COMMERCIAL.

Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2681, 11 March 1874, Page 2

COMMERCIAL.

TIMARU. —The " Herald" of Monday reports :—ln grain very little has been done daring the week, growers asking more than buyers could see their way to give. Merchants have been, as eager to bny as growers to sell, but the former did not feel safe in giving the price asked, as it was almost impossible that the rate of freight to England wonld remain at the low figure lately ruling. The fears ..entertained with regard to the freight have unfortunately been realised, and this will be very unwelcome news to farmers. Telegrams were received in Timaru from Christehurch on Friday, stating that by an agreement entered into by the Shipping Companies, freight to England had been raised from 45s to 555, and that probably during the ensuing week 60s would be the fixed rate. From information from Dunedin we also gather that 60s for freight had been refused, and it therefore can hardly be hoped that the rate will be much less than 60s for the remainder of the season. As this increase means a remainder of the season. As this increase means a reduction of about 4d per bushel upon what hae lately been given for wheat in Timara, it is a very serious matter to the farmers, and many will regret noi having taken the 4s 3d and 4s 4 d offered during the last fortnight. As n;uch as 4s s|d has been given for wheat during the week, and should freight ruu up to buyers intimate that they will not be able to offer mnch above 4s Id. The wheat already brought into market is in splendid condition, and a vast improvement upou that oflast year in plumpness and dryness. As a proof of its excellence we linve been informed that the bread made from this season's flour is a good deal superior to that from old flour from last year's wheat. From pretty reliable authority, too, we learn that the average yield will be considerably more than it was last season. In oats there have been but few transactions. Some have been quitted at 3s 3d, and some at 3s, but the majority of growers are demanding 3s 6d. In barley there is nothing doing