SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE

Lyttelton, April 9. —Arrived—Padi shah, from Port Chalmers; Dumfries shire, from Newcastle. Sailed—Waimate, ship, for London, with 1648 bales -wool, 173 casks tallow, 7262 sacks wheat, 36 cases tallow, and some sundries ; also 30 passengers. The Margaret Galbraith, ship, for London ; the Arawata, for the North ; and the Hawea, for the South.

COMMERCIAL.

The following is the report of the Christchurch Corn Exchange for the week ending Friday evening, April 9. The week that has lapsed has not

evolved any new features, which call for special remark. Large quantities of wheit : continue to arrive from the country stations, which is being shipped for Great ; Britain on groovers’ and merchants’ ac counts. Recent Home advices report the market flat, latest quotations are 565. per quarter for 4961b5. Wheat' sales have been effected during the week at from 3s. lOd. to 45., accord ing to quality. Prime samples fit for seed will command 4s. in Christchurch. Good milling 3s. 9d. to 3s. 10^d. Oats.—No change has taken place in the value, sales are taking place at from Is. 4d. to Is. 6d. Demand fair, but growers unwilling to part: Barley.—The state of the market is almost precisely what it was the preceding week. Few samples of really prime ■4 quality are to hand, while the market is glutted with second-rate to feed samples. For prime malting, 3s. 9d. to 4s. is ob • tainable ; for the other, 2s. to- 2s. 9d. is the value.

Grass seed.—A few sales have been effected at from 2s. 9d. to 3s. For good extra dressed heavy samples the latter yrice is obtainable. H; Potatoes. Enquiries continue for forward delivery, and a few sales have already taken place. For one large parcel the rumor is that 365. is the price agreed upon. There is still nothing defi nite as to market rate. The present aspect of affairs points to between 30s. and 40s. per ton, sacks extra. Cheese and butter.—-The former is in good supply at from sd. to 5Jd. per lb., demand slack. The latter is saleable at Bjd. to 9d. per lb., demand moderate.

Messrs. R. Davies and Co. held their first auction sale in the yards attached to the Railway Hotel, Ralcaia, on Friday, when they disposed of two town sections i n the town of Rakaia, and several horses, ploughs, and other farming implements, belonging to the assigned estate of Mr. E. Powys, at satisfactory prices. At the close of the sale Mr. Davies, on the part of his firm, thanked those present for their attendance, and informed them that he intended to hold monthly sales of stock and implements in those yards, when he hoped they would give him their support, promising them to do his best in their interests.

Messrs. H. Matson and Co.—At a sale of vessels held by Messrs. H. Matson and Co., on behalf of Mr. F. Jenkins, at their rooms, Cashel street, Christchurch, at 11 o’clock on Thursday the attendance v r as but scanty, and the biddings were very slow and weak. The first vessel offered was the Especulador, 262 tons register, which it was stated could carry about 360 tons of dead weight, or about 170,000 feet of timber. A very full inventory was read, and she was stated to be ready for sea. The first bid was L7OO, which went slowly up to L 725, at which price it was bought in. The Elizabeth Curie, of 76 tons re gister, was next offered, but a bid of only L2OO was made, and she was passed in. The Onward, fore and aft schooner, 69 tons register, was next offered, but all the efforts of the auctioneer failed to elicit a bid. The ketc/i Lucy James, 27 tons re gister, but said to carry 40 tons, was next offered. The first bid was LSO, which ran up to LIOO, at which price she was knocked down to Mr. Mackintosh. It was in tended, we understand, to offer the unsold vessels by auction in Lyttelton in about a week. At 2 o’clock a sale of land was held at which there was a numerous atten dance. Mr. Walton was the auctioneer. The first property offered were two sections of land upon the Esplanade, Sumner, but all the efforts of the auctioneer failed to obtain a bid over LIOO eaoh, at which price they were withdrawn. The next property offered were 42 sections of the township of Newmarket, at Ad dington, on the West town belt. Number 30, containing 1 rood, 4f perches, brought L 10 0; No. 49, containing perches, produced L7O; No. 12, containing 32 perches, brought L7O. The balance of the sections not reaching the owners’ limits were withdrawn. The bidding was exceedingly slow. At the same hour, Messrs. Matson and Go. also held a very large skin and tallow sale. There were 7500 sheepskins, 210 bags fat, 221 ox hides and several casks and packages of tallow. There was a numerous attendance, and considering the large quantities of fered prices were very good. The prices of hides averaged about the same as last week. Sheepskins were rather easier. Fat was fully £d. per lb, better in price. A sale of over 250 horses was also held on Thursday, at 11 o’clock, Mr. J. T. Mat son being the auctioneer. There was a very large attendance, and great curiosity and excitement was shown : the biddings were very active, and the prices unusually good.

It is not often that an auction firm has four important sales such as these upon one day.

Messrs. Acland, Campbell, and Co. re port on the live stock market for the week ending Thursday, April 8, as fol lows :—The Addington Yards on Wed nesday were filled to overflowing with sheep. In fat sheep late rates were not maintained, there being a drop of

at least- Is. per head, and through out the sale for this class of stock there ■was a great want of animation. A large number of stores were yarded, and although some good sales were effected the market was irregular, several lots re maining unsold. We quote best cross breds from 9s. up to 11s.; medium, 6s. up to Bs.; fat merino ewes, 4s. lid. to ss. 6d.; cross-bred store ewes, 4-tooth, 7s. 9d.; 2-tooth, 7s. 3d.; cross-bred wethers, in good condition, 7s. to 7s. 6d.; merino wethers, 4s. 3d. to 4s. 6d.; merino ewes, fair mouthed, 45.; crocks, 2s. to 2s. 6d. Very few lambs yarded, what were in selling from ss. 3d. to Bs. 9d. Fat cattle did not sell freely, and late rates were not maintained, best quality, not making over 20s. A large number of stores came to

hand, but it was almost impossible to effect sales and a large majority were turned out unsold. For good milch cows, in profit, and springers, there was a fair demand, and sales were made from L 8 up to Ll2. For the few lots of young store cattle that were sold, vendors had to sub mit to a considerable reduction on late prices. During the past week we have placed privately several lines of cross breds and merino stores and have still a good many orders to fulfil for this class of stock, especially for merino ewes.

[by telegraph.] Dunedin, April 9.

Prime beef, 225. 6d. per lOOlbs.; mut ton, l|-d.; wheat, 4s. to ss. 4d.; fowl wheat, 3s. to 3s. 3d.; oats, Is. 3d. to Is. 4d.; barley, 4s. to 4s. 6d.; feed, 2s. 6d. to 35.; potatoes, L2 15s. to L 3 ; old hay, L 4 ; new oaten hay, L 3 55.; chaff', L 3 55.; straw, L2 ; bran, L 3 10s.; pollard, L 4 ; flour, LlO 10s. to LlO 15s. per ton ; large sacks oatmeal, LlO ; pearl barley, L 22 ; onions, 65.; new cheese, sd. to 6d.; bacon, rolled, lOd.; hams, Is.; sides bacon, lid. Hams and bacon scarce.

The Ashburton Herald AND Borough and County Advertiser With which is incorporated the “Evening Echo”). SATURDAY, APRIL, 10, 1880.

Held Over. —Chispa’s letter and some other matters are held over.

Parish Meeting. —The annual parish meeting of St. Stephen’s will be held on Monday evening in the Library Hall, at 7.30.

A Divorce Case. —The divorce case of Herbert Fergusson v. Jane Fergusson and John Pradialle is set down for hearing on Monday, at Dunedin. Contempt of Court. —Daniel Horrigan, who appeared in Court yesterday in a state of intoxication, was brought before his Worship this morning, and fined L2, or forty-eight hours’ imprisonment. Sent Back. —Fanny Williams, who was arrested on Friday evening in Ashburton, on a warrant from Christchurch, being brought before the Bench this morning, was remanded to that city for trial. Gift Auction. —Tho Financial Com mittee of the Presbyterian Church have arranged for a gift auction in aid of the funds of the church, to take place in the Town Hall on the 6th of May next.

St. Stephen’s Church. —The Rev. Mr. Hands has arrived in Ashburton, and visited the choir at its practice last night. He will conduct service in the chuxch to morrow.

The Waimate Bush Fire Cases. The whole of the Studholme cases, in which damages are claimed for compensa tion arising out of the great Waimate bush fire, have been withdrawn.

Mount Somers Railway—Upper Sec tion.— The surveyors have completed their survey of the upper section of the Mount Somers line, and the next we ought to hear in connection with it should be that tenders are called for.

Drunk. —Before Mr. Guinness, this morning, George Edmonds pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly, but their being no previous convictions recorded against the delinquent, he was let off with + he usual fine of 55., or twenty-four hours in durance vile.

Fire. —Early on Thursday morning six stacks of oats the property of Mr. John O’Shea were destroyed by fire, at the Ash burton Forks. The loss is estimated at about Ll5O, which is partially covered by insurance with the London and Lan cashire Insurance Co. A New Start. —Mr. Wilkie announces his intention of giving the public the op portunity of using some of his well-known first-class horses. He is going to open his stables for livery and breaking-in work, and his talent in that direction is so well known, and his stock so good, that his success is certain.

Wesleyan Church. —The congregation of the Cameron street Church, who have hitherto worshipped on Sunday evenings in a veritable “dim, religious light,” afforded by kerosene lamps, will be glad to know that gas has been laid on, and next Sunday evening the church will be illuminated in a somewhat more satisfac tory manner than has hitherto been the case.

A Drunken Litigant. —ln the R.M. Court yesterday, Mr. O’Reilly asked for the adjournment of a case in which he ap peared for the defendant, on the plea that his client was not “ physically capable” of appearing. The adjournment was granted in payment of the usual costs, but some one pointed out to the opposite side that defendant was sitting in Court “ with his head bowed down.” His Worship ordered the alcoholically soporfic defendant off to the lock-up. Art. —We have much pleasure in re cording the fact that another celebrity in artistic painting is a resident of the Canter bury Plains. We have been shown some very superior productions in the shape of oil painting by Mr. Clarke, of Rakaia. Several of the pictures are being framed in gold by our local picture frame maker, Mr. Gates, of Saunders’ Buildings.

A Scene in Court. —The relations between Bench and Bar at the Ashburton R.M. Court do not seem to be of the most amicable character, and now and again little ebullitions of temper are manifested. Yesterday, during the hearing of a case, a little scene occurred in which the love that exists was shown. In the case of Weeks and Dixon v. Harris and Ireland, Mr. Branson, who was not engaged in the case, interposed some remarks, where upon Mr. O’Reilly asked him what right he had to interfere where he was not con cerned. Mr. Branson making some further remarks, the R.M., with the front of Jove, came down upon the luckless Mr. Branson, and observed that he was always conducting himself in an outrageous manner in that Court, and so for a time discord reigned supreme in our classic Hall of Justice. Ultimately the R.M. said if he had said anything rashly he was willing to apologise to the bar, but the bar wasn’t on, and the Bench has not yet been apologised to,

Local Directory. —Mr. Burton, who compiled and printed a directory. for Christchurch, Lyttelton, and Kaiapoi, is about to compile one also for Aushburton, Timaru, and Oamaru. We can only say that if Mr. Burton is as successful in bis efforts in the south as he has been in the north of Canterbury, he will have no reason to regret his visit here.

Death to the Small Birds. —The small birds are likely to have a war of extermi nation waged against them very shortly. Yesterday afternoon the Christchurch Agricultural and Pastoral Association re solved to invite the attendance of repre sentatives from farmers’ clubs and sparrow clubs, to consider what steps should be taken for the abatement of the small birds nuisance.

Novel Method of Seeking Redress. —Thomas Cook was brought up before Mr. Guinness this morning for breaking three panes of glass, the property of Messrs. Qrr and Co., valued at L 5. After the arresting constable had given his evi dence, Mr. John Orr deponed that Cook had gone into their shop yesterday after noon, with an order from a man named Russell, upon which witness told the pri soner that, as the firm were not indebted to Russell, he should refuse to pay it. After muttering something, prisoner went outside, and the next thing Mr. Orr heard was the smashing of windows. Cook had been in the night before, and, after plead ing poverty, witness had given him a few shillings to get a bed and breakfast, and told the prisoner not to trouble him any more about the order. The two bottom panes had been kicked through, and a stone thrown through the top pane. The estimated damage done was L 5. In reply to prisoner, Mr. Orr stated that he had told the men in Russell’s employ that the latter had written for sufficient money to pay the men off, and that the firm had sent him all that he had asked for— namely, LIOO, in three instalments, and that the men would have to look to Russell for payment up to the time possession was taken by Orr and Co. of tlie farm, but if the men liked to stop on afterwards he would see that they were paid. Prisoner, however, did not stop after possession had been taken by the prosecutoi'. Addressing the Bench, prisoner stated that after following Russell all over the country he could only get half his wages and an order on Orr and Co for the balance, in consequence of the latter having taken possession of the crop. Seeing that he (Cook) could not get the money, he broke the windows, so as to bring the matter into notice, and show how working men, who work hard from year to year, are treated, and do not know who to apply to for the wages which they earn. His Worship said that on his own evidence prisoner had committed the offence. There was no doubt he had a claim on Russell for his earnings, but Mr. Orr was in no way responsible for the amount. The prisoner had taken a most unusual course to make known Ins grievance, and reminded him there was the usual legal process open to him to obtain justice. Prisoner was mulcted in a penalty of L 5, and another sum of L 5 for the damage done, or one month’s imprisonment with hard labor.

CORRESPONDENCE.

We do not hold ourselves responsible for the opinions expressed by our correspondents.

A SCENE IN COURT.

To the Editor. Sir, —I have read in this morning’s “ Guardian” a paragraph describing a scene which took place in the R. M. Court. From this description it would appear that I had been guilty of gross disrespect to Mr. Guinness, and that I had not the manliness to apologise to him. I trust you will afford me a little space, that I may give you the facts as they actually occurred, and that I may point out the serious errors contained in the paragraph alluded to. Mr. Ireland, when the case of Weeks and Dixon v. Harris and Ireland was called on, rose to object to the appearance of Mr. O’Reilly as counsel for the plain tiffs, on the ground that Mr. O’Reilly had acquired his knowledge of the facts of the case from friendly conversations with both defendants. I whispered to Mr. Ireland the following words :—“ And also while he was in partnership with you. ” This Mr. Ireland had previously mentioned to me, and as he appeared to me to have omitted this 1 point’ in his address, I did what I had a perfect right to do, remind him of it. It is a matter of constant occurrence for one solicitor to make sug gestions and offer advice to another while in court. At the time when I made this suggestion to Mr. Ireland, Mr. Guinness had not commenced to speak. Imme diately I had whispered the above words, Mr. O’Reilly turned round to me and began speaking. Mr. Guinness then com menced speaking, and hearing someone else talking, most unjustly accused me as the culprit. I accordingly rose in my place, and informed Mr. Guinness of his mistake. Mr. Guinness, in a loud and excited manner, ejaculated “What are you doing now, Sir 1” I replied that I was clearing myself from an unjust and unfounded charge which he had made against me. 1 assured him that when he commenced to speak and while he was speaking I had not opened my mouth. Mr. Guinness, seeing he was in the wrong, said, still somewhat excitedly, “I beg your pardon, Sir, and I think you might do the same towards me,” or words to that effect. As I had done nothing for which I had to beg his pardon, I declined to do so.

These, Sir, are the facts of the case as they actually occurred.—l am, &c. Gerald D. Branson.

The Everett Bros. Concert.

Messrs. Everett Brothers’ concert last night was a huge success from all points of view. The attendance was large, the hall being quite full, and the acting and sing ing were far above the average. During the evening the applause was hearty and frequent, testifying to the appreciation of the various items presented. The front of the hall was hung with Chinese lanterns to mark the place where the entertainment was. going on, and in the early part of tho evening the brass band played a tune or two at the door. The proceedings inside were opened by Mr. F. Everett, who made a humorous speech that was very flatter ingly received. This was followed by the sweet little comedy of “ The Happy Pair,” in which appeared the ever fresh Mr. and Mrs. Hoskins, whose well-known talent received the recognition it so well de*

serves. After an interval, the musical portion of the programme commenced, the introduction being a well played overture by a lady amateur. The first song was given by Mr. Jacobsen “The harp that once in Tara’s halls.” A repetition was demanded, but owing to the length of the programme, he declined. Mr. Hoskins followed with the oration from Julius Caesar, which in his hands was a splendid exhibition of declamatory art, both in voice and gesture. Miss Ellis followed with “ Oh, fair dove,” and her sweet voice contributed not a little to the pleasure of the evening. Mr. Robertson, as a “ Bold militiaman ” was not very per fect at the “ goose step,” but made a fair appearance in spite of the trick his mous tache strings played him. Mrs. Bell sang “ Esmeralda ” remarkably well, and with an artistic grace that was much appreciated. The duet “Larboard watch ” evinced want of joint practice but showed that both gentlemen could sing. Mrs. Corrick is not unknown to an Ashburton audience, and we enjoyed her sweet rendering of “The fair moon.” Mr. Robinson’s “Farewell to his Arab steed ” my perhaps teach those who entertain horsey colonial sentiments that there is something more to be con sidered in horseflesh than simply £ s. d. Miss Ellis in “ Give me back my heart ” closed a very nice musical programme. The piano was manipulated by Miss Palmer, Mr. Everett, and Mr. Weeks in turn, and the fine touch and delicate execution of the lady was much admired. The concert closed with the scene from “ The Hunch back” in which Helen (Miss Colville) teaches Modus (Mr. Jacobson) the art of love. The scene was perhaps the hit of the evening, certainly the applause it re ceived was loud and prolonged. L 24 9s. are the financial results of the concert for charitable purposes, and we hope it will form the nucleus of a substantial fund, to be added to during the winter months for the benefit of deserving suffering ones.

South Canterbury Jockey Club Annual Meeting.

First Day—Thursday, April 8. The races were poorly patronised. The weather was dull and unfavorable, and there is very little betting. TRIAL STAKES. Mata ... ... ... ... 1 Hunnington ... ... ... 2 Won easily. MAIDEN PLATE. Volunteer ... ... ... 1 Thilo 2 Faugh-a-Ballagh ... ... 3 TIMARU GUP. Betrayer ... ... ... 1 Titania ... ... ... 2 Camballo ... ... ... 3 FLYING HANDICAP. Mata ... ... ... ... 1 Tera 2 Hunnington ... ... ... 3 [by telegraph.] Second Day—Friday, April 9. The course to-day was moderately patronised. The weather was cloudy and threatening, but no rain fell. s. c. J. c. handicap. Mata ... ... ... ... 1 Betrayer ... ... ... 2 Titania... ... ... ... 3 Volunteer and Tera also ran. Won by half-a-length. Time—-2 min. 45 sec. HURDLE RACE. Milo 1 Little John ... ... ... 2 Won easily, by three lengths.

The San Francisco Mail Items.

The Paris Municipality lias given Nordenskjold a gold medal. The Warehouses of Les Messagiers Nationales have been destroyed by fire, and goods worth 21,000,000 francs have been consumed. 600 square yards are covered with debris.

Pierre Lovellard, an American racing man, has organised iu the French capital an expedition to explore the antiquities of Mexico. It leaves early next month. The scheme is revived of cutting a canal navigable for vessels of war between the Baltic Sea and the German Ocean.

Bismarck is again sick, and complains of over work. He intends to retire from public life altogether if not appointed a colleague. It is said Count Sabbach will be appointed assistant. An improvement in business is noted in the Atlantic States of America, and a great influx of immigration has taken place. Prince William, the eldest son of the Crown Prince, will be betrothed shortly to Princess Augusta Victoria, eldest daugh ter of the Duke of Shleswig-Holstein. The official account of the attempt on the Czar’s life by blowing up the Palace is published. The Czar was perfectly calm, and an hour after the event sat down to dinner outside the gap in the floor. The Empress was asleep in her bedroom, and heard nothing ot the ex plosion. According to “La Place ” the Czar escaped by happening to be in the appartments of the Princess Dolgosowky at the time, who, it asserts was busy dis cussing politics with Alexander, and the announcement of dinner passed unheard simultaneously with the explosion. Bombs were thrown into the streets adjoining the palace, but did no harm. St. Petersburg was gaily decorated on the 2nd March, in celebration of the anniversary of the Czar’s accession. The Czar rode in an open carriage through the streets, and was loudly cheered along the road. The Duke of Edinburgh was present at the cere monies, and it is said he advised the Czar to abdicate. The dark feature of the celebration was the attempted assassination of Melicoff. He was fired at while alight ing at his residence, the bullet passing the folds of his cloak. The would be assassian was immediately seized. His name is Melordslci. He was hanged on the sth. Russia intends proprosing to the Euro pean Powers an International agreement, securing to each signatory power the right to demand the extradition of renegades. Finland is moving for independence.

The frontier of Switzerland is to be fortified. This is considered indispensable for the security of the country. An entire quarter of Copenhagen has been destroyed, and three-fourths of Her zegovina burned, including the residence of the Commandant and the post and telegraph offices. No lives were lost.

The Right Color. —Jones said it isn’t the color of the hair that troubles him in choosing a helpmate. The color of her money interests him vastly more.

TELEGRAPHIC.

TO-DAY’S TELEGRAMS.

INTERPROVINCIAL. The Fish Phenomenon. Auckland, April 10. The mortalitjr among the fish along the coast is increasing. The theory that it is attributable to the eruption on White Island is doubted, because the dead fish are found at to great a distance. The Mormon Elders. A copy of the “ Salt Lake Tribune” received here strongly denounces the Mormon elders who visited New Zealand. It says one is an expelled Mason, the next an Atheist, and the last a fraud. The Hawera Railway. New Plymouth, April 10.

A deputation waited upon the Minister of Public ‘Works this morning, in re ference to the construction of a railway from Stratford to Hawera. Mr. Hidke urged that it was very desirable the work should be pushed forward as rapidly as possible, as part of the road was almost impassable during the winter months. The Hon. Mr. Oliver stated that Govern ment would complete the work with all expedition, and intimated that the delay which had occurred already, was solely due to the fact that the settlers of the dis trict had a dispute as to the direction of the line, and it was only in consequence of his recent visit to Hawera that Govern ment would be enabled to come to a de cision upon the matter, and the work would consequently be undertaken im mediately. The Delay of the Mail. Wellington, April 10.

The Secretary of the Post Office has supplied the following pavt-culars relative to the delay of the San Fraucisco mad ; The mail from the United Kingdom, left New York on 9fch March, but owivg to a heavy fa l ! of snow along the railroad the Wain did not reach San Francisco until 3 p.m. on the 17th. Further delay look place owing to a fire which broke out on board the City of Sydney on the even ing of the 14th amongst the cargo for Honolulu stored in the forehold. The origin of the fire could not be ascertained, though the matter was thoroughly investi gated. A portion of the mail, consisting of 109 bags, which were on board the steamer at the time of the fire, was not in any way damaged. The damage to the steamer was repaired with all possible speed, and she was ready for sea on the morning of the 20th, and left San Fran cisco a.t 12.30 p.m. She arrived at Honohilu at 6.30 a.m. on the 27th ; and left the same day at 11.40, arriving at Auckland at 3.30 p.m. yesterday, after a very fast passage, occupying 19 days 16 hours. The Southern mails leave Manukau by the steamer Taiaroa on Sunday. She comes to Wellington via New Plymouth, connecting with the Rotomabana, which leaves for the South on Monday. The Melbourne Exhibition ; At a meeting yesterday of the Mel bourne Exhibition Commissioners, Dr. Hector w r as appointed Executive Com missioner. It was resolved that the local committees which acted last year should act again for the coming Exhibition, which will be opened on October 1. The Recalcitrant Fire Brigades:

At the meeting of the City Council last night re recent resolutions passed by the Fire Brigades, a committee was appointed to confer with the Brigades, and it was resolved to go on paying the latter as usual, until the committee come to a de cision. Death of a Lunatic. A man named David Cairns died at the Lunatic Asylum to-day. An inquest will be held on Monday. Death of a Government Officer. Information reached town this morning of the death of Mr. M £ Coll, the Govern ment photographer, at the Hot Springs, where he was on a visit for the benefit of his health. Attempted Suicide. Christchurch, April 10. Margaret Stanton, alias Clarke, was charged at the Resident Magistrate’s Court this morning, for attempted suicide. The constable deposed to pulling her out of the river, when she declared sbe would drown herself. A married daughter said she would take charge of the accused, who was then discharged. Earthquakes. Oamaru, April 10. Two tolerably heavy shocks of earth quake were felt f his morning. Dunedin. April 10. A sharp shock of earthquake was felt at all the Otago stations at 9.42—direction, N.N.W. to S.S.E. The Civil Service Commission. The Civil Service Comnr'ssion closed its sittings here to-day. Messrs. Caldwell, Logan, Floyd, and Commissioner Weldon have been examined. Child Murder at Balclutha. At the inquiry re the infanticide case at Balclutha, the jury returned a verdict of wilful murder. The police yesterday arrested Isabella Hamilton at Tokomai riro. Gold. The Cromwell Company have lodged a cake of 194 ounces from 230 tons.

LAST NIGHT’S CABLEGRAMS.

BRITISH & FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE (Reuters.) The Eank Reserves. London, April 8. The total reserve in notes and bullion in the Bank of England is L 15,875,000. The wool market is strong. The arrivals to date for the next auctions amount to 280,000 bales. There is a fair demand for most descriptions of hides.

The Chinese Threat. St. Petersburg, April 8.

Notwithstanding that a denial is given to the aggression of the Chinese, who were reported to have crossed the Amoor, orders have been given to despatch five more Russian cruisers to China, and the opinion is prevalent that in tke case of war being declared, Russia would proceed with naval operations, besides taking active measures to prosecute the war on land.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Reuter's Telegrams.)

Sydney, April 9. The steamship Wakatipu has arrived. Seven stowaways were found aboard her after her departure from Wellington. In the Legislative Council last night, a letter was received from the Hon. W. B. Dailey tendering his resignation. An anti-Chinese meeting w r as held last night, at which a petition to Parliament was adopted, praying for the immediate passage through the Legislature of an Act of one clause, requiring the steamer Brisbane, now quarantined here with two hundred and fifteen Chinese, and with some cases of small-pox on board, to depart immediately without discharging, under a penalty of L 20,000. Brisbane, April 9. A Commission has been appointed to inquire into the cause of the heavy mor tality which has taken place among Kanakas on plantations near Mary borough.

Melbourne, April 8,

There is a moderate business doing in oats. Sugars are becoming firmer, and appear to have reached the lowest price. Arrived—Te Anau, from New Zealand.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

Auckland, April 9,

The charge of indecent assault against Stephen Hughes, jun., solicitor and rate collector for the Ponsonby Road Board, will occupy the Supreme Court all day. The charge is brought by a girl of sixteen, engaged as servant in his house. The girl fainted while under cross-examination this morning. She said Hughes had never taken liberties with her before this occasion, and had once discharged a man of whose conduct she had complained. The Bank of New Zealand shipped six boxes of gold (61290z5) valued at L 25,000. Wellington, April 9. The Hon. Mr. Rolleston left by the steamer for the South this afternoon. The San Francisco mail is signalled at at Auckland this afternoon. She will be in about five. In the application for a writ of habeas corpus to bring up from Dunedin one of the Maori prisoners, a rule nisi was granted. It is understood that the whole of the legal questions relating to the con fiscated lands will probably be raised on this rule. Nelson, April 9. A summons was served on Mr. Acton Adams, M.H.R., this morning for per jury. The perjury is alleged to have been committed dui’ing the hearing of a civil action, Adams v. Boyes, for wrong ful sale by Mr. Edward Thomas (who brings the present information) of certain sheep over which he had given a bill of sale to Mr. Adams, but which bill of sale, Mr. Thomas alleged, he had satisfied by reason of Mr. Adams having sold other property which realised as much as the total amount he was indebted to Mr. Adams. The case of Adams v. Boyes was heard last February, in the District Court, and the plaintiff obtained judgment, hut there has since then been litigation between Boyes and Thomas, when Boyes was nonsuited.

THE GENERAL ELECTIONS AT HOME.

{By cable from Reuter's Agency.) London, April 7. The election returns so far show that the Liberals had gained 67 seats which were held last Parliament by Conserva tives, five seats having been won since the sth inst. The Liberals are, however, being less successful in the counties. Mr. Parnell, the Home Ruler, who represented the County of Meath, in the last House, has been elected for Cork.

RAKAIA BRIDGE APPROACH IN DANCER.

Owing to the nor’-westers there has been a considerable amount of damage done to the . approaches at the south side of the Rakaia Bridge. The river has been steadily rising for the last three days, and this afternoon it rose to such a height that nearly the whole population of the township were converted for the time being into navvies, and had an opportunity of displaying their skill in that line by filling sand bags, &c., with a view of stopping the encroachment of the flood. The train was got over the breach by the device of pulling over the line, and after a delay of two hours it succeeded in getting through. There is every probability of the perma nent way being repaired ready for Mon day’s traffic, as the river is reported to be falling.

Compensation. —A Jersey man was once thrown one hundred and fifty feet by an express train, when he picked himself up, he looked around for his hat, and re marked, “ Well, if I don’t find that hat, I’ll make the company pay for it.”

“ What is Nobler than a man wresting his bread from the stubborn soil by the sweat of his brow V asks a philosopher. We don’t recall anything nobler at this moment, but we know what is a great deal move popular—hiring some other fellow to do it, while you sit on the fence and superintend him.

Awful Swindlers. —A market man was mercilessly swindled in the town of B . His misfortune gave him a very unfavourable opinion of the residents, and he expressed his opinion of them by say ing that if the angel Gabriel stopped at B there would be no resurrection. “Why?” asked a listener. “Because the people would swindle him out of his horn before he had time to blow a single toot. ”

He’d a Critic at Home. —At an auction sale of miscellaneous goods the auctioneer put up a wolf-skin dressing gown, and invited bids. An old man inspected it closely, seemed to think that there was a bargain in it, but yet he hesitated to bid. “ Don’t you want that ? asked the auction eer. “ Yes, kinder,” was the reply. “ Then why don’t you bid and take it ?” “ Well, I’ve bought heaps o’ things in dry goods and se on,” slowly rejoined the old man, “ and I never yet took home anything that the old woman thought was worth the price. If I got that ’ere robe for a song, she’d grab it up, pull at one end, chaw at the other, and call out ‘ Cheated again, mor’en half cotton. ’ That’s the reason I darn’t hid.”

Saturday, April io, iSßq.]

THE ASHBURTON HERALD.



ASHBURTON RETAIL LIST.



s. d. s. d.



New Advertisements. WANTED —A good general SER VANT for the country. Apply at once, “ Herald” and “Guardian” Offices. 299 c TTTANTED, a strong BOY, accustomed W to horses, and to be generally useful. Apply Herald Office. 666g-253c 'ANTED, TENDERS for PLOUGH ING 400 acres of stubble land on the Hinds, contract to be complete by July 31. To be ploughed 6 inches deep and 10 inches wide. The contractor to have the use of a sevenstalled stable and house. Tenders to be sent in nut later than Saturday, 17th April, at noon, to H. MOFFAT, 285c-703g Wakanui Mill. early. ASTE PAPER for Sale, 3d. per lb. at the Herald Office. Apply 59a MONEY TO LEND.—Several sums of money ready for investment at current rates. F. P. O’Reilly, Solicitor, Tancred street, Ashburton. 263c-684g FOR SALE, TWO PORTABLE PLOUGHMEN’S HUTS. G. PARKIN, 294 c Builder, Ashburton. ASHBURTON STEEPLECHASE MEETING. AT the request of several gentlemen, I hereby convene a meeting on THIS (Saturday) EVENING, at Bp. m., at Quill’s Hotel, to consider the advisability of holding the usual Autumn Steeple chases. JAMES WILKIE, Hon. Sec. Ashburton 691g-289c Racing Club. NOTICE. IN consequence of Benjamin Ede re tiring from the Butchering business, all ACCOUNTS owing to him must be paid to Messrs. Poyntz and Co., before the 30th APRIL, and their receipt will be l a sufficient discharge. 291 c BENJAMIN EDE. TO BUILDERS. TENDERS required for BUILDING a STABLE and BARN at Seafield. Plans and specifications can be seen at the office of Messrs. Edmiston, Gundry, and Co., where tenders will be received up to noon on Saturday, April 17. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. 300 c TENDERS. mo BE LET BY TENDER, the FEED -L ING off 50 ACRES of SPLENDID TURNIPS, situated on Mr. William Liddle’s farm, Hinds, the Turnips to be fed off by the Ist JULY next. H. MOFFAT, Wakanui Mills, 304 c Ashburton. McSHERRY DRILLS. A SHIPMENT of these celebrated Drills is expected shortly to arrive. They will range in width from 6 feet 6 inches (12 Hoppers) to 10 feet (17 Hoppers). Orders taken by the undersigned, FREDK. PAVITT, Ashburton, For the SOLE AGENT, JOHN ANDERSON, 846g-240c Canterbury Foundry. THE DEDICATION OF THE SOMERSET MASONIC HALL WILL TAKE PLACE ON FRIDAY 16th INSTANT, AT 2.30 P.M., to -which, all brethren are cordially invited. Brethren to meet at the Old Lodge Room at 2 p.m. HENRY ZANDER. 3Q2c Hon. Sec.



RIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH Wills Street. —Divine Service will be conducted in the above Church to morrow Morning and Evening by Rev. A. J. Smith. 303 c A WANT SUPPLIED. JAMES WILKIE begs to announce to the public that having been re peatedly requested to start a Livery business, he has determined to TROT THEM OUT, and those who want a stylish hack to ride, or a handsome pair to drive, can obtain one or the other by applying to the adver tiser at his residence, Great South Road, next the Gas Works, or by leaving orders at Mr. Quill’s Hotel. The breaking in department will be under Mr. Wilkie’s own control, aided and abetted by a terror of a native who can back anything. Ladies Hacks will be a special line in this business, as the proprietor can under take the breaking of young stock for ladies’ hacks in a style not to be equalled in the colony. Special horses kept for extra long journeys. Horses and Traps bought and sold. JAMES WILKIE, Great South Road, Ashburton. 301 c