POST OFFICE NOTICES.

Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office, *3 follows : For Christchurch and North at io. 20, a. m. 4.30 p.m., and 8 p.m., drily. For Chertsey at 10.20 a.m daily. For Rakaia Ed 10.20 a.m and 4.30 p.m daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald Winslow, Hind-'', Coldstream, Kangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Gera'dine, at 10.20 a.m, daily. For Temuka. Timaru, and South at 10.20 a.m and 3.30 p.m daily. For Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge on 1 uesdays and Fridays at 10.30 a. m For Ashton, Waterton, and Longbeach, at .15 p.m. daily. For Wakanui and Seafield, on Mondays and Thursdays, 7.30 p.m. W. St. G. Douglas, Postmaster.

The Ashburton Herald AND Borough and County Advertiser (With which is incorporated the “Evening Echo”). SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1880.

The Lincolnshire Delegates. —Messrs Grant and Foster, after visiting the Long beach estate this week, over which they were shown by John Grigg, Esq., the pro prietor, left for Dunedin. They will re turn next week, and will inspect tlie Chat moss estate, and remain there for the night. As this part of the country is very similar to their own Lincolnshire fens, they will pi-obably give a good account of it to their clients at Home. More Work for the R.M.—The Wakanui Road Board intend getting in their dues from the ratepayers forthwith ; and the collecter gives notice to-day of the necessity for cashing up promptly. The reason of the notice is that the Govern ment will not pay subsidies on rates col lected after March 31st.

Villa Sites.—That prettiest of all the suburbs of Ashburton, on tiie banks of the Wakanui creek, the residence of Mr. John Walsh, is to be cut up, and sold on Feb. 19tli next. Messrs. Edmiston Bros, and Gundry advertise in this morning’s columns that they will sell 40 allotments there on that date. This sort of chance is not to be had every day. An Infernal Machine. —By the courtesy of tlie police we inspected last night a structure intended to produce tlie liquor our American cousins call “ chain lightning.” It is an illicit still which was captured by Trooper Farmer, up in the direction of Alford Forest, and had not as yet produced any crop, having only recently arrived at its owner’s manufac tory. The machine is of a very primitive construction, consisting of a tin boiler with a capacity of about 20 gallons, and a make shift arrangement for a worm, which looked like a lot of old fashioned candle moulds soldered together. What between the material of which the “still” is made and the sort of stuff of which the pro prietor would have made his spirits, v r e imagine that there would have soon been a considerable amount of emigration from Alford Forest district to the Lunatic Asylum. Trooper Farmer was a lucky man in this capture. He was in search of some stolen drapery and discovered the articles he was in search of, which con cealed the more important capture of the still. The R.M. w;ll sit on the late owner of the still on Tuesday next.

Assessment Court.—There have been plenty of complaints about the new rate rolls ; and any ratepayer having an objec tion to make is recommended to lodge it at once, as it will be seen by a notification in another column that the Court is to sit for hearing complaints in the various dis tricts at early dates.

TELEGRAPHIC.

TO-DAY’S CABLEGRAMS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE (Age Special.) The Suppression of Slavery. London, Feb. 4. The convention between England and Turkey, for the suppression of slavery throughout the Turkish Empire, is con cluded.

The Bell-Coleman Experiment. The “Morning Post” expresses a belief that the Stratlileven experiment will ultimately revolutionize the English meat trade. The Money Market. The Adelaide new loan is quoted at 2 b per cent. The Home Rulers. The Home Rulers have submitted two amendments on the Address in Reply. Earl Beaconsfield in the House of Lords stigmatised the abettors of Home Rule as traitors to the Sovereign, and enemies of their country.

AUSTRALIAN.

Sale of Steamers.

Melbourne, Feb. 6. The s.s. Omeo, Claud Hamilton, and Alhambra will be submitted to auction next Wednesday. The reserve is low. 1

(Reuter's Telegrams.) Melbourne, Feb. 7. Airived—City of London, from Ade laide. The Te Anau, steamer, arrived yesterday. Mails.

The Tanjore left Galle with the mails for Australia.

TO-DAY’S TELEGRAMS.

INTERPROVINOIAL.

A Waimate Wife Deserter.

Auckland, Feb. 7. At the Police Court to-day, Edward Hitcham was charged with deserting his wife and child at Waimate, Canterbury, and on the application of tl.e police, he was remanded till Monday. Rape. J. C. Hughes, charged with attempted rape upon his servant girl, Mary Jane Saxon, was remanded till Thursday, at the request of his solicitor. The Fever Ship. The case of scarlatina on the British Empire at the quarantine station is a very mild case. There is no further outbreak, and the ship is being fumigated and will come up in the middle of next week ; hut the passengers will not come for eight days. First Blood. The engine ran for the first time on the Helen sville railway to Kaipara terminus. The New Cable. The steamer ) Kangaroo, with the new cable for Cook’s Strait, has just arrived. Operations begin in throe days. Masonic. Gkahamstown, Feb. 7. At the meeting last night of the Pro vincial Grand Lodge, S. C., the Hon. Mr. Whitaker in the -chair, the officers were elected. Dr. Johnston, Deputy Master ; H. J. H. Eliott, Assistant Secretary ; Harvey, Chaplain ; Powles, Deacon— all of Wellington, the remaining officers being members of Auckland and Thames lodges. After complimentary remarks from Mr. Whitaker, Mr. M'Culloch, and the Tyler, a vote of thanks was passed unanimously to Mr. E. T. Gillon, late Secretary, for past services. A banquet took place after the lodge. Which is the Greater ? Mr. Whitaker met a deputation of the Council, introduced by Sir George Grey, this morning. Some feeling is expressed at cheers being only given for Sir George Grey when he and Mr. Whitaker landed yesterday. Married in Haste. Walter Ratcliff was committed for trial for making a false declaration of the ago of the girl he married a few days ago. The mother of the girl prosecuted. Conscientious. Mi'. Whitaker again stated to a deputa tion,'re the railway, that being personally interested he would take no steps in the matter of the extension of the railway. The Walking Feat in Wellington. Wellington, Feb. 7.

Young Scott the pedestrian, commenced bis walk of 112 miles in 24 hours at ten last night. He is in splendid trim, and shows that he has been carefully trained About 2,000 people paid for admission up to nine o’clock this morning. Tlie course is 23 laps to the mile. Scott walked ex ceedingly well, covering 20 miles in 3 hours 45 minutes. He retired for] break fast at nine, when he had 53 miles to his credit. Scott’s friends are confident he will accomplish tlie distance. At half past nine he had finished 58 miles 90 yards. At eleven he had 62 miles IGO yards, but states he is a little stiff.

Later. Up to one o’clock Scott had walked 71 miles.

Gold. Dunedin, Feb. 31. The Tipperary Company crushed G 59 ounces from 580 tons.

LAST NIGHTS CABLEGRAMS.

BRITISH & FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE ( Renter's Telegrams.) London, Feb. 5.

Parliament opened to-day by the Queen in person, who read the Speech from the Throne. She said foreign relations were friendly and the prospects were of a peaceful nature though much remains lo lie done to repair the disorganised state of affairs in Turkey ; and the unsettled con dition of matters in Afghanistan renders the recall of troops impossible at present, but the principle previously adopted by Government is unchanged. Government have determined to maintain a strong frontier but desire to maintain friendly relations with tlie rulers of the people of Afghanistan. It is hoped that an African confederation wall soon be brought about. Tlie speech refers to the measure which the Relief Bill provides for advances from the Irish Church surplus, and hopes to resume consideration of the criminal code, Bankruptcy, and Land Bills, tlie latter being intended to simplify tlie system of conveyance.

LAST NIGHT’S, TELEGRAMS.

I N T.E RPR OVI NC IA L. Auckland, Feb. 6. Hughes, rate collector of the Ponsonby Road District, v r as arrested to-day on an information charging him with rape on a girl named Sarali Jane Parson, on tlie 17th December. The girl was a servant in his house when the offence was alleged to have been committed. Prisoner will be brought up at tlie Police Court to-morrow, and charged with tlie offence.

Another case of scarlatina made its appearance at the quarantine station, and

it is evident the disease is of a violent type, The two cases are now isolated, and every precaution has been taken to stamp out the fever.

Paymaster Shopke, of the German war ship Nautilus, leftbehind sick, died yester day and was buried to-day. The German, French, and American Consulates liacl flags half-mast high. The seamen of the H.M. gunboat Alacrity furnished a firing party, and the members of the German Society followed the remains to the grave. Napier, Feb. 6. Newton, Irvine,and Co. have succumbed to the hard times. They return assets at over L 57,000, and liabilities at about L 34,000, showing a surplus of L 23,000. Wellington,FFop 6.b p 6.

The following circular has been issued by Lieut. Colonel H. E. Reader, Under secretary for Defence:—“Government have decided that officers commanding Volunteers may issue free passes for men serving under them when it is necessary they should travel by rail to attend drill or any authorised meetings of Volunteers, it being a condition that men receiving such passes shall carry arms and be in uniform. Fares to be paid out of the special vote for the Defence Department. ” Christchurch, Feb. G.

On Thursday evening a man named Wilson fell off the 11.15 train from Christ church to Lyttelton as it was entering the tunnel. The accident was noticed, and by the return train Detective Neil went in search of him. The engine stopped near the mouth, and just, inside Wilson was found lying across the rails, and badly injured. Had he not been seen to fall, the return train would have cut him to pieces.

DREADFUL TRAGEDY

IN DUNEDIN,

Murder of a Wife by her Husband.

Attempted Murder of the Children.

Suicide of the Murderer.

(by telegraph.) Dunedin, Feb. 7.

A dreadful tragedy occurred in King street, this morning, at a house known as Lincoln cottage, situated between Union and St. David’s streets. The house was occupied by a family named Hayes, con sisting of the father, mother, son, and daughter. It appears that one of the sons, who has been in the employ of Mr. R. T. Wheeler, of this city, has been suf fering from ill health, and that this so preyed on his mind that he had became insane, and had to be confined in the lunatic asylum. This in turn is supposed to have preyed upon the mind of the father, Attwell Hayes, who is a contractor. He came home apparently all right last night, but this morning, on waking, he proceeded to cut his wife’s throat with a table knife. After succeeding in this at tempt. he made for the children with the intention of murdering them also, but they ran into the garden, where lie fol lowed them, and succeeded in inflicting some wounds on the son. Not succeed ing in catching either of them, however, he returned to the house. At this stage a neighbor, named James Gilks, green grocer, was attracted by the screams of the children, and, throwing down abundle he was carrying, rushed into the house, and found Hayes in the act of cutting his own throat. This ho prevented by taking the knife from him. He laid it down to attend to Mrs. Hayes, who was lying in the room. Whilst thus engaged, Hayes seized the knife again, and succeeded in

severing his wind-pipe before Gilks ob served that he had again got hold of the weapon. It appears that there was a lodger in the house also, and that Hayes on coming in from the garden where he attempted to catch the son and daughter, made an attempt to murder him also. The boy, who is not seriously injured, is about 12, while the girl is much older. The son, who is at present in tlie lunatic asylum, is 22 years old. The eldest son is at Oam aru.

NATIVE AFFAIRS.

[by telegraph.] Normanby, Feb. 7.

Tlie Hon. Native Minister and Colonel Roberts left here yesterday for New Ply mouth and the North, to inspect the Con stabulary stations on this coast. Tlie contract for metalling three sections of the Waimate road, was let to Daniel Hughes, Kakaramea, who has prospected for gravel and found a supply sufficient for all purposes within a quarter of a mile of tlie contract. The gravel is said to be of fine quality, and the most exten sive gravel pit yet found on the coast. The formation of the road towards Kaupo kokonui is being vigorously pushed for ward by the Constabulary. Nothing new at the camp at Kaipipi.

CHISPA’S LETTER.

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

I do not intend, if I can help it, to shuffle off this mortal coil at present ; but when I feel my time has come, it is my intention to perform the last act in the drama of life somewhere else than in Ashburton. Seems to me there is too much of a necessity altogether for profes sional butchering ; and as it is not a pleasant prospect for a man to have looming up before him that he can not depart in peace without a narrow squeak of being cut up previous to inter ment, no matter whether he dies of con sumption, or gets spilt off a horse, it is Chispa’s intention to clear out before Bob Sawyer tries his skill on yours obediently with a view to learning anatomy andputting the usual L2 2s. fee in the coroner’s breeches pocket. If a mail dies suddenly in this very Christian township or district, his sorrowing relatives have three reasons for being highly satisfied. A post mortem examination will freshen up some medico’s knowledge of the human mechanism, and elicit an answer to the question one so often hears at a wake—“ Why did he die a very intelligent jury will have an opportunity of listening to lan guage only to bo found in ponderous books on medical science, and of course under standing that language without reference to a dictionary of terms —and medical and coroner’s fees will be paid. The reporters will run out a few inches or a few columns of highly instructive reading in the shape of evidence, winding up with a meaning

less verdict, and possibly a practically use less rider, forgotten as soon as written, and that is all.

The leading luminary of legal lore is not beyond criticism, so far as his consistency is concerned. A few weeks ago there was a case before the Court—Shearman v. Knight—in which Mr. Branson appeared as counsel for plaintiff, and was inconti nently turned out on a professional etiquette point. He was very wroth thereat, and took the opportunity of announcing that he did not appear so much on .behalf of his client as he did to defend that noble army of martyrs the Licensed Victuallers as a body, whose legal adviser he was. Chispa on that occasion felt for him, and sympathised for the poor man when not allowed to defend his friends. But when “ Chispa ” heard the same eloquence used in defence of the sly grog business yesterday he was slightly taken aback at the inconsistency of this man of law. The defence set up that certain leaves rolled up to represent mild Havannas were reasonable at Gd. each was too much for tlie Bench, and Mr. Guinness wasn’t far out when he con sidered the beer was in important con sideration in such a sale.

The great muff cricket match was a grand affair (for the Christchurch players.) Ashburton was a confounded sight too honest altogether, and the metropolitan muffs f?) had them cheap. As muffs the Ashburton boys were perfect, for they muffed the concern throughout. The pro moter of the whole business commenced the day’s proceeding by getting up five minutes too late, and his wild endeavors to stop the train must have caused him a considerable loss of breath ; but he got to the cricket ground before everything was over and the lunch purveyor had thought fully reserved a ham and a sirloin of beef to assist the late but not yet deceased one in sustaining exhausted nature ; and I am glad to say that he has not suffered to any extreme extent. The press was numer ously if not ably represented, and no less than four Fourth Estate men turned up from our village, and were all equally bad as cricketists. The “Times ” man showed the best, and it was a toss up between the “Herald” and the “Mail” which was the worst.

I would advise the rowdy people of Rakaia to take care. I suppose Rakaia has a share of rowdy people, as well as all other civilised countries. But Rakaia has a special reason to take care, for Trooper Rouse has got located there. He is a quiet, mild, inoffensive looking man is Rouse ; but hit him, and—well, I did it once. 11 egretted it, for reasons I needn’t give. But he is a smart fellow is Rouse. He had a man to hunt for at Chertsey who was wanted up North, and our trooper had only the official description to go by. Scene —Chertsey station. Enter Rouse ; enter also a country-looking man. Rouse (soliloquising)—“That’s the description; I’ll try.” Innocently to countryman— “ Good morning, Dawson.” Poor Dawson was caught on the hop : he answered to his own name, and brave Trooper Rouse with a feather in his cap walked off an alleged wife deserter.

Someone or other says a live lion is better than a dead dog. If anyone wants

pi’oof of this he had better walk up that road past the site recently occupied by Chiarini’s circus. If he can think of any thing worse than the smell of the dead dog lie will there pass, may you never hear again from Chisfa.

Maori Logic.

A paragraph in a newspaper cor respondent’s letter runs as follows : —Latest news received to-day (Jan. 31) from the Waimate Plains represents the natives as inclined to be more sulky than they were yesterday. One old chief is reported to have said to a European interlocutor, referring to the action taken by Government, “Before the pakehas came to New Zealand the Maoris used to fight, kill, and afterwards eat their prisoners. When the missionaries arrived on the scene and told them it was bad to eat their prisoners, they asked them to whom they were to look for food, and were told to look above to God. They did so, and were friendly with each other afterwards. But after a while the pakeha fought with the Maori. Did God tell them to do this ? If so, why did the missionaries say it was bad to fight ? ”

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT.

ASHBURTON—Friday, Fob. G.

(Before Mr. F. Guinness, R.M.) A DISPUTED LIEN.

Higgins v. Gardiner.—Claim for return of |tiiree horses and a double furrow plough, of the value of L 75. Mr. Bran son for plaintiff, Mr. Harris for defendant. Mr. Crisp gave evidence as to a docu ment having been shown to him, which purported to show a sale of the goods by defendant to plaintiff, the said sale-note being signed by defendant. Michael Higgins, the plaintiff, deponed he was a laborer. Had been in the em ploy of Mr. Gardiner. Had in my pos session a document signed in my presence by defendant. I got it from Mr. Crisp, and I took it to Mr. Gardiner for his sig nature. I last had it in my hand a week ago. I saw Gardiner at his stables, to claim the horses, and I produced the docu ment. He snatched it out of my hand. We had a struggle for the possession of it, and Gardiner said he had a receipt in his pocket. I found the two portions of the document produced on the ground after wards.

By Mr. Harris —The struggle took place about 11 o’clock. Gardiner refused to give me the horses. 1 showed my receipt for them, and the struggle then took place, and the receipt was destroyed during the scuffle. After 1 picked up the two pieces of paper, Gardiner told me he had tlie receipt in his pocket. Mr. Taylor and two others were present. I cannot read, but can swear that the two pieces are portions of the document. Mr. Branson said that the evidence was sufficient to establish a case of fraud.

Mr. Harris contended his right to put his client in the witness-box before the fraud question was decided upon. James Gardiner, farmer, deponed— Defendant came to my place on January 30th, and said he was not going to work any longer. He said he wanted the horses, and after a scuffle he said some document had been destroyed. I saw the

pieces on the ground afterwards, but took no notice of them. I did not snatch any paper out of his hand, nor tell him I had a receipt in my pocket. By Mr. Branson—He said he had a document, but did not produce it. I did not see any document. He picked up the pieces of paper off the ground and said the receipt had been destroyed. There were several pieces of paper on the ground. After argument his Worship said he could not say fraud had taken place, but would admit secondary evidence.

E. G. Crisp, recalled, said he could recognise the torn portions of paper as parts of a receipt drawn by him on Oct. 13th for LSO, purchase money of three horses and a double-furrow plough bought by Higgins from Gardiner. Gave it to Higgins, and he brought it back about an hour afterwards with Gardiner’s signature attached.

By Mr. Harris—l nave no doubt of the signature on the receipt being Gardiner’s. I know no more of the transactions further than that I drew the receipt up at Higgins’ request. M. Higgins, recalled—l paid the money to Gardner, and he gave me the receipt. I paid him in cash. I had the horses in my possession, and was working them. When I gave Gardiner the LSO he said, “ These are your horses,” and added that the LSO was as good as L3OO to him at the time, and that he would give me a good present after harvest. He previously told me he was pressed for monej 7 . I said that if he gave me security over a team of horses I would let him have LSO. I was due about L2O for wages by Gardiner at the same time as I gave him tlie money. The value of the horses was about L 23, L 23, and L3O, respectively. If sold now they would bring about L4O each, but I am no judge. Two of the horses are about twelve years old, and another about six. They are light draught horses. The two old ones are worth about L2O each, and the six-year-old about L 25. The plough is worth about Ll2. I hired the horses out, and their hire would be worth about L2 a week.

By Mi\ Harris—Have been with Mr. Gardiner since Christmas. Gardiner told me he was pushed for money. I was frightened he was going through the Court. He asked me for LSO, and I said he should have it if he gave me horses as security. I never got delivery of them. I saw Mr. Gardiner last Friday, and wanted to get my money and horses, and he told me be hadn’t the money to pay me. I went to Mr. O’Eeilly with him, and he said he would give me a cheque which would be all right in a month. I told Gardiner I would take LIOO to settle. I have worked for Gardiner about two years and a month. 1 think he owes me about LGO for wages. The sale at Dromore was before I paid the LSO. Gardiner settled up with me in June, aud I paid him the LSO in October.

Jeremiali M £ Cartliy, laborer, deponed to knowing the three horses mentioned in the bill of sale, and valued them at L7O. By Mr. Harris—l don’t buy or sell hoi'ses myself. The horses are good and staunch.

Mr. Harris said he was prepai’ed to show evidence that the horses had never been sold, and the supposed document was a misrepresentation. The ' advance of the LSO was acknowledged by defendant ; but the action was brought in a wrong form. He called Mr. James Gardiner—Plaintiff has been working for me for some time. In October last I received LSO from plaintiff, it was a loan, and I gave him security over three horses, and was to repay him on March 13th next, the money was a loan and not for a purchase of the horses. I never gave him thorses, nor did he ever ask for them. The horses are still in my posses sion. He demanded his wages last week, and I could not then pay him. He said he would have the horses. He went with me to Mr. O’Reilly’s office, to try and arrange the matter, and he agred to accept LIOO, but wanted it paid at once. By Mr. Branson—l was sued by two men for some L4O, and he knew of it, and offered me the LSO. I was not at the time on the verge of bankrupty. There was a stipulation in the agreement as to the re payment of the money in March next. I only gave him a receipt for the LSO. I have offered to settle with plaintiff, and to pay him this week. My sale a Dromore was on June sth, and I paid him up about a week afterwards, and I then agreed with him for L2 a week to go on again.

Wm. Tiylor, deponed—Was present when plaintiff and defendant had a squab ble, and Higgins was very excited, and re marked that defendant had agreed to pay him 20 per cent, for the money he owed him. He told me he had a lien over the horses. One of the horses is worth about L4O, another L 25 or L3O, and the third one say L4O. Wm. Wilcox, laborer, said Higgins told him he had nothing to do with the horses, and all he wanted was his money. Con sidered the horses worth L4O each for two, and LSO for the other. Mr. Wilkie gave evidence as to the value of the horses being L 35 for two, and L 45 for another. Horses had increased in value since the sale.

Counsel addressed the Bench, and Mr. Harris submitted the action should have been brought for the LSO lent and interest. Mr. Branson argued that the defendant had actually sold the horses, and the plain till' was entitled to take delivery of them at once. Seeing that the intention of the document given was a mortgage, plaintiff was entitled to seize as mortgagee at once. His Worship said the question to decide was the intention at the time of giving the receipt. It was evident a clear and absolute sale had been made, ard the deci sion would be for the plaintiff to have the horses handed over to him, with costs L 5 7s. The case was important to the public, and it would be well for people to be care ful of what papers they signed. A WAGES CLAIM. Higgins v. Gardiner.—Claim for wages, L 49 10s. Mr. Branson for plaintiff, Mr. Harris for defendant. The claim was admitted, excepting an item for seven weeks’ wages at L 3 a week, which defendant said should be L2 per week John Bradley, laborer, said he had been working at AVesterfiekl in company with plaintiff, and the wages paid there by Gardiner were to be 10s. per day. Plaintiff, sworn, said he was engaged at L2 per week in June last, and was to get LOs. per day during harvest. Defendant, sworn, said plaintiff had been engaged, wet and dry, at L2 per week, to work right through the harvest. Judgment for L 49 10s., and costs L 5 Bs. The Court then adjourned.

ROAD BOARDS.

WAKANUI.

The ; usual monthly meeting of the Wakauui: Road Board was held at the officey Moore street, on Thursday. Pre sent Messrs. H. T. Winter, Hugo Fried lander, G. Earle, and J. Hunt. Mr. Hunt proposed, and Mr. Fried lander seconded—“ That Mr. Winter be elected Chairman for the ensuing year.” Carried.. .

The following correspondence was read and disposed of

From Mr. Jno. Corbett, complaining of water overflowing his land, caused by water coming into the creek from Moffat’s mill race. Resolved—“ That the letter be referred back to Mr. Corbett—the Board regretting it has no power to inter fere in the matter.”

From the Secretary to the Treasury, stating that the second moiety for the current year would be paid next March, the due date.

From the Chief Surveyor, re roads to sections, 6,686 and 19,244. Resolved— “To write to Mr. H. Beclcet, the owner of R.S. 20,485, enclosing particulars of the Chief Surveyor’s letter, and requesting' 1 him to remove his house, &c., which have been built on the road. .. ‘Y From Mr. W. J. Silcock, stating that the price lie had put in for cuttings on the Seaside road had been only for 17 b chains for one section, as stated in his tender, and asking for an extra allowance of L2O for additional cuttings. Resolved—“ That LSO be paid, to Mr. Silcock for cuttings, being Ll 5 ss. for extra work done by him. ” TENDERS. The tender of Mr. J. R. Chapman, for painting offices, &c., was accepted at Ll 5. On the Surveyor’s report being read and received, it ivas resolved—“ That tenders be called for additions to tlie Road Board cottage, and that Messrs. Hunt and Fried lander be empowered to accept tenders. - financial. : The Clerk was instructed to get informa tion from the manager of the Bank of Hew Zealand why interest amounting to L 126 19s. Id. had been paid to the credit of the Longbeach Road Board. Resolved—“ That the rates for 1879- 1880 be collected at once, instead of in April as advertised, as tlie Board would otherwise lose their share of subsidy on rates collected up to 31st Marche 1 The collector was instructed to take immediate proceedings for outstanding rates of 1878-9. THE ROLL. Resolved—“ That the rate roll be re turned to the County Council, informing them of its incompleteness.” leadley’s drain. The clerk was instructed to write to the County Council for a grant in aid of works already executed on the drain along Lead ley’s road Mr. Mayo’s application to have roads shingled which are already dedicated, was held over till after harvest. The Beard then adjourned. SOUTH RAKAIA. The South Rakaia Road Board met at the Board’s office, Rakaia, on Thursday. Present—Messrs. C. H. Mackie, chair man, D. G. Holmes, and E. S. Coster. The suiweyor’s report was read and adopted. A letter was read from Mr. Copeland declining to accept LlO an acre for the land necessary for the making of a new' road at Chertsey. The Chairman informed the Board that he had received a similar letter from Mr. W. A. Brown. The Clerk drew' the attention of the Board to the incomplete state of the rate payers’ roll for 1880, as compiled by Mr. Leach. It was resolved that the usual notice be given that the Board object to the new roll. Mr. H. Connor wrote to the Board ask ing to have some repairs done to the cot tage he is occupying. It was resolved that the necessary repairs to tlie immi grants’ cottages be effected. A letter was received from Mr. Turner, asking for compensation for loss of time through the fencing material for his con tract under the Board not coming to hand quickly enough.

It was resolved that the Board’s men be employed in making a footpath in the direction of the parsonage. The pay-sheet was adopted and the Board adjourned.

THU STORY-TELLER.

Eugene Morton. A Talc of the Indian Warfare on the American Frontier. CHAPTER XVlll.— Continued. GETTING OUT OF THE WILDERNESS. “Just exactly one apiece, as sure as you live,” exclaimed Seth exultingly. “Get ready each of you for your man. Graham, take the nearest one this way ; you the next one, Hal didge, and I’ll pick off the last one in the genuine style. Get ready quick, for I’ve got to hunah over the way things is coming round. ”

The three pointed their deathly instruments toward the unsuspicious savages. Each took a long, deliberate, and certain aim. “Now, then, together— fire!” Simultaneously the three rifles flashed, but that of Seth missed fire. The others sped true to their aim. Two yells of death agony broke upon the air, and one ot the savages sprang his entire length out of the water, and then sank like lead to the bottom. The other clung quivering to the log for a moment, and then loosening his hold, disappeared beneath the water.

‘ Brimstone and treacle ! ” exclaimed Seth, springing to his feet, “hand me your rifle, Graham. Something is the matter with mine, and that other imp will get away. Quick ! hand it here ! ” He took the rifle and commenced loading it as rapidly as possible, keeping his eye upon the Indian who was now swimming desperately for the other bank.

“Is yer iron loaded, Haldidge ? ” he asked. “No ; I’ve been watching you and that chap’s doubling, to see who’ll get the best, so long, that I dicl’nt think of it.’ 1 “ Load again, for s’pusen this gun should miss fire too, he’d get off then sure. Wal, my stars ! if he is’t coming out now.” The Indian as if scorning the danger, rose slowly from the water, and walked leisurely to ward the shelter of the wood.

“Now, my fine feller, see if you can dodge this.”

Seth once more aimed at the retreating In dian, and this time pulled the trigger ; but to his unutterable chargin, the rifle flashed in the pan ! Before Haldidge could finish loading his gun, and before Seth could even reprime his, the Indian had disappeared in the wood. “ Elephants and pitchforks ! what’s got into the guns ! ” exclaimed Seth in a perfect fury, 4 ‘ That’s twice I’ve been fooled ! Worse n

Saturday, February 7, 1880.1

THE ASHBURTON HERALD.



New Advertisements. WAKANUI ROAD BOARD. TO BUILDERS. TENDERS are invited for ADDITIONS to Overseer’s COTTAGE. Specifica tions can be seen at the Board’s Office ; and tenders will be received till 10 a. m. on WEDNESDAY, Feb. 11th. FOOKS & SON, 31c Surveyors to the Board. CHRISTMAS Number Young Ladies’ Journal, London Journal, Family Herald, Family Reader, Boys’ Standard, &c. Just arrived. H. M. Jones, Sta tioner, Baring Square. FOR SALE. mHE undsrsigned have on SALE 1 Second-Hand, M'CORMICK’S REA PER and BINDER (new this year). 1 Second-Hand, WOOD’S REAPER and BINDER. 1 Second-Hand, SAMUELSON. POYNTZ & CO., 32c Ashburton. WESLEYAN CHURCH, Cameron street. —Divine Service will be conducted in the above Church To-morrow Morning and Evening by the Rev. W. Keall. 38c RIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH Wills Street. —Divine Service will be conducted in the above Church to morrow Morning and Evening by the Rev. A. J. Smith. 37c PHOTOGRAPHY. ~T)ORTRAITS taken in any weather, at MARTIN’S PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO, Saunders’ Buildings, Ashburton. 19c Great Reduction in Prices. MONEY. jgQQ £IOO, £2OO, £250, AND £IOOO. These sums are ready for immediate investment, on approved Freehold securi ties at current rates. Apply to THOMAS & BRUGES, Solicitors, 13c CHRISTCHURCH. ~r QST, in the Town of Ashburton, a l j RIDING SADDLE. Any person returning the same to Messrs. Poyntz & Co. ’s Office will be rewarded. 26c -w-vyANTED—To lease or purchase W DINING ROOMS, centrally situated. Apply by letter, T. T., Post Office, Ashburton. 468g—21c TWO POUNDS REWARD^ LOST —One Grey Cob MARE, one Chestnut Heavy Draught do. Have been traced from Rakaia fifteen miles towards Ashburton. The finder will receive one pound reward per head on bringing them to Mutch and M'Kenzie, Ashburton. JOHN FRASER. 38c Tinwald. A SHBURTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. President —E. G. Wright, Esq., M. H.R. Yice-Presidents —J. E. Trevor, John Grigg, W. C. Walker, and Alfred Saunders, Esqs. Committee —Messrs. H. C. Jacobson, W. H. Collins, G. Smith, . J. G. Anstee, J. Sealey W. T. Davidson, J. Orr, H. W. Charlton, J. Sim monds, J. R. Chapman, T. Sealey, J. Coutts. Treasurer —F. Shury, Esq. Secretary—Stephen E. Poyntz. The First Show of the Society will be held on SATURDAY, MARCH 6th, At the TOWN HALL. Admission up to 1 p.m. 2s Cd. „ After 1 p.m. Is. Competition for prizes open to the Public. N.B.—lt is particularly requested that all those who have articles suitable for competition, or exhibition only, will bring them forward, in order to make this, the first show, a success. Notice for space must be forwarded to the Secretary on or before March 3rd. Any information with respect to entries, &c., may be obtained from the under signed. STEPHEN E. POYNTZ, 474g-33c Secretary. WAKANUT ROAD BOARD. RATE NOTICE. THE Rate for 1879-80 will be COL LECTED FORTHWITH and not in April as previously notified, and all over due rates for 1878-9 will be sued for at once. Rates to be paid at my residence, Great South Road, next the Gasworks. JAMES WILKIE, 477g-34c Collector. ITOLEN or strayed from the Triangle, ) Ashburton—A BLACK HORSE, e white spot on each shoulder. A vard of TEN SHILLINGS will be •en to any one supplying information as its whereabouts ; and anyone detaining ! same after this date will be PROSE FTED. Apply, y A THIELE, Co-operative Bakery. sth Feb., 1880. 35c-478a



New Advertisements. COMPLIMENTARY ENTERTAIN MENT TO MR AND MRS. FLORENCE (Under the patronage of the Mayor and Borough Councillors), ten dered by Several Vocal and Dramatic Lady & Gentlemen Amateurs of Ash burton, will be held in the TOWN HALL, ASHBURTON, ON TUESDAY, 10th FEBRUARY. PROGRAMME. Overture- Trio —“ Through the World,” Mr. Branson, and Mr. and Mrs. Florence. Song—Mr. Pratt. Song—“ When other Lips,” Mr. Flor enCe. Song—‘‘Nothing Else to Do,” Mr. Harrison. Duet—“ The Moon has raised,” Mr. Branson and Mrs. Florence. Song—“ The Mountebank,” Mrs. Flo rence. Song—Mr. Branson. Duet—“ Flow Gently,” Mr. and Mrs. Florence. Song—Mr. Jacobson. First part to conclude with the Prison Scene from MARITANA—Mr. Branson, and Mr. and Mrs. Florence. intermission of ten minutes. To conclude v itli the sparkling Come dietta—JACK’S DELIGHT, in which Messrs. Jacobson, Pratt, Zouch, Miss Lizzie Harding, Mrs. Florence, and lady amateurs will take part. Doors open at 7. 30, to commence at 8 sharp. Box office at the “ Mail ” office, where plan of seats can be inspected. Prices of Admission—Front seats, 3s. ; back 2s. 36c— 481g NEW TAILORING ESTABLISH MENT. CRAIGHEAD & Co., MERCHANT TAILORS, HAVE opened those premises situated in Tancred street adjoining Messrs. Orr and Co’s General Store. A SPLENDID ASSORTMENT OF TWEEDS, FANCY GOODS, &c., &c., JUST ARRIVED. Mr. Craighead’s experience as Head Cutter in connection with First Class Tailoring Establishments in Edinburgh and San Francisco has extended over a period of ten years, and from the immense success which has always attended his efforts to please, he is prepared to guarantee a perfect fit in every case. TANCRED STREET, (Next Orr and Cx ’s.) CRAIGHEAD & CO. 982 a TENDER FOR CUTTING, STOOKING, AND STACKING. \XTANTED Tenders for Cutting, Stooking and Stacking 150 acres crop—near Chertsey. Tenders to be sent in to Maclean and Winter, South Rakaia, on MONDAY, 9th inst. 30c*