesses have been looking forward to the removal of the Courthouse to a position better adapted for the business that is transacted in it, and where it could not cause a block in the traffic, as it often does , in that of the main thoroughfare of the town. Cr Jones, who introduced the dis cussion on the proposal for an exchange of sites with the Government, went very fully into the subject, and although we do not think the scheme he suggested is f«asible, we quite agree with his remarks as to the advantage it would be to this town finan cially, and in other w.iys if the Government could be induced to meet the wishes of the people of Ashburton in this matter. It is a pretty large order, but it i 3 certainly worth while ascertaining if the affair can be arranged without increasing the rates, or raising a loan. Some of the members of the Borough Council are evidently not aware of what is going on in many of the other Boroughs in this country. Just now there seems to be a growing desire all over New Zealand for municipal improvement. Not only are the large cities striving to increase their attractions, and secure all the advantages available, but many smaller centres in both islands are following this example, and extensive schemes for better drainage, good water supply, lighting and so forth, have been formulated and, in several instances, endorse 1 by the ratepayers. Some of our city fathers have a holy horror of increasing the rate, which is a very proper feeling so long as the town is content to lag behind in the race of progress and improvement; for of course it is the duty of the Council to keep its ex penditure within its income. But has it uever struck these gentlemen that the majority of ratepayers might possibly take a broader view of the position than they have been given credit for. Will the Mayor—whose homilies on caution, entitle him. to be placed at the head of the I rissez fa re party in the Council—venture to say that if the question of increasing the Borough rate for distinctlj desirable objects were formally submitted to the ratepayers they would reject it ? Our own opinion is that if the Council should desire to carry out some- work which would be ail advantage to the town, the ratepayers of Ashburton would cheerfully support them, for they are just as progressive and as de sirous of benefiting their town, as are the inhabitants of Timaru, Waimate, Masterton, Ilawora, and other centres which are all contemplating town improvements. How ever to return to the matter of the Court house site, we trust that the subject Will not be allowed to drop, and that constant pressure will be brought to bear on the Government in order to bring about the removal of that building to some other site.

Local and General.

Weather Forecast.—Captuin Edwin wires:—Gale from between north and west and south-west; glass fall; indications of rain.

Personal. —Sergeant Barlow and Mr J. Moffat have proceeded to Wellington to give evidence before the Select Committee on the Tied Houses Bill, and will be away for some days.

St. Stephen's [Church. —Our readers are reminded that the dedication of the memorial window in St. Stephen's Church will take place on Sunday morning next, when the Ray. 11. A. Woodthorpe will conduct the service, and -will also preach in the evening.

Methven—On Friday evening last thp Undenominational Sunday School held its annual reunion in the schoolroom. Tea was on the tables at 6 o'clock. A concert was given afterwards by the scholars, Bible class members, teachers, and officers. Mrs Lock, the Sunday School superintendent, presided. The meeting was well attended, despite the unsettled state of the weather. Parents and friends showed interest in the Sunday School children, and did all they could in making the gathering a success, which it proved to be in every way. An address was given by Mr Robertson, the Eev B. J. Westbrooke being unavoidably absent. The meeting dispersed while the scholars were singing the dismissal hymn.

Second-hand Dealers. ~ When the Second-hand Dealers Bill was being read a third time in the House, the Minister <>f Justice promised that certain amendments should be mado in the Council. These are now being given notice of by the Minister in charge there. Clauses 13, 15 and 16 are to be struck oui;,' and it is provided that where the ownership of any goods brought before the Court, and. which have been unlawfully exchanged or sold, is established to the satisfaction of the Court, an order may be made for the delivery of such goods to the owner either without compensation or with such compensation as the Court deems fit. Permission is also given to the Minister of Justice to exempt from the provisions of the Act relating to licences any persons or class of persons td whom he is satisfied that such provisions should not apply.

Tailoring.—We have just received our iirsfc two shipments of new summer goods comprising the most up-to-date suitings as now worn at Home. We always encourage customers to select from the web which is far more satisfactory than ordering from small patterns. We have a very large stock to select from. We employ first class tradesmen —every garment made on our premises. We guarantee all. our work, fit and stylo at prices that will compare favourably with those of any leading New Zealand city. firm. We respectfully invite customers to kindly order early to prevent disappointment in the " rush" before the shows. Craighead and Berryman the leading tailors Ashburton. [Advt.] "COLD SNAP."

At this time of the year many people, and ladies especially, suffer from chapped hands. Wilton's Hand Emollient is not only a cure, but a preventice for this trouble. Ladies using it will find that it keeps the skin cool and white, and the hands retain, even in cold weather, all their usefulness and Gharm. Obtainable from Geo. W. Wilton, 3, Cuba St and all chemists. Wellington price Is 6d.

Wade's Worm Figs—the Wonderful Worm Worriers—are a safb and sure remedy, in Is boxes; sold everywhere

Ashbtjrton Guards. —A meeting of the Guards will take place on Monday after inspection for the purpose of electing two commissioned officers.

Dr Torbey's Mission.—The meeting re excursion train, called for to-night at the Templar Hall, will be held in the school room of the Baring ■ Square Church, the hall being otherwise engaged.

An Old Relic- -In sinking for a founda tion below the old Te Aro foreshore in Wellington, the workmen came upon the remains of a punt 40ft long by 14ft broad used in the long ago to convey goods from ships to the shore. Much of the timber was still in a good state of preservation.

The Transport Inquiry.— The Con tingent's Transport Commission has com pleted taking evidence, so far as the Britan nic is concerned, and is concluding its in vestigations into the Orient's case. The Commission is to hand in its report to the Governor about Wednesday next.

Lucky Farmers. —Grass is plentiful in the Ballina district, in New South Wales, and owing to the high price of butter some of the dairy farmers are making £100 a month.

.Magisterial.—At the Police Court this morning, before Messrs D. Thomas and W. 11. Rule, Js.P., Peter Hansen, for being drunk in East" Street yesterday, was fined 5s or 24 hours' imprisonment.—Alexander Martin, alias James McLelland, for being drunk in East Street, and with using obscene language within hearing of passers by, was convicted and sentenced to one month's imprisonmet with hard labour. The same accused was then charged with having no lawful visible means of support, the case being dismissed. —Walter Staff, for being drunk in East Street, was fined 5s or 24- hours' imprisonment.—George Seymour Thompson, for being drunk, was fined 5s or 24 hours' imprisonment.

Extraordinary Fatality—A fatal acci dent of a remarkable nature has occurred at Charentou (France). A women had come to the fair in that town with several friends amused herself by firing three or four car bine shots in a shooting gallery. One of the bullets missed the tunnel, at the end of which the target was placed, and went through the woodwork. The unskilful markswoman was unmercifully chaffed by her companions, and went away with them in search of some other entertainment, while the proprietor of the shooting gallery attended to those customers. When, about two hours later, he closed his premises and was about to retire to rest, his wife dis covered that their daughter, aged 11, was lying quite dead in her bed. Tho stray bullet had passed throngh the planking and lodged in the child's heart.

Cost of Living in South Africa.— A great obstacle to the best men settling in South Africa, says the Press Association Special, is that the salaries allowed are miserably inadequate when the enormous cost of living is taken into consideration. House rent, in cases even where the prem ises occupied are of the humblest descrip tion, is exorbitant, seldom falling below J2300 per annum. A cook's wnges are from £7 to .£lO monthly, a Kaffir house boy from £2 to £6. The minimum cost of feed ing a horse is £60 a year. Meat from cold storage depots costs from Is to Is 2d per lb. Fresh killed meat is unprocurable. Rail way travelling, first class, costs'3d per mile. Even newspapers cost 3d. From the above figures it will be possible to form an idea of the difficulty the married civil servant drawing a salary of from .£SOO, to .£7OO yearly has in making ends meet. But the hardship is still greater in the case of mili tary officers, who, although freed from pay ment of Customs dues, will find the Trans vaal.impossible unless they possess private mean.'?.

News in Brief.

Miss Barratt's school will re-open on Monday next. Miss Barratt will be at home from the 6th inst.

August was a dry month in South Canterbury, less than a quarter of an inch of rain falling anywhere near Timaru, and leoS than an inch near the ranges.

It is reported that a seam of coal has been struck by Mr Nisbet Mackie on his property, Kaitangata. The coal i 3 said to be equal to that obtained at the Kaitangata mine,

Mr W. Begg's well-known trotting horse Toronto is advertised to stand in the Ashburton, Wakanui, and Longbeach districts during the season.

According to Mr A. W. Rutherford, a candidate for the Ashley seat, the Govern ment's " dairy policy " has raised the price of thousands of acres of land in the North Island from £5 up to anything from £15 to £25.

We understand that the well-known stallion, Warrington, the property of Mr S. Brown, of VVakanui, will be at the servico of breeders in this district this season. Particulars will appear later.

St. Patrick's Day Sports.

The meeting called for last evening, at the Catholic Boys' School, for the purpose of forming a Sports Association in succes sion to the now defunct St. Patrick's Spopts Association, was very well attended. The chair was occupied by Dean O'Donnell, who explained the object of the meeting. He felt satisfied that a Sports meeting on St. Patrick's Day would be a successful func tion. The remaining assets of ; the late Association would be at the disposal of its successor, if formed. He invited discussion, Mr H. P. Madden proposed—" That an Association be formed, 1q be called the St, Patrick's Day Sports Association, for the purpose of holding sports on St. Patrick's Day." Mr Thos. Hancox seconded. Mr Lagan spoke in support of the resolu tion The resolution was carried, and those present constituted themselves into an As sociation to give effect to the resolution. Ml 1 11. Clark enquired whether it was in tended to register the Association under The Unclassified Societies' Act. Mr E. J. Righton explained the powers of an Association so registered, and the cost of registration. Dean O'Donnell and Mr Lagan supported registration. It was eventually decided to refer the matter to the incoming committee to report to a future meeting. The election of officers was then proceded with, and resulted as follows ; —Patron— Very Rev. Dean O'Donnell; President— M. Lagan, Esq. j • yice-Presidents—Drs. -Bolger, Hunter, and Boyd; J. McLachlan, Esq., M.H.R., W. H. Collins, Esq., Mayor; T..Stone, John Lambie, A. Lane, J. O'Grady, W. H. Dardis, Danl. McKentlry, J. Mullan; D. Thomas, Denis MeKendry, H. Cullen, A. Whitaker, Jos. Tucker, P. Devane, W. Shearman, T. Daly, J. Scaly, John Small, It. Friedlander, J. W. Timmins, J. Orr, W. H. Rule, J. C. N. Grigg and J. Studholme, Esqs.; Hon. Treas.—Mr T. Itancok; Sec— P. Mprjarty; ComrriitteeTMessrs W. Burns, J. Muiian, D. "Wilson, S. Madden, F. Prit chard, J. Mellor, A. J. Tyrrell-Baxter, M. J. Moriarty, A. Mueller, and H. Milsom ; Auditors—Messrs "E. J. Righton and H. McSherrv. ' A discussion took place previous to the election of Secretary as to whether the position should be honorary or stated salary, and it was decided to fix the salary at £5 5s per annum. It was decided to affiliate with the Sports Association, and the election of a delegate to that body was left in the hands of the Committee. A long discussion took place re amount of I subscription fee, and it was ultimately decided on the motion of Mr T. Hancox, to fix it at 2s 6d per member, such amount not to include admission to Sports. Mr W. Burns moved that the Committee be recommended to draft a set of rules for the cuidance of the Association, to be sub mitted for approval at a future general meeting of members. ' Seconded by Mr J. Mullan, and earned. A vote of thanks to the chairman, con cluded the meeting.

CABLE NEWS

United Press Association —By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.

London, September 3. Byron Walters, an Australian recruit, committed suicide with a rifle at the Exeter Barracks.

Torrential rains in North Ireland flooded the Belfast railway stations. The Opera House is unapproachable. Mr Steyu's doctor anticipates his com plete restoration to health after a long convalescence.

London, September 4. The War Office has not accepted the gun invented by Mr M'Gloin, of Otago. English shipowners consider that it is impossible to commence the New Zealand Cape service within a month from signing the contract.

St Petersburg, Sept 3. The Tsaritza prematurely gave birth to a child. She is progressing favourably. The event has caused immense disappoint ment in Russia.

Lisbon, Sept. 3 Burglars tunnelled under the Costas Bank, and stole £20,000.

Hob art, Sept. 4 A policeman on duty at the dock dis covered what ho supposed to be a drunken man on the footpath. He attempted to make an arrest, but a fierce grunt and a display of formidable teeth disclosed a. seal -Bft 6in long. The policeman despatched the seal with his revolver.

Sydney, Sept. 3. W. Rowan hag been committed for trial, on a charge of forging and uttering 300 Hustler's Reef and 200 Hustler's No. 1 mining shares, which, it is alleged, he sold for .£I7OB.

In the Legislative Assembly, Mr D. O'Connor made a strong attack on the ad ministration of the police force. He said that innumerable crimes were committed in the city at night, owing to the want of sufficient protection. There was in the community a general sense of insecurity. The majority of members repudiated the statements, and defended the force. Albany, September 4 Probably the Aparima will go to Sydney, to take in bunker coal, before proceeding to New Zealand. New York, Sept. 3 The volcano of La Soufriere is again active. Many explosions occurred, on the night of August 30. The injured in Mar tinique number 1500.

A Sensational Accident

NARROW ESCAPE QF PRESIDENT ROOSEVELT

TWO LIVES LOST

Washington, Hept 4

President Roosevelt, accompanied by the Governor of Massachusetts and other gen tlemen, started in a four-horse landfi.u on a drive from Pittfield to Lennox. Aftsr two miles the driver of the landau tried to cross an electric trolley line to get to the shady side, not noticing that a trolley-car was ap proaching at the rate of forty miles an hour, a lady passenger in the car urging the driver to go full speed in order to overtake the President's party. Mr Craig, of Presi dent Roosevelt's body-guard, stood Tip and signalled to the trolley-man, who frantically pealed his bell and vainly applied the brakes. The two front horses had cleared the line when the car crashed into tfte right-hand wheelei", throwing it against the landau, tilting the vehicle at an angle of 45 deg. Mr Craig was thrown under the wheels of the car, and v, as frigh tf ully mang led. He was killed instantaneously. The skull of the driver of the landau wa3 frac tured, and he has since died. The Go vernor of Massachusetts and Mr Cortelyon, President Roosevelt's private secretary, caught hold of the President, who was not thrown out, but struck his face against the door, the blow raising a lump as big us a fist. The other passengers were hurt, but not very seriously. President RcO3evelt showed admirable coolness, though he was affected by the death of Mr Craig, whom he greatly esteemed. He instantly ordered reassuring telegrams to be sent to the White House and New York, to avert a Wall Street Panic.

President Eoosevelt admitted privately, ,(I just missed death." He angrily asked the motor-man, " Why did you drive so fast ?" and received the reply, " I had the right of way. You ought to have looked oat."

The motor driver and conductor have been arrested on a charge of manslaughter.

President Roosevelt's driver was ordered to go fast. The Press complaining of thu la mentable absence of precautions to ensure the President's safety while touring.

President Roosevelt continued his journey within an hour, and addressed the people of Lennox and Stockbridge, though he was evidently suffering.

Mr Seddon.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright London, Sept. 4 Mr Seddon states that there is no f ounda? tion for the report that he will renounce New Zealond in order to settle in South Africa.

The South African Shipping Disaster.

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. London, Sept. 3. The Union Castle liner Scot arrived at Cape Town, badly strained, after a terrible passage from Port Elizabeth. Two hundred and fifty native deck passengers were panic stricken, and had to be placed below under a strong guard. Sydney, Sept. 4. The barque Emmanuel is amongst the Australian-laden vessels reported lost. The vessels took large cargoes of wheat and other produce as well as coal from Australia.

Sporting.

SOUTH CANTERBURY JOCKEY CLUB

SECOND DAY,

Timaeu, Sept. 4 Concluding results: — Rhodes' Memorial Stakes, one mile— Welbeck 1, Whirlwind 2, Cameo 3, Won by half a length. Time— \.4A\. Divs— j Welbeck £2 ss, Whirlwind £2 16s. Tally-ho Steeplechase, ot 25 soys ; two \ miles—Hurricane 1, Te Kooti 2, Gambler 3. | Won easily. Div— £2 9s. ! Trot, of 30 soys; 1A mile—Mambrinq King 1, Deception 2, Little Bell 3. Divs— £2 3s and^l 7s. ' Hack Race—Lady Brandt 1, Cyclamen 2, Shooting Star 3. pir—£l 11s. Farewell—Secret Society 1, Clanbum 2, Ordnance 3. Won by a neck. Div—.£3 12s. The totalisator investments amounted to j £2208, the turnover for the two' days j showing an increase of £1024 10s in com parison with last season's receipts.

The Tenth Contingent Sensation.

STATEMENTS OF TROOPERS.

The sensational story published yester day of the fight between members of the Tenth New Zealand Contingent and certain of his Majesty's Imperial soldiers has caused a considerable amount of comment, and aroused not a little disbelief. That it is, however, true in all its esseurials cannot be doubted, for - trooper after trooper, when asked if he knows anything about it, says that there was a severe rough and tumble in Newcastle, and two of the "Tommies" lost their lives through it.- As it was almost purely a North Islander affair, the Canterbury men know only what they were told on the following morning, and their accounts vary more or less in regard to several unimportant points. Most of them have but a dim idea of the events which led up to the free fight, but a Christchurch " Star" reporter was fortunate enough yesterday morning to meet a returned North Islander who was thoroughly con versant with the facts. He explained that the New Zealanders were camped at Fort Hay, a short distance outside the township of Newcastle, and were j not allowed to leave the camp. They were under martial law, and the town was regu larly patrolled by the Munster Fusiliers. One night, soon after the declaration of' peace, a coaple of New Zealanders managed to get into the town, " a dirty little one- j horse place," consisting of one long and rather straggling street. Here, in the course of their wanderings to and fro they met a couple of " Tommies," and all four started oil " a night out." For some time they were the best of friends, but eventu ally the '• Tommies," in drunken foolish ness, turned and swore at their colonial comrades, launching forth at them a string of most opprobrious epithets, such as no self-respecting colonial could submit to. The New Zealanders proceeded to "deal with" their companions, and the first sounds of battle drew numbers of Colonials and Imperials to the spot, which was near the Town Hall, situated at one end of Newcastle's long street. The New Zealan ders, finding things getting rather warm for them, drew off, and retired to camp for reinforcements. These were quickly roused from their beds, and soon a motley crowd of New Zealanders, Canadians, and Austra lians sailed forth to give battle to the " Tom mies." '[ When the township was reached, a largobody of Munsters was encountered, and a fierce struggle began. The Colonials were armed for the most parb with stirrup irons, and "the "Tommies" with loaded "waddies," a few having swords or bay ouets. Prom one end of the 6treet to the other the fight raged, and many men were at least temporarily disabled, among these being the two who provoked the quarrel. What would have been the ultimate tfesult -of the affray is hard to estimate, for the Colonials were all incensed by the know ledgo that the " Tommies" hated them; but it was fortunately stopped by the ar rival of a number of officers, who ordered their men away. Sore hands were common on the following morning, but, so far as is known, only the original aggressors were really seriously hurt. Their condition was so bad that they died in the hospital very soon after the occurrence.

In connection with this affair, many of the troopers speak highly of the friendship existing between the colonial forces. They always helped one another along, and the Canadians, especially, come in for praise for their readiness to back up the New Zea landers on every occasion. If ever a New Zea lander and a Canadian were together, each would do all he could for the other, and most of the troopers look upon the soldiers of the Dominion as excellent comrades and true friends. Christchurch " Star,"

United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.

Christchurch, Sept. 4

Several officers and men of the Tenth Contingent, who were interveiwed regard ing the fight said to have taken place at Newcastle between New Zealanders and regulars, expressed the general opinion that the facts were greatly exaggerated. Nothing like two or three hundred New Zealanders took part, the majority of the irregulars being Australians and Canadians. Captaiu Luxford, chaplain with the South Island Battalion, state.* that he saw thii com men cement of the affray, which, in its initial stages, resembled an ordinary street row. Bad feoling had existed ■ between the regulars and the irregulara, and, un fortunately, the latter hooted the regulars, and a row which commenced in the after noon was renewed at night. He saw the Superintendent of Police next morning, and was informed that only two Dragoons were injui-od, and these not seriously. No one was killed. Another officer stated that the row was the fault, of the non-commission ed officer of. the Military Police, who subse quently lost his stripes. Captain Luxford denies that the New Zealanders used their flbirrup straps with the irons attached, as they were unmounted. He also denies that the Dragoons charged the irregulars.

At the presentation to Captain Fisher by the non-commissioned officers and men of the E Squadron of the Tenth Contingent, the statements about the alleged melee at Newcastle were given an emphatic denial. Captain Fisher said that the relations be tween the regulars and the colonials had always been most cordial.

Nelson, Sept. 4. Concerning the statement telegraphed from Wanganui in regard to the Tenth Contingent, the " Colonist" has informa tion that a brawl did occur, and ono of the Munsters received a blow on the head from a stick, but he was not believed to be seriously injured. Blenheim, Sept. 4.

The local members of the Teath Cion» tingent confirm the statement as to the melee at Newcastle. One member, who witnessed the whole affair, says that every word of the description in last night's tele gram is true. -

Wellington, Sept. 4,

Statements have been published by north ern papers as to the riot at Newcastle, in which the Tenth New Zealand troopers played a prominent part. It ,is stated that the town authorities ordered the Dragoon Guards to charge the New Zealanders and disperse them with the flat of their swords. The New Zealanders resisted, being assisted by reinforcements, and in the melee two Dragoon Guards were killed. A representa tive of the " Post" has seen some of the re turned troopers, and tlie story is in a mea ¥ sifre, qonnrnied by them, although, they say }t' has been exaggerated. Apparently there was no inquiry into the trouble.

REFERENCES IN THE HOUSE.

Wellington Sept. 4 In the House of Representatives this afternoon,

Mr James Allen asked Sir Joseph Ward if he knew anything of the accusations made in the " New Zealand Times " regard ing rioting by New Zealand troopers at Newcastle, Natal, being the statement made to the." Waimate Witness" by two officers of the Tenth Contingent. Sir Joseph Ward said that the statement was absolutely untrue in every detail, and the officer who was in charge of the men had called on the newspaper to officially contradict the statement. It did seem a pity that the other rumour published re garding the Australian troops-should have been sent out without confirmation.

Mr James Allen urged that; the names of those who made the statement should be published. Siir Joseph Ward said that it was merely a newspaper statement, but he would have inquiries made.

County Council.

The ordinary monthly meeting of the Ashburton County Council was held to-day. Present—Messrs C. J. Harper (chairman), J. Studholme, junr., J. Lambie, J. Johnston, W. Morgan, S. Chapman, Thos. Harrison, M. Stitt. ELECTION.

The Keturning Officer reported the elec tion of Mr Thomas Harrison for the Mount Somers riding.

THE KING. Before proceeding with the business of the day, the Chairman said he deemed it his duty to say- a few words in regard tothe recovery of the King,.-and his Coronation. He felt sure they w«re all deeply thankful that the King had recovered. He noted with pleasure that the Council was well represented at the local celebration of this historical event, the organisation of which, by the Coronation Committee, was a credit to all who undertook the work. He moved the following resolution: "This Council desires to place on record its great satisfac tion and thankfulness that; His Majesty, King Edward the VII., was sufficiently restored to health to be able to attend afc Westminster Abbey on August 9th for his Coronation." . _ This was seconded by Mr Lambie and unanimously.

engineer's bepobt. The Engineer's report; was read as fol lows * —""• Ashburton-Eakaia Water Snpply.—The supply from Pudding Hill stream has recently got so low that it is all required for the" races on the Eakaia side of the plain. Towards the end of August the river at intake of auxiliary channel de flected southwards, rendering necessary the formation of a new channel in the riverbed, o£ about ten chains in length. This caused a shortage, but for two days only. Tha supply at Acton intake on the Eakaia Eiver was also low fora few days, but it has now been fully restored. Several mains in the Wakanui district have been overhauled, and some fords have been repaired. The supply in the river at the Canterbury mill intake has been lower than is usual at this season of the year, but as the mill is only using one turbine at present, the deficiency has been but little felt,,and there has been an ample supply for the Borough, and suburban races, and all the others fed from the Wakanui Creek. The caretaker's cottage at mill intake is on the point of comple tion. Ashburton-Eangitata Water Supply.— The main from Westerfield has now been satisfactorily cleared, and there is a good supply from that source. The initial por tion of main from South Ashburton Biver has also been cleared, and a good supply turned into the district. The various lines of new races in Coldstream and Ealing districts have been completed with the. ex ception of some work at fords. The absorp tion in new races is less than might have been expected. The new branch races authorised for Lagmhor property have also been finished. There is now a good supply i from the Hinds Gorges. Mount Somers and Ashburton Forks i Supplies.—The supply for these districts is satisfactory. The protective work autho rised for the intake at Taylor's Stream is now nearly complete. The new branch race behind Mount Somers township ia

Main Race Ratigitata Gorge.-—The con tract works for clearing and securing the race in terraces are proceeding satisfac torily. A commencement will be made with the concrete work in Tioad race in abeut a fortnight, when the frosts, -which, at present are occurring almost nightly, may be expected to disappear. County Bridges.—Some minor repairs have been executed at Eakaia Gorge and other bridges in the upper district". Mr Norman is now arranging to start the pile driving at Stour Bridge, most of the materials for which are on the ground.

Footbridge over Bowyer's Stream at Staveley.—With reference to the letter of Mount Somers Road Board of Bth April last, and your request to furnish particulars, it appears this footbridge has been practi cally demolished by floods. To reinstate it six 20 feet spans; would be necessary, with a single ironbark" pile for each pier. The total cost, witfi handrails complete would be about £85. ; County Plantations. — The laying of poison for rabbits in tbo Ruapuna and Valetta plantations has been completed, and some will shortly be laid in plantations near Baling. The ranger's report re burn ning of part of lower end of Beserve 256*, Ansuna, is annexed. This was? caused by a tussock fire, and at least 1000 trees have been destroyed.! The ploughing of strips round plantations will be commenced shortly. The filling in ,of plantation at Pudding Hill has been completed. Tenders are invited for providing and planting trees at South Rakaia, Chertsey, and Ee creation Eeserve near mouth of Ashburton Eiver.

Protective work for Road in Riverbed, leading to Pudding Hill Bridge.^-As re quested, % met a deputation from, Mount Htitt Road Board, cm the gvou,nd 4 and after inspection it became evident that a diversion of the stream round the jutting point of Pudding Hill was not feasible. At some distance north'of this point, the cur rent deflects towards the opposite bank and is working northwards, so that a wide expanse of travelling shingle would have to be dealt with, if a deviation were attempted, and that nearly at right angles to the set of the stream—involving both great cost and risk. The members agreed, that it would be better to fortify the present -wil low protective work adjacent to the ifOajd, by repairing the gaps a*nd raising moipq4 behind the willow work from time to time, aa the exigencies' of floods might require. An expenditure of about .£25 would mean time repair the breaches made by the last high floods, of which cost, I understand, the Road Board would defray one-third. Poisoned Grain.—A further quantity of this has been prepared to meet the un usually large demand. I presume it will be advisable shortly to prepare a stock for next season. Judging by this seasons de mand, not less than 450 bushels will be necessary. Direct Road, Ealing.—This road is now available for sheep traffic. I presume therefore the Council will authorise the closiug of road line forming the south western boundary of reserve 1650 to its junctiqu with Ealfcg-Coidstream road, as requested by the Coldstream Koad Bo^rd." (Leff sitting.)

MYSTERIOUS FIRES.

ACTION OF THE INSURANCE COM-

PANIES.

Invercargill, Sept 4

Several fires have lately occurred in one of the main business blocks occupied by wooden structures. One destroyed the American Carriage Factory, and another caused considerable damage to Jopp's stables. Last night, another fire was df^ covered in an incipient stage in the pre mises ofR. Taylor, a saddler. The two back doors were saturated with kerosenej and set alight with paper. As a result, §oms insurance companies tq-day cancelled several policies, and probably others -rplt follow suit. The step has caused conster nation among the tenants, some of whom carry large stocks. The property belongs to Sir Joseph Ward and Thompson's Trus tees. ''

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN : FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 1902



F. FERRIMAN. ] " FOB SALE."" THE undersigned is instructed by Mb Moo die to sell -J acre of good land, fronting the Alford Foment Koad and corner of Andrew Street. Upon the land is erected a comfortable 4 roomed Cottage. Easy terms. F. FEKBIMAN, Land and Estate Agent. FOR SALE



A GOOD Building Site on the North- East Town Belt, containing two Eoods. The section is well stocked with fruit trees. F. FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent. " FOR~SrU-EP~ Charles Street near the Woollen Factory A GOOD Building Site, containing two Boode, planted with 70 fruit trees in full bearing. Easy terms can be arranged. F. FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent



FOR SALE. FARM ROAD, ALLENTOtf. AVERT Desirable Property comprising 5 acres good land, with family residence. Situated within easy distance of the Public School and Woollen Mills. Immediate occupation can be given, and easy terms of payment arranged. F. FEEEIMAN, Land and Estate Agent.



FOR SALE. ALLENTOisT. A DESIRABLE little property compris ing nearly A acre of land and a Dwelling of three rooms with double brick chimney. The property is for immediate sale and possession. P. FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent "fhk sale. I AITKEN STREET, ASHBURTOK. A VERY Desirable little Home, replete with eravy convenience, compris ing five rooms, pantry, bathroom, and detached washhouse. Water laid on from windmill to washhouse and bathroom. The land is nicely laid out in gardens, and well stocked with fruit trees. Easy terms and immediate possession can be given. F. FERRIMAN, Land and Estate Agent.



FOR SALE, CHARLES STREET, near the WOOLLEN MILLS, ALLENTON. I HAVE for sale a comfortable dwelling house of Six Rooms, situated within three minutes' walk of the Woollen Mills. The land comprises two acres and other improvements consist of Good Stabling and Poultry Yards. The Property is for immediate sale, and is well worth inspection. Full particulars can be obtained from F. FEREIMAN, Land and Estate Agent. FOR SALE. Near the Alford Forest Road. A FOUR-ROOMED HOUSE and Section planted with Fruit Trees. Price .£l3O F. FEERIMAN.



- BUSINESS NOTICES. OUB FIRST CONSIGNMENTS kj JL .» 1111 \J\ 9 : : GOODS Are Now Being Opened —:O: —



SOMETHING new in every department, our Prints being especially attractive. 2000 Yards at 4|d per yard, and warranted fast colors One Shilling in the Pound Discount allowed on all Cash Purchases



ASIBUETON DRAPERY CO H GRESHAM, SURGEON AND HECHANICAB DENTIST. By Examination, October, 1897 Tf/" IGHT years experience with E. G. and I* P. W. Gresham, Dentists, Dunedin and Invercargill. Has commenced practice in rooms upatairs from the entranco 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 work guaranteed. ■ Houbs of Attendance —9 a.m. —5 p.m. Private Residence—Care Mrs Geant, Wills Street.



Sale. Sale. Of. Tobacco, Cigars, Cigarettes, Pipes, Cigarette Holders, etc HAVING Bought all stock from Mr P. Clark at a Great Seduction for Cash, I am going to give the public the benefit of same by selling all Goods at Ridiculously Low Prices. Pipes from 3d, Cigarettes 3 packets for Is, Walking Sticks from <kl, Pocket Knives from 6d. Collar Studs, Links, Tobacoo Pouches, etc., for next to nothing. Now's Your Time—Don't Forget, at H. A. FLOWER'S, ('ate F Clark's; Tobacconist and Hairdresser, East: Street



R. CLARK, ! CARRIAGE PAINTEIR, ! FIVE Years with A. G. Howland, Christ- ; church; seventeen years with J. R. } and F. and H. Steel. \ The present is an excellent time to have j your Vehicle Painted, etc., in first class i style. Lowest prices. j Charges consistent with good workman \ hip. All leather work attended to. f ; A Trial Solicited. j Address—Opposite Church of England, • Tancred Street West. I SALES may come and sales may go \ then the question is—Where to get good, sound, honest value the year round. Try H. C. Barrett's Drapery, Clothing, and Boot Warehouse. Discount at the rate of one shilling in the pound to Cash j Buyers of any amount over nine pence [ worth. ||[ ( I: moke New Venus I



• TTIRESH Supplies of Sandow's Strength, jJJ Kingswood Cookery, Pitman's Com ! plete Instructor, High Speed in Shorthand, I Books of Recitations, Tennyson's Poems Is i Edition, Robbery Under Arms cheap cdi ] tion, The War, causes and conduct; Heads I and How to Rend Them, Black Kock, Sky I Pilot, Men of Glengarry, Penelope's Ex s periences in England and Ireland, Hound i of the Baskervilles, The New Egg Farm, i and many others.—A. T. H. Williams. ANTED -Poultry for Export in any quantities.—W. Stontbb, Tancred Street. | TTUST landed ex '• Delphis " and " Mam f*J ari," shipments of first-class English ( China and earthenware, which we asß ! offering at less than Christchurch prices.— ' Carson and Co.



' BUSINESS NOTICES. gKIIiIS T-DRINKEES Jiji| mkk\dv plJte THIS delicious it! jJJkWM /itivt r\v jtt^^W " CEYLOiS " Kl^^^-ffi^SSfS ASHBUJITON. --«. ■ .i^M-^^^^^^^Sstl , . ;„



T WISH to draw attention to the Superior Make of— , —Leads, Linseed Oils, & Varnishes,— Exhibited in my window, and used by me lor House Painting or Selling to People to Paint their own Houses with, I say, %vithout tear of contradiction, that they are the Best and Most Genuine Paints Made. I Stock everything required for HOUSE PAINTING or PAPEKHAftGING J. WILBO N , ! BURNETT STREET.



BICYCLE TYRES .Just Landed— Continent 1 Vulcanised Tyres. A BSOLUTELY the best wearing and lightest running Tyre ever made. Fits any machine. Price 25s each. Admitted by Experts to be tbe most serviceable Cover ever invented. PUMP CLIPS.—We have a grand assortment of all the latest in Pump Clips, Toe Clips, etc. Hill's improved " INSTAISTER," with locking device, 2s per pair. No rattle whatever, und so neafc and light. : Enamelling and Plating Department. : Now fs the time to have your Bike overhauled, enamelled, and plated, etc. Our Enamelling and Pktlng Plant is the most up-to-d ite in New Zealand, hence our success in obtaining tho highest awards wherever exhibited. ; Largest Cycle Makers and Importers in New Zealand Branch—Burnett Street



CHAIRS W^^^mL chairs 3s 3d Each. 3s 3d Each (Over 600 Chairs in Stock, in some 30 different kinds) ■VHTE ARE JUST OPENING A LARGE ASSORTMENT OF— w American Chairs at from 3s 3d each, a good strong caair Austrian Cane Seat from 5s 9d (G bolts) a splendid chair Canadian, a grand chair for hard wear, a few dozen at 5s 6d each Colonial Wicker Chairs from 9s to 18s, large sizes Fancy I'ith and Rush Chairs at lowest prices Drawing Room Suites in Tapestry and Plush from ,£7 10s Dining Room Suites in Tapestry from £7 Dining Room Suites in Leather from £8 These Goods are our own Make —Good and Strong Bedsteads & Bedding at your own Prices. (OUR OFFER TO COUNTRY CLIENTS IS STILL GOOD.) T. H. UiNDRILL & CO., Complete House Furnishers, Next Building Society, Tancred Street, Ashburton.



# _© fIIHE LEADING Establishment for Well-made Fashionable Clothing. Hats, Caps, Ties, Shirts, Collars, etc. HEW GOODS FOE THE SUMMEE SSASOF, Including all the Latest Novelties, WILL BE OPENED EARLY NEXT MONTH. New Zealand Clothing Factory,



raf^O FOB jp f^O <5b70 for £b&Vp , -jTUST arrived—Case Sample Clothing, tJ contains Men's and Boys' Suits, Trousers and Knickers, Vests, Shirts, etc. Bought at 15s in the £, for immediate sale. Single article at wholesale price. All plain figures. % W. H. PEARCE, Cash Draper and Clothier. ~O EMNANTS aud o.dd lines to be cleared JLLi Cheap to make room for new goods. W. H. PEARCE, Draper. Corner Burnett and East Streets. ~T OVELY Luces 4:} d and 6sd. Lot H X trimmed Aprons (soiled) from Is 4d Hem stiched Handkerchiefs 6 for Is.



W. H. PEARCE Gash Draper & Clothier. SALES may c,om,e and sales may go, then tho question is—Where to get good, sound, honest yalue the year round 1 '"vy H. C. Barrett's Drapery, Clothing, and Boot Warehouse. Discount; at the rate of one shilling in the pound to Cash Buyers of any amount over nine pence worth. PERFECTION Oil Stoves.—New Stock just landed. Customers who have been waiting can now be supplied.—Cakson & Co., Agents. Bmokp I^ew Venus



Sander and Sons Eucalypti Extract— Under the distinguished patronage ©f 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 njsw foisted upon the public under the n irne of Kucalypti Extracts, may not be mistaken for Sander and Sons' Pure Volatile Euca lypti Extract, we state: —It is proved by tests made by the Medical Clinice of the Universities at Bonn and Griefswald )Prussia), that only products that are saturated with oxygen and freed of acids, resinous and othci substances adherent to primary distillation, will develop the curative properties possessed by the plant.' To avoid the appalling consequences result ing from the application of substitutes, ets, in Group, bronchitis, diphtheria, dysentery; internal inflammation, etc., insist on getting' Sander and Sons' Pure Volatile Euca ltpti Extract and be safe.



Every person who has tried TUSSICURA says the same thing. It is absolutely infallible in all cases.



For Asthniatical troubles of any kind the only certain specific is Evans' Mountain King Asthma Powder. The " Handy Man's " a jolly fellow, I Be it war or be it peace; I And he's not the first to bellow [ That all fighting ought to cease. : Although his life's in danger ever, Against bad health, he should ensnre; To cure all colds is our endeavour ' With the Woods' Great Peppermint Cure. ■ ':- '<-;- Wade's Worm Pigs—the Wonderful Worm Worriers—are always effeotive. Is boxes every where !



FACIAL BLEMISHES, The effect of the heavy dull winter, is[ reflected in one's face in the. spring. In $he Winter the dietary scale tends to pro duce certain irregulurities of the stomach, arid these are manifested in the Spring months in pimples, blotches, boils, and blackheads, which are a blemish to beauty. These skin eruptions show theUver and kidneys are not performing their func tions in a healthy way, and that it is time | to take Impey's May Apple the ideal family medicine. This agreeable vegetable mcdi ! cine is absolutely safe and reliable. It' genily moves the bowels, stimulates th lQ liver, and thoroughly cleanses the systenv %\\X§ 'valuable, tnedioins majf be taken with absolute confidence and safety by the most delicate persons. Sold everywhere at 2s 6d per bottle, or post free from the wholesale agenti~Shariand and Co,, Ltd., Wellington