POST OFFICE NOTICES.

Mails at the Ashburton Post Office close as follows : For Christchurch and North at 10.20 a.m. 4 p.m., and 7.30 p.m., daily. For Chertsey at 10.20 a.m naily. For Rakaia at 10.20 a.m and 4 p.m daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Gera'dine, at 10.20 a.m, daily. For Temuka. Timaru, and South at 10.20 a.m and 3 p.m daily. For Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10.30 a. m For Ashton, Waterton, and Longbeacli, at .15 p. m. daily. For Wakanui and Seafield, on Mondays and Thursdays, 7.30 p.m. W. St. G. Douglas, Postmaster.

A travelling Post Office having been estab lished on the Southern line of railway, letters bearing a late fee of 2d. may be posted at any station in the mail carriage attached to the express train, and they will be included in the mails made up in transit for offices on the main line and branches. Sydney J. Dick, Chief Postmaster.

UNCLAIMED LETTERS.

The following letteis from places beyond he colony were received at the Ashburton Post Office during the month of August, and lemained unclaimed on istOc'ober, l 87 9 :" Allinham, J. Charles, Richard Critchley, W. S. Deacon, William Devane, Patrick Fraher, John Criffin, Morgan Maclean (or Maclear) John Kennedy, William Kissane, Michael Larkin, Andrew Morrison, James Moriarty. Michael Quinlan. Mary Ryan, Thomas B. Sharp, Sames Valpy, John N. Vincent, J. Walker, Archibald Woodman, W. D. Young, Lewis P. McAllister, Mrs Black, Tohn Twiss, Michael W. St. G. Douglas, Postmaster. ‘ On the first da’ J each month a list is ex hibited at each Pc .t Office in the Colony of the addresses of all letters received from places be yond the Colony that have remaind unclaimed for one month at such Post Office; and such of these letters as remain unclaimed at the end of a further period of two months are then for warded to the Dead Letter Office, to be return ed unopened to the countries where they origi nated. Unclaimed letters originating in the Colony are not advertised, but at the end of two months are forwarded to the Dead Letter Office, Wellington, there to be opened and re turned to the writers.

NOTICE.

NEW POSTAL REGULATION.

Letters posted within the colony having the names and addresses of the senders printed on the address side of the envelopes, accompanied by a request that the letters be returned if not claimed within a stated period, will be return ed unopened. Provided, however, such letters shall have remained in the post office to which they may be addressed, at least ten days.

COMMERCIAL.

[By Telegraph.] Dunedin, Oct. 10. Wheat, 4s 9d to 5s : fowls’ feed, 3s 6d to 3s 9d ; milling, firm at present prices. Oats, 2s to 2s 2d. Barloy, 5s to 5s 6d ; feed, 3s to 3s 6d. Potatoes, £4 15s to £5 ; kidney seed do., £6; sound white do., £5. Hay, £4. Chaff, £4 to £4 ss. Straw, £2 ss. Bran, £5 ss. Pollard, £5 10s. Flour, large sacks, £lllos to £l2. Oatmeal, £l3. Pearl parley, £26. Onions, 20s. Cheese, Bd. Bacon, rolled, B|d. Prime fat beef, 30s to 32s Od per lOOlbs. Mutton, 2|d per lb.

Messrs J. T. Ford and Co. report on the live stock market for the week ending Thursday, the 9th inst., as follows : At the Addington Yards, on Wednes day last, 3233 sheep, 489 head of cattle, and 68 pigs were yarded. Mutton sold at about. 2fd per lb., and beef at 30s per 1001 b. The quality was all that could be desired, and supply equal to the require ments of the trade. Sheep sold briskly throughout, and every line quitted. Our entries were on account of Messrs Maxwell and Mathias, Hob* John Hall and Studholme, Messrs Clinton, Sinclair, Snowdon, Garr. Morland, Marshall, Carr, Henry Overton, McLeod, Keith, and others, comprising 1370 sheep, 58 head of attle, and 59 pigs. Twenty-seven head of fat bullocks, ex Wallabi, brought from £l4 to £l7 each. A line on account of Mr Clinton sold at £6 12s Gd. A line on account of Mr Snowdon sold at £6 17s 6d each, and young stock on account of Mr Clinton at 60s each.

Mr Studholme’s cross-breds sold at 16s 6d all round ; Mr Overton’s at 15s 6d all round ; the Racecourse Hill sheep at from 14s 6d to 14s 9d each; merino ewes on account of same station at 10s 6d each, and merino wethers on account of Mr McLeod at from 11s 6d to 12s each. The Hon J. Hall’s crossbreds sold at 133 9d each, and his merino wethers at from 12s 6d to 12s 9d each, These prices are equal to our quotation of 2fd per lb. Pigs were in good demand, and sold at high rates compared to previous week’s sale. Stores of all kinds are in better demand, and will increase in value as the spring advances. At our wool and skin sale yesterday we had a full supply and the usual attendance of buyers. Crossbreds sold at from 3s 6d td 4s 2d, and merino skins went up to 4k 5d each.

: Fat at 2jd per lb., hides at 3d per lb., and calf skins at 4d.

ASHBURTON RETAIL LIST.

The Ashburton Herald AND Borough and County Advertiser With which is incorporated the "Evening Echo"). SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11, 1879.

Hen-Roost Robbers. —For some time past the proprietors of poultry in the borough have had to lament the mys terious disappearance of their feathered favorites, and the survival of the fittest did not seem to obtain when they went missing. Prize Brahmas and well-con ditioned fowls seemed to make themselves scarce at a more rapid rate than those of less aristroeratic pedigree. It was re marked at the same time that dressed poultry were being hawked about town, all ready trussed, and neatly trimmed with parsley “ fixings,” at the low rate of half-a-crown per couple ; and at the same time eggs were becoming proportionately dearer. That sagacious officer, Sergeant Pratt, set his wits to work, and yesterday afternoon succeeded in discovering a first class selection of poultry at a house on the Wakanui road. The artist who had collected the selection appears to have had ideas above the retail business, for he possessed no less than three dozen of different varieties. The “ fancier ” inter viewed the resident Magistrate yesterday afternoon and was requested to again meet his Worship on Monday next, to discuss the improvement in the breed of poultry, and to settle a few points in connection with the laws of “meumand tuum.” Bridges in the County.— We notice that tenders are invited by the County Council for the construction of a bridge over the South Ashburton at Hood’s crossing, near Mount Somers. The Engi neer is calling for alternative tenders for two different plans, one of which is designed to utilise the iron piles imported for lengthening the Rangitata traffic bridge, and the design of this construction is identical with the.plan suggested by Mr Higgiuson, C.E., for the lengthening of that unfortunate structure. If this is adopted it will be at once a handsome and substantial bridge, but we are inclined to think the cost will be considerably greater for this than the alternative one entirely of wood. There are 21 spans in both

designs of 40 feet each, or a total length of 840 feet. The construction of a bridge over the north branch, to give the Mount Hutt district better accommodation for reaching Alford Forest, is also under consideration. Mr Butt expects to make an early start with the Taylor’s Stream bridge, and has already, commenced with the Hinds structure, on Surveyor’s road. We also notice that a large quantity of heavy timber is now coming to hand for the erection of the bridge over the Ashburton river, near Digby’s. The piles, stringers, and other heavy pieces of the timber are of Austra lian jarrali and ironbark, and is of a very superior description. Mr Benham, the contractor, will commence operations at once, and four months is expected to com plete the contract. So that carpenters used to bridge v r ork ought not to be idle for some time to come.

A Mixed Report. —We erroneously reported an accident in our issue yester day, and made the Rev. W. E. Paige the victim of a “ spill ” he did not experience, Dr. Trevor being the unfortunate eques trian. In explanation, we may state that the report was supplied by a young man who, in a rather excited manner, gave a very ambiguous account of a dreadful “ accident,” and as he has frequently fur nished this office with items on previous occasions, we had no suspicion there was anything crooked in his report re the in voluntary descent of the reverend gentle man referred to.

NOTES FROM SEAFIELD.

[from an occasional correspondent.]

I am glad to see you have started the “ Guardian.” It is just what the farmers have wanted for some time, and I hope they will take advantage of the facilities it of fers for exchanging their views on farm ing, stock-rearing, and so forth. I know there are thinking men on these plains who could give valuable advice to their fellow settlers, and whose experience in many ways would be worth gold to many I know—myself included.

I took a ride round the district a day or two ago, starting from Seafield, and I may as well tell you what I saw. But before I start just let me notice a few items about Seafield. The school is doing re markably well; the master tells me he has an average attendance of 26 children, and the parents seem to be highly pleased with the master’s work, as the young ones are making satisfactory progress under him.

Mr. H. W. Parsons has laid out the grounds around his house withfinetreesand shrubs, quite a picturesque appearance has been given to the township by the work. A considerable extent of blue gum planting has been done in the vicinity too. Mr. Hardwick has a nice lot of two years’ growth, looking uncommonly well, and promising fine shelter in the not very far off future. He has also a fine garden of fruit trees in full blossom. His wheat and oats, too, while I am speaking of his place, I may mention arelooking very well for a good harvest. Mr. Field is another of our neighbors who has not neglected the future as regards trees, and he has sown a considerable lot of gums and pines. This is a step in the right direction that I would like to see every farmer follow. Mr. Field’s crops are looking healthy for the season. Messrs. Jones and Co., have also done some planting of trees, but their most important plant is a butchery and bakery, and I wish them every suc cess in their undertaking. They have also a farm of 200 acres, with a fair share of it under crop. Mr. Murdoch Bruce, their neighbor, has 300 acres, some in grass, and the rest in crop, and what is more a nice flock of cross-bred sheep, and some excellent milkers. Altogether Sea field is likely to become a pleasant little spot, and by-and-by will be quite a sea side resort of you Ashburton people. Saunders Bros, have about 900 acres of wheat in on the reserve, showing every prospect of a good return. As I said at the outset, I have been up Kyle way. Coming on the farm of Messrs. o‘Grady you find a hearty show of grass, wheat and oats. Not far off Mr. Brick has 360 acres of wheat and 140 of oats, with 10 of grass ; and I should say if things go right he will have a good show at harvest. I looked in at Mr. Alexan der’s. He has sown gums with a view to a nice avenue, and has laid down a grand lawn in front of his house. Being close to the sea, to which a fine gully leads down, if you want an enjoyable coun try outing, you would seek it in a less pro mising locality than this. Mr. Hurley has some healthy crops, both wheat and oats, and Mr. D. Buckley has about 600 acres in good heart and looking remarkably rich. I called at Mr. E. S. Lowe’s, and found that he has a really nice place, well fenced and provided with capital buildings. His crop consists of 300 acres wheat, oats, and barley, the whole very well grown. At Kyle, Mr Lambie is still well to the fore with substantial improvements, amongst which I was pleased to notice about 100 acres of young gums. He has about 250 acres in wheat, 130 acres in oats, and a quantity of barley, and is now putting in more crop. The Kyle school is making excellent progress, the master reporting the average attendance at thirty ; and the grounds have been tastefully planted with gums, firs, and larches. I was particu larly pleased to see the latter trees, as I think they will prove themselves well adapted to this soil and climate. I visited the properties of Messrs. McAnulty, Mes son, Johns, and Blackburn, and found a fair amount of crop, looking well in each place. One paddock I noticed which had been ploughed in, and this was looking well. I saw a quantity of nice milk cows and fat cattle in this neighborhood, and their condition speaks well for the land. In fact, if the forthcoming harvest is a tolerably good one, stock-breeding and building will be taken in hand by our far mers, and great improvements effected. 1 took a hurried trip round the Wakanui Creek district, but I must leave any fur ther remarks until my next letter. In conclusion, it is very satisfactory to be able to add, that the crops generally are looking very well, although in some cases a little late. I think that this want of apparent growth, at this season of the year, is not a bad sign for the farmers ; and I confidently expect to see their labour’s this year rewarded by a bountiful harvest. I have previously omitted to notice a lot of excellent grass grown by Mr. Derden of Kyle, which is exception ally good,

CHISPA’S LETTER.

“I am not yet so bald that you can see my brains. ” —Longfellow.

I often notice in the Parliamentary reports allusions to the purchase of votes, and it makes me cogitate as to the market value of such-like commodities. Is the market ruled by the number to be sold, and are they cheaper when bought whole sale or retail, and do buyers and sellers class them like wool, or grain, or any other mercantile article, or is a guarantee required that, like Manchester prints, they have fast colors and are warranted to wash ? Really I think the buying and selling of votes must have become a recognised institution in Wellington when the Press correspondents so directly allude by name to members who are open to political conviction for the sake of emolument. Such things used to be whis pered with bated breath, of representatives of the people, but now it seems to be looked on as rather a meritorious feature in a politician’s character to be recognised as a rat, who will turn his coat at every division—and the more divisions the better—whilst the real business of the colony is going to the dogs.

I wonder if, when the next big loan is raised, any portion of it will find its way here to assist in improving the appearance of the railway reserve* fronting on East street. It never was a particularly picturesque looking spot, nor will it ever become beautiful, but it might at least be made decent. “Strangers visiting Ash burton,” as the advertisements say, can not be very much impressed with the extent of the paternal care the General Government sheds upon its offspring, as the dilapidated station, the miserable huts, and the filthy gully in the busiest part of the town will vouch for. I don’t say we should demand luxuries, but let us have a few necessaries to go on with in the meantime.

For doing a smart stroke of business, and making both ends meet, commend me to a smart official in the Puritan City of Philadelphia. He was coroner of the city, and one would naturally imagine that very little could be done in the way of trade in that line of business. How ever, he had his eye to the main chance, and as perserverance and ingenuity are generally rewarded by success, he hit upon a splendid idea. It seems that one of the duties of a coroner in the “ States ” is to deposit the lamented remains of the “ sat upon ” in their last resting place for which the city authorities disburse 20 dol lars per “ corpus,”—and as the business of his department was equal to twenty cases per month, one would imagine that the coroner ought to make a good thing out of each line placed—seeing that tim ber is cheap in America, and the coffins consequently could be built by the mile ready for any emergency at a low rate. The Philadelphian coroner had, however, a soul above coffins, although he took care to draw the cost of them from the city funds. It is necessary in the pursuit of medical science to obtain corpses occa sionally, so that surgical students can be educated up their future vocation by ocular demonstration on the anatomy of a defunct ; and as these necessary adjuncts to a training hospital are not to be pur chased as readily as a reaping machine or a pair of blankets, the coroner saw a chance of doing business. The medical colleges wanted “ subjects,” the coroner had the mesns of supplying the market. The advantages were mutual, the college lecturers being able to lecture with the advantage of giving practical illustrations of their art. The coroner got rid of his bodies and saved his coffins. The pursuit of scientific investigation was forwarded, and an enterprising official was rewarded for having developed a new source of in dustry. He is now called upon by the legal authorities to explain how he made the two businesses to fit in, and I have no doubt that his information to the Court will be as ingenious as his previous pro ceedings.

Highway robbery is not a common way of making a living in New Zealand — perhaps because there are not many high ways. Such highways as we have, how ever, we have been taught to consider as almost as safe to walk upon as the garden path to a parsonage. This belief got a rude expulsion recently from the bosom of a respected Sumner resident. Riding home some nights ago he was set upon and chased by a mounted Dick Turpin, revolver in hand, and only escaped with dear life through the terror in his own bosom inspiring, through his spurs, the heart of his noble steed. Next day tlie “ victim ” told the “ orrible tale ” through the daily press to the wondering and alarmed people of Christchurch. We wonder how he feels now that the murder is out. It was this way : A poor chap had a message to deliver to the hero of the tale. He sought the Sumner resi dence of the hero, who of course was away. Told that the hero could be met on the road from the city, the messenger made tracks. He held his “ briar-root pipe ” by its ample bowl, and when he saw the hero approacli in the grey light he summoned him to stand with a loud “ cooey ” and a big briar-root flourish. But alas ! That unfortunate briar-root took the form of a revolver in the brain of the hero, and every repeated cooey sounded as a call to surrender. He bent his head to the mane of his steed and sped

“ Away, away, Like a torrent in a stormy day. ” The messenger pursued but lost the race, and next day the full truth flashed upon his mind when the terrible “ letter to the editor ” appeared. Too much afraid to tell the part he had played in the story he kept his secret bottled up lest a police man should hoist him for highway robbery. But murder will out, and we have received his confession. His shrift has done him good, may it also relieve the feeling of the couageous escapee from the clutches of a New Zealahd highway man. Chisfa.

The Mayoralty. —As the time for the nomination of Mayor is now drawing near, we observe that candidates are taking time by the forelock. A numer ously signed request to our energetic fellow-townsman Mr Knud Sando is now in course of signature, and, judging from the number of names attached, this candi date is evidently popular with the rate payers. We have heard the names of several other likely candidates mentioned, and would remind them that time is on the wing, and that it is the “ early bird that finds the worm, ”

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT.

ASHBURTON.

Friday, October 10, 1879.

Before Mr. Frank Guinness, R.M. civil CASE. Stevens and others versus McQuilkin. Claim £35 10s., balance due on a contract for clearing flax. Mr. Branson for plaintiffs ; Mr. Crisp for defendant. Mr. Branson said the case was that the plaintiffs had engaged to cut the flax on 70 acres at Longbeach, they were subsequently told that they must burn the flax, and objected to do so unless a number of cattle being depastured were removed, as treading the flax into the ground, which was of a swampy nature. William Stevens, deposed that he had contracted with Henry Wliitty, manager for McQuilkin, to cut 70 acres of flax, and agreed to do it for 13s. per acre. He believed lie had only to cut,andnot to clear the land. Had no partners when he en tered into the contract, but took Brooker and others in as mates subsequently. Started work on May 18th, and about 4 or 5 days afterwards Wliitty called their attention to the fact that they were not burning the flax. They undertook to burn it provided the cattle were removed. About a third of the section was very swampy. There were about 300 head of cattle on the land. The cattle followed them about so as to get something to eat, and strewed the flax about and trod it into the ground. Asked Whitty fre quently to remove the cattle, but they were still allowed to wander. Had burned some of the flax, the rest was so trodden into the ground that it would not burn. Made application for payment, but had only received £lO on account. Cross-examined by Mr. Crisp—When I took the contract nothing Avas said about clearing the ground. Noticed the cattle the first day Ave started. Was told by Mr Whitty that Ave could rake the flax in heaps instead of burning. Could not rake it, as it Avas so trodden in.

John Curry and two other AA T itnesses corroborated Stevens’ evidence.

Tor the defence, Henry Whitty deposed that as manager for Mr McQuilkin, he contracted Avith Stevens to have 70 acres of flax land cleared. Did not tell them at the time for Avhat purpose it ivas to be cleared, but did so afterivards, Avlien wit ness said that they Avould have to burn the flax, as the land Avas to be ploughed in about six weeks. The land could not be ploughed owing to the flax encumbering it. The cutting Avas not Avell done, and will have to be clone again. They may have asked witness to remoA r e the cattle, but he didn’t remember. They raked about 15 acres and burnt one acre. Extra men have to be employed to keep the plough clear. John McQuilkin saAv the men on the ground. He thought that they then had all the flax cut, the Aveather Avas very Avet, and he told them he Avanted the land cleared, and Avould let the rake the flax into rows instead of burning it. and Avould afterAvards burn it himself. They only raked a small strip of dry land, about 10 acres. Have had to employ other men to do the Avork. The cutting Avas badly done. It Avill cost noAv as much to clear the land as if it had not been touched.

By Mr Branson—Noticed that some of the flax had been trodden in. There Avere less than 200 cattle on the land. Did not think they could get on to the swampy land.

Arthur Hewson, farmer, knew McQuil kin’s land, Had seen the work done by the plaintiffs. It was very inefficiently done, as only the standing llax had been cut. It could not be raked, as a lot was not cut. It would cost 13s per acre now to clear the land properly. The price for cutting alone is about 8s Gd per acre. Clearing flax means making the land fit for ploughing. By Mr Branson —Have had offers to cut and stack flax at 8s Gd, and knew of three cases where it had been done at that figure in the neighborhood. John Smith, who described himself as a flax-cutter, was called to give rebutting evidence, and said he had received 10s per acre for cutting on easier land. He thought 13s a low price for clearing on McQuilkin’s land.

The Magistrate, in giving judgment, said there had been two contracts. The evidence for the defence showed the work had not been completed. It - was suf ficiently proved that defendant had allowed his cattle to tread the flax in, and thus do the plaintiffs an injury. As to the man ner in which the work had been done, if not in so complete a manner as it might have been, the small quantity of flax left uncut would not affect the working of the land to any extent. He would give judg ment for plaintiffs with costs, and recom mended that all contracts should be in writing, to save litigation. POLICE CASE. After the adjournment, James Moore was charged with stealing -30 fowls, valued at £4, from the residence of James Per ham, Burnett street, and a second charge of stealing 14 fowls from James Hefford, Tancred street. Sergeant Pratt asked for a remand, to enable him obtain evidence as to the ownership of the poultry, as well as further evidence as to other thefts. The prisoner admitted hav ing committed the thefts he was charged with. He was remanded till Monday next.

Ashburton Volunteer Rifle Corps.— A parade of of the newly-formed Volun teer Rifle Corps took place on Thursday evening at Messrs Bullock and Co.’s grain shed, Moore-street east. There were upwards of 60 members present. Rifles were served out, and Mr Walter Dolman acted as drill-sergeant in a most efficient manner. The company was put through a course of manual and platoon drill, and promise to become a most efficient body. We hope to see them sufficiently advanced to take port in the Christchurch review at Christmas. The Ashburton Cavalry Contingent. —We are informed that the Ashburton Contingent of the Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry will have a parade some day next week. This body has not had a drill for some months, and as it is contemplated to have a monster review in Christchurch during Christmas week, it will be neces sary for our local “ Sabreurs ” to polish their arms and prepare their accoutre ments and mettlesome steeds so as to keep up the reputation of the local contingent at the metropolitan review.

MASONIC.

A meeting of delegates from lodges holding under the Scotch Constitution in Canterbury, was held on Thursday even ing, the 9th inst., at Quill’s Commercial Hotel, Ashburton, AA r hen four out of the six lodges Avere represented as folhhvs : Canterbury Kilwinning, Christchurch. —P.M., Bro. Taylor ; J.M.,8r0. Carrell; Treasurer, Bro. Grubb. Robert Burns, Christchurch. —P. M., Bro. Fleming; DM., Bro. Johnston; Treasurer, Bro. Fulton. Southern Star, Geraldine. —W.M., Bro. Williams ; S. W., Bro. Robertson ; Brc. Cullen (proxy). Thistle, Ashburton. W.M., Bro. Hurst ; Treasurer, Bro. Quill ; Bro. Harris.

P.M., Bro. Fleming, Avas voted to the chair, and explained that the principal business to be considered Avas the ‘desira bility of forming a Provincial Grand Lodge for Canterbury. The delegates present fully d scussed the question, when the folloAving resolutions Avere carried - Ist—That in the opinion of this meeting it is desirable that a Dis trict Grand Lodge be formed, and that the boundaries of the proposed neAV district be those of the present Provincial District of Canterbury. 2nd—That the expenses of the pro posed D.G.L. be borne by all the lodges, proportionately to the num ber of their members. 3rd—That a petition be draAvn up by a committee, consisting of Bro. Taylor, Fleming, Hurst, Harris, and Williams, asking that the various lodges in Canterbury be released from the present G.L. and that they be constituted a G.L. having jurisdiction extending over the Provincial District of Canter bury. It Avas then proposed by Bro. Fulton and seconded by Bro. Quill, “ That Bro. J. E. IT. Hari’is be asked to act as Hon. Secretary until the petition be received or rejected by the G.L.’ - Carried. A good deal of discussion took place as to Avhere the proposed G.L. should hold its meetings, Avhen it Avas proposed and carried that the G.L. should meet alternately at Christchurch, Ash burton, and Tim aru. After some further business had been transacted, the delegates Avere invited to a banquet, which was tastefully served at the Ashburton Hotel—Bros. Mutch and McKenzie catering in a manner which not only did credit to themselves, but afforded every satisfaction to the guests, Avho numbered about 30.

Bro. P.M. Fleming occupied the chair, and B.W.M. Bro. Williams the vice chair.

The usual Masonic toasts were drunk, and some very good songs Avere rendered. An expression of regret Avas passed during the evening Avhen it was mentioned that Bro. Felton Avas lying dangerously ill.

THE POLITICAL SITUATION.

[by telegraph.]

(from our own correspondent.)

Wellington, October 10.

Major Atkinson Avill make a financial statement on Tuesday next, in which the colony will hear some umvelcome truths as to the position in which the Grey Go vernment has left the Treasury, and the extent to which it has increased expendi ture, and altogether shirked the duty of providing for it by unpopular taxes. The Triennial Parliament Bill prepared by the “Liberal” Government Avas not to have affected the present Parliament, so that it Avould probably have had no practical effect for the next eight years. So much for Greyism. The present Go vernment will alter the Bill so as to give it effect on the present Parliament, thereby showing that they Avill practice, and not merely preach, Liberalism. Friday, 8.20 p. m.

The Opposition have commenced their field-day by stonewalling the Triennial Parliaments Bill, Mr Sheehan having pro posed the adjournment of the House, which has been talked over all the after noon and evening. The new Premier and the Treasurer have both spoken in a manner that points to something very dark that has to come out, and in a manner, too, that should lead the late Government to insist upon their accusers having ample time and opportunity to prove or withdraw their statements. But instead of that they are descending to every low trick to immediately recover their forfeited seats.

Saturday, 1.50 p.m.

Last night’s division shows the extreme equality of parties in the House. If Messrs Ormond and Russell had been in their places, the division would have been a tie, and on such a question the Speaker’s casting vote must have been, with Govern ment. 0 The apparent retirement of Sir George Grey has made his party far more united and compact, but the revelations that the new Government are getting out will not fail to shake the faith of any who are opon to conviction. Besides the utter want of any attempt to make both ends meet, and the most wicked and personal extrava gance and contempt of Parliamentary control, Sir G. Grey’s great concern for the welfare of the colony, and of the working man in particular, has just been shown by the production of a despatch which he had kept back from the immigra tion papers, laid on the table of the House, in which he advises Sir Michael Hicks-Beach that we wanted GOOO immi grants. He received for an answer that Sir Michael Hicks-Beach had communi cated with the guardians of tliepoorin Eng land to supply them. This was done last Feb., after the bad harvest was known, and the consequent depression and want of em ployment was apparent to every one. Bor rowed money would be worse than thrown away in the introduction of 0000 paupers. Alluding to the accusations against the Pre mier made by Mr. Montgomery last night Mr. Wakefield said, “ I will not waste any words on such small fry.”

Proposed New Court House. —His Worship the Mayor does not intend to allow the question of a new Court House for Ashburton to languish for want of pub licity. We believe that the burgesses will have an opportunity to-day of affiix ing their signatures to a petition, asking for decent accommodation for Court busi ness in the township, and the Government will have the request forwarded them at an early date.

TELEGRAPHIC.

TO-DAY’ 5 TELIA (Jr RAMS.

Wellington, Oct. 11. After Mr Wakefield spoke in the House last night, Mr Speight spoke, and then Mr Steivart, Avho said that having, suc ceeded in getting rid of Sir George Grey, he Avas now free to support Mr Macan dreAV. After a few Avords from Messrs Rolleston and Murray, the House ad journed at 7.30.

LAST NIGHT'S CABLEGRAMS.

BRITISH & FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE.

( Renter's Telegram.)

Bombay, Oct. 8.

The force under General Roberts has been attacked by a considerable number of the Cabulese and Gliilzais, near Cabul. Severe fighting ensued, and the enemy Avere repulsed Avith heaA T y loss. Twelve guns and two standards Avere captured. The British loss Avas 77 killed and wounded. London, Oct. 8. An engagement betAveen the Chilian and Peruvian fleets has taken place. The Huascar Avas captured. (Argits Special.) London, Oct. 8. An increase of the Russian army is under consideration. If resolved on it will probably lead to a corresponding in crease in the German army. The Sultan has sent an autograph letter to the Emperor of Austria, reneAving his desire for an alliance Avith Austria. The Middle Park Plate was Avon by Beanderserip ; Gracecup, 2 ; Lord, 3. (Reuter's Telegrams.) London, Oct. 8. The subscriptions for die Tasmanian Loan amount to £OOO,OOO, at 102 to 103 f. Sir Stafford Northcote, in a speech at Dublin, stated that the Cabul massacres necessitated an adherence to the present policy that England alone should dominate in the Ameer’s foreign relations. Sir Stafford denied that there was any diffi culty Avith the finance, and deprecated the agitation in Ireland. The Board of Trade returns for Sep tember slioav a decided improvement. Vienna, Oct. 8. The Hungarian Legislature has been opened by the Emperor, avlio, in his speech, stated that foreign relations Avith the Austria-Hungarian Empire Avere friendly. Bombay, Oct. 8. A reconnoitring force under General Re-’.'erts was attacked by large masses of the hostile Afghan tribes, who endeavored to surround them. The British attack ing column cleared the heights with a loss to their oaaui side of 85, Avhile the enemy suffered heavily. London, Oct. 9.

Afghanstan intelligence states that after defeating the Afghans betAveen Jellalabad and Cabul, General Roberts continued his march upon Cabul, Avhich liejexpects will fall without serious resistance. The General is sanguine of securing British ascendency. The Ameer watched the battle and con gratulated General Roberts on his brilliant victory, which, it is considered, Avill crush the rebellion. It was feared that the rebels had entrenched themselves in the citadel of Cabul, Avhere it was likely that great difficulty would be experienced in dislodging them. It is believed that the defeat sustained at the hands of General Roberts Avill have the effect of removing any necessity for a struggle Avith the rebels at the capital. The “Times” says that the outcome of Sir Michael Hicks Beach’s contention with Mr. Berry is a drawn battle, likely to be reneAved unless the Victorian people interfere. Fears are entertained that Mr. Berry’s precipitate mode of dealing Avith the questions demanding self-control and calmness is dangerous to the colony. The paper recommends moderation, and trusts the colony Avill be preserved from the ill-advised violence of an angry petty press.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Reuter's Telegrams.)

Melbourne, Oct. 10. The Minister for Education distinctly refuses Bishop Moorhouse’s request to in troduce religious instructions in the State schools curriculum, and will only consent to denominations using schools after school hours. The China tea market has advanced five taels. The market is very bare. Flour, £l3. Sydney, Oct. 10. The Trades Union Congress have passed resolutions against Chinese immigration. Hennessy’s " brandy, case, 33s Gd, quarter-cask 9s Gd ; Devoe’s kerosene, Is lOd ; Patna rice, £2l 10s ; New Zea land wheat, 4s 9d; New Zealand oats, 2s Gd; maize, 2s Gd ; tabacco, Raven’s twist, Is 7d ; candles, D.R. J., 7 Idto 7fd. Adelaide, Oct. 10. „ * Wheat firm at 5s 7d ; flour, £ll 15s to £l2.

Melbourne, Oct. 10.

A daughter of Governor Bowen has been married to a son of William Wil liams, a member of the Victorian Legisla tive Council.

A strong agitation exists in favor of a reprieve for Lawrence, the murderer. A crowded meeting at the Town Hall ap pointed a deputation to wait on the Go vernor. A lengthy discussion is taking place in the Assembly on the subject. The press is favorable to a reprieve. The Legislative Council are sitting in Committee on Sir C. Sladen’s Reform Bill.

Sydney, Oct. 10.

The Trades Union Congress have passed resolutions against Chinese immi gration. Arrived— Ringaro-' ma. Sailed—City of Sydney.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

Dunedin, Oct. 10. Arrived Maori, s.s., from West Coast. .

About 130 single men, passengers by the Forfarshire, were landed yesterday afternoon, and proceeded to Dunedin. They appear to be a very respectable class of men, and are principally mechanics, only a few of them being agric ultralists and shepherds. The Governor has consented to become patron of the Otago Agricultural Associa tion

Saturday, October ii. is7Q.]

Ihe Ashburton herald.



Butter, inferior to best $ tt> s. 1 d. 1 to s. I d. 0 Eggs, dozen 1 0 to 0 0 Cheese, prime quality, $ lb 0 8 to 0 10 Bacon, prime smoked, lb 0 9 to 0 10 Hams in 'fcloth, lb I 0 to 0 0 Flour in bags, $ ioofb 14 6 to 0 0 Oatmeal. $ 251b 6 0 to 0 4 Card, k? th - 0 9 to 0 0



ANTED KNOWN—That the cheap est i-nd. neatest CARDS may be had at r ie “ GUARDIAN OFFICE.”



Clothing Establishment- ASSIGNMENT OF THE ESTATE OF MESSRS. AITKEN, PASCOE & CO., CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS, Mr. J. H. Morrison, Manager Mosgiel Woolen Factory, AND Mr. John Ross, Of Sargood, Sons & Ewing >■ Trustees. THE above large Clothing Manufac turing Firm having had to succumb to these hard times, and assign their estate, we have been induced by the Trustees to purchase the whole of their large Manufactured Stock at a Very i Heavy Reduction, and have resolved to sell the same again in our Branches direct to the public at prices at which we could not legitimately sell our own Goods. In fact (without exaggeration) during the next few weeks we are in a position to offer NEW GOODS IN MEN’S AND BOYS’ ATTIRE, Of Colonial Manufacture, at from ONE THIRD TO ONE HALF THEIR USUAL COST. lIALLENSTEIN BROS., New Zealand Clothing Factory. The assigned Stock will be for Sale in ®ur Ashburton Branch from and on SATURDAY NEXT, 28th JUNE. New Zealand Clothing Factory. 12a



Public Notices. ASHBURTON COUNTY COUNCIL. HINDS POUND. TATOTICE is hereby given that Mr Robert Little has been appointed Poundkeeper for this Pound; and the said Pound is opened for business on and after the 15th instant. W. C. WALKER, Chairman. Ashburton, October 11, 1879. 550 a TO PRINTERS. WANTED —A Smart Hand, to make up the “Ashburton Herald” and “ Ashburton Guardian”; also employ ment for two Steady COMPOSITORS. Apply— WEEKS & DIXON. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, Bur nett street. —Divine Service will be conducted To-morrow morning and even ing by the Rev. A. M. Beattie 548 a -TTTESLEYAN CHURCH, Cameron street. —Divine Service will be conducted To-morrow morning by the Rev. W. Keall, and in the evening by Mr J. Alison. 547 a RIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH Wills Street. Service will be con ducted in this Church To-morrow morning and evening. 549 a