MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALE. To-Morrow. Alfred Harrison, on the Premises, Burnett street, at 12.30 —Household Furniture, Ac., of Mr. J. D. Penny.

The Ashburton Herald AND Borough and County Advertiser (With which is incorporated the “ Evening Echo”). TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 1879.

The Rivers. —The Ashburton was yes terday flooded by the late rains, and the crossings on the river were uncomfortably > high for equestrians. We notice that the line at Otaio has again gone.

The Hyde Family. —The Gqqd Tern plars of Ashburton have decided to show their sympathy in the cause of charity by holding an entertainment in the Templar Hall on Monday, December 15th, the proceeds to be given for the benefit of the family of Mr. Hydes, the heaviest sufferers by the late fire. A good pro gramme has been arranged, and a price within the reach of all has been fixed for admission, and we hope to see a good at tendance in so good a cause. T.O.G.T.—The weekly meeting of the Dawn of Feace Lodge was held last even ing. The Grand Lodge Representative, Mr. Sando, attended and requested infor mation on any business the lodge might wish him to support in the Grand Lodge during the session about to open. . A dis cussion ensued on the qualifications re quired to entitle a member to the Grand Lodge degree. Ultimately it was decided to request Bro. Sando to support a liberal measure that appeared on the business sheet of the Grand Lodge, making the Grand Lodge degree obtainable by all good and loyal members, on the basis of time. The entertainment Committee for the benefit of Mr. Hyde, who suffered by the late fire, reported that they had decided on holding the entertainment next. Mon day evening, the 15th inst., and it was resolved that the lodge at its rising do adjourn to Monday, Dec. 22, so as to allow the entertainment to be held on the 16th. The lodge having closed in due form, a degree meeting was held when one member was admitted to the 3rd degree. Mr. Jones, of Timaru, D.C., gave a very hopeful account of the progress of Good Templary in the Timaru district. Rakaia Sports. —At a meeting of the Rakaia Sports Committee on Saturday evening, held in Mr. Partridge’s Hotel, there was a good attendance, and satifac tory progress was reported by those who had : taken charge of subscription lists. About LSO had been promised and further contributions were expected. The pro moters of the sports are confident that the meeting will be a very successful one,, and as the prizes will be attractive, a silver cup being amongst the number, some good men may be expected to enter the lists.

Rakaia and Ashburton Forks Rail way. —This railway is now within 30 chains of the terminus, and is expected to be completed next month. Notice has already been given to Government that the line will be ready for passenger traffic on the 15th January, and it is anticipated a formal opening will take place about that time. At present, goods and produce can be taken up and down the line, which appears to work very well.

The Masonic Hall.— The ceremony of laying the foundation stone of the Masonic Hall, in course of erection at the corner of William and Tancred streets, will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 30., at high noon. There is expected to be a large attendance of members from other lodges, and the ceremony, which is an impressive one, will be well worth witnes sing. The pouring out of the coin, and the wine, and the oil, we hope, will be emblematical on this occasion of better times in store —for tlie first part of the business at any rate. Fire near Chertsey. —A fire occurred about half-past eight on Friday morning in a cottage occupied by the persons who have leased on Mr. Packer’s property about three miles from the township. The occupants of the cottage, four in number, lost the whole of their belongings, includ ing watches, and a considerable amount of money, besides the whole of the clothing of the party. Mr. M'Causland, the owner of Orange Feel, lost his riding saddle, besides a considerable amount of money. The total loss is estimated at about £2OO.

Chertsey. —A public meeting is to be held in the Chertsey schoolroom on Thursday evening next, the 11th inst., to consider the proposed Property Bill, now before the House. A great many persons interested consider the Land Tax far preferable, and a good meeting may be anticipated.

Arrival of English Ships. —On Sunday the ship Hurunui, from London on the 14th August, arrived at Lyttelton after a fair passage. She brings in all 250 passengers, and during the voyage five deaths occurred and one birth. Four of the deaths were of children, and the fifth was that of Mrs. Emma Davidson, who died of puerperal fever. Yesterday, the Lady Jocelyn, ship, arrived at Lyttelton from London via Plymouth, which she left on the 30tli of August. No deaths occurred on the voyage, but the passenger list was increased by four births. She brings 43 saloon passengers and 406 immi grants.

POLITICAL GOSSIP.

PROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT. Wellington, Dec. 9. The Native Prisoners Bill was opposed by Sir G. Grey and his most obsequious followers until two o’clock this morning, after which the House wentinto Committee on the Property Assessment Bill, and some hard fighting took place over clause 21. Mr. Saunders carried his Exemption of agricultural machinery from taxation against the Government, but the beneficial effect of his amendment was much better by an addition of the words “ in actual use,” which the Government carried against him by a narrow majority. This leaves the tax on agricultural machinery in the hands of salesmen and will of course reduce the price to the farmer. The land owner is required to pay a tax on a sum equal to four times the rental instead of twenty times the rental as proposed in the Bill. Mr. Saunders could not carry the exemption of draught and breeding horses, and was fighting against odds for the exemption of steum engines, and all machinery, when the Colonial Treasurer retired with hiss Bill at daylight this morning, No. 21 clause being still under discussion.

ASHBURTON LICENSING COURT.

Tuesday, Dec. 9.

Before Messrs. F. Guinness (Chairman), and H. T. Winter and C. P. Cox, Com missioners. MRS. BUTTLER’s NEW HOTEL. Mr. Crisp appeared in support of the application. It appeared that the build ings were not yet completed, but would be within a fortnight, and the Bench resolved that the license should be granted on Jan

i»t, 1880, if the house wau thou IHiishad to the satisfaction of the police. NEW HOUSE AT METHVEN. Mr. Robert Patton applied for a license for a house at Methven. This applccation had been made iu June, and adjourned to September; but owing to the illness of Sergeant Felton, who had promised to see to the matter, and the long distance at which the applicant lived from Ashburton, the matter had lapsed. After argument, the Bench allowed Mr. Purnell to make a formal application, and the Court would be adjourned for a month to consider the name. The house would cost from LI,BOO to L2,Q00, and would be called the Meth ven Hotel.

TRANSFER oe license. The transfer of the Hindhope Hotel from Max Friedlander to Robert Little was confirmed.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT

ASHBURTON.— Tuesday, Dec. 9.

(Before Mr. F. Guinness, R.M.) BREACH OF ‘ ‘PRIVILEGE. ” A. Rhodes was charged with embezzling 100 race cards, the property of James Wilkie. The compainant stated that he gave the boy now in Court 40, and after wards 60, race cards on the 19th Nov. last, and did not see him again till that day. Had not received any money from him. Did not wish to press the case as the boy was young, and he had reason to believe that older rogues had put the boy put up to the embezzlement. The accused said he had only got <3 cards —40 at first and then an order for 60, but the printer had only 33 ready when he took the order to him. M!r. Wilkie here said that he believed such was the probable state of the case, and the charge was dismissed. —the Magistrate reading Rhodes a lecture, and recommend ing him to reinburse the amount he had taken. CIVIL CASES. Montgomery and Co. v. Ford —Claim L 7 16s. Judgment confessed. Escott v. Masson. Claim Ll2 12s. Mr. Branson for defendant. Mr. Escott deposed to having supplied the goods. By Mr. Branson —I recollect the firm of Masson and Grant. They were largely indebted to me. I purchased Grant out for a LIOO. The firm then became Mas son and Co. They opened an account with me. Masson and Co. supplied me with bread to a large amount. I even tually retired from the firm. I recollect Masson giving a deed of assignment to C. Reed. Masson and I squared accounts previous to the deed being given so far as the partnership was concerned, but not with respect to his private account. The goods sued for were sold during the part nership. Robert Masson defendant—Had an in terview with Escott before giving a deed of assignment to Reed. He asked me to square accounts between us. Escott owed the firm L 156 ; and Mas sou and Co. owed Escott L 135. On squar ing up I credited the amount in my books, but there were no particulars given in set tling up. All the accounts were settled in a lump sum. His Worship nonsuited plaintiff with costs. THE GRAND STAND AFFAIR. Struthers v. Campbell, Wilkie, and Friedlander.—Claim, LIOO, for damages sustained by plaintiff through not being allowed to collect certain privileges at the racecourse, and for assault. Mr Joyce for plaintiff, Mr Branson for defendant. Tlios. Struthers, livery stable keeper— I attended a sale at Campbell’s sale rooms, and bought the grand stand and saddling paddock for the Ashburton races. James Campbell, auctioneer, was called —Remember the sale of privileges of races. I produce the conditions of sale. lam sued for assaulting the plain tiff on 19th Nov. I was in Christchurch that day. Mr. Struthers’ evidence continued —I purchased subject to the conditions of sale. Mr. Campbell read the conditions — “ Press men and Committee ” were the words read out. I bought the privileges for Ll 5. I paid the money to Mr. Jameson the day after the sale. On the day of the races I employed two men to look after the gates for me, and looked after the stand myself. A number of men rushed past me, and said they were sub scribers. I let them past for the first race, but at the second race I endeavored to stop them, and was forcibly polled off the stairs by Messrs. R. Friedlander and Wilkie. There was a crowd of people about at the time. I then went and got my receipt. They would not allpw me to go on collecting. On the secofid day I went again. Mr. Wilkie told me not to collect money, and there were men col lecting money on account of the Club. Cross-examined by Mr. Branson—l saw Mr. Campbell reading from a paper at the sale. I listened attentively t® all he said. He read all the clauses through. Those now read are correct except that the word “ committeemen” was used, and not “members.” I was close enough to hear all Mr. Campbell said. I did not move during the sale. I was there be fore the sale. I paid the Ll sto Mr. Jameson. I understood lie was Treasurer. When Mr. Friedlander came on the stand he had a blue ribbon on his coat. I think I saw about twenty persons wearing blue ribbons. I don’t know what a blue ribbon indicates. I have been on race courses before. About a hundred made application to get up free. I did not use any words to the effect that I would not allow Stewards, Committee, or any one else to go up free. (Left sitting).

TELEGRAPHIC.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

{Age Special.) London, Dec. 6.

The “Times” has expressed grave doubts of the wisdom of the New Zealand loan.

Sir P. Julyan has resigned the Crown Agency for New Zealand. He advised the floating of half the loan immediately, and the balance in twelve months, con sidering the market unfavorable. Govern ment demurred to this.

Tenders will shortly be invited for the South Australian loan of two millions.

Crennan has been lodged in Kilmanham gaol. Latest news from the Cape states that Sir Garnet Wolseley telegraphs that the

*... — — r .—- —•• • _ „ . _ have m attempts at hostility, and are better dis-; ■posed. The settlers are holding meetings calling on the Imperial Government to grant a constitution. . . ° The Hon. W. E. Gladstone, _ m his rectorial speech at Glasgow University, was brilliantly and enthusiastically re ceived. In addressing a political meeting in Glasgow, he denied opposing Govern ment for the sake of office, but the country demanded justice in dealing with foreign nations, and economy financially, and reforms generally. . The New Zealand consolidated 4 5 de bentures fell to 94 on Dec. 5.

; (Special.) London, Dec. 6. Three per eent. consols 971. New Zealand, 10-40, five per cent, loan 101. The wool sales have closed. 127,800 bales were catalogued during the series.. It is reported that the Empress Eugenie is going to Zululand to visit the place where the Prince Imperial fell. Glasgow, Dec. 6.

Mr. Gladstone in his final speech vehemently denounced the Government policy, especially the Afghan war, which he characterised as dastardly. Vienna, Dec. 6.

The Lower House has passed a Bill for raising the Austro-Hungarian army to 800,000 men.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Reuter’s Telegrams.) Sydney, Dec. 8. The trial of the bushrangers is proceed ing. The Exhibition Stock Show takes place to-morrow. Sailed— Rotorua, on Saturday, for New Zealand. Melbourne, Dec. 8.

Government have consulted ten coun sel to ascertain whether a statutory majority was obtained on Thuisday. Messrs. Michie, Webb, and Williams, have expressed opinions adverse to Go vernment. The opinions of the others are unknown.

[Special.) Sydney, Dec. 8.

Two ladies were drowned in the harbor by the upsetting of a boat. Two men who were with them were saved. They supported the girls for half an hour in sight of the passengers on the Manly steamer. Her boat was lowered, but it was leaky, and got swamped. The bushrangers display great levity at their trial.

Melbourne, Dec. 8.

It is stated that Government, as an out come of the recent division, intend to sub stitute a moderate Reform Bill, or perhaps subject the Council’s to amendment. Four barristers consulted are known to have ex pressed opinions adverse to Government. The general opinion of the Bar is against the position taken up by the Ministry. Cable advices substantiate the rise in iron.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

Wellington,,Dec. 8.

The steamer Penguin, which left atone o’clock for Auckland, via East coast, has just returned, one of her boiler tubes having burst. The estimates of the public works have have been recast since the news was re ceived of the floating of the five million loan, and in consequence the delivery of the Statement ha 3 been postponed until to-morrow.

Fifty of the Arethusa’s immigrants have been sent to Wanganui, and 50 to Foxton.

It is believed His Excellency has aban doned the idea of going to Sydney for the present. The steamer Penguin will complete re pairs, and leave again this evening. At the Magistrate’s Court Denis M‘Cormack was charged , with stabbing Mr. and Mrs. Flannagan.' Owing to the latter being unable to attend prisoner was remanded.

At the Supreme Court, in Chambers, this afternoon, the Chief Justice made an order compelling inspectors of police to hand over to the New Zealand creditors the property taken from Gleich at the time of hisarrestforfraudulent bankruptcy at Adelaide. The order was made in con sequence of the Appeal Court having decided that the New Zealand creditors had preference over the Adelaide creditors by Gleich having changed his domicile by visiting England. The certificated accountants in bank ruptcy have adopted a letter to the Cham ber of Commerce, in which that body is requested to use its influence in having Mi’. Berry, one of the accountants, strcck oft’ the roll.

Arrived —Kiwi and Auroro, from East Coast ; Fanny Thornton, from Grey mouth ; Martha Reid, from Oamaru. Sailed—Southern Cross, for Auckland via East Coast ; Falcon, schooner, for Greymouth. Wanganui, Dec. 8.

The Italian who assaulted Dr. Earl on Saturday, proceeded to the racecourse and burned down the fencing there, setting fire to it in twenty places. He then threatened the custodian with a knife. He was captured bv the police near the Heads on Saturday. A shoemaker named Henderson, from the West Coast, stabbed Mr. Poole, land lord of the Maxwell Town Hotel. The wound is not very serious. On Saturday morning a man named John Pekarwet was drowned in Wanga nui River. He took a horse into the river and fell over the bank into deep water.

Christchurch, Dec. 8. The man Hindman, who was injured at the Port on Saturday, died to-day. Timaru, Dec. 8.

The weather during the last 48 hours has been very boistrous. Heavy rain has fallen damaging the crops, flooding rivers, and washing away a portion of the rail way line at Otaio. Oamaru, Dec. 8.

At a meeting of the Naseby-Oamaru Railway Committee it was decided to take immediate steps to urge upon the Members for the district the making of a special effort to have LSOO placed upon the Sup plementary Estimates for a survey, with a view to ascertaining the best route for continuing the Livingstone line from Livingston® to Strath taieri, on the Kye burn Flat.

Dunedin, Dec. (8. The Dunedin Jockey Club to-day re ceived a letter from Mr. H. P. Lance,

Club,' ‘j^i';plac r ti ’of Mr. Moore. . '•. Shearing has been commenced in the Lakes district. The. price is 15s. per hundred. . \

Mr. W. A. Crombie, late manager the Dunedin tramways has been appoihted Goods Traffic Manager here, vice Mr. W. C. Norman, resigned. Invercargill, Dec. 8.

The sitting of the Supreme Coure com menced to-day, before Justice Williams. The only case heard was one against PatrickM £ Manamain, charged with feloni ously killing a horse. He was acquitted]

SUEZ MAIL NEWS.

(Per Sydney Mail Steamer at Auck land. ) London, Oct. 8. Political canvassing is going on in view of a general election. Professor Fawcett, speaking on the Irish question, said it was better for the Liberal party to he excluded from office until its youngest members were grey with age than that it should obtain power by any compromise with the Home Rulers that would lead to a dismemberment of the Empire. Sir M. Hicks-Beach, speaking at Bir mingham, defended the annexation of the Transvaal, and showed that the Liberals offered no opposition at the time the measures were taken.

Lord Lyttelton, at the Liberal banquet, said that if the Liberals were returned to power the Afghan policy would be reversed, Cyprus would be given up, and the national finance placed in a sound con dition.

The Tranmere baby farming case has been concluded, the Bayne’s having been convicted of manslaughter and sent into penal servitude tor life. Russian papers state that if war occurs between China and Japan, Russian sym pathy will be with China. Information received at New York ad vises that the commander of the United States war steamer Hackawanga, from the Samoan Islands, states that if Sir Arthur Gordon annexed Samoa, or es tablished an English protectorate, it was intended to protest against the annexa tion of Pagopago Harbor, and its use as a coaling station, and he would take his vessel there to protect the station if necessary. Adolphus Rosenbury, the publisher of “Town Talk,” has been sentenced to eighteen months’ imprisonment for libels on Mr. and Mrs. Langtry, and has en tered into recognisances of LIOO to keep the peace for eighteen months after the expiration of the sentence. For a libel on Lord Londesborough he was also sen tenced to six months, and to six months for a libel on Mrs. Cornwallis West. The Judge regretted being unable to add hard labor to the sentence, and said the prisoner’s should not have been treated as a first class misdemeanor, but as a felony. The printer of the paper was ordered to enter into recognisances of LIOO to appear for judgment when called upon. Indian advices to Nov. 7, state that rewards have been offered for the capture of men concerned in the attack on the Presidency at Cabul. The rewards are graduated thus : —SO rupees for sepoys, 75 rupees for a captain, 100 rupees for a field officer. '

A committee has been appointed in India to arrange for the despatch and col lection of Indian contributions to the Melbourne Exhibition.

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

(Per City of New York at Auckland.)

At a special parade of the Sydney police, rewards were announced to Ser geants Carroll, of LIOO, Cai-sman, L 75 ; constables, each L6O ; Williams and M'Donald, civilians, for conveying intel-. ligence, LSO, and L 25. Moonlight told visitors that since his confinement lie has held spiritualistic communication with the deceased Nesbitt.

(Per Arawata at the Bluff.)

The following additional Australian news was brought by the Arawata :

Moonlight conceived the idea of organ ising a gang to stick up the mail steamer, sailing from Adelaide as steerage pas sengers. The plan was to induce the Lascar crew to mutiny and seize the officers and vessel. Moonlight wanted then to force the bullion room, and compel the Lascars to take the gang and plunder ashore.

October Ist is definitely fixed for the inauguration of the Exhibition. A pro bable premium of fifty guineas for the words of an inaugural cantata, and ore hundred guineas for the best musical com position will be offered. Berry refuses to provide endowments for municipal bodies. New South Wales.

A fatal coach accident occurred near Maitland. The driver fell off in fit and the horses bolted, the coach capsized, a young lady was killed, and several others seriously injured. Rust has appeared in several places, and is expected to affect the crops, which are large. A fire at Greenfell destroyed property worth £IO,OOO. The township was saved with difficulty. Twelve horses were burned.

Alexander Stewart, member for East Sydney, has accepted the Agent-General ship. A Bill to legalise the totalisator on race courses was introduced.

Dent, late pay-master to the Sydney City Council embezzled LBOO. The sale of exhibits at the garden palace is strictly prohibited. Entries for Sydney Cattle Show for December 18th, are not numerous.

The Catholic agitation in opposition to the Education Bill is unabated.

PARLIAMENT.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

Monday, Dec. 8. In the Council to-day, after the routine business, Colonel Whitmore gave notice to move that the Agent-General ought to be ap pointed for a limited term, fixable by Parliament.

Mr. Whitaker’s General Harbor Act Amendment Bill was read a first time.

The Native Affairs Committee reported on apetition re the Kinross case, that the Council ought to allow its officers to appear as witnesses in any future trial, or

USSR.. - ,%%%*ss Mr, lihu'OfeS, Tlii?'import WiiS to by seven lion, members, who asserted that it condemned Mr. Kinross unheard. There was upon this a discussion lasting. over an 'hour, in which twelve members took part, after which the debate was adjourned on a division, by 22 votes to 10. <’ ; . The Council rose at a quarter to 5. ;pq

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES;.

Monday, Dec. 8. The House met at 7.30 p.m. THE AGENT-GENERAL.

Mr. Hislop gave notice of a motion to the effect that it was incompatible with the office of Agent-General for the colony to take part in Imperial politics. THE SPECIAL WIRES. In reply to Mr. M‘Lean, Mr. Hall said that. pending definite arrangements being made with certain newspapers in the special wire business, arrangements had been made for enabling these papers to obtain telegraphic informa tion. REWI. Replying to a question by Mr. Kelly, Mr. Bryce said, his attention had been directed to a letter which had ap peared in a newspaper to the effect that Rewi had joined the King party. He did not believe there was any truth in the statement. A request had been re ceived from him ' some time ago, that, as he was going to the King country, and had met with an acci dent, a carriage should be placed at Ins disposal. That request was complied with, and Government had no reason to believe he was in any way displeased with Go vernment. The letter in question had been received by one of the Maori mem bers, not from Rewi, but from a friend of his. The letter had been left in the mem ber’s office and in that way it had been got hold of by the newspapers. Te Wheoro said that he was the mem ber referred to. The letter stated that Rewi was displeased with the ment, and that he would not return' to the European side, and that those chiefs who had been instrumental in turning oft’ Grey from the Government must be left to carry on the Government of the coun try. These were the contents of the let ters, but he did not know how they got into the newspapers.

SIR PENROSE .TULYAN , “ In reply to a question by Mr. Gis bourne.

Mr. Hall stated that Sir Penrose Jul yan had retired from the Loan agency ship, on a petition, and there was no truth in the statement which appeared in the newspapers to the effect that a difference of opinion had arisen between him and the Government, such difference having occasioned the retiral. THE END APPROACHING. Replying to Mr. Macandrew, . Mr. Hall stated he would be prepared to state to-morrow what business was to be dropped, so as to bring the session to a close within the next few days. Mr. Macandrew suggested for the con sideration of Government that business so dropped should be taken up next session —both public and private business, as it stood on the Order Papei\ REVISION OR STATUTES. Mr. Hall moved the second reading of the Revision of Statutes Bill. Mr. Stewart called the attention of Government to the importance of making pecuniaiy provision for the publication of the “Jurist.” He pointed out that in the absence of such a publication there could be no uniformity of procedure in the various courts. The work could not be efficiently done by private enterprise. No one whose reports were at all trust worthy would undertake the work unless well paid, and in the present state of the colony the profits arising from such a pub lication would not be sufficient to warrant a suitable person undertaking the task.

The Bill was read a second time. MAORI PRISONERS BILL.

The adjourned debate on the Confiscated Lands and Maori Prisoners Bill was re sumed.

Mr. Turnbull opposed the Bill, and spoke strongly against the Maori prisoners being kept in prison for such a length of time without being brought to trial. Major Te Wheoro also objected to the Bill, and stated if passed, the Maori pi’isoners might be kept in custody with out being tried for years. They had been already in prison six months, and after all it might turn out they were in the right. He argued that they ought to be brought to trial forthwith. Captain Norris supported the Bill.

Tainui opposed it, and argued that the prisoners should be brought to trial at once. The charge should • not be kept hanging over their heads in the way it had been done. Mr. Sutton supported the Bill.

i Sir George Grey said the measure was calculated to shake the confidence of the native race in the justice.of our courts of law. Mr. J. B. Fisher contended that the men now lying in prison had done no thing to render them amenable to the criminal law, as they had simply asserted a fancied right. The Bill as it stood was not calculated to obviate the abuses com plained of. He moved as an amendment that the Bill be read that day six months. Mr. Seddon supported the second read ing, and expressed a hope that when it became law it would do justice alike to all. Mr. Sheehan supported the second read ing. If they refused to pass the Bill, and allowed the natives to return to Parihaki, a native disturbance was imminent. Certain mistakes in the Bill could be remedied in Committee. He considered the policy enunciated in the ' Bill was the policy of the late Government, and one which was absolutely necessary if they desired to prevent a native war. Mr. Hislop opposed the Bill.

Mr. Bryce, replying, said it was the opinion of Government that it would be a most dangerous thing to relieve the prisoners under existing circumstances. The late Government had a similar opinion. A motion for the second reading was then put, and on a division was carried, Ayes, 37 ; noes, 12. The House then went into Committee on the Bill.

(By Telegraph to-day.)

Last night the Confiscated Land and Maori Prisoners Trial Bill passed through Committee without material alteration.

The Property Assessment Bill in Com mittee passed •to clause 21. The only material alteration made was agricultural implements actually in use added to the exemption clause. The House adjourned at 3 a.m.

THE DOCTOR OF ALCANTARA.

For first tiinejn Ashburton an opei'ft was: presented finviihe boards of the Town Hall last night, UThankk'to the manage ment, some scenery was provided from Christchurch,'..which ,tended in no small degree to relie veilie bareness of our stage ; and this” innovation was much appreciated by the large audience that assembled. The laurels won by the company in Christ church for' their -rendering of Eisch berg’s- “ Doctor of Alcantara ” were in no way tarnished by the performance of last night, every performer striving to the uttermost to make the performance the immense success it proved. Mr. Towle presided at the piano, arid bonductedlhe!«£« instrumental portion of ( the opera with f that accuracy and taste he has beenso' long noted for.’, .The opera,-opens with . a ... charming serenade, in which .Cmios ( Mr. . 0. Florence),..assisted by a. chorus, 'made W a great hit. Three ladies, namely, Donna Lucrezia .(Mrs.; Charles Florence), ? / Isabella, her daughter (Miss Jenny Thorn),’ and Inez, her maid (Miss Beatrice), theirr. enter, each thinking the serenade in tended for themselves. The scene, is apartment overlooking a river, the niglifc i being partially illumined by the rays of ,a; Sf ’ full moon. After some pretty concerted ’" music, the ladies recognize eacßqthergandr mutual accusations follow, each, however, ' being secretly impressed with; i the , idea that the charming melody, has, ,been in- r tended to soften her own especial' The charming naivete of Miss Beatrice’s acting in the part of Inez in this scene' was delicious, and was thoroughly, appreciated q,. by the spectators. Miss. -Thorne saiig'lan *' aria, “Beneath the gloomy convent walls,” with great taste, but Inez’s, solo,, “When aloverispoor,” was listenedto, with,’ wrapt attention, and would undoubtedly have been encored had not the succeeding' music attracted the attention' of the j,’ audience. Two porters then enter,-,bear- - ing a huge basket,, and singing a comic duet. The stage is- then cleared, the lid of the basket opens,- and; Don iCarlos, the ;i . serenader, leaps on to the stage and sings the charming cavatina, “ Love’s ’ cruel dart. ” ■ Lucrezia enters, and thinking Donyj.h Carlos smitten by her charms, responds to his ardent passages of love in a most amusing manner. He, poorfellow, madly;, in love with her daughter, feigns to recipro cate, and is with difficulty persuaded when, ; - others approach to again seek the friendly " shelter of his basket ; after a charming, then sings the ballad of “There was'a Knight,” after which she quits the stage ; and Don Carlos, tired of liis captivity, quits the basket and secretes himself in the house. Doctor Paracelsus and Inez then enter and are curious to know what the basket- contains •; they lift it on the | balcony overhanging the river, and acci- 6 dentally topple it over into the stream. Imagine their confusion, when shortly afterwards, Lucrezia enters , and . informs them that the basket contained " the ' * i amorous Don Carlos. Terrified by the idea that they have unintentionally com mitted a murder, the}' are :in the greatest horror, and the acting of both Mis 3 Beatrice and Mr. Alexander at this crisis was worthy of all praise. Don Pomposo (Mr. Marshall), accompanied by the.i watch which had been attracted by the splash in the river here enter, and the first act is brought to a conclusion .by a,, spirited solo of Mr. Marshall's, and an ;V admirable chorus in wliich every member of the Company did their best to render the unqualified success it proved. The second act opened with charming Spanish dance music, a trio following in which Inez, Carlos, and Paracelsus take part. Neither Paracelsus nor Inez know who Carlos is, and he refuses to ex plain ; his ballad, “All noble hearts,” displayed the excellent quality of his voice to great advantage, and was vocifer ously redemanded. Carlos is offered" some refreshment, and by mistake Inez gives him some of the doctor’s drugs, of -which he swallows a sufficient portion to render Him temporarily unconscious. Again impressed with the idea that a murder has been committed, Inez and Paracelsus are in desperate fear,. and hide the supposed corpse under kapi sofa. Almost immediately afterwards Don Balthazar, father of Carlos (Mr. Warren), enters, and is put to sleep on the sofa under which is the body of liis son ; before, however, he is left to his repose, a good night. of a particularly ominous nature is sung to him by Donna Lucrezia Isabella, Inez, and Docter Paracelsus; m a manner that deservedly brought down the house.- Lef-t to himself he is much an noyed by the groans of his son, and as soon as he slumbers soundly, Paracelsus and Inez enter with the intention of re moving the corpse. they cut open the sofa, Carlos recovers, and sings an effective air, entitled “ Oh, Where am I.” The disturbance brings the other characters on the stage. Carles declares himself the lover of Isabella, is accepted, and a spirited chorus brings the opera to a successful conclusion. It is impossible to speak in too high terms of praise of the acting and singing of Miss Beatrice and Mr. Florence ; Mr. Alexander’s Para celsus was excellent, and so was Mr. Marshall’s Don Pomposo ; Mr. Warren, who took the part of Sen or Balthazar at' very short notice, did very well, and Mrs. Florence was an immense success as Donna Lucrezia, Miss Jennie Thorne aa Isabella being charming, and singing the music allotted to her- with great effect. The company, we are glad to hear, intend re-visiting Ashburton on; Thursday week, when that very popular opera “ H.M.S. Pinafore” will be presented. ;

Chertsey Sports.—A meeting was held at Wallace’s Hotel on Saturday evening last in connection with the New' Year’s sports, Mr. W. A. Brown in the chair. The Committee report that a liberal pro gramme will be brought forward. The Secretary was instructed to collect all promised subscriptions by the, 20th December, in order that a programme, with lists of prices, may be advertised,

Holloway’s Ointment and Pills. Diseases. of the skin,- ringworm, scurvy# jaundice,, scrofula or king’s evil,sore heads, and the most inveterate skin disease to which the human frame, is subject, cannot be treated with a.more safe and certain remedy than Holloway s Ointment and Pills, which act so perculiarly on the constitution and so pgrify the blood, that these diseases are at once eradicated from the system, and a lasting cure obtained. They are equally efficacious in the cure of tumors, -burns, scalds, glandular swellings, ulcerous wounds, rheumatism, contracted and stiff joints. These medicines operate mildly and surely. The cures effected by them are not'temporary or apparent only, but complete and permanent.

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New Advertisements. MR HENRY F. ALLEN, (Of Cathedral Square, Christchurch,) SURGEON AND MECHANICAL DENTIST, May be consulted at Quill’s Ashburton Hotel, Ashburton, from Dec. 8 to 13, in ail cases appertaining to the profession of Dentistry. 787 a WESLEYAN CHURCH'" SERVICES in connection '.nth the Church, will be conducted by the Rev. W. BAUMBER, of Christchurch, On .SUNDAY, DEC. 14. Collections in aid of the Building Fund Oa TUESDAY following, a TEA will be hekFin the Church, -after which a Public Meeting will take place, addressed by Ministers and other friends. Music by the Choir. Tea at 6 o’clock. Tickets, 2s. each. 755 a



WESLEYAN CHURCH. PRACTICE on TUESDAY and SATURDAY EVENINGS, at 7.30 o’clock, in the Church, Cameron street, for the Anniversary. Members of the Choir and friends invited to attend. The usual practice on Friday evening. H. J. WEEKS, 785a—267 Organist. ' NOTICE. STRAYED on my land at Tinwald, Brown Horse, saddle marked, and branded N 0.2 on near Shoulder. If not claimed and expenses paid within one month from this date, xvill be sold. Apply— D. M'LEOD, . . Near Tinwald. 6th Dec., 1870. 783 a LOST, on Saturday, a Scythe Sharpen ing STONE. The owner would be glad if the Finder would leave same at the Herald Office. 765 a FIRE ! FIRE ! ! FIRE ! ! ! For the BENEFIT of the family of Mr. HYDE, Sufferers by the late Fire. AN ENTERTAINMENT will be given in the TEMPLAR HALL for the above object on MONDAY, Dec. 15th. A liberal programme has been pre pared. Admission—Adults, Is.; Children, 6d. 799a—270 TO PRINTERS. MACHINE FOR SALE. FOR SALE, at an early date, — j One ; Second-hand Double Demy Tape Px’inting MACHINE, in thorough working order, with rollers, moulds, &c., complete. We are replacing this machine by a Double Royal Wharfedale, which necessitates removal of the Double Demy Machine now . used for printing the “ Herald ” and “ Guardian,” for hand or steampower. Can be seen and all par ticulars obtained at our office. WEEKS & DIXON. Ashburton, October 14, 1879. 565 a ANAMA STATION. ALL STRAY Horses and Cattle run ning on the Anama Station will be impounded from this date. Any one re riioving stock without first giving notice to the manager will be Prosecuted- W. L. PETER. 24th Nov., 1879. 282 SHEARERS WANTED. HEARING will commence at Winch more on the 10th DECEMBER. Ap pply to 780a—258 M. STITT. TO CONTRACTORS. WANTED— 150 acres of Native Land PLOUGHED. Price—lss. per aci*e. ' Apply at once. 797a—268 POYF TZ & CO. COAL YARD. "ESSRS. CUNNINGHAM & CO., beg to announce to the Public hat they have opened a COAL YARD 'next Poyntz & Co "’s Office), for the supply of Newcastle Coal in Ashburton. G. M. ROBINSON, 798a—269 Agekt. WANTED, by a young woman, a SITUATION as Housemaid or General Servant. Apply—Office of this Paper. 264 TO BUILDERS. TSTENDERS are invited for the EREC JL TION of a HOTEL at Tinwald, for Mr. Robert Hill. . Plans and specifications may be seen at Quill’s Hotel on and after the Ist of De cember, and at Mr. J. L. Fleming’s Christchurch, on and after December 15th. Tenders will close at Ashburton on January 31st, 1880. 237 —741 a WANTED IMMEDIATELY APPRENTICES for Dressmaking and Ladies’ Jacket making. Apply to T. R. HODDER & COMPANY. 300 a