COMMERCIAL.

Messrs. J' T. Ford and Co. report on the live stock market for the week ending Thursday, the 12th inst., as follows The harvest operations considerably interfered with the usual attendance at the Addington market on Wednesday, and the trade also was by no means well represented. The country butchers are mainly supplying themselves from their local districts, so that the biddings for fat stock were by no means brisk, and the sale generally heavy throughout. In cattle and sheep very few stores were sent forward, and we expect no large lines to come to hand for at least anothor three weeks or so. The demand for young merino sheep is fairly active, but except the culls of the vrrious flocks we know of very few offering. In cross-bred stores the market is fairly sup plied with two-tooth ewes and wethers, but uhtif the stubbles are cleared very few of this class will change hands. In the course of another month we expect to see this class of stock in very active demand, as there must be a large number of ewes wanted for lambing purposes as well as for wintering on turnips. Speaking of the latter we hear from all parts of this pro vince that the crop is a very fair one, and large areas have been sown, and this fact, together with the enormous amount of stubble feed, should keep stores of all classes in active demand. We report no alteration in prices of beef or mutton, and quitted our lines on Wednesday for our various clients at pre vious weeks quotations. At our skin and rough fat sale to-day we had the usual attendance of buyers, and sheepskins brought from Is. 7d. to 23. 3d. each; lambskins from Is. 9d. to 2s. Id.; rough fat a.t Ifd. per lb., and hides at 3fd per lb.

POST OFFICE NOTICES.

Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office, as follows :

For Christchurch and North at io. 2oja.m. 4.30 p.m.., and 8 p.m., daily. For Chertsey at 10.20 a.m daily. For Rakaia &<- 10.20 a.m and 4.30 p.m daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, 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 Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10.30 a.m For Ashton, Waterton, and Longbeach, at 3.15 p.m. daily. For Wakanui and Seafield, on Mondays and Thursdays, 7.30 p.m. W. St. G. Dougi.as, Postmaster.

The Ashburton Herald AND Borough and County Advertiser (With which is incorporated the “Evening Echo”). SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 1880.

The Employment of Females. —At the Oamaru Magistrate's Court yesterday, Daniel Tooliey, draper, was fined L 5 for keeping his dressmakers at work after two o’clock on a Saturday afternoon.

The San Francisco Mail. —The Ash burton portion of the San Francisco mail arrived by the 3 o’clock train to-day from Christchurch, and will be available this evening. Illuminating the Borough. For some inscrutable reason the township lias for a couple of evenings back been again blessed, after three months darkness, with the re-appearance of gas in the Borough lamps. It is very nice to have gas, but we don’t exactly see the necessity for lighting up at 7 p.m. and allowing all the brilliancy of the gas to compare with the glorious hues of sunset. Let us have gas on dark nights by all means, but we don’t want it to compete with sunshine. “The Story-Teller,” —Those of our subscribers who occasionally indulge in light racy reading will observe that the tale, “ Eugene Morton,” which has ap peared in our Saturday’s issue for some time past, is brought to a conclusion in another column. For the future, how ever, we will devote space each evening for a tale, or portion of one, instead of once a week only. On Monday evening the first portion of an amusing American sketch will be given, entitled “ The Two Widows ”

The Municipal Quarry. —Pedestrians who are in the habit of wearing thin boots, and equestrians who ride horses with tender feet, don’t compliment the engineering department on the state of East street at present. As the Council are shortly to receive a share of their subsidy, we would respectfully point out that a few pounds spent in stone-napping, or in picking boulders off, would materially conduce to the comfort of people who use the main street of the township. The Dog Tax. —We notice the. Borough Council have issued a manifesto regarding dog collars. We earnestly hope that a determined system of extermination will be initiated and kept up to the bitter end against the sheep worrying, cat killing, hen roost robbing, yelping curs infesting the township. It strikes us, however, that it might be as well for the Borough to consider whether they can take any action in the matter before those long-suffering bye-laws are finally disposed of, and are made useful for combatting nuisances such as vagrant dogs, unreliable drains, and objectionable passengers in cabs.

Severe Accident. This afternoon about three o’clock, while Mr. Stephens, blacksmith, Tancred street west, was leading a young horse past the new cemetery, the animal swung round sud denly and planted a kick on Mr. Stephen’s ancle, completely fracturing the bones. The injured man was brought to town in a dray by Mr. Hay T. Smith, and taken to his home, where he was attended by Dr. Ross.

Town Hall. —We are glad to say that the Town Hall is to be lighted with gas in a very short time, Mr. 6. Hardley being the successful tenderer. The hall will bo lighted by one large sunlight in the centre, of twenty burners, with brackets under the gallery. The stage will be illuminated by three sunlights three feet long, one for each scene, and 24 jets as footlights, with reflectors. These footlights are to be so arranged that they can be dropped so as to leave the stage entirely clear when re quired. The entrance to the hall will be lighted by a lamp over the folding doors. Attempted Suicide by a Girl. —A girl sixteen years of age, named Annie Scafei’, who came out as an immigrant on board the Edwin Fox, attempted to commit sui cide by jumping off the Government wharf at Nelson on Thursday. Her screams attracted the attention of Mr. Percjq who succeeded in rescuing her. She was charged at the Police Court, and remanded for a week. Special Settlement for Colonists.— An Auckland telegram says : A new feature lias been introduced in land settle ment by Captain Colbeck, namely a special settlement for colonists exclusively. His first intention was to settle two adjoining blocks belonging to him from England, but as inquiries were made for land here, Captain Colbeck was persuaded to try the experiment of forming a special settle ment locally. Already 5000 acres have been applied for. Pastor Chiniquy.— Pastor Chiniquy arrived in Ashburton by the express this morning, and was at once taken to tho Presbyterian manse, where he is the guest of the Rev. Mr. Beattie. To-morrow Mr. Chiniquy, as has been advertised, will con duct the morning service at the Presbyterian church. It is, of course, a foregone con clusion that the building will be crowded, and the managers of the church are doing their best to make good use of the space at their disposal. The sitting room will be added to as far as the four walls of the church will permit, and to relieve the area of the building, the choir will be raised to the platform behind the preacher, so that a considerable amount of extra accommodation will thus be afforded. In the afternoon, it has not yet been arranged whether Father Chiniquy will preach at Wakanui, or attend the Sunday school in town ; but in the evening he will preach in the Wesleyan church, where also arrangements have been made to meet the almost certain extra demands upon the space. On Monday evening the rev. gentleman will deliver one of his lectures on the errors of Rome in the Town Hall. Doubtless here, too, as everywhere else he has been, a crowded hall will greet liis appearance. Lost Documents.—lt will be remem bered that a fortnight ago a case was heard in the R.M. Court against Mr. James Gardiner, at the instance of one of his workmen named Higgins. Three horses and a double furrowed plough were claimed by Higgins as Iris property—he having bought them from Gardiner. A document purporting to be signed by Gardiner, and to be a note of the sale by him was produced in Court—at least two pieces of it. They had been torn in a struggle—so the evidence bore—between plaintiff and defendant. The case went against Mr. Gardiner, but somehow he wouldn’t give up flie horses, and to-day an information for larceny was laid against him. In the course of heai’ing, the pieces of the sale note were asked for by Mr. O’Reilly. Nobody knew anything about them. Higgins had given them to Mr. Branson, Mr. Branson left them on the bench, the Clerk of tho Court had never seen them. But so long as a shred of evidence existed that the documents were in existence Mr. O’Reilly objected to secondary evidence. At last, however, Mr. O’Reilly admitted that if the docu ments could not be found they must be ; lost. His AVorship readily agreed that this was a very logical deduction, and I secondary evidence was proceeded with.

TELEGRAPHIC.

TO-DAY’S CABLEGRAMS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE {Age Special.) Affairs in Afghanistan. London, Feb, 13

Latest news states that Mahomed Jan’s power is waning, and his followers are de creasing. 3000 Turkomans have invaded Afghan. Ayoub Arim, aided by Russians, invaded Badikshar, with a strong force. Samoa. Tho German Emperor has announced a commercial treaty with Samoa, which pro vides for the extension of trade. Persia. Disraeli denies that Persia is absolved from the treaty which provides for seizing Herat.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Reuter's Telegrams.) Sydney, Feb. 14.

Hennessey’s brandy, case 3Gs. ; three star, 455. fid. ; Hennessey’s brandy, bulk, in quarters, 11s. 9d. ; New Zealand oats, 3s. per bushel; maize, per GOlbs., 2s. sd. ; candles, D.E.J., per lb., 7d. to 71s. 4d. ; kerosene, diamond, per gallon, Is. 7«d.

TO-DAY’S TELEGRAMS.

I MTERPROVINCIAL. Insurance. Auckland, Feb. 14. A building which was destroyed by fire this morning was insured in the National for L2OO. The Accident Insurance Company. The New Zealand Accident Insurance Company has commenced business ; shares are at a premium. The Board of Directors accepted 150 proposals for large sums at last meeting. Out of Quarantine. The single people landed from quaran tine to-day ; the married will be landed on Monday or Tuesday. Mr. Sheehan Visits Rewi. Mr. Sheehan has gone to Katikati to visit Rewi. Sudden Death. A gum digger named Robert Reid died suddenly. The “New Zealand Times.” Wellington, Feb. 14. The shareholders of the “ Times ” have confirmed the resolution of the directors, selling the paper to Mr. Chantry Harris. The amalgamation takes place early next week. Pedestrianism. Young Scott, the pedestrian, will essay to walk seven miles in the hour to night. The Broken Wire. Hawera, Feb. 14. It appears that the wire reported yester day to be cut was snapped in consequence of the wheel of a dray coming in contact with the telegraph post. Loss of a Whaling Party. Dunedin, Fob. 14.

The master of the schooner Awarau reports to the Collector of Customs his fears that the whaleboat’s -crew of eight men, which went out sealing in July last, and has not since been heard of, must have been drowned. The Awarau returns to the Islands immediately to make a com plete search. The “ Black Pishing ” Case.

The recent prosecution against Captain Drew, of the schooner Awarua, for catch ing seals in the close season, has fallen through, owing to Mr. Watt, the R.M., commiting defendant for trial instead of inforcing penalties under the later inter pretation of the Act.

LAST NIGHT’S CABLEGRAMS.

BRITISH & FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE ( Reuter's .) London, Feb. 12. Pei’sia proposes that a Commission be appointed to define the north-eastern boundaries of her territories. In the meantime she states that it is her intention to occupy the Afghanistan province of Sustan, and eventually Herat. It is also generally believed that Great Britain has assented to this arrangement. (Argus Special. ) London, February 12. The Flying Squadron leaves England in April or May, and will probably visit Australia. Eai‘l Clan William i 3 command ing. It will include the Bacchante, but it is uncertain if the Princes will remain in her. The Chimborazo, after undergoing re pairs, sails on Monday. (Age. Special.) London, Fob. 12. There is a report that by treaty Persia takes Herat, and assists England against the Afghans, and that a railway will be made to Teheran from the Persian Gulf.

AUSTRALIAN.

( Reuter's 7el eg rams.) Melbourne, Feb. 13. Mr. Service addressed the electors of Maldon yesterday, and replied at length to Mr. Berry’s speech at Geelong. Mr. Francis made a political speech at Warnambool, in which he condemned the Ministerial scheme foreshadowed by Mr. Berry. Both gentlemen received unani mous votes of confidence. Sydney, Feb. 13. Lllß was subscribed for yesterday in aid of the sufferers by the late cyclone at New Caledonia. In the contest between threshing machines held at Orange, Robey’s was awarded first prize.

LAST NIGHT’S TELEGRAMS.

INTERPROVINOIAL.

New Plymouth, Feb. 13.

The detachment of A.C. which arrived yesterday from Wellington left this morn ing by the 7 o’clock train for the White Cliffs. The Harbor Board met this afternoon to consider some correspondence received from Mr. Rees, the Engineer, who was sent Home to consult Sir John Coode. Mr. Rees states that Sir J. Coode had adopted the modification suggested, and has prepared a concrete section. He stated lie had also received tenders for plant to the amount of LIB,OOO, which the Board gave him authority to accept.

Wellington, Feb. 13,

Seven members of the Naval Brigade entered for the prize firing in Nelson. The Union Steam Ship Company carry members of the New Zealand Rifle Asso ciation from the various ports to Nelson and back at single fares. The cup given by the company has arrived here, and is being now engraved. The medals are being struck off and will be ready for pre sentation at the meeting at Nelson. The ribbon, which is the reverse to that at tached to the New Zealand war medal, lias been made by Mr. Greenshield, of Auck land. The secretary reports that entries are coming in freely. J. P. Davis, charged with stealing a cash-box from the house of Win. Clydesdale was sentenced to six months’ imprison ment.

Louis Fredk. Clayton, Leonard Rose Jaggar, Alfred James Renner, and Chas. Durbridge, have been dismissed from the Telegraph Department. James Lowrie, harbor master and pilot at Kaipara, has been dismissed from the public service. Nelson, Feb. 13. A very handsome sword was presented to Major Pitt last night by the H. Battery of Artillery. The Bishop of Nelson, chaplain of the corps, made the presenta tion in a suitable speech, and there was a large attendance The new cable was joined last night., and the Kangaroo came on to Nelson, leaving again for Wellington at six this morning. Christchurch, Feb. 13. Property is looking up a little, and there, is more activity in the market than there has been for many months. The New Zealand Shipping Company have published their first list of 20 iron clippers, with capacity for 33,000 tons, or a million and a quarter bushels of grain. These are to sail iu February, March, and April, and other vessels are to follow. The report of the Canterbury Sunday- School Union, presented at the 13th annual meeting to-day, showed that the number of teachers was—Male, 495; female, 402. Scholars—Male, 4876 ; female, 4221. After the laying of the tramway was all but complete it has been found that the points used are unsuitable, and the work has to be done over again. The in convenience to the public by tlie obstruc tions in the street has been the cause of much annoyance, particularly as the spot chiefly affected is by the Bank of New Zealand, the most crowded thoroughfare in the city. The railway employees are to be docked of their pay for their picnic day, and they are grumbling in consequence. The R.M. has deferred the decision in the Sunday trading case to Monday. Oamaru. Feb. 13. The Lincolnshire farmers’ delegates arrived at Oamaru this evening, and will make a tour of the district to-morrow. The privilege of using the totalisator at the coming race meeting has been granted to Lyons and Hart for the sum of L2O. Dunedin, Feb. 13. J. Reid and A- Muir, laborers on the railway works, near Hindon, were injured seriously yesterday by blasting powder. They had inserted a charge of powder into some rock, but the charge not going off, they endeavored to withdraw it, and whilst so engaged it exploded. Both men had their right arms fractured, were in jured in the face, and greatly scorched about the hands. They were forwarded to the hospital at Dunedin by rail this afternoon.

The ship Wanganui cleared for London to-day, with a cargo valued at L 103,904, including 5035 hales wool and skins, 350 sacks wheat, 72 casks tallow, 38 casks oil, and 42 bales leather.

The ship Auckland cleared for London with a cargo valued at Lill,lSo, including 5240 bales of wool.

CHISPA’S LETTER.

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

No followers ! Such, Mr. Editor, was the heading of a paragraph in your journal the other night, and I think it is quite time that the grievances of the young men should be stopped. I know a swell here who carries a Malacca cane, and who is constantly pestered by a number of servant girls, who follow his noble form and worship his aristocratic carriage. What an annoyance it must be to a genteel young man to have servant girls following him in his “ constitutionals,” more especially when the youth is one of moral proclivities, and professes to have been afliliated to a “club.” I feel for the club, as it must have experienced a deal of suffering whilst this followed young clubbist was a member. I imagine, however, that it must have been one of those kind of benefit societies got up in the neighborhood of Petticoat Lane, where a swindle is perpetrated every Saturday night at the small cost of six pence a head, and the winner takes the prize. The 'institution is known as the “Goose Club,” and probably that is the kind of institution the young man learnt his manners in.

Theatrical matters are flourishing to a great extent here. It is intended by certain enthusiastic amateurs to build a Theatre .Royal with all the necessary ap pliances and stage fixtures, to make it superior to anything in the colony. As an obese friend of mine remarked the other day—just after the Florence busi ness—“ Don’t you see, old man, wo have such a lot of talent in the place that it is bound to be a success, and you had better take a few shares. Chispa, with the huge failure of the Town Hall (with its income of Ll 4 and interest to pay of Ll 9 a month) didn’t see it in the same light a 3 the dis tinguished amateur. But it must be very delicious to be behind the scenes, especi ally when bottled porter and handsome actresses are in the company.

How very virtuous all our pubs—l beg pardon, licensed victuallers —are, when they are caught napping. A case the other day was brought against one of the virtu ous ones for selling nectar, or its colonial equivalent, after hours. Of course he pleaded “notguilty,” and as a matter of consequence got off. The police always get hold of the wrong kind of witnesses in these cases. The evidence-givers always swear too much or too little, but I gave Sergeant Pratt credit for having a better knowledge of human nature than to trust his case to the proof likely to be adduced from the larrikin element. At the same time I would remark that the crime of selling “ shandy gaff” (or whisky for that matter) after hours is not sugli a grave offence after all. The iniquity consists in being caught in the act —that’s the misr chiof.

For a night’s amusement the most popu lar shop I know Gf is the Borough Coun cil at its fortnightly “ benefit. ” Their wise deliberations over that L 5 cottage ought to entitle them to a statue each at the principal corners of the town. I did think Mr. St. Hill knew better than to value L2O worth of old timber at L 5, but even a Borough Councillor can’t be always infallible. Councillor Robinson’s sage proprosal !o submit the old wreck by public auction was no doubt the essence of municipal wisdom ; whilst the Mayor’s onslaught on the “fair but frail” ones was not the sort of gallantry I expected from a bachelor.

That comet has been the cause of a deal of anxiety to me. I watched for it night after night, but never got a sight of it: and was told that it had disappeared, and I felt proportionately disappointed. How ever, on Thursday night on coming up in the train I saw it—bright, brilliant, and scintillating right over the township, and I called the attention of some fellow pas sengers to the beauty of the celestial visitor. It was duly admired by all ex cept one individual who exclaimed “ Why you bald-headed old idiot, them’s the Ashburton gaslights.” His grammar wasn’t good, but his facts were undeniable.

The R.M. Court still keeps up its repu tation. Only this morning there was a passage at arms between a couple of the profession—one accusing the other of “ abusing his position as a legal adviser,” to which the other retaliated by informing his learned brother that he “ was acting in a dirty way, and he would bring the matter before the Law Society.” Things have now got so mixed up that'the R.M. has partaken of the mixing, and this morning he remanded a man on a charge of burglary for eight days ! So it appears that we arc in future to have Sunday sittings of the Court. Shocking, Mr. Guinness !

Ex-Councillor Ivess’ element seems to be hot water. Sergeant Bruce is going to come down on him for a big thing—and the ex-councillor is just about to mizzle. The “ greatest ” journalist of the colony shines in a district for an average of eighteen months, and then, comet like, disappears Farewell, Joe. Take my blessing and good wishes with you, and wherever .fortune may cast your lot, may you always have as loving and faithful a friend as Chispa.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT.

ASHBURTON— Saturday, Feb. 14. (Before Mr. F. Guinness, R.M.) BURGLARY. Wm, Storey was charged with burglary at Baldwin’s Hotel, and on the application of the police was remanded for eight days. LARCENY- OP HORSES. James Gardiner, on remand, was charged with having stolen three horses. Mr. O’Reilly, for accused, took objec tion to the information that part of the information had been taken before the Magistrate, and another part before the clerk. The informant, not being able to write, did not have the information pro perly explained to him by the Magistrate. The objection was overruled. Constable Farmer proved the arrest of accused at Dromore on the previous day, and accused stated the horses were the property of Mr. Friedlander. Higgins, the informant, was with me, and pointed out the horses.

By Mr. O’Reilly—There.was a man in possession of the horses for Mr. Fried lander.

Michael Higgins, laborer, sworn, —I worked for accused for about two years and two months. I left his employ about a fortnight ago. I bought three horses,— “Shanks,” “Charley,” and “Black Captain”-—and a double furrow plough from him about three months ago. I paid him LSO for them. . Mr. Crisp made the receipt out for them, and Gar diner signed it. I gave him the money, and he gave me the horses. I have not the receipt now. The day I left accused I asked him for my horses, and showed liim my receipt for them. He snatched the receipt from me, and we had a scuffle. I afterwards picked up two portions of it, and he told me he had the rest of it in his pocket. I then left the premises. I ac companied the bailiff to Dromore, and I took the three horses and plough, and brought them to Ashburton. On Sunday morning last I was leading the horses to a paddock, when accused rode up between the horses, and took the halters off two of them. I told him I would not let the horses go. He said Mr. Crisp told him to take the horses. He took Shanks and Captain, and rode array with them. I went to the bailiff’s, and accused came up with the two horses. He said lie was going to take the horses, and Mr. Branson said he would do so at his own risk. Accused said he had got the wrong horses. When I purchased the horses I knew nothing of a bill of sale. 1 gave the horses up to him on Sunday without resistance. I Avas afraid he ivoulcl strike me.

By Mr. O’Reilly—l never lent accused any money. I went to Mr. Crisp with a bill of sale ; no money had passed at this time. No one ever told me lie considered my case a swindle and he would have nothing to do ivith it. Gardiner never gave me a bill of sale, he gave me a paper to giA r e Mr. Crisp. I could not say if that paper stated the money was to be re payable in March. I gave no loan. I bought the horses from him. I don’t know of any interest being mentioned in the first document drawn up. I can’t read. I took the bill of sale to Mr, Crisp, and he said the document Avas no good as it Avas too late for registra tion. He read it out to me, and I can’t SAvear if there Avas any men tion of money in the deed. Mr. Crisp told me to get a proper bill of sale. Ho told me it Avould cost LG or L 7. He dreAv out another paper and told me if Gardiner signed it, the horses Avould be mine. Gardiner Avas not consulted in the matter. He signed it and said the horses Avere mine. lam sure the horses and plough Avere not Avortli Llso—the lot Avould be Avortli LBB. A new plough is Avortli LIG. I got a judgment in Court for delivery of the horses and plough ; Mr. Crisp after- Avards told me if I took the plough to Mr. Friedlander I would get the LSO, but I Avas to pay Mr. Crisp LlO out it. I Avould have taken the LSO but the lawyers Avanted too much out of it. Friedlander offered me LSO, I refused to take it bepauge I Avanted the horses, t Gardiner Avas committed for trial, but avq hold back the evidence to get to press.

WESLEYAN CONFERENCE JOTTINGS.

[communicated.] The seventh' annual Conference of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in this colony has just terminated. Though some doubted the propriety of holding it in the City of Dunedin, for the simple reason that the: Otago Methodist friends were considered scarcely equal to the effort of providing for such a gathering, it has surely been a success.

The ministerial Conference commenced on Jan. 21st, and sat for five days, and the mixed Conference for the six follow ing. There were present 25 ministers in full connexion (including Mr. Berry, lately returned from England, and Mr. Turner, from the Victorian Conference), and seven probationers. There were five candidates for the ministry present also, all of whom were received either as students or pro-: A bationers. The opening address of the Rev. W. Morley was of a congratulatory character, expressing assurance that such : an assembly would be a blessing to the • churches around the district, and thank fulness that, in face of a. twelemonth’s , serious financial depression, the various funds of the church had been well sus tained. The new President was the Rev. W. Lee, of Wanganui, and he had for his Secretary the Rev. W. Morley, who is now an ex-President. The various Com mittees which were formed at tlie com mencement of the session greatly facili- . tated business, so that by Monday, Jan. 2Gtb, the purely ministerial work of the Conference was got through, except the most difficulty business of stationing, which was left to a later period. Two ministers’ deaths were reported, one of a Native, and the other of a European. The probationers all passed in their year, three of whom completed that trying period, and became eligible for ordination to the full work of the ministry. Though there were many applications from minis- v ters in England, Ireland, and Australia' for a place in the New Zealand Wesleyan Methodist ministry, the Conference was not in a position to accept any. Those who have lately arrived in the colony—of whom the Rev. E. Best is one —Yvere cor dially received. On Tuesday, January 27th, the mixed Conference sat. Only 21 laymen were able to be present. The business to be considered was connected with dividing circuits which had • become too large ; forming new ones ; making provision for ministers married, or about to be granting ; permission for the sale of certain pro perties ; taking note of what property had been acquired during the past year ; examining the state of the affairs of the Book Depot in Christchurch, and of the. “New Zealand Wesleyan auditing the various connexional; funds Contingent, the Supernumerary, Childrens’, Home and Foreign Mission Funds; enquiring into the working of the Thelogical Insti tution and the success of the students ; Sunday school affairs”; manipulating the statistical returns ; passing sundry recom mendations for the General Conference ; receiving deputations ; &c. Several meetings were held on the evenings of the Conference sittings, chief of which were an ordination service, a Conference love feast, a conversazione, a temperance convention, and a Home Mission meeting. In addition to these there were several soirees got up in the adjoining towns. The Conference of 1881 is to be held in Nelson as near to the 20th of January as possible. The enterprising firm of Burton Bros, arc preparing a group of all the members of the Conference, as a memento, which * will shortly be ready for sale. The kind ness of the authorities of the Dunedin Atlienseum was much appreciated.

THE STORY-TELLER.

Eugene Morton. A Talc of the Indian Warfare on the American Frontier. CHAPTER XlX.— Continued. DENOUEMENT. All at once, he seemed to become sensible that the eyes of others were upon him, and that he had forgotten himself. That old, peculiar expression came back to his face, and a few steps of the old straddling gait was taken, and Seth Jones was himself again ! The sentinels in the block-house had dis covered and recognised the fugitives, and Avhen they arrived at the palisade which surrounded the village, there were numbers ready to receive them. “ I will see you all again ! ” said IJaldidge, separating from the others and passing towards the upper end of the settlement. After pausing a few moments to answer the inquiries of their friends, ITaverland led the way towards the cabin where he had left his wife and sister. Here lie found the good settlers had erected and presented him with a house. As he stepped'softly to the door, in tending to give his Avife a playful surprise, she met him. With a low cry of joy, she sprang forward and Avas held in his arms, and the next instant she and Ilia were clasped to gether and weeping. “Thank Heaven! thank Heaven! Oh, my dear, dear child, I thought you lost for ever.”

Graham and Seth stood respectfully on one side for a fetv moments. The latter cleared his throat several times and brushed his arm across his forehead in a suspicious manner. As the mother regained herself, she turned and recog nised Graham, and greeted him warmly. “And you, too,” she said, taking Seth’s hand and looking up into his face, “ have been more than a friend to us. May Heaven reward you, for we never can. ” “There ! by Jo\ r e ! don’t say no more ! boohoo ! I believe I’ve caught a cold being so exposed to the night, air ! ”

But it Avas no use ; the tears would come ; and Seth, for a few seconds, Avept like a baby, yet smiled even through his tears. They all entered the house.

“ Our first duty is to thank God for his mercy. Ret us all do it,” said the woodman. All sank dewmtly upon their knees, joining in fervent thanksgiving to the great Being who had shown his goodness to them in such a marvellous manner.

The settlers with true politeness of heart, forebore to intrude until they judged the family were desirous of seeing them. After they had arisen from their knees, Mary, the sister of Haverland, entered. Graham chanced to glance at Seth that moment, and was startled at the emotion he exhibited. He flushed scar let, and trembled painfully, but, by a strong effort recovered himself in time to greet her. She thanked him again and commenced con versing, when she saw that he was embarrassed and ill at ease. A flash of suspicion crossed her fine, calm face, and it became pale and flushed by turns. What a riot emotion was making in her heart only she herself knew ; her face soon became passive and pensive j and a pathos gleamed from her sad eyes Avhich sent

Saturday, February 14, 1880.1

THE ASHBURTON HERALD.



New Advertisements. £1 REWARD. LOST, from Mr. Hay T. Smith’s Farm, on Monday night, One Dark Chest nut DRAUGHT GELDING. Branded like Jon near shoulder. Also, One Light Brown DRAUGHT GELDING. No visible brand. Hind feet white. The above reward will be paid to any person restoring to Mr. Hay T. Smith, opposite Saunders’ Mill. 1 10th February, 1880 55c —4osg £1 REWARD. LOST— A dark GELDING, 6 years old, 2 white spots on each side of saddle ; white star on forehead, inark like P.R. on rump. Any person returning same, or giving information leading to its recovery, will receive above reward. 51c 501 g : A. THIELE. PASTOR CHINIQUY IN ASHBUR TON. -XTOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that IN the Rev Mr. Chiniquy will (D.V.) preach in the PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH T.F- On SUNDAY MORNING, 15th INST., And in the WESLEYAN CHURCH on the Evening of the same day. The Rev. Gentleman will deliver a Lecture in the TOWN HALL ON MONDAY, : 16th INSTANT., At 7.30 Sharp. Tickets to be had from Messrs. St. Hill, Robinson, and Nelson, or at the door. 494g-43c pUJBE ..MALT VINEGAR ON SALE. <1" 2s. 6d. Per Gallon. WOOD & CO., 45c Ashburton Brewery. : MONEY. .£SO £2s °- ,£soo AND £IOOO. v . f These sums are ready for immediate investment, on approved Freehold securi ties at current rates. I Apply to THOMAS & BRUGES, I Solicitors, 13c CHRISTCHURCH.



NOTICE. -yyE have to request a prompt settle ment of a Large number of over due and long standing accounts, otherwise legal proceedings will be taken to recover same. WEEKS & DIXON. « Herald and Guardian ” office, Peb. 10th, 1880. TTIMPLOYERS requiring any kind of JJj laborers can engage through Her axd Registry Office, on payment of Is. m a - V r ?’ ,



New Advertisements. NOTICE. v , I will not be responsible for any DEBTS contracted by iny wife after date, she having left my home of her own will. T. P. GLEE SON, Hinds River, Feb. 12, 1880. 504g-54c ASHBURTON CALEDONIAN SOCIETY. rnHE ANNUAL GENERAL MEET- X IING will be held at Quill’s .: Hotel, on FRIDAY, 20th February, inst., at 8 o’clock, p.m. Business — To receive Annual Report; Election of Directors and Officers for en suing year. All members requested to attend. J. E. HYDE HARRIS, 47c-499g Hon. Secretary. FOR SALE. mHE undersigned have on SALE 1 Second-Hand, MCCORMICK’S REA PER and BINDER (new this year). 1 Second-Hand, WOOD’S REAPER and BINDER. 1 Second-Hand, SAMUELSON. POYNTZ & CO., 32c Ashburton. POSITIVELY ONE NIGHT ONLY. Town hall, ashburton. SATURDAY, 14th FEBRUARY. ENGLISH OPERA BOUFFE AND COMEDY COMPANY. Acknowledged by the Press to be the most complete Company travelling. PROGRAMME ROSE OF AUVERGNE, SCENES FROM MARITANA, MUSICAL MELANGE AND SOLDIER’S RETURN. Prices : Reserved seats, numbered, 4s ; Back seats, 2s. ROARING FUN. FITS of LAUGHTER. HAL GRAY, 52c-502g Advance Agent.



WAKA-NUI ROAD BOARD. RATE NOTICE. THE Rate for 1870-80 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. Ashburton horticultural SOCIETY. President —E. G. Wright, Escp, M.H.R. Vice-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 6d. ~ 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, etc., may be obtained from the under signed. STEPHEN E. POYNTZ, 474 g 33c Secretary. WESLEYAN CHURCH, Cameron street.—Divine Service will be conducted in the above Church To-morrow Morning by the Rev. W. Iveall ; and in the Evening by the Rev. Pastor Chiniquy. 59c 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. 60c WANTED DRESSMAKING or plain SEWING. Address Mrs. Alfred Moore, corner of Peter Street and Cass Street. 61c WANTED —A SITUATION, by a respectable young woman, as General Servant or Housemaid. Apply at once, Herald Registry Office. 62c NEW TAILORING ESTABLISH MENT.



CRAIGHEAD & Co., MERCHANT TAILORS, HAVE opened those premises situated in Tailored 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 C). ’s.) CRAIGHEAD & CO. 982 a