NEWS OF THE DAY.

Press, Volume LX, Issue 11726, 29 October 1903, Page 4

NEWS OF THE DAY.

The abridged prospectus of the BritishNew Zealand Meat and Produce Company, Limited, appears on page 4 of this issue. The master of tho Christchurch Hounds lias given £5 £s as a sp<|.}eL 'pnze for hunters taking the jumps in tne best style at the Ashburton show.

T’he opening services at the newly-erect-ed Mayfield Wesleyan Church will be bold on Sunday next, when the Rev. H. Bull, of Christchurch, will preach.

Baccs for stockmen and also for boys under fourteen years on steqj: ponies are included. in the novel features at the Rangiora Show to-day. The special train from town leaves at 9.5 a.m.

To amicably settle a disputed account between Mr S. Sparks, of Halswell, and a firm of stock agents, and so avoid litigation, each party agreed to give £lO to the Cathedral Building Fund.

Tho number of admissions to the Christchurch Hospital for the year 1902-3 was 1589, and total number of patients under treatment 1679, the numbers for the previous year being 1511 and 1612. The number of deaths was 130, as against 123 for the previous twelve months. Fourteen inquests were held, and amesthetics were administered for 840 operations. There will bo a fairly good number of amusements for the coming Carnival time. In addition to the Theatre and Opera House, there will be the Polyorama at the Canterbury Hall, in the interests of the Roman Catholic Cathedral Building Fund; the gathering of the dans in tho Colosseum, under the auspices of the Scottish Society, and the Maori carnival at Lancaster Park. Mr McCurdy told the Farmers’ Union Executive yesterday that the Colonial Council was hammering away at tha Government, and intended to keep on hammering, so that it might get some of the things it wanted. Seven Bills were now before the House, introduced by the Government at the request of the Union, or taken over by the Government from the Union.

The North Canterbury Provincial Executive of the Farmers’ Union intends writing to the Minister of Railways and the county members of Parliament, pointing out that the Department have not fully realised the gravity of the misappropriation of trucks to those who use the railway. Cases are of frequent occurrence in which consignors of fat stock have found, on arrival at a station with their consignment, that the trucks ordered by them had been seized and loaded by others. In cases where stock was being forwarded to freezing works the delay might, and does, lead to serious dislocation of business, as by the stock not being forwarded, business at the freezing works is interrupted, and hands temporarily thrown out of work. Where grain was being delivered the absence ot trucks ordered would entail in many cases the unloading of the grain on to the ground outside, leaving it exposed to all weather, and placing a further and unnecessary handicap on the grain grower. Further, such action might lead to the shutting out of the grain from wnw vessel. In view of these representations, the Executive trusted that the Minister would issue a regulation or by-law, making it an offence punishable by fine for any person to appropriate a truck or tracks consigned to another person.

The Lake Ellesmere outlet is now running 18 inches deep through the culvert. Mr Seddon last night said that Mr Balfour, the Prime Minister of Great Britain, had never been in New Zealand. Mr James Allen said he had been here.

During September, 116 patients were admitted to tho Christchurch Hospital, 105 were discharged, and 7 died, leaving 100 inmates on tho 30ih.

A purse, containing a small sum of money, was picked up in the city last evening, and may bo claimed at the police station.

A man was arrested yesterday by Do. tectives Cox and Ward on a charge of having assaulted Arthur Calvert on Saturday night, with intent to rob. In advertising a vacant assistant mastership at -Sydenham, the Education Board has decided to make a knowledge of drill an essential qualification. The Lands Department intends to proclaim 120 acres of the Kaiapoi beach plantation reserves under the Domains Act, and place it in the control of the loca] Borough Council.

Four Portuguese seamen who deserted from the Mare re at Wellington, were arrested there and convicted. They were brought down yesterday to rejoin tiio Marere at Lvtteiton.

Arrangements are being made for the Hinemoa, whicn leaves Wellington to-mor-row night, to call at the Chatham Islands on her way to Lyttelton in order to search for survivors of the missing barque Loch Long.

Detectives Cox and Ward yesterday arrested a bov, fourteen years of age, on • charge of having stolen, on Saturday last, a cashbox containing £3 in money, u bank book, and several cheques, the property of tho Alliance Assurance Company. , Consequent on the marked improvement of fire appliances and the complete system of electric fire alarms recently established in Auckland, the insurance companies have agreed to reduce the rates in Auckland city proper.

In a report to the Hospital Board, Dr. Crooko states that the female medical ward is constantly overcrowded owing to the difficulty of finding homes for female chronic cases. "There are homes for old men, but none for old women, and it is impossible and unnecessary to keep such cases in hospital.”

Mr Geach, of the Willoughby-Geach Company, arrived last night by tho express to make arrangements for the opening of the season here on November 4ih. The inaugural piece will be the farcical comedy "Mistakes Will Happen,” which has won golden opinions elsewhere.

Now that prosecutions are being instituted with reference to people boarding trains whilst in motion, it is a pity that some steps cannot bo token to fine those who every day court death by jumping ou and off trams when in full motion. The guards of the tramway companies do their best, to stop this, but the practice prevails to a great, extent, and some day there will be a terrible accident.

At the Dunedin Magistrate's Court yesterday, the Registrar of Old Age Pensions sued Ann Cootian, a pensioner, claiming £52 as excess over the amount to which defendant was entitled, and a further sum of £32 by way of penally. It was shown that, the woman had £270 in the bank when she was granted a- pension, but the Magistrate was not satisfied that, she had wilfully committed fraud, and merely gave judgment for the excess amount of £32. In view of this decision four criminal charges against women were withdrawn. > Robert Hlnn'per, an Imperial veteran, who is at present, an inmate of the Taurangi Home. Ashburton, and who was recently selected for the Veterans’ Home, Auckland, lias been compelled, owing to failing health, to write to Viscount Northland, asking to be allowed to withdraw his name from the list of those chosen. The veteran has suffered considerably oi late from an affection of the heart, and fears that the sea voyage would not suit him. Viscount Northland has replied, expressing his regret that Harper will not- be able to claim his place in the Home. This afternoon a cricket match will be played in Lancaster Park between Hie members of tho Musgrove Opera Company and a team representing the Thursday Half-Holiday Cricket Association. The members of the Company will be in fancy costumes. Mr F. Sherwood will appear ao a Chinaman, Mr H. Siibon as a trooper, and Messrs E. Charlesworth, C. Rattery, H. StevOni, K. Whilelock, J. Campbell, H, Renolds, F. Wiueburgli, A. Micleman, F, Emmery and R. Colson as brigands, while Master Wlieallans, call-boy, will represent Sir Francis Drake. The proceeds will be given to tho benevolent fund of the hospital.

At the annual meeting of the Excelsioi Building Society of Canterbury last evening, Mr C. Chaplin occupied the chair. Thl linancial report showed receipts £2322 lOi Id, expendiure £614 Os Id, and credit balance £7OB 10s. The profit and loss account, showed a balance of pruSts amounting to £569 12s 2d. The report stated that during the year three appropriation meetings had been held, two by ballot and one by sale. At tho appropriation by sale, £450 was sold, realising £lO5, but owing to the mortgage for the, sum of £3OO not being completed, £7O of that amount did not appear in this year’s balance-sheet. Securities for that amount, and for the last appropriation of £3OO by ballot had been accepted, and £6OO of the cash bal> ance in hand was required for these tw< appropriations. The report was adopted. Messrs C. Chaplin, T. Gapes, B. P. Man, hire, and H. P. Otley were re-elected di> rectors, and Mr T. Jacobs shareholders auditor.

The Education Boards of the colony lately received notice that the privilege of franking letters and telegrams enjoyed by them was to be discontinued, the reason given being that many abuses of tho franking system had been discovered. The "Tinian! Herald” is informed on reliable authority that what brought about the abolition of th« system by the Cabinet, was the following incident. t A young cadet in one of the G«* vernment departments in Wellington posted , late in the evening a parcel lettered “O.P. 5.0.” addressed to a young woman. During the night, the rats inhabiting tho building, discovered a savoury smell, and went ex* ploring for its origin, with the result that next, morning when the postal official clear* ed tho letter box, he found the parcel nibbled at one comer, end a box of Fry’s chocolate sticking out. The cadet who bad thus abused the franking privilege was dismissed, and the department, determined on reduction of the custom, with the result that, Education Boards received the notice which had since caused so much discussion.

Mr Percy Isaac, who accompanied Mr Buckridge in the yacht Kai Ora, which was beached at Point Rodney on the 20th inst., in an interview with a “New Zealand Herald ” reporter, gives some interesting details of their experiences. It appears that when they left St. Holied* Bay (Auckland), the night was dark and stormy, but the Kai Ora made good weather of it. A heavy gale .from the eastward was met witli between Cape* Colville and Cuvier, was began to break overboard. It was decided to run for shelter under tho Great Barrier Island. “The sea was tremendous.” Mr Isaac said, “and at times tho yacht was almost buried. Several times I thought she would bo swamped she dropped down into the trough of the sea.” So rough was it that once or twice he thought that it was “all up” with them, and that tha yacht would surely capsize. They eventually got under the lee of the Great Barrier. On examining the provisions it was found that they had brer, spoilt owing to a kerosene tin breaking !o°se and saturating all the eatables. All they had had, after leaving, was a W.p of cocoaTha yacht was eventually beached _a® Point” Rodney, and beyond the straining done in the heavy weather and a small boj* in the side, was found uninjured. Mrßu * ridge intended resuming the voyage a* l ® l the necessary repairs had been effwW*-

0 -- 'A tender has boon nc'coptod by the Education Board for removing the Birch Hill gthool to Ashley Gorge. The annual athletic sports of the Girls’ High School were held in Mr Allan Hopkins’s grounds at Burwood yesterday. The members of the Selwyii County Council will pay a visit to urn Lake bik'snere outlet on November 6th. - r "" d on the following Monday or Tuesday. The Range.lira is the second over-sea Steamer to come up to Domain witninthe pa*t week. She was berthed at the tctoria wliarf yestentav.

Tlie police luve been asked to make enquiries with a view to di. covering tinpersons responsible for breaking windows m the girls’ department of the Normal School. In answer to an enquiry, tho ✓Education Board has explained that the regulation Restricting senior scholarship candidates to two years r.t a High School or College does "not appiy to the Board's District High Schools.

To relieve the overcrowding of the infant department of tlio Addington School, the committee has been authored to rent tlio Selwyn street Methodist. Schoolroom. The Education Board lias further decided to report, the matter to the Department one of urgency.

A railway employee, when claiming his expenses in a case heard at the Magistrate's Court yesterday, explained to tlio Bench that, according to instructions received from the Departme lit, his pay for the day lost Would be deducted, and lie would have to tnaie it up from tne expenses allowed-to Lim by tlio Court. The Minister for Agriculture lias written to the Fanners’ Union, stating that the Executive’s suggestions that returns should be obtained Iroia threshing mill-owners, when collecting grain statistics, would Le considered. He was, however, of opinion that the present system gave sufficiently Correct data to enable an estimate to be arrived at. Sub-Inspector Dwyer stated to tlie Bench t)f Justices yesterday that, the offence of jumping cm and off morning trains was becoming more frequent every day. He had hern asked by the- Railway Department, in view of the scrioumens of t lie pffence, to apply for a. substantial penalty where a conviction was obtained. Jt was felt that, unless the practice was stopped, a serious accident would take place sooner pr later.

The Wools.on Band will play the following programme on the Rotunda, Victoria Square, this evening:—1, March, ‘The -Staffords” (J. Ord Hume); 2, bam dance, “Sunny South” (Burns); 5, selection, “Rose of Cast die" (Balfe); 4, waltz, “Fairy Land” (Round); 5, sketch, *'A Day in the Cotton Fields” (Smith and Teblin); 6, selection, “Songs of Other Days” (Round); 7, waltz, “Tales of Long Ago” (Faust); 8, march, "Kalgoorlie” (J. Prd Hume). The Northern Agricultural and Pastoral (Association's show catalogue will contain (t list- of its presidents, treasurers, and secretaries since 1860. It commences with Mr F. A. Weld, a Premier of the colony. Mr John Macfarlane was president for nine rs, viz., from 1374 to 1883, and Mr Buss was secretary for ten years and treasurer for nine years. Mr J. Fulton was treasurer for eight years, and .Mr Dlarkson has been secretary for nine years, The fact that former nurses of the Christchurch Hospital are tilling matronships at every hospital in the .South Island, excepting that of Dunedin, speaks highly for the local institution. There are now seven ex-Christchurch nurses acting as matrons in the South Island, and an eighth in Otaki, in the North Island. The resignations of Sister Griffith and Nurse Kitto, Who have been appointed to matronships at Hokitika and Blenheim respectively, were accepted at tlio meeting of the local Hospital Board yesterday. The way of the school teacher is frequently hard. At the meeting of the Education Board yesterday, a letter was received from Miss McGregor pointing out that she had been infant mistress at Richmond for seven years, and that by the Contemplated arrangement as to star?, tier salary would be considerably reduced. The Board regretted that the introduction of the colonial scale would operate so hardly in the case of Miss McGregor, with whom they very much sympathised. Writing in reply to a letter from the President of the North Canterbury Executive of me Farmers’ Union, Mr Leicester Matson says:—“l am in receipt of yours of the 14th October. I think it is almost ft pity that the Executive of the N.Z.I’.U. do not invite me to give them a discourse upon the trials and tribulations of the auctioneers and their grievances (which I woujd be glad to do) to see if they could give us some little protection or assistance. Under the heading iA “Tbo Auctioneers’ Lament,” I think tli;it I could move even the hardest old cricket to tears,” Mr K. Watkins, Principal of the Training College, in his report to the Education Board ou the work of students, pointed out that previous to 1833 very few worked for the matriculation examination, which of late years Had been the main objective, as under certain conditions'it counted towards the D certificate. Now that more fubjects had been put on, and the standard taken in allotting D on matriculation marks raised considerably, it was impossible to anticipate anything but poor results this year, in comparison with past years.

Mr G. McHalfie, at the meeting of the Selwyn County Council yesterday, explained that his statement at a previous meeting that members of Parliament should not hold seats on the Council, had no personal reference.to Mr Witty. He was, therefore, surprised that Mr Witty should liavo retorted by saying that he (Mr McHaffie) luid been the most irregular attendant at tlie Council’s meetings. Mr McHaffie then quoted figures to show tiuit his record of attendances compared ’ favourably with those of other members. Ho also pointed out the peculiar difficulties lie had to contend with in order to be present at the CouncilV'Tneetings. The question, “Do women smoke?” has been discussed at considerable length in tlie English papers. A little incident which is said to have occurred at a gymnastic class here seems to point- to tlie fact that cigarette smoking is not unknown to the colonial girl. Toe instructor of the class was impressing on the boys that cigarette smoking was very injurious, and hoped that none of them snicked the pernicious tube. “Hands up,” said he, “those who smoke.” There, yas no response to the invitation, but from the back row came the voice of one of the smallest of tho youngsters. "Please, sir,” said lie, “I don't smoke cigarettes, but I get two packets every Saturday night for my auntie, and she smokes them in her bedroom.”

The nineteenth annual festival under the auspices of the Christchurch Diocesan Choral Association will take place in tlie Cathedral to-day. The hours of service are:—Choral Evensong at 3 p.m., and again at 7 p.m., when the Rev. W. G. Carrington will preach tho annual sermon. Surpiiced choirs will assemble in a marquee on the north side of the cathedral, at 2.30 and 6.30 p.m. The unsurpiiced portions of the choir will be admitted by the north and south doors, end must be in their places by 2.55 and 6-55, as no seats can be reserved after

those hours. “High tea’’ will be provided ,in the Colosseum a; 4.30 p.iu., and no one will be admitted witliout a ticket. The Bishop will preside. As the principal touree of revenue is through the collections, the Commit tea confidently ask for -r t’ ! e liberal offerings of the congregation at- the services. The choir numbers 529, and the Committee hope that fully 490 will Be present at the 7 p.m. ten-ice.'

“The best are the cheapest,’’ and we Stock only the world's Ix-st ipianos and organs. Inspection invited. Lowest prices. Cash or on easy terms. The A polio Tiano and Music Warehouse, 177 a High o- street. R. A. Horne, manager. 1388

The D.T.C. Music Department invites pub!ic attention to the recent,arrival of several shipments of most celebrated pianos, viz., hv Lipp and Bohn. Collard and bollard, Hardt. Brinsmoad, Hofcr, Lubiiz, Hci.-sclicl, Nieudorf, and others. These high.-class pianos are on sale at lowest cash prices on most advantageous terms. 20

Out of sight, out of mind, is the farmer who does not use a McCormick machino when the nor’-tvestors are blowing. Morrow, Bassett and Co. 6 Cheapness is not regulated by what you pay, but what you get for what you pay, therefore get the best, the famous Gold Medal” McCormack Reaper and Binder. Morrow, Bassett, and Co. 0

Highest c-las.s modern dentistry. Dr. Black, B.Sc., N.Z. University. D.D.S., United States.. Gold and other fillings a specialty. 186 Colombo street (cornet Hereford). 1

Fortunes are daik made by clever inventions. See handbook, how to obtain "latents” for inventions, free by post from Baldwin and Hayward. 172 Gloucester street, Christchurch. A. H. Hart, representative. —(Ad v t.)

Tlio Right Hon. Joseph Chamberlain derived his wealth from the invention of the gimlet-pointed screw. Oth r fortunes awiiit mechanics and inventors "who p' if-ct-and patent articles widely used. Full information re patents from Henry Hughes, patent agents, 183 Hereford street. Christchurch, and free pamphlet. “Advice lu Inventors.” Established 1882. 582 ]f you have the faintest suspicion that vour eyes are not just right, if they bother 'von in anv way, it's best to have them examined 'at once. Do not go to the average optician or spectacle seller, for he is unable to distinguish between optical defects and diseases, but consult John R. Procter, 180 High street, Christchurch, who will give you a thorough examination free of charge. 2115

Tho power of cash. Never in the history of New Zealand was the power of cash more felt than at the present time. If vou want to get the best value for vour cash, “ pay cash." Kincaid’s G.I.C. (who give’ the best value in the trade) are issuing with each cash sale a cash discount ticket or check for the value of your purctiase, which will entitle you to a useful present or straight-out cash discount. Kincaid’s G.I.C. 7

In anticipation of requirements for Carnival week, Black, Beattie and Co. are making a general display of men's, youths’ and juvenile clothing, including men’s tailor-made garments in the best worsteds and coatings. 30

Mrs Thornton Lees, hair physician and complexion specialist, has the latest American methods for restoring and beautifying the hair and akin. Special treatment lor baldness. Inglis’s Buildings, opposite Freeman's. 21

Wanted to Sell—Ladies’ New Hudson bicycle, in tip top order, new tyres. Price £Bj £1 down and £1 per month. Adams Bun Cycle Depot, High street, next to Kngiht's, butcher. 4568 Pianos cati be purchased on the one, two, or three-year hire system from 30 guineas; organs from 17 guineas. Dowest prices. Easiest terms. R. Francis, The Musical Exchange, 159 Manchester street, Christchurch. 52

It is universally conceded that “ Dentol ” js a perfect tooth-wash. It preserves the teeth and leaves a deliciously refreshing taste in the mouth. “ Dentol ”is approved of by the highest medical authorities. * 8880

Most reliable watches, correct timekeepers, best value given; gold muff chains, engagement rings. A great variety in greenstone goods, and all kinds of wedding presents at the very lowest prices. K. Grieshaber, 155 Colombo street, Jeweller. £0

Ladies requiring millinery for the races and show should pay a visit of inspection to Black, Beattie and Co.’s spacious showroom, where they are making a special display of very choice millinery in all tho latest'models at moderate prices. 32 Mr Edward Hope, surgeon dentist, has commenced practice at 45 Hereford street East. Telephone No. 1361. 1481 Lamps, Lamps Fletcher Bros, hold a large stock of reading, hanging, and hand lamps, and we guarantee to give better value than any other firm in Christchurch. See best sho'w in window for prices of reading lamps complete with shade 3s 6d, hand lamps (brass or glass) Is each, chimneys from 3d, wicks Id; also lamps that burn without chimney. Fletcher Bros., Direct Importers, Lower High street. 5458 A TRIP ROUND THE WORLD. A New York newspaper representative, who started on jlutie 26th to beat the round-the-world record, returned in fiftyfour days, nine hours, nnd forty-two minutes, the quickest time ever nude, lie enjoyed no special facilities, and used the regular trains and steamships, at the usual fares. NEW ZEALAND FRUIT PULP. Black currant pulp from New Zealand has been sold here, writes our London correspondent on September 26th, at £SO per ton, and raspberry pulp at £4O. In conversation this week with the secretary of a large jam-making concern, ho told me that he had bought considerable quantities of the raspberry pulp at a price which aggregated quite £45 per ton, before it reached liis works. He was of opinion that there would always be a good market here for New Zealand fruit pulp, particularly in seasons like the present when the British fruit crop has been an utter failure. CANADA AND THE ARCTIC. ISLANDS. A cable message the other day stated that the Canadian Press, in view of the Alaskan award, advised the Canadian Government to make sure of the Canadian right to the Arctic Islands, and to the islands in Hudson Bay. It appears that this is already being done. The Canadian Government steamer Neptune sailed on August 2nd from Halifax for Hudson’s Bay and Arctic waters on mi expedition lasting a vear and half. The party will take formal possession of the Arctic Islands and tiie shore of Baffin's Bay. The Commander of the Expedition will report oil the alleged extensive American poaching in the Hudson Bay fisheries. The importance of the ced* and halibut fisheries will be reported on. MR SEDDON AND MR CHAMBERLAIN. Under tlie heading “Embarrassing Sympathy” the “Westminster Gazette” published lately another of F. Carruthe-rs Gould's inimitable cartoons, of which Mr Seddon. is ilie central figure. The New Zealand Premier appears in the guise of an enormously stout butcher with apron and all complete, standing in a shop which boars the title in largo capitals, “SEDDON," and shows divers joints of New Zealand mutton duly displayed. The vast butcher is seen clasping Mr Chamberlain tightly to his breast, the face of the cxMLnistcr for the Colonies wearing much the same expression as it would were he undergoing a similar caress at the hands, or rather paws, of a big bear. Underneath is appended a legend, of which the first verse runs as follows: “Who with his frozen lamb to sell Straight ran to wire me when I fell. Who kissed the place to make it well? My Seddon.” WHAT LOUBET SAID ABOUT QUEEN ALEXANDRA. This is President Loubet's unofficial impression nf Queen Alexandra, as given the other day (says “M.A.P.”) to one of my friends: —"I had heard?.” he said, “that she possessed considerable personal gifts, and was a surprisingly well-preserved woman. It is true. But you must see her for yourself to realise her unique charm. Where does it lie? Ah! That, is the secret which baffles you always. Her face is, perhaps, too long for perfect beauty, and she is no longer in the. first tin si i of youth. Still the fact remains that

when sho is present you forget to look at other ladies who may be twice aa beautiful and not half her age. She speaks little; her cyce, rather haughty, are curiously and strangely sad. They are always abstracted, as if her thoughts wero elsewhere. Her lips are sad, too. Sho smiles—but that expression of indefinite .sadness is always there. As for her grace, it is astonishing. She makes me think of a queen of old France. Where did sho learn that superb graciousnoss of bearing which clothes her as with a garment? Surely not in tint sleepy little Danish court she came from! Wo have women in France who are probably better dressed, bat we have none who possess her supreme elegance. She is royal from top to toe. In a time of revolution, were she to show herself at a window, every soldier's heart would beat the faster—each rnnn would bo willing to die for her.” “You are eloquent in your praise,” remarked M. Loubet s visitor. “Ah. I speak of an incomparably fascinating lady,” replied tho President.